Don't forget to pause the music player at the bottom. ;) Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
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Monday, April 25, 2011
Hoppy Easter!
We enjoyed a beautiful Easter day this year- the sun decided to make an appearance, and temps soared up into the 80's. Justin was up at 6:00 sharp as usual, and I let him go wake Kaylin so they could go look for their baskets and eggs.
And of course the Easter grass is just as much fun to play with as all the goodies inside!
After our morning of fun at home, we headed to MomMom and PopPop's house for Round 2 of basket and egg hunts. :) First things first- lets try to get a nice family portrait before the kids get all messed up and Evan goes down for his nap.
Justin had major issues with the sun in his eyes and it just went downhill from here... so we decided to move inside for another shot.
Great smiles! Too bad Evan's shirt is a bit scrunched due to his wiggliness, and what's up with my hair? Oh, it's the top of Mom's anniversary clock on the mantle. Oops! Oh, well. Trying to get the "perfect" shot with a family of five is nearly impossible I've found, so take your pick! :)
On with the egg hunt! The kids had a blast searching all around the property for their eggs.
I only got a few shots in the backyard since Evan was having trouble going down for his nap. Poor guy! We enjoyed a lovely ham dinner with the company of more family and friends, and then three tuckered out kids were packed up in the van to go home snug in their jammies. Hope you all enjoyed a beautiful day as well!
The big kids had their hunt in the basement while Evan's was up in the living room- Evan enjoyed a peaceful slumber waking around 7:30. I would have let him lounge in his jammies a bit longer like the big kids, except he was soaked when he woke up, so he was changed directly into his Easter duds.
Thankfully, the Easter Bunny decided to change to paper grass a few years ago instead of the staticky plastic variety which sticks to EVERYTHING! Paper grass is SO much easier to clean up. ;)
After our morning of fun at home, we headed to MomMom and PopPop's house for Round 2 of basket and egg hunts. :) First things first- lets try to get a nice family portrait before the kids get all messed up and Evan goes down for his nap.
Attempt #1- outside
Justin had major issues with the sun in his eyes and it just went downhill from here... so we decided to move inside for another shot.
Great smiles! Too bad Evan's shirt is a bit scrunched due to his wiggliness, and what's up with my hair? Oh, it's the top of Mom's anniversary clock on the mantle. Oops! Oh, well. Trying to get the "perfect" shot with a family of five is nearly impossible I've found, so take your pick! :)
On with the egg hunt! The kids had a blast searching all around the property for their eggs.
I only got a few shots in the backyard since Evan was having trouble going down for his nap. Poor guy! We enjoyed a lovely ham dinner with the company of more family and friends, and then three tuckered out kids were packed up in the van to go home snug in their jammies. Hope you all enjoyed a beautiful day as well!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Spotted
While I perused the grocery store aisles this morning, Evan was spotted. It's not uncommon for people to stop at our cart to goo-goo over his cute self, remarking on his adorable red hair most of the time ;), soaking up his sweet smile and watching him wave "hi" and "bye". I often wonder how many of his admirers notice he has Down syndrome. It's becoming a lot easier to tell as he has been growing into his features- his beautiful almond shaped eyes are more prominent than they were as a tiny newborn, which were usually closed in sleep while we were out and about running errands... his cute little folded ears which were often hidden beneath a newborn cap, now sit just below his attention-grabbing hair... the flatter shape of his sweet little head was not noticeable as he lay in his infant carseat.
The reason I wonder if people may miss seeing these characteristics even though they are so obvious to me, is because most people don't act any differently admiring Evan as people admired Kaylin and Justin when they were babies. In fact, I think Evan attracts more ogling moms and cooing grandmas than my other two ever did! I swear it's the hair. ;) Do people notice, or do they look past what seem like obvious markers to me?
The only people who have acted differently are those who make an even bigger fuss over him, BECAUSE he has Down syndrome. Parents in the DS community get excited when they see others with DS- I absolutely share these feelings of excitement and have read numerous posts on this subject at Babycenter.com's Down syndrome board. Whether it's being spotted, or spotting someone else- there is always this sense of excitement, I just can't find the words to describe it. It's like- they KNOW. They get it. They know when I talk about how wonderful life is with Evan- I'm not just looking through rose colored glasses and gushing without reason.... they know it's all true. Every single mom who has come up to me, excitedly sharing their own story of their child with DS- has had nothing but positive things to say. This happened to us just this morning.
We were in the baby aisle when a mom walked up and started cooing over Evan- nothing out of the ordinary. Then she comments, "I have an eleven-year-old daughter just like you!" She went on about how her daughter was also small for her age; it took her a little longer to walk- about age three, and it took longer for her to learn to talk; but she is doing WONDERFULLY now, her speech is very clear.... She voiced several times how wonderful life is with her daughter and how she is the apple of her eye. She commented a few times saying she KNOWS Evan is a smart little boy who will do amazing things. It's like neither of us wanted to walk away from that moment, but eventually we parted ways and wished each other well.
I've had a few of these conversations so far, being spotted by parents in our little town, and the conversation ALWAYS goes the same way. I am overcome with the most wonderful feeling and often have to fight back tears of joy, hearing all the success stories and seeing the pride in these parents' eyes.
Not once has there ever been any expression of pity or sympathy. I always worried about this when Evan was first born- sharing the news of his diagnosis. How do I tell people? How are they going to react? I know many felt put on the spot, wondering how to react- do you say Congratulations or I'm sorry? By the way, the correct answer is: Congratulations! ;) Add a "your child is SO beautiful" and continue as you would over any other baby, and you've done the job right. :)
I remember bumping into Kaylin's former Kindergarten teacher at Target just a couple short months after Evan's birth. She just gave birth about a month after Evan was born, but didn't have her baby with her at the time. I had Evan with me, and shared the news of his Ds. Then I waited for the reaction.
She didn't bat an eyelash! She stood there with the same big smile, not quavering once. I was stunned. She knew. I was amazed she could tell due to the reasons I stated above about him being asleep in his carseat.... "Did I tell you I have an older brother with Down syndrome?" I had NO idea! She went on about how wonderful he is, how he is 34 years old and holds a steady job in a neighboring town. She commented that Evan looks a lot like her brother did when he was little. I was amazed. This was the very first time Evan was "spotted" and it felt GOOD. It always does.
In closing, I'll share one of my most favorite quotes which appears at the top of the homepage for Reece's Rainbow:
Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down syndrome...
SO very true.
 |
| Evan snoozing peacefully in his swing at about one month old |
The reason I wonder if people may miss seeing these characteristics even though they are so obvious to me, is because most people don't act any differently admiring Evan as people admired Kaylin and Justin when they were babies. In fact, I think Evan attracts more ogling moms and cooing grandmas than my other two ever did! I swear it's the hair. ;) Do people notice, or do they look past what seem like obvious markers to me?
The only people who have acted differently are those who make an even bigger fuss over him, BECAUSE he has Down syndrome. Parents in the DS community get excited when they see others with DS- I absolutely share these feelings of excitement and have read numerous posts on this subject at Babycenter.com's Down syndrome board. Whether it's being spotted, or spotting someone else- there is always this sense of excitement, I just can't find the words to describe it. It's like- they KNOW. They get it. They know when I talk about how wonderful life is with Evan- I'm not just looking through rose colored glasses and gushing without reason.... they know it's all true. Every single mom who has come up to me, excitedly sharing their own story of their child with DS- has had nothing but positive things to say. This happened to us just this morning.
We were in the baby aisle when a mom walked up and started cooing over Evan- nothing out of the ordinary. Then she comments, "I have an eleven-year-old daughter just like you!" She went on about how her daughter was also small for her age; it took her a little longer to walk- about age three, and it took longer for her to learn to talk; but she is doing WONDERFULLY now, her speech is very clear.... She voiced several times how wonderful life is with her daughter and how she is the apple of her eye. She commented a few times saying she KNOWS Evan is a smart little boy who will do amazing things. It's like neither of us wanted to walk away from that moment, but eventually we parted ways and wished each other well.
I've had a few of these conversations so far, being spotted by parents in our little town, and the conversation ALWAYS goes the same way. I am overcome with the most wonderful feeling and often have to fight back tears of joy, hearing all the success stories and seeing the pride in these parents' eyes.
Not once has there ever been any expression of pity or sympathy. I always worried about this when Evan was first born- sharing the news of his diagnosis. How do I tell people? How are they going to react? I know many felt put on the spot, wondering how to react- do you say Congratulations or I'm sorry? By the way, the correct answer is: Congratulations! ;) Add a "your child is SO beautiful" and continue as you would over any other baby, and you've done the job right. :)
I remember bumping into Kaylin's former Kindergarten teacher at Target just a couple short months after Evan's birth. She just gave birth about a month after Evan was born, but didn't have her baby with her at the time. I had Evan with me, and shared the news of his Ds. Then I waited for the reaction.
She didn't bat an eyelash! She stood there with the same big smile, not quavering once. I was stunned. She knew. I was amazed she could tell due to the reasons I stated above about him being asleep in his carseat.... "Did I tell you I have an older brother with Down syndrome?" I had NO idea! She went on about how wonderful he is, how he is 34 years old and holds a steady job in a neighboring town. She commented that Evan looks a lot like her brother did when he was little. I was amazed. This was the very first time Evan was "spotted" and it felt GOOD. It always does.
In closing, I'll share one of my most favorite quotes which appears at the top of the homepage for Reece's Rainbow:
Because every family deserves the blessing of a child with Down syndrome...
SO very true.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Beatitudes of the Exceptional Child
I'd like to introduce you to a new blog I just found about 10 minutes ago. The blogger, Bailey, is 21 years old, and has Down syndrome! Her blog is wonderful, and helps to show how capable people with Ds really are. Go check it out!
Upon browsing through her posts and adorable photos, I found this and just HAD to share it:
The Beatitudes of the Exceptional Child by Andre Masse C.S.E.
Upon browsing through her posts and adorable photos, I found this and just HAD to share it:
- Blessed are you who take time to listen to difficult speech, for you help us to know that if we persevere we can be understood.
- Blessed are you who walk with us in public places and ignore the stares of strangers, for in your companionship we find havens of relaxation.
- Blessed are you who never bid us to "hurry up" and more blessed you who do not snatch our tasks from our hands to do them for us, for often we need time more than help.
- Blessed are you who stand beside us as we enter new and untried ventures for our failures will be outweighed by the times when we surpise ourselves and you.
- Blessed are you who ask for our help for our greatest need is to be needed.
- Blessed are you who help us with the graciousness of Christ Who did not bruise the reed and quench the flax, for often we need help we cannot ask for.
- Blessed are you when by all these things you assure us that the thing that makes us individuals is not in our peculiar muscles, not in our wounded nervous system, not in our difficulties in learning, but in the God-given self which no infirmity can confine.
Published in National Apostolate for Inclusion Ministry - Summer 1998
Monday, April 18, 2011
Where is the line?
There seems to be a fine, very faint glimmer of a line between advocating and appearing over-protective and overly sensitive. I'm still trying to find that line, though sometimes I think to myself- should I really bother looking?
Last Sunday I took the big kids up to the black top court in our development- just up the street a few houses. While riding their bikes/scooters, they were joined by a group of boys about 10 years old. The boys had toy guns, and one kind boy who lives across the street from us allowed Kaylin and Justin to play along. They were having a good time when another boy rode up on his bike- one of Kaylin's former classmates. This boy and another one of the older boys were spatting back and forth, and one of the older boys yelled out, "RETARD!" I sat there for a moment, deciding whether or not to make an issue of it when he yelled it again. Ok, I couldn't keep quiet this time.
"Please don't use that word." I probably should have said more, but just left it at that. I didn't want to cause a big scene for Kaylin and Justin, but did want to address the use of the word, noting that it was inappropriate. I don't really care to parent other people's children, and try to think about what it would be like if I wasn't even there. I don't wanna be a nagging mom, but there are times when something needs to be said... another one of those fine lines. I believed this was one of those moments.
"Sorrryy..." was uttered back, in that moaning, 'ugh, one of THOSE moms' kinda way.
My kids had no clue what just happened here, as they had never even heard the R word before. Later, when they stopped playing with the boys and came down toward me, I pulled them aside and had a little discussion explaining what happened, what that word implies, and that they should say something to their friends if they hear someone say it. I have to say I did not enjoy this conversation one bit- it hurt to have to introduce my children to this word and explain its meaning.
Then I'm thinking to myself- if only the other boys could have participated in this conversation. I should have explained why the R word is hurtful- maybe they would think twice before using it again.
Or is that going too far? Am I just being a preachy mom being all defensive because she has a child with special needs? One of *those* moms? Am I crossing the line?
What if it was an adult cracking a "short bus" joke? Even though Evan is just a toddler and not understanding these comments to feel hurt or offended, nor in the presence of these comments, do I stop and make a point of it? I have been ridiculed for doing just this.... speaking up, requesting someone to please refrain from making these comments in my presence- not making a big fuss about it, but just a simple request. Later, someone else comes to me saying I shouldn't bother. It doesn't apply to my son... my son isn't here to witness this nor understand.... I think the latter comments stung worse than the original joke itself.
"Think about before you had your son- you would have laughed along, too." You know, this person had a point. But my eyes have been opened, and yes, others need to realize how hurtful these words and jokes are to people in the special needs community. Racial slurs have become taboo, and rightly so, because those offended expressed how hurtful the words are. Not all people with special needs are able to express their feelings- not that they are always unable to verbally express themselves- but people don't listen. Those with special needs are not seen as equals, so their opinions don't always seem to matter. This is why mama bear comes out and speaks for her precious cub. I would much rather open people's eyes and hearts now, before Evan is old enough to understand how hurtful these words are. Change some people's minds and attitudes in hopes of preventing him from hearing these utterances himself. I'm sure he will hear someone call him the R word when he gets older... and yes, just the thought of that cuts deep. And this isn't just about my son. This is about a good part of our population. Everyone deserves respect.
E V E R Y O N E.
So, as a person in the special needs community or even not, where is that line for you? Would you say something in either of these instances, whether or not it applies specifically to you or your immediate family? Please don't be afraid to leave a comment! I would love to hear your thoughts.
Last Sunday I took the big kids up to the black top court in our development- just up the street a few houses. While riding their bikes/scooters, they were joined by a group of boys about 10 years old. The boys had toy guns, and one kind boy who lives across the street from us allowed Kaylin and Justin to play along. They were having a good time when another boy rode up on his bike- one of Kaylin's former classmates. This boy and another one of the older boys were spatting back and forth, and one of the older boys yelled out, "RETARD!" I sat there for a moment, deciding whether or not to make an issue of it when he yelled it again. Ok, I couldn't keep quiet this time.
"Please don't use that word." I probably should have said more, but just left it at that. I didn't want to cause a big scene for Kaylin and Justin, but did want to address the use of the word, noting that it was inappropriate. I don't really care to parent other people's children, and try to think about what it would be like if I wasn't even there. I don't wanna be a nagging mom, but there are times when something needs to be said... another one of those fine lines. I believed this was one of those moments.
"Sorrryy..." was uttered back, in that moaning, 'ugh, one of THOSE moms' kinda way.
My kids had no clue what just happened here, as they had never even heard the R word before. Later, when they stopped playing with the boys and came down toward me, I pulled them aside and had a little discussion explaining what happened, what that word implies, and that they should say something to their friends if they hear someone say it. I have to say I did not enjoy this conversation one bit- it hurt to have to introduce my children to this word and explain its meaning.
Then I'm thinking to myself- if only the other boys could have participated in this conversation. I should have explained why the R word is hurtful- maybe they would think twice before using it again.
Or is that going too far? Am I just being a preachy mom being all defensive because she has a child with special needs? One of *those* moms? Am I crossing the line?
What if it was an adult cracking a "short bus" joke? Even though Evan is just a toddler and not understanding these comments to feel hurt or offended, nor in the presence of these comments, do I stop and make a point of it? I have been ridiculed for doing just this.... speaking up, requesting someone to please refrain from making these comments in my presence- not making a big fuss about it, but just a simple request. Later, someone else comes to me saying I shouldn't bother. It doesn't apply to my son... my son isn't here to witness this nor understand.... I think the latter comments stung worse than the original joke itself.
"Think about before you had your son- you would have laughed along, too." You know, this person had a point. But my eyes have been opened, and yes, others need to realize how hurtful these words and jokes are to people in the special needs community. Racial slurs have become taboo, and rightly so, because those offended expressed how hurtful the words are. Not all people with special needs are able to express their feelings- not that they are always unable to verbally express themselves- but people don't listen. Those with special needs are not seen as equals, so their opinions don't always seem to matter. This is why mama bear comes out and speaks for her precious cub. I would much rather open people's eyes and hearts now, before Evan is old enough to understand how hurtful these words are. Change some people's minds and attitudes in hopes of preventing him from hearing these utterances himself. I'm sure he will hear someone call him the R word when he gets older... and yes, just the thought of that cuts deep. And this isn't just about my son. This is about a good part of our population. Everyone deserves respect.
E V E R Y O N E.
So, as a person in the special needs community or even not, where is that line for you? Would you say something in either of these instances, whether or not it applies specifically to you or your immediate family? Please don't be afraid to leave a comment! I would love to hear your thoughts.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Updates!
For those who have been praying for the little ones I've introduced here on my blog- thank you!! Your prayers are working, so keep them up! I want to update you on everyone in case you haven't been following their blogs.
Lesia's update
Little Lesia will be called Johanna once she is joined with her forever family. Her parents have just landed in Lesia's home country a couple days ago and will hopefully be visiting with her tomorrow! They were supposed to receive referrals today as part of the gobs of paperwork to sort through, but the SDA (State Department of Adoptions) was out of power today, so they were told to come tomorrow. They are crossing their fingers this won't delay their visit with the kids (they are adopting a little boy from the same orphanage as well) since they are due to fly back home on Friday. Praying all their paperwork and processes continue to go as planned! Their blog can be found at http://whitesadoptionjourney.blogspot.com/ or "Fetching Angels" on the list of blogs I follow, to the right.
Carrington's update
Carrington is making beautiful progress! Her blog was just updated today with amazing new photos, comparing the old with the present. Check them out here: http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/04/progress-and-some-adorable-photos-and.html. She will be undergoing surgery on Thursday for a few different procedures, two digestive issues and then removing all but two of her teeth since they are all rotten. :( Poor thing. Please keep her in your prayers. Her blog is "Carrington's Courage" on the list of blogs I follow.
Alexander's update
You may recall I blogged about Alexander back in March regarding their iPad2 Giveaway- which is still going strong! His mama is proud to announce that his fund is almost FULL!! Wonderful news!! She is still in process of getting through piles of paperwork and approvals- keep them in your prayers that they will be approved for this adoption! Remember, Alexander, or AJ as he will be called, has already been transferred to the mental institution. Their blog can be found at http://taylorvillethree21.blogspot.com/ or "T-cubed: 3 boys, twins & trisomy 21" on the list of blogs I follow.
Baby Emma's update
I don't recall mentioning baby Emma on my blog- I've requested prayers on Facebook for her regarding her severe heart defects. Emma does not have Down syndrome, but was born with the most severe heart defect one could have. Survival rates were grim, and requiring several surgeries in attempt at correcting the issues. She has had at least 2 open heart surgeries already, has flat lined a couple times, and after still having problems with her lungs, was placed on the transplant list. She is 6 months old and has yet to leave the ICU since birth. She's been making some good progress recently though, and may be moving out of ICU soon! You can read her latest update at http://emmajanae.blogspot.com/ or "Hope for Emma's Heart" on the list of blogs I follow.
So, lots of good news!! But prayers are still needed for these families. Please keep them coming, and continue following their stories.
Lesia's update
Little Lesia will be called Johanna once she is joined with her forever family. Her parents have just landed in Lesia's home country a couple days ago and will hopefully be visiting with her tomorrow! They were supposed to receive referrals today as part of the gobs of paperwork to sort through, but the SDA (State Department of Adoptions) was out of power today, so they were told to come tomorrow. They are crossing their fingers this won't delay their visit with the kids (they are adopting a little boy from the same orphanage as well) since they are due to fly back home on Friday. Praying all their paperwork and processes continue to go as planned! Their blog can be found at http://whitesadoptionjourney.blogspot.com/ or "Fetching Angels" on the list of blogs I follow, to the right.
Carrington's update
Carrington is making beautiful progress! Her blog was just updated today with amazing new photos, comparing the old with the present. Check them out here: http://carringtonscourage.blogspot.com/2011/04/progress-and-some-adorable-photos-and.html. She will be undergoing surgery on Thursday for a few different procedures, two digestive issues and then removing all but two of her teeth since they are all rotten. :( Poor thing. Please keep her in your prayers. Her blog is "Carrington's Courage" on the list of blogs I follow.
Alexander's update
You may recall I blogged about Alexander back in March regarding their iPad2 Giveaway- which is still going strong! His mama is proud to announce that his fund is almost FULL!! Wonderful news!! She is still in process of getting through piles of paperwork and approvals- keep them in your prayers that they will be approved for this adoption! Remember, Alexander, or AJ as he will be called, has already been transferred to the mental institution. Their blog can be found at http://taylorvillethree21.blogspot.com/ or "T-cubed: 3 boys, twins & trisomy 21" on the list of blogs I follow.
Baby Emma's update
I don't recall mentioning baby Emma on my blog- I've requested prayers on Facebook for her regarding her severe heart defects. Emma does not have Down syndrome, but was born with the most severe heart defect one could have. Survival rates were grim, and requiring several surgeries in attempt at correcting the issues. She has had at least 2 open heart surgeries already, has flat lined a couple times, and after still having problems with her lungs, was placed on the transplant list. She is 6 months old and has yet to leave the ICU since birth. She's been making some good progress recently though, and may be moving out of ICU soon! You can read her latest update at http://emmajanae.blogspot.com/ or "Hope for Emma's Heart" on the list of blogs I follow.
So, lots of good news!! But prayers are still needed for these families. Please keep them coming, and continue following their stories.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Rest... Relax... Recharge
This past weekend was SO needed- the family and I escaped to Deep Creek Lake for a long restful and relaxing weekend. Kaylin and Justin had a half day Friday, so Mike and I packed the car in the morning, and we headed out after feeding Evan his lunch. We came home Monday afternoon feeling renewed, and surprised at coming home to what feels like summer- sunny and 86 degrees!
When we left Friday, it had been cold and rainy, in the low 40's.... up in the mountains at Deep Creek, the temps can be up to 10 degrees lower than here in the Baltimore suburbs- temps on Friday and Saturday were quite brisk in the upper 30's- I believe the high was around 39. Sunday, however, temps soared up into the mid 70's and it felt like spring again- the sun was out and all was great.
We had to trek through a lot of fog on our way up on Friday- some parts of the highway were quite scary at times, but we made it... and the fog finally lifted Saturday morning.
Our view out the backyard of our home away from home for the weekend- taken Saturday morning just as the sun was rising and the fog was lifting:
This was our first trip to the lake off season- we've been coming to the lake for our big summer vacation for the past several years and this was such a HUGE difference. Summer is bustling- boats and jet ski's all over the water, kicking up dirt and making the water appear more cloudy.... off season is calm and quiet- water is crystal clear. We did have a couple disappointments with the off-season- all the docks were pulled out of the water which meant not so great fishing conditions for Mike and the kids. They managed though.... even though they didn't catch anything this trip, the kids were still just as excited to fish Monday morning before heading out as they were when we first arrived.
My disappointment for the weekend- no Lakeside Creamery. :( The local homemade ice cream parlor is one of my favorite parts of Deep Creek, especially since they make their own waffle cones. YUM! Ah well. Next time.
MomMom and PopPop visited with us Saturday to Sunday and we enjoyed taking them to a few of our favorite spots in the Deep Creek area. Saturday, we took MomMom to the mountain coaster at Wisp ski resort (PopPop opted out and stayed back with Mike and Evan). This ride is simply awesome. There are only 4 of it's kind in the US- it's like a roller coaster in your control. You have your own hand brakes to slow down some of the curves, but the ride operators tell you this is not a sight seeing ride- it is meant to be fast. The car is pulled up the entire mountain slope, and then once you reach the top you're on your own to control your speed going down (the cars will max out at about 28 mph).
Starting up the mountain- see the tippy top in the farrrrr distance? That's how high we're going!
This next shot was taken in front of the actual Swallow Falls- much smaller than Muddy Creek Falls.
After our trip to the park, the kids enjoyed some more fishing, and then PopPop built us a campfire for roasting marshmallows.
The only way to eat a roasted marshmallow is directly from the stick, right?
In past years, we've always stayed at a different part of the lake, and even though we've never stayed in the same house twice, it seems we always have had a view of the sunrise in the morning. Well this time, we caught the gorgeous sunset.
But one thing in common with all the houses- the hot tub. We kept the temp set to the low 90's so the kids could enjoy since there would be no lake swimming on this trip.
When we left Friday, it had been cold and rainy, in the low 40's.... up in the mountains at Deep Creek, the temps can be up to 10 degrees lower than here in the Baltimore suburbs- temps on Friday and Saturday were quite brisk in the upper 30's- I believe the high was around 39. Sunday, however, temps soared up into the mid 70's and it felt like spring again- the sun was out and all was great.
We had to trek through a lot of fog on our way up on Friday- some parts of the highway were quite scary at times, but we made it... and the fog finally lifted Saturday morning.
Our view out the backyard of our home away from home for the weekend- taken Saturday morning just as the sun was rising and the fog was lifting:
This was our first trip to the lake off season- we've been coming to the lake for our big summer vacation for the past several years and this was such a HUGE difference. Summer is bustling- boats and jet ski's all over the water, kicking up dirt and making the water appear more cloudy.... off season is calm and quiet- water is crystal clear. We did have a couple disappointments with the off-season- all the docks were pulled out of the water which meant not so great fishing conditions for Mike and the kids. They managed though.... even though they didn't catch anything this trip, the kids were still just as excited to fish Monday morning before heading out as they were when we first arrived.
My disappointment for the weekend- no Lakeside Creamery. :( The local homemade ice cream parlor is one of my favorite parts of Deep Creek, especially since they make their own waffle cones. YUM! Ah well. Next time.
MomMom and PopPop visited with us Saturday to Sunday and we enjoyed taking them to a few of our favorite spots in the Deep Creek area. Saturday, we took MomMom to the mountain coaster at Wisp ski resort (PopPop opted out and stayed back with Mike and Evan). This ride is simply awesome. There are only 4 of it's kind in the US- it's like a roller coaster in your control. You have your own hand brakes to slow down some of the curves, but the ride operators tell you this is not a sight seeing ride- it is meant to be fast. The car is pulled up the entire mountain slope, and then once you reach the top you're on your own to control your speed going down (the cars will max out at about 28 mph).
Starting up the mountain- see the tippy top in the farrrrr distance? That's how high we're going!
Getting closer to the top...
MomMom and Kaylin at the bottom
Justin rode with me- and boy was it COLD!! Remember temps were in the upper 30's this day- our hands were like ICE when we got off this ride. It was still worth the cold fingers though. :)
On Sunday we took both MomMom and PopPop to one of several state parks in the area- Swallow Falls, home of the tallest waterfall in the state of Maryland. Muddy Creek Falls is 53 feet tall, and simply gorgeous. Mike and Evan stayed back for naptime while the rest of us explored the beautiful trails along the falls. I didn't think I'd take any new photos of the falls since I got some the last two times we visited, but there was a new viewing area built- much higher than the other places along the trail, so I had to snap a new shot!
This next shot was taken in front of the actual Swallow Falls- much smaller than Muddy Creek Falls.
After our trip to the park, the kids enjoyed some more fishing, and then PopPop built us a campfire for roasting marshmallows.
The only way to eat a roasted marshmallow is directly from the stick, right?
Justin enjoys wearing his marshmallow. Check out the fingers as well as his face.
In past years, we've always stayed at a different part of the lake, and even though we've never stayed in the same house twice, it seems we always have had a view of the sunrise in the morning. Well this time, we caught the gorgeous sunset.
But one thing in common with all the houses- the hot tub. We kept the temp set to the low 90's so the kids could enjoy since there would be no lake swimming on this trip.
Evan cuteness/silliness!!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Wordless Monday
Ok, just one word sums this up: Awesome. This is why I love country music. Don't forget to mute the music player at the bottom of the blog page.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Do *some* belong in an institution?
I was chatting with a friend of mine about a video clip from the Today Show which was broadcasted a few years ago:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1kbayAdlgg
Yes, please stop what you're doing... don't read any further on this post until you watch that 5 minute video.
Now.
I apologize if you've seen it before- I think I have linked it in one of my previous posts. No, wait. I don't apologize. We need to remember what is going on in other countries and not forget about these lost souls.
Did that video clip bother you? No, I'm not sorry about that either. It bothered me, too. A lot. This is the type of institution that the children I mention from Reece's Rainbow are transferred to if they aren't adopted by age 4-6. It doesn't matter how "high functioning" they are- if they have that extra chromosome, they are sent.
So, back to my conversation with my friend.... he made a comment to me about some of the people from the video belonging in an institution (of course not with those delapidated conditions), and that comment did not sit well with me at all. Yes, this person is still my friend ;) but this stirred something up inside me and I had to get it out.
That institution created 99% of those people's problems. If each of them were given full tummies and loved on, they would not be in the condition they are in. Instead, they are given barely enough to survive and very little if any attention. If they try to climb out of bed they are restrained for hours on end. How would any of us handle this type of treatment for any extended period of time? How much do you think these individuals would improve if they were taken from those horrid conditions immediately and placed in a warm and loving environment? Therapies?
How therapeutic is it for us to receive a hug from a friend or a loved one? Most of those adults and children from the video will never know. I say most because I know of one little girl, Katerina, who has a family working so hard to bring her home. If you go back to the video, you will see Ann Curry introduce Katerina, age 9 with Down syndrome- very quickly. Notice how small Katerina is for being 9 years old. Nine years living in a place like that... many of them having lived there so much longer. Breaks. My. Heart.
What goes through a child's mind when they are transferred to a place like this? Can you imagine... leaving the orphanage to get into a van- not having this opportunity much besides a visit to the doctor perhaps... thinking they are on some exciting trip or maybe meeting that forever family they've been dreaming about for so long... only to be lead into the dark, drab, delapidated building full of loud cries and moans... placed in a cold metal crib to be forgotten.
Here today in the US, when a child is born with a disability, parents are not stripped of their newborn baby any longer. We are not told our child belongs in an institution, that they will never walk, talk, or be able to function in society. Instead, we are given a diagnosis, and lead to specialists and therapists who can help. We are introduced to other parents and support groups, hearing positive and uplifting stories of acceptance and success in life. If parents still feel too overwhelmed, they can place their child for adoption. Institutionalization is NOT an option. So, why should it be an option there? I welcome your comments.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1kbayAdlgg
Yes, please stop what you're doing... don't read any further on this post until you watch that 5 minute video.
Now.
I apologize if you've seen it before- I think I have linked it in one of my previous posts. No, wait. I don't apologize. We need to remember what is going on in other countries and not forget about these lost souls.
Did that video clip bother you? No, I'm not sorry about that either. It bothered me, too. A lot. This is the type of institution that the children I mention from Reece's Rainbow are transferred to if they aren't adopted by age 4-6. It doesn't matter how "high functioning" they are- if they have that extra chromosome, they are sent.
So, back to my conversation with my friend.... he made a comment to me about some of the people from the video belonging in an institution (of course not with those delapidated conditions), and that comment did not sit well with me at all. Yes, this person is still my friend ;) but this stirred something up inside me and I had to get it out.
That institution created 99% of those people's problems. If each of them were given full tummies and loved on, they would not be in the condition they are in. Instead, they are given barely enough to survive and very little if any attention. If they try to climb out of bed they are restrained for hours on end. How would any of us handle this type of treatment for any extended period of time? How much do you think these individuals would improve if they were taken from those horrid conditions immediately and placed in a warm and loving environment? Therapies?
How therapeutic is it for us to receive a hug from a friend or a loved one? Most of those adults and children from the video will never know. I say most because I know of one little girl, Katerina, who has a family working so hard to bring her home. If you go back to the video, you will see Ann Curry introduce Katerina, age 9 with Down syndrome- very quickly. Notice how small Katerina is for being 9 years old. Nine years living in a place like that... many of them having lived there so much longer. Breaks. My. Heart.
What goes through a child's mind when they are transferred to a place like this? Can you imagine... leaving the orphanage to get into a van- not having this opportunity much besides a visit to the doctor perhaps... thinking they are on some exciting trip or maybe meeting that forever family they've been dreaming about for so long... only to be lead into the dark, drab, delapidated building full of loud cries and moans... placed in a cold metal crib to be forgotten.
Here today in the US, when a child is born with a disability, parents are not stripped of their newborn baby any longer. We are not told our child belongs in an institution, that they will never walk, talk, or be able to function in society. Instead, we are given a diagnosis, and lead to specialists and therapists who can help. We are introduced to other parents and support groups, hearing positive and uplifting stories of acceptance and success in life. If parents still feel too overwhelmed, they can place their child for adoption. Institutionalization is NOT an option. So, why should it be an option there? I welcome your comments.
Friday, April 1, 2011
April Fools!!
So, Kaylin has been SUPER excited about April Fool's Day for the past several weeks. She remembers last year when I tricked her into believing it was a snow day (oh did I get her GOOD!) and she has been determined to trick a few people this year. She's been plotting for WEEKS how she's going to trick Justin- I have no idea what she's scheming, but it's cute to see her mind working. Yesterday, she assembled a prank lollipop to give to her teacher. Inside the wrapper she worked hard at gluing back together, she put a sponge where the candy would be. :)
I scoured the internet, namely my favorite site for kids' ideas when it comes to birthday cakes and holidays- http://familyfun.go.com/. I saw a section on April Fools in their magazine and knew I'd find a lot more great ideas online.
First prank on Kaylin: Magic Milk Bowl
Our usual daily ritual involves Justin jumping out of bed at 6:00 on the dot (since that is the rule- he must wait until 6:00 to get up) and either Mike or myself coming downstairs with him. We often pour Kaylin's cereal and leave her milk in a cup for her to pour on top while we get Justin's breakfast ready for him. Unfortunately, Justin doesn't like eating his cereal with milk, so I didn't even attempt to try it on him.
Well, wouldn't you know, Kaylin was the one to pop up at 6:00 on the dot!! ACK! I got up with her and she snuggled up on the couch (whew), so I went to the kitchen to prepare her cereal bowl QUICKLY. Justin comes down the stairs moments later, and as I finished getting the cups poured, he asks for breakfast. After I poured his cereal in his bowl, wouldn't you know- he goes on to pour his milk on top. Go figure! Oh well. Kaylin came in and poured her milk right in.
She noticed one blue spot forming on one side- "What is that??" I come over, baffled of course, and suggest maybe she stir it a little to see if it goes away. ;)
Of course the entire bowl turns blue and she FLIPS.
After Justin sees Kaylin's blue milk, he decides he wants blue milk too!
After school, the kids come home and finish the snacks from their lunches they were unable to finish in school. Cue prank #2- both kids... Gelled Juice. Nervous about pulling this off since they rarely get Kool-Aid or anything other than milk or apple juice unless it's a special occasion. I'm thinking they will be suspicious, but it will be fun anyway.
Well, my plan was that as soon as I put them on the bus, I'd come in and get the jello made so it had time to set all day while they were in school. Evan was to have one of his therapists come at 9:00 so I wanted to boil the water quick and put it in the fridge before she came. Wouldn't you know Mother Nature had an April Fool's joke of her own??
I sit down to check my e-mail as I feed Evan his morning bottle, and what do I find- a message from the school system with an inclement weather notification. WHAT?!? I had looked out the window when I first got up and saw the dusting of snow covering the grass- just a tad thicker than the past couple days, but still nothing on the sidewalks and streets. Well, I open the e-mail and wouldn't you know it- schools are opening 2 hours late today. I don't believe it!!
So, impatient as I am, I go ahead and mix up the jello while the kids are playing in the basement. Unfortunately, I left the empty jello box on the counter and Kaylin spied it when she came back to the kitchen for a snack. I was planning on this prank to be more for Justin anyway, but thought I'd fool them both in the process. Well, she saw it and immediately connected it to Justin's prank, but she doesn't know what it involves. Time will tell if I can fool her, too. ;)
Since I was able to get out to the store between putting the kids on the bus and getting Evan down for his nap, I went ahead and made Fakin' and Eggs for dessert after dinner. Now, if you are going to attempt this, don't make the same mistake I did- make sure you buy the PLAIN M&M's. While I was at the grocery store, I was debating about which variety to buy, having thought I had seen larger size ones before. Well, the only larger ones I saw which were round (not the ones with the nuts) were the pretzel M&M's. I never had them before and was trying to feel them through the bag- they definitely felt larger than the regular ones. I absolutely LOVE chocolate covered pretzels, especially white chocolate covered. I thought this would be a great combination with the white chocolate for the "eggs".
Well, little did I know, pretzel M&M's are round balls, not flat like the regular M&M's. Oops. And the kicker- there are NO yellow ones!! ACK!! So, since I had no time to go back out to the store, I had to use the orange ones. Oh, well. :( The "bacon" was a bit tricky but I thought it turned out ok.
I am debating about trying the Surprise Balloon Swarm, but may save it for next year. I don't want to use all my tricks up in one day- gotta save some for next year! I'm definitely saving this one for next year: Chore Camp Brochure - I think that is hysterical!
Kaylin has been talking about whoopie cushions for the past several days, asking what it is etc. and I happened to find one at the grocery store today. :D Will see if I can sneak it on her chair this afternoon. ;)
Please share any April Fools jokes you planned or received today! And now for our dose of Evan cuteness :)
I scoured the internet, namely my favorite site for kids' ideas when it comes to birthday cakes and holidays- http://familyfun.go.com/. I saw a section on April Fools in their magazine and knew I'd find a lot more great ideas online.
First prank on Kaylin: Magic Milk Bowl
Our usual daily ritual involves Justin jumping out of bed at 6:00 on the dot (since that is the rule- he must wait until 6:00 to get up) and either Mike or myself coming downstairs with him. We often pour Kaylin's cereal and leave her milk in a cup for her to pour on top while we get Justin's breakfast ready for him. Unfortunately, Justin doesn't like eating his cereal with milk, so I didn't even attempt to try it on him.
Well, wouldn't you know, Kaylin was the one to pop up at 6:00 on the dot!! ACK! I got up with her and she snuggled up on the couch (whew), so I went to the kitchen to prepare her cereal bowl QUICKLY. Justin comes down the stairs moments later, and as I finished getting the cups poured, he asks for breakfast. After I poured his cereal in his bowl, wouldn't you know- he goes on to pour his milk on top. Go figure! Oh well. Kaylin came in and poured her milk right in.
She noticed one blue spot forming on one side- "What is that??" I come over, baffled of course, and suggest maybe she stir it a little to see if it goes away. ;)
Of course the entire bowl turns blue and she FLIPS.
After Justin sees Kaylin's blue milk, he decides he wants blue milk too!
After school, the kids come home and finish the snacks from their lunches they were unable to finish in school. Cue prank #2- both kids... Gelled Juice. Nervous about pulling this off since they rarely get Kool-Aid or anything other than milk or apple juice unless it's a special occasion. I'm thinking they will be suspicious, but it will be fun anyway.
Well, my plan was that as soon as I put them on the bus, I'd come in and get the jello made so it had time to set all day while they were in school. Evan was to have one of his therapists come at 9:00 so I wanted to boil the water quick and put it in the fridge before she came. Wouldn't you know Mother Nature had an April Fool's joke of her own??
I sit down to check my e-mail as I feed Evan his morning bottle, and what do I find- a message from the school system with an inclement weather notification. WHAT?!? I had looked out the window when I first got up and saw the dusting of snow covering the grass- just a tad thicker than the past couple days, but still nothing on the sidewalks and streets. Well, I open the e-mail and wouldn't you know it- schools are opening 2 hours late today. I don't believe it!!
So, impatient as I am, I go ahead and mix up the jello while the kids are playing in the basement. Unfortunately, I left the empty jello box on the counter and Kaylin spied it when she came back to the kitchen for a snack. I was planning on this prank to be more for Justin anyway, but thought I'd fool them both in the process. Well, she saw it and immediately connected it to Justin's prank, but she doesn't know what it involves. Time will tell if I can fool her, too. ;)
Since I was able to get out to the store between putting the kids on the bus and getting Evan down for his nap, I went ahead and made Fakin' and Eggs for dessert after dinner. Now, if you are going to attempt this, don't make the same mistake I did- make sure you buy the PLAIN M&M's. While I was at the grocery store, I was debating about which variety to buy, having thought I had seen larger size ones before. Well, the only larger ones I saw which were round (not the ones with the nuts) were the pretzel M&M's. I never had them before and was trying to feel them through the bag- they definitely felt larger than the regular ones. I absolutely LOVE chocolate covered pretzels, especially white chocolate covered. I thought this would be a great combination with the white chocolate for the "eggs".
Well, little did I know, pretzel M&M's are round balls, not flat like the regular M&M's. Oops. And the kicker- there are NO yellow ones!! ACK!! So, since I had no time to go back out to the store, I had to use the orange ones. Oh, well. :( The "bacon" was a bit tricky but I thought it turned out ok.
 |
| fakin' and eggs presented on Kaylin's plate she decorated at the local pottery place :) |
I am debating about trying the Surprise Balloon Swarm, but may save it for next year. I don't want to use all my tricks up in one day- gotta save some for next year! I'm definitely saving this one for next year: Chore Camp Brochure - I think that is hysterical!
Kaylin has been talking about whoopie cushions for the past several days, asking what it is etc. and I happened to find one at the grocery store today. :D Will see if I can sneak it on her chair this afternoon. ;)
Please share any April Fools jokes you planned or received today! And now for our dose of Evan cuteness :)
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