...Governor Patrick makes a good choice.
Right on, Governor, right on.
In short...
""I believe that life sciences should be guided by science, not politics," Patrick told the roundtable of biotechnology officials."
That sounds about right.
Friday, March 30, 2007
How Many Job Titles Have You had/Do You Have??
I can't remember where I saw this, so my apologies for not giving due credit!
Fill in a job title using the letters of the alphabet!
A: Architect (assembling, and in some cases redesigning a toy counts, doesn't it?)
Bartender (not for real, but I have mixed a few drinks in my time)!
C: Cook(like every day of my life, dude).
D: Doctor (I have three kids and a husband. I am sure I have earned a doctorate in something by now).
E: Everything (Doer of): Yup, that's right...i do it all.
F: Friend (not exactly a job per se but I am putting it here anyway).
G: God (or at least my kids think so when they actually think I have control over such things as the weather and passage of time).
H: Healer (a kiss from Mom makes the hurt stop you know).
I: Interpreter (have you ever tried to decipher baby speak? 'Nuff said).
J: Jerk (Not often of course, but admittedly, it has happened).
K: Killer (of evil bugs like spiders and ants...only if Ryun is not available to go in for the kill first, of course).
L: Lover (self-explanatory I think)
M: Mom (the best job ever)
N: Noise Patrol (again...3 kids and husband)
O: Officer of Law (enforcing such things as seat belt wearage, sunscreen use, tooth brushing)
P: Potty Patrol (running to the bathroom every half hour with a 2 year old is entertainment at it's best).
Q: Quitter (not often but yeah, it's happened)
R: Ranger (nature walks and camping)
S: Scrapper (someones gotta preserve the family history)
T: Teacher
U: Umbrella holder (and carriage pusher, kid holder, bag handler etc...sometimes all at once even!)
V: Victory Seeker (being victorious is kind of fun, ya know)
W: World Class Weight Lifter (at least I should be so I can manage the kid, the bags, the carriage, the umbrella etc)
X: Xylophone lover (What the hell else could I do for X?)
Z: Zookeeper ( 3 kids, a husband and 2 cats to boot)
Fill in a job title using the letters of the alphabet!
A: Architect (assembling, and in some cases redesigning a toy counts, doesn't it?)
Bartender (not for real, but I have mixed a few drinks in my time)!
C: Cook(like every day of my life, dude).
D: Doctor (I have three kids and a husband. I am sure I have earned a doctorate in something by now).
E: Everything (Doer of): Yup, that's right...i do it all.
F: Friend (not exactly a job per se but I am putting it here anyway).
G: God (or at least my kids think so when they actually think I have control over such things as the weather and passage of time).
H: Healer (a kiss from Mom makes the hurt stop you know).
I: Interpreter (have you ever tried to decipher baby speak? 'Nuff said).
J: Jerk (Not often of course, but admittedly, it has happened).
K: Killer (of evil bugs like spiders and ants...only if Ryun is not available to go in for the kill first, of course).
L: Lover (self-explanatory I think)
M: Mom (the best job ever)
N: Noise Patrol (again...3 kids and husband)
O: Officer of Law (enforcing such things as seat belt wearage, sunscreen use, tooth brushing)
P: Potty Patrol (running to the bathroom every half hour with a 2 year old is entertainment at it's best).
Q: Quitter (not often but yeah, it's happened)
R: Ranger (nature walks and camping)
S: Scrapper (someones gotta preserve the family history)
T: Teacher
U: Umbrella holder (and carriage pusher, kid holder, bag handler etc...sometimes all at once even!)
V: Victory Seeker (being victorious is kind of fun, ya know)
W: World Class Weight Lifter (at least I should be so I can manage the kid, the bags, the carriage, the umbrella etc)
X: Xylophone lover (What the hell else could I do for X?)
Z: Zookeeper ( 3 kids, a husband and 2 cats to boot)
Thursday, March 29, 2007
A New Life Begins
Good news! We got the car loan! YAY! Our "car man" Bob will be going to the auction for us on Tuesday and will be getting us an '05 or '06 Dodge Caravan. We have preapproval for up to $12,000 which is what we figured we would apply for, so as to keep the payments at an affordable level. We also have bought cars from Bob in the past and he ALWAYS gets great cars for way less than what they are worth. He was at the auction last week and was going to get us a 2005 Dodge Caravan, fully loaded (including an in car entertainment system...DVD Player etc)with 14,000 miles for only $12,000. The financing was not set yet, so obviously he didn't go for it. That should give you an idea though, of how good the cars are he gets. We did specifically request a minivan which, will be FABULOUS for our summer camping trip, but also will allow for more carpool room if needed.
Anyway, YAY!
Anyway, YAY!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Letter Regarding Julia
To Whom It May Concern:
Enclosed please find a signed evaluation consent form giving the Middleboro Public School System permission to evaluate my daughter, Julia for admission in to the public preschool.
In addition to the referral that you have already received, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the concerns I have for Julia, as well as how I feel she will benefit from admission in to an integrated preschool program.
Julia was accepted at the age of one year in to the Early Intervention program for both speech and gross motor delays. She has been with Early Intervention since that time, and, has also, at various times had outside Physical and Occupational Therapy at Health South in Plymouth, Massachusetts. While she has made remarkable progress as a result of these interventions, as well as continued work at home, there are still areas of need that I feel would be appropriately addressed in an integrated preschool setting.
Julia’s gross motor delay continues to be of great concern. As noted in her referral, she has overall hypotonia (low muscle tone) and this contributes significantly to her delay in her acquisition of age appropriate gross motor skills. Julia feels very “loose” and does not show any resistance when her extremities are moved passively. Julia is unable to climb stairs independently, and requires a hand (or a railing, or, in some cases both) in order to make her way up or down stairs. Even with a hand or railing to hold on to, it is evident by the amount of effort she exerts and the frequent “shakiness” of her legs that stair climbing is very difficult for her. Julia has an immature gait, which still looks somewhat “waddle-like”, as it sometimes does when a child first learns to walk. Julia also has a very “stiff” run and does not appear to bend her legs appropriately when running. She also has issues with balance and is unable to stand on one foot for even a few seconds. Julia is unable to jump off of a small ledge or, for example, off of a gym mat on to the floor. Julia’s ankles, when in a standing position tend to turn in and her feet are flat.
While Julia has made substantial gains in the area of speech and says many words and sentences, she does have difficulties with language. This is most obvious when she is presented with choices (both physically and mentally presented). When given a choice (“Julia do you want apple juice or milk?”) She will either say, “Yes,” repeat the choice (“apple juice or milk”) or say the last thing you said (“milk”). If you go back and switch the order (“Julia do you want milk or apple juice?”) she will still repeat the last thing said, even if she had said milk prior. She also has difficulty answering questions. If for example, you were to ask Julia what color a block was (let’s assume it’s red) and she didn’t answer you, you might prompt her by saying, “Is it green?” This would be an attempt obviously, to get her to respond with, “No, it’s red” or even just “No.” What she says instead is “Yes” even though she will be looking at the block and know it is red.
Julia sometimes seems overwhelmed in certain social situations. She is intensely shy and takes quite some time to be comfortable in new situations. Even when she is eventually beginning to feel comfortable, she still sometimes will prefer to be alone and does not always interact with the other children.
Due to her low muscle tone and gross motor delay, I feel Julia should be receiving Physical Therapy Services every week. I would also like Julia to receive some help with her language skills, so that she will be able to make choices and have appropriate conversations. Constant exposure to children in a preschool setting will help Julia overcome her shyness and develop appropriate social skills.
I feel very strongly that Julia should be accepted in to this program. Thank you very much for your consideration!
Enclosed please find a signed evaluation consent form giving the Middleboro Public School System permission to evaluate my daughter, Julia for admission in to the public preschool.
In addition to the referral that you have already received, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the concerns I have for Julia, as well as how I feel she will benefit from admission in to an integrated preschool program.
Julia was accepted at the age of one year in to the Early Intervention program for both speech and gross motor delays. She has been with Early Intervention since that time, and, has also, at various times had outside Physical and Occupational Therapy at Health South in Plymouth, Massachusetts. While she has made remarkable progress as a result of these interventions, as well as continued work at home, there are still areas of need that I feel would be appropriately addressed in an integrated preschool setting.
Julia’s gross motor delay continues to be of great concern. As noted in her referral, she has overall hypotonia (low muscle tone) and this contributes significantly to her delay in her acquisition of age appropriate gross motor skills. Julia feels very “loose” and does not show any resistance when her extremities are moved passively. Julia is unable to climb stairs independently, and requires a hand (or a railing, or, in some cases both) in order to make her way up or down stairs. Even with a hand or railing to hold on to, it is evident by the amount of effort she exerts and the frequent “shakiness” of her legs that stair climbing is very difficult for her. Julia has an immature gait, which still looks somewhat “waddle-like”, as it sometimes does when a child first learns to walk. Julia also has a very “stiff” run and does not appear to bend her legs appropriately when running. She also has issues with balance and is unable to stand on one foot for even a few seconds. Julia is unable to jump off of a small ledge or, for example, off of a gym mat on to the floor. Julia’s ankles, when in a standing position tend to turn in and her feet are flat.
While Julia has made substantial gains in the area of speech and says many words and sentences, she does have difficulties with language. This is most obvious when she is presented with choices (both physically and mentally presented). When given a choice (“Julia do you want apple juice or milk?”) She will either say, “Yes,” repeat the choice (“apple juice or milk”) or say the last thing you said (“milk”). If you go back and switch the order (“Julia do you want milk or apple juice?”) she will still repeat the last thing said, even if she had said milk prior. She also has difficulty answering questions. If for example, you were to ask Julia what color a block was (let’s assume it’s red) and she didn’t answer you, you might prompt her by saying, “Is it green?” This would be an attempt obviously, to get her to respond with, “No, it’s red” or even just “No.” What she says instead is “Yes” even though she will be looking at the block and know it is red.
Julia sometimes seems overwhelmed in certain social situations. She is intensely shy and takes quite some time to be comfortable in new situations. Even when she is eventually beginning to feel comfortable, she still sometimes will prefer to be alone and does not always interact with the other children.
Due to her low muscle tone and gross motor delay, I feel Julia should be receiving Physical Therapy Services every week. I would also like Julia to receive some help with her language skills, so that she will be able to make choices and have appropriate conversations. Constant exposure to children in a preschool setting will help Julia overcome her shyness and develop appropriate social skills.
I feel very strongly that Julia should be accepted in to this program. Thank you very much for your consideration!
Traditions Around The World
Last night was Traditions Around The World at Katherine's school. Each class picked a different country and set up a display with various projects they had completed and information they have learned. Katherine wanted to get all dressed up for the affair so, she wore a new dress Mimi got her(not specifically for this occasion) and I took pictures!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
No, I Haven't Forgotten About This Here Blog!
I have just been extremely busy!
Here though, is a little preview of entries that will be coming at you over the next few days!
...a summary of the conference workshop I attended called, NCLB: What's In It For Families!
...a copy of the letter I wrote to accompany the permission to evaluate Julia for the public preschool.
...a discussion detailing my general thoughts on the public education system, specifically what seems to work well, what doesn't and what I think needs to be done (this entry actually may end up being a few entries).
So, check back!
Here though, is a little preview of entries that will be coming at you over the next few days!
...a summary of the conference workshop I attended called, NCLB: What's In It For Families!
...a copy of the letter I wrote to accompany the permission to evaluate Julia for the public preschool.
...a discussion detailing my general thoughts on the public education system, specifically what seems to work well, what doesn't and what I think needs to be done (this entry actually may end up being a few entries).
So, check back!
Julia!
Julia cuteness!
In order:
What happened? (How cute is she?).
Julia sings "Choo Choo The Big Train"
Julia sings our hello and goodbye songs that we sing each week at play group.
In order:
What happened? (How cute is she?).
Julia sings "Choo Choo The Big Train"
Julia sings our hello and goodbye songs that we sing each week at play group.
Report Card Report
With the busy weekend, I completely forgot to mention that the girls got their report cards on Friday. They both did quite well.
Emily has made some dramatic improvement in math which was nice to see. Everything else basically stayed the same or went up. Her teacher comment said, "Emily is a wonderful young lady She has made gains this term. She should continue to slow down and recheck her work."
Katherine did well also, and either stayed the same or went up in every area. Her teacher comment said, "Katherine tries to do her best at all times. She is very proud of her performance. Katherine has made good academic gains this term. Keep up the good work."
Just before report cards, I had a parent-teacher conference with Katherine's teacher. These conferences were not scheduled for every parent, but her teacher requested one with me just because she likes to touch base with any parent who has a student in her class receiving any special services(Katherine receives Title I reading services). Overall, she was pleased with Katherine's progress. One thing that she said that surprised me was that Katherine really thinks "outside the box" and is the catalyst for many conversations in the classroom. I was pleased to hear this, as it was not something that I generally would expect of Katherine.
Anyway, YAY for good report cards!
Emily has made some dramatic improvement in math which was nice to see. Everything else basically stayed the same or went up. Her teacher comment said, "Emily is a wonderful young lady She has made gains this term. She should continue to slow down and recheck her work."
Katherine did well also, and either stayed the same or went up in every area. Her teacher comment said, "Katherine tries to do her best at all times. She is very proud of her performance. Katherine has made good academic gains this term. Keep up the good work."
Just before report cards, I had a parent-teacher conference with Katherine's teacher. These conferences were not scheduled for every parent, but her teacher requested one with me just because she likes to touch base with any parent who has a student in her class receiving any special services(Katherine receives Title I reading services). Overall, she was pleased with Katherine's progress. One thing that she said that surprised me was that Katherine really thinks "outside the box" and is the catalyst for many conversations in the classroom. I was pleased to hear this, as it was not something that I generally would expect of Katherine.
Anyway, YAY for good report cards!
Received Via Email
A little boy goes to his dad and asks, "What is Politics?"
Dad says, "Well son, let me try to explain it this way:
I am the head of the family, so call me The President.
Your mother is the administrator of the money, so we call her The Government.
We are here to take care of your needs, so we will call you The People.
The nanny, we will consider her The Working Class.
And your baby brother, we will call him The Future.
Now think about that and see if it makes sense.
So the little boy goes off to bed thinking about what Dad has said. Later that night, he hears his baby brother
crying, so he gets up to check on him. He finds that the baby has severely soiled his diaper. So the little boy goes to his parent's room and finds his mother sound asleep.
Not wanting to wake her, he goes to the nanny's room.
Finding the door locked, he peeks in the keyhole and sees his father in bed with the nanny. He gives up and goes back to bed.
The next morning, the little boy say's to his father, "Dad, I think I understand the concept of politics now,"
The father says, "Great son! Tell me in your own words what you think politics is all about."
The little boy replies, "The President is screwing The Working Class while The Government is sound asleep. The People are being ignored and
The Future is in deep shit."
Dad says, "Well son, let me try to explain it this way:
I am the head of the family, so call me The President.
Your mother is the administrator of the money, so we call her The Government.
We are here to take care of your needs, so we will call you The People.
The nanny, we will consider her The Working Class.
And your baby brother, we will call him The Future.
Now think about that and see if it makes sense.
So the little boy goes off to bed thinking about what Dad has said. Later that night, he hears his baby brother
crying, so he gets up to check on him. He finds that the baby has severely soiled his diaper. So the little boy goes to his parent's room and finds his mother sound asleep.
Not wanting to wake her, he goes to the nanny's room.
Finding the door locked, he peeks in the keyhole and sees his father in bed with the nanny. He gives up and goes back to bed.
The next morning, the little boy say's to his father, "Dad, I think I understand the concept of politics now,"
The father says, "Great son! Tell me in your own words what you think politics is all about."
The little boy replies, "The President is screwing The Working Class while The Government is sound asleep. The People are being ignored and
The Future is in deep shit."
Seasons Change
I was eating breakfast this morning (something I have been trying to get in the habit of) and thought, "I can't believe it is almost April!" It's insane how fast time passes, isn't it? School will be out for the summer in 2 1/2 months!
I am, regardless of how quickly the winter seemed to pass (and lets hope that it officially has) I can't wait for the nice spring weather to set in. This week looks to be fairly nice, with sunshine and temperatures in the mid-fifties for the most part. I might just have to get back in to "spring/summer" mode and head down to the canal for a nice walk with Julia. It will probably be a little cooler there but, not so cool that a nice walk wouldn't be in order.
The coming nice weather always reminds me of the time that Emily smelled summer. it was a mid-April morning in 2002, when Emily was just 5 years old. The weather on that day was beautiful and the temperature was expected to soar in to the 90's! Anyway, Emily woke up, looked out her bedroom window and said, "What's that smell?" I went over, and tried to figure out what she was smelling. The only thing that I could smell (and let me tell you how keen my sense of smell is) was "summer." It was that warm weather, summer smell. As someone said in my guestbook back at the time, "Aww, your daughter smelled Summer! That's so cute it hurts."
I am, regardless of how quickly the winter seemed to pass (and lets hope that it officially has) I can't wait for the nice spring weather to set in. This week looks to be fairly nice, with sunshine and temperatures in the mid-fifties for the most part. I might just have to get back in to "spring/summer" mode and head down to the canal for a nice walk with Julia. It will probably be a little cooler there but, not so cool that a nice walk wouldn't be in order.
The coming nice weather always reminds me of the time that Emily smelled summer. it was a mid-April morning in 2002, when Emily was just 5 years old. The weather on that day was beautiful and the temperature was expected to soar in to the 90's! Anyway, Emily woke up, looked out her bedroom window and said, "What's that smell?" I went over, and tried to figure out what she was smelling. The only thing that I could smell (and let me tell you how keen my sense of smell is) was "summer." It was that warm weather, summer smell. As someone said in my guestbook back at the time, "Aww, your daughter smelled Summer! That's so cute it hurts."
Monday, March 26, 2007
Mardi Gras
Thank God it's over. Seriously. As much fun as the Mardi Gras event is, it is a lot of work for me and honestly, I am just glad it's over. The kids enjoyed themselves, especially Julia who loved the new "little kids play area" we had set up for children under two. Emily and Katherine played the carnival games, had their faces painted, got tatoos, and made a few crafts. Me? I was stuck behind the counter ALL DAY LONG serving food. I really don't mind it so much but I am definitely going to step down next year (or at least not assume full responsibility for acquiring donations, shopping, staffing and serving the food myself). It's just too much and I would really like to be able to walk around and enjoy the time with the kids.
I still don't know how much we raised on a whole but I do know that food made $1200. The only other "money making" areas were admissions($3.00 per child, adults free), cake walk (where you pay $1.00 per turn) and the raffle (which this year featured all toys for the kids).
I am still amazed at how well this is all put together each year (not that I should be amazed given the great group of people that we have in the PTA). It really is a wonderful family day, and very inexpensive.
I still don't know how much we raised on a whole but I do know that food made $1200. The only other "money making" areas were admissions($3.00 per child, adults free), cake walk (where you pay $1.00 per turn) and the raffle (which this year featured all toys for the kids).
I am still amazed at how well this is all put together each year (not that I should be amazed given the great group of people that we have in the PTA). It really is a wonderful family day, and very inexpensive.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Julia's Haircut: Before and After Photos
My sister and I took Julia here today. It was my first time going there and I was impressed! Not only did Julia get to have a pop while she was getting her hair cut, but she got to watch a cute little video and put her hair into a little vacuum type thing that sucks up her hair and spit out a prize! It really was worth the money, especially for Julia who generally, is not a big fan of getting her hair done.
So, of course, I took pictures!
Here she is a few days ago...
And, drum roll please...
We probably had at least 6-8 inches cut. I was nervous that what little curl she had left would disappear, but as you can see, my fear was unfounded. Doesn't she look just adorable?!?!
So, of course, I took pictures!
Here she is a few days ago...
And, drum roll please...
We probably had at least 6-8 inches cut. I was nervous that what little curl she had left would disappear, but as you can see, my fear was unfounded. Doesn't she look just adorable?!?!
Friday, March 23, 2007
Right Of Passage
So, today, for the first time in the history of my "momhood" I had to leave a store because my kid was freaking out.
It is still, hours later, amazing to me that Julia would be the child that would cause this to happen. In a weird way, her screaming at the top of her lungs that she "needs to drive" whilepeople who don't know how to mind their own damn business curious onlookers jaws drop in utter disgrace that I would allow my child to behave in such a way, makes me happy. Why? Well, because, Julia "not sticking up for herself" has been one of my more main concerns with her social development so, when these brief moments of actually behaving like a typical two year old occur, I am cursing as much as I am praising (neither of which I do out loud of course because one thing Julia has perfected is repeating every thing she hears).
Still, I was royally pissed that I drove all the way to BJ's in Plymouth to pick up and spend a donated gift card for Mardi Gras purchases, and had to leave before I even had the chance to buy one thing.
It all started when she saw one of those carriages that has the car in front of it. Like every other kid in the world she loves these things. Only problem? The one she saw was in use and there weren't any others. She started off saying nice and quietly, "I need to drive," and even a few times with a "please" thrown in at the end. I explained that there were no more and her quiet manner went from "I need to drive to "I NEED TO DRIIIIIIIIIIIIVE." Crying and screaming ensued and it became apparent that there was just no way I was going to settle her so, I just left.
A trip to BJ's will be in order tomorrow morning I guess, before Mardi Gras starts.
Ugh...
It is still, hours later, amazing to me that Julia would be the child that would cause this to happen. In a weird way, her screaming at the top of her lungs that she "needs to drive" while
Still, I was royally pissed that I drove all the way to BJ's in Plymouth to pick up and spend a donated gift card for Mardi Gras purchases, and had to leave before I even had the chance to buy one thing.
It all started when she saw one of those carriages that has the car in front of it. Like every other kid in the world she loves these things. Only problem? The one she saw was in use and there weren't any others. She started off saying nice and quietly, "I need to drive," and even a few times with a "please" thrown in at the end. I explained that there were no more and her quiet manner went from "I need to drive to "I NEED TO DRIIIIIIIIIIIIVE." Crying and screaming ensued and it became apparent that there was just no way I was going to settle her so, I just left.
A trip to BJ's will be in order tomorrow morning I guess, before Mardi Gras starts.
Ugh...
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Webkinz Take Over The World
Anyone with school age children will more than likely relate well to this post.
Webkinz are these cute little stuffed animals that come with this secret code that gives you access to this website where you can feed and otherwise car for your pet. There are games you can play to earn cash to buy things for your pet, including furnishings for their room online, food, and other items.
Remember the cabbage patch kid craze of the 80's? Stores were constantly sold out. If you didn't have at least 2, you were so not cool. Really the concept of little kids being born in a cabbage patch, with little "stamps" on their but was a little weird but, hey we were kids...and we didn't care. They had strange names too. Mine? Judy Ariel. My friend Heather's (yes, I remember my friends Cabbage Patch kids name)? Kristabella Birdie. I even had a record (yes, an actual record that played on a record player) with some Cabbage Patch Kids songs (some of which I could still sing for you word for word if I were so inclined).
Anyway, the point is that I never imagined myself a crazed mother calling every store on this side of the Mississippi to see if they had a toy my kids wanted in stock (no) and if not when would they (we have no idea). I never actually imagined that there would some day be a toy that my children would want so much that I would actually consider driving to the ends of the earth to get. I never imagined that there would ever be a toy that is actually interactive with a home computer.
Funny how that all works.
It all comes full circle, doesn't it?
Oh, and Ebay is looking like a mighty fine option right now.
Webkinz are these cute little stuffed animals that come with this secret code that gives you access to this website where you can feed and otherwise car for your pet. There are games you can play to earn cash to buy things for your pet, including furnishings for their room online, food, and other items.
Remember the cabbage patch kid craze of the 80's? Stores were constantly sold out. If you didn't have at least 2, you were so not cool. Really the concept of little kids being born in a cabbage patch, with little "stamps" on their but was a little weird but, hey we were kids...and we didn't care. They had strange names too. Mine? Judy Ariel. My friend Heather's (yes, I remember my friends Cabbage Patch kids name)? Kristabella Birdie. I even had a record (yes, an actual record that played on a record player) with some Cabbage Patch Kids songs (some of which I could still sing for you word for word if I were so inclined).
Anyway, the point is that I never imagined myself a crazed mother calling every store on this side of the Mississippi to see if they had a toy my kids wanted in stock (no) and if not when would they (we have no idea). I never actually imagined that there would some day be a toy that my children would want so much that I would actually consider driving to the ends of the earth to get. I never imagined that there would ever be a toy that is actually interactive with a home computer.
Funny how that all works.
It all comes full circle, doesn't it?
Oh, and Ebay is looking like a mighty fine option right now.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Received via email...
..from three different people in Middleboro!
Anyone concerned about the mosquito season approaching needs to know about a very important meeting coming up.
I have just been informed that the DPH is seriously considering - banning aerial mosquito spraying for the Bristol and Plymouth County this year. The reason for the potential ban is to protect the endangered brown spotted turtles that have migrated to our area. Yes the spraying might not be the healthiest environment for our wildlife but weighing the options, our children are more important. One bite from a mosquito infected with EEE could be fatal. Spraying as early as possible into the spring season will terminate a large population of mosquito eggs - which I believe would lessen the chances of the EEE being spread.
It went on to say that there would be an EEE meeting on March 29, at the town hall and that the mother of the young boy who died last year from Middleboro would be there, supporting the spraying.
My initial gut reaction was complete shock and horror. As Ryun so aptly put it, "@#$% The brown spotted turtle, my kids are more important."
After getting over the initial shock, I decided that there was no way in hell this could be true. So I called the DPH and Plymouth Country Mosquito Control to get the lowdown. I also looked up the spotted turtle online and found out, that while it was on the "Species of Special Concern" list, it was removed from that list last year and is no longer in danger.
The DPH and the representative from Plymouth County Mosquito Control both confirmed what I already knew: There is absolutely no truth behind the email at all. I briefly wondered if they could have been lying, so as to prevent a public outcry but, decided that the people of Southeastern MA would surely be more concerned with the human beings of this neck of the woods than they would over a turtle. At least one would hope.
Anyone concerned about the mosquito season approaching needs to know about a very important meeting coming up.
I have just been informed that the DPH is seriously considering - banning aerial mosquito spraying for the Bristol and Plymouth County this year. The reason for the potential ban is to protect the endangered brown spotted turtles that have migrated to our area. Yes the spraying might not be the healthiest environment for our wildlife but weighing the options, our children are more important. One bite from a mosquito infected with EEE could be fatal. Spraying as early as possible into the spring season will terminate a large population of mosquito eggs - which I believe would lessen the chances of the EEE being spread.
It went on to say that there would be an EEE meeting on March 29, at the town hall and that the mother of the young boy who died last year from Middleboro would be there, supporting the spraying.
My initial gut reaction was complete shock and horror. As Ryun so aptly put it, "@#$% The brown spotted turtle, my kids are more important."
After getting over the initial shock, I decided that there was no way in hell this could be true. So I called the DPH and Plymouth Country Mosquito Control to get the lowdown. I also looked up the spotted turtle online and found out, that while it was on the "Species of Special Concern" list, it was removed from that list last year and is no longer in danger.
The DPH and the representative from Plymouth County Mosquito Control both confirmed what I already knew: There is absolutely no truth behind the email at all. I briefly wondered if they could have been lying, so as to prevent a public outcry but, decided that the people of Southeastern MA would surely be more concerned with the human beings of this neck of the woods than they would over a turtle. At least one would hope.
FYI...
...for all you "Dunkie's Junkie's"* out there...today is "Free Iced Coffee" day! Head on over and get a free 16 oz coffee with no purchase necessary!
*Dunkie's Junkies: people who can not live without there morning cup o' joe from Dunkin Donuts.
*Dunkie's Junkies: people who can not live without there morning cup o' joe from Dunkin Donuts.
Tonight On LOST...
...Locke's back story continued. Finally! Any guesses as to why he was confined to a wheelchair? Or why, after crash landing on the island he could suddenly walk again? I will be interested to see if they get in to the "power of the island" and the "fate brought us here" part of the story that Locke is always bringing up.
Anyway, I think there is only one person that both reads this blog and watches LOST (ahem Jen), so I doubt anyone other than her will have any thoughts on the matter buy, hey, you never know!
Anyway, I think there is only one person that both reads this blog and watches LOST (ahem Jen), so I doubt anyone other than her will have any thoughts on the matter buy, hey, you never know!
American Idol
Because I am crunched for time...
Who I loved:
Haley
Blake
Phil
Melinda
Who I thought was ok:
Sanjaya
Chris S.
Chris R.
Lakisha
Jordin
Who made me cringe (well maybe not cringe but you get the point):
Stephanie
Gina
Who I loved:
Haley
Blake
Phil
Melinda
Who I thought was ok:
Sanjaya
Chris S.
Chris R.
Lakisha
Jordin
Who made me cringe (well maybe not cringe but you get the point):
Stephanie
Gina
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Pictures
I figure it's been at least a week or two since I have posted pictures of the kids so you know, what the heck?!?! Julia, BTW, is demonstrating the face she makes when you say, "Make your silly face." LOL.
Busy...
Mardi Gras is this weekend (The annual PTA sponsored Mardi Gras that is)and, I'm not going to lie...I 'll be glad when it's over. When I am actually there at the event and can see that all of my hard work has actually paid off, I will be fine. Until then, I have about a million things to do, and oddly, no motivation to do it. I guess that's not odd, really. It's more annoying than add.
In other stressful news, my car has decided to shit the proverbial bed. It still runs but is getting little or no oil pressure and the transmission is not shifting gears. Going from 30 to 70 means flooring the pedal and lurching forward which is NOT GOOD. The car has 150,000 miles on it and really, it has done well by me. With that high mileage and a probable transmission problem, investing in it is just not worth it. So, Ryun is heading to the bank to apply for a car loan and we will be visiting our friend Bob (who buys cars wholesale and sells great cars for little money comparably)and hopefully getting a "Mom Mobile" like a mini-van or an SUV with 3rd row seating. I am actually kind of excited about this (a sure sign of being a Mom is being excited about driving a minivan) but it still sucks having a car break. In the mean time, Ryun is driving my father's truck (my father has a company vehicle) and I am driving Ryun's car. Sometimes, cars suck.
The end.
In other stressful news, my car has decided to shit the proverbial bed. It still runs but is getting little or no oil pressure and the transmission is not shifting gears. Going from 30 to 70 means flooring the pedal and lurching forward which is NOT GOOD. The car has 150,000 miles on it and really, it has done well by me. With that high mileage and a probable transmission problem, investing in it is just not worth it. So, Ryun is heading to the bank to apply for a car loan and we will be visiting our friend Bob (who buys cars wholesale and sells great cars for little money comparably)and hopefully getting a "Mom Mobile" like a mini-van or an SUV with 3rd row seating. I am actually kind of excited about this (a sure sign of being a Mom is being excited about driving a minivan) but it still sucks having a car break. In the mean time, Ryun is driving my father's truck (my father has a company vehicle) and I am driving Ryun's car. Sometimes, cars suck.
The end.
Monday, March 19, 2007
I can't relate to this at all.
Dear Kids,
Don't be alarmed; the world isn't coming to an end.
I am simply taking a bath. It will take about thirty minutes and will involve soap and water.
Yes, I know how to swim. Even if I didn't, forcing myself to drown in a half-inch of lukewarm water is more work than I’ve got energy for.
(Which reminds me, I'm all for science projects, but the next time you want to see if Play-Doh floats use cold water.)
Don't panic if I'm not out right on time.
I’ve heard that people don't dissolve in water and I'd like to test the theory.
While I’m in the tub, I'd like you to remember a few things.
The large slab of wood between us is called a door. Do not bang to hear my voice.
I promise that even though you can't see me, I am on the other side. I'm not digging an escape tunnel and running for the border, no matter what I said a while ago.
I didn’t mean it. Honest.
There will be plenty of time later to tell me about your day. "Later" means at a time when I am no longer naked, wet, and contemplating bubble gum in the blow dryer.
I know you have important things to tell me. Please let one of them be that you have invented a new way to blow bubbles, not a new way to add gum to your hair.
Believe it or not, shouting "TELEPHONE!" through the closed bathroom door will not make the phone stop ringing. Answer it and take a message.
Since Amazing Mind-Reading Mom has the day off, you'll need to write that message down. Use paper and a pencil.
Do not use your brother and the laundry marker. We can’t take him to town with telephone number tattoos.
Water makes me wet, not deaf.
I can still tell the difference between the sound of "nothing" and the sound of a child playing the piano with a basketball.
I can also hear you tattling at the top of your lungs. I'm choosing not to answer you.
Don't call your dad at work and tell him I am unconscious in the bathroom.
He didn't appreciate it last time. He won’t appreciate it this time. Trust me.
No matter how much I would like it, water does not make me forgetful.
I remember who you are and why you are grounded.
No, you can't go to Shelby’s house to play. No, you can't go to Shelby's house to use the bathroom.
If someone is in our other bathroom, you will just have to think dry thoughts and wait.
Unless you have four feet and a tail, do not think of going outside to "water" the lawn. I know the dog does it. The neighbors don't feel the need to call me when the dog does it.
Unless the house catches on fire, stay inside and keep the doors locked.
Do not go outside and throw rocks at the bathroom window to get my attention. I know it works in the movies.
This is reality, the place where people don't like to sit in a tub while rocks and broken glass rain in on them.
Do not set the house on fire. Call me if there is an emergency.
Emergencies are:
Dad has fallen off the roof.
Your brother and/or sister is bleeding.
There's a red fire truck in front of our house.
Emergencies are not:
Dad has fallen asleep.
Someone on TV is bleeding.
There's a red pickup truck in front of our house.
One other thing:
Being forced to use the last roll of toilet paper for a towel does not make me happy. It makes me sticky with little white polka dots.
In the future, when the tub overflows, use a mop to clean up the water instead of every towel in the house.
For my sanity's sake, let’s pretend it was the tub, Okay?
No, I don't want to hear the real story. Ever. Especially not while I'm standing in the pool of water you missed.
By the way, all Play-Doh experiments are hereby cancelled.
Be good. Entertain yourselves.
Yes, you can do both at the same time. Try coloring, playing a game, or paying that stack of bills on the coffee table.
I'll be out soon. Maybe.
Love, Mom
Don't be alarmed; the world isn't coming to an end.
I am simply taking a bath. It will take about thirty minutes and will involve soap and water.
Yes, I know how to swim. Even if I didn't, forcing myself to drown in a half-inch of lukewarm water is more work than I’ve got energy for.
(Which reminds me, I'm all for science projects, but the next time you want to see if Play-Doh floats use cold water.)
Don't panic if I'm not out right on time.
I’ve heard that people don't dissolve in water and I'd like to test the theory.
While I’m in the tub, I'd like you to remember a few things.
The large slab of wood between us is called a door. Do not bang to hear my voice.
I promise that even though you can't see me, I am on the other side. I'm not digging an escape tunnel and running for the border, no matter what I said a while ago.
I didn’t mean it. Honest.
There will be plenty of time later to tell me about your day. "Later" means at a time when I am no longer naked, wet, and contemplating bubble gum in the blow dryer.
I know you have important things to tell me. Please let one of them be that you have invented a new way to blow bubbles, not a new way to add gum to your hair.
Believe it or not, shouting "TELEPHONE!" through the closed bathroom door will not make the phone stop ringing. Answer it and take a message.
Since Amazing Mind-Reading Mom has the day off, you'll need to write that message down. Use paper and a pencil.
Do not use your brother and the laundry marker. We can’t take him to town with telephone number tattoos.
Water makes me wet, not deaf.
I can still tell the difference between the sound of "nothing" and the sound of a child playing the piano with a basketball.
I can also hear you tattling at the top of your lungs. I'm choosing not to answer you.
Don't call your dad at work and tell him I am unconscious in the bathroom.
He didn't appreciate it last time. He won’t appreciate it this time. Trust me.
No matter how much I would like it, water does not make me forgetful.
I remember who you are and why you are grounded.
No, you can't go to Shelby’s house to play. No, you can't go to Shelby's house to use the bathroom.
If someone is in our other bathroom, you will just have to think dry thoughts and wait.
Unless you have four feet and a tail, do not think of going outside to "water" the lawn. I know the dog does it. The neighbors don't feel the need to call me when the dog does it.
Unless the house catches on fire, stay inside and keep the doors locked.
Do not go outside and throw rocks at the bathroom window to get my attention. I know it works in the movies.
This is reality, the place where people don't like to sit in a tub while rocks and broken glass rain in on them.
Do not set the house on fire. Call me if there is an emergency.
Emergencies are:
Dad has fallen off the roof.
Your brother and/or sister is bleeding.
There's a red fire truck in front of our house.
Emergencies are not:
Dad has fallen asleep.
Someone on TV is bleeding.
There's a red pickup truck in front of our house.
One other thing:
Being forced to use the last roll of toilet paper for a towel does not make me happy. It makes me sticky with little white polka dots.
In the future, when the tub overflows, use a mop to clean up the water instead of every towel in the house.
For my sanity's sake, let’s pretend it was the tub, Okay?
No, I don't want to hear the real story. Ever. Especially not while I'm standing in the pool of water you missed.
By the way, all Play-Doh experiments are hereby cancelled.
Be good. Entertain yourselves.
Yes, you can do both at the same time. Try coloring, playing a game, or paying that stack of bills on the coffee table.
I'll be out soon. Maybe.
Love, Mom
Weekend Review
So, everyone knows (well, maybe not everyone) how "together" Ryun is when it comes to being organized and how obsessed he is with cars and keys and things of that nature. Well, this weekend, we spend the day Saturday at a hotel in Dedham, visting with my aunt who was here from California. The plan was for Ryun and the girls to stay through dinner and then Ryun would bring the girls home and I would spend the night with my aunt. We were getting ready to leave (my sister Heather had Emily and Katherine at the mall with her so it was just Ryun, Julia, my grandmother and myself) and Ryun went out to bring the car up so my grandmother wouldn't have a far walk. This is what happened.
He discovered that he had left his headlights on and his battery was dead.
He left one set of keys in the ignition and the other spare set that he always carries on the passenger seat.
Then he locked the door.
Next he realized that his cell phone battery was dead.
Yeah, I know. He had brought Julia with him. Thank God he hadn't put her in the car yet or he would have had to break a window. Anyway, he tried to jimmy the lock himself and he had it about half way up. In the meantime, we remembered that my sister Heather's car was still in the lot (they had taken my aunt's rental to the mall) and her keys were back in the room. My mother suggested I just strap Julia in to the car (remember we had not car seat) and bring her and my grandmother to the restaurant while Ryun waited for AAA to come open his car and jump the car. I was NOT COOL with this (not because I really thought something would happen but because I figured that with the kind of luck I have, this would be the one time that I got pulled over and the officer would discover my 2 year old daughter not in a car seat). So, my father ended up being a taxi service and shuttling Suzanne and Jack to the restaurant, and coming back to get the rest of us, with Julia sitting in Jack's car seat. By the time all was said and done, Ryun was not hungry and extremely mad at himself, Julia was asleep on my father's lap in the restaurant, and my parents had booked us a room thinking that Ryun would be in "no frame of mind" to deal with the older kids. So, Ryun just came and got Julia and then went home. I felt bad that he missed eating at Vinny T's and I knew, because of how he is, that it was going to take him a good long night's sleep before he was over it. I'm not going to lie either...when he told me his battery was dead because he left the lights on, that he locked two sets of keys in the car, and that he let his cellphone battery run down until it was dead, I was a little worried. That is so not Ryun. Everyone has a bad day I guess but as many people (including myself) pointed out, if I had done any of those things, it would have been more like an "Oh, this is a Sharon moment." I am just not "together" like Ryun is.
Anyway, after Ryun left with Julia we finished up dinner and sent my father back to the hotel to babysit the grandkids while my sisters, mother, aunt and I went to a bar in Roslindale (where a friend of a friend of my mother's) Irish Band was playing. It was a nice way to celebrate St. Patty's Day.
The next morning we went to breakfast and swam for a while with the kids. We had lunch at Joe's and then came home. Last night, I made a cornbeef and cabbage dinner and settled in for a nice evening of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition with Emily.
All in all, it was a great weekend, even if I did feel bad for Ryun.
He discovered that he had left his headlights on and his battery was dead.
He left one set of keys in the ignition and the other spare set that he always carries on the passenger seat.
Then he locked the door.
Next he realized that his cell phone battery was dead.
Yeah, I know. He had brought Julia with him. Thank God he hadn't put her in the car yet or he would have had to break a window. Anyway, he tried to jimmy the lock himself and he had it about half way up. In the meantime, we remembered that my sister Heather's car was still in the lot (they had taken my aunt's rental to the mall) and her keys were back in the room. My mother suggested I just strap Julia in to the car (remember we had not car seat) and bring her and my grandmother to the restaurant while Ryun waited for AAA to come open his car and jump the car. I was NOT COOL with this (not because I really thought something would happen but because I figured that with the kind of luck I have, this would be the one time that I got pulled over and the officer would discover my 2 year old daughter not in a car seat). So, my father ended up being a taxi service and shuttling Suzanne and Jack to the restaurant, and coming back to get the rest of us, with Julia sitting in Jack's car seat. By the time all was said and done, Ryun was not hungry and extremely mad at himself, Julia was asleep on my father's lap in the restaurant, and my parents had booked us a room thinking that Ryun would be in "no frame of mind" to deal with the older kids. So, Ryun just came and got Julia and then went home. I felt bad that he missed eating at Vinny T's and I knew, because of how he is, that it was going to take him a good long night's sleep before he was over it. I'm not going to lie either...when he told me his battery was dead because he left the lights on, that he locked two sets of keys in the car, and that he let his cellphone battery run down until it was dead, I was a little worried. That is so not Ryun. Everyone has a bad day I guess but as many people (including myself) pointed out, if I had done any of those things, it would have been more like an "Oh, this is a Sharon moment." I am just not "together" like Ryun is.
Anyway, after Ryun left with Julia we finished up dinner and sent my father back to the hotel to babysit the grandkids while my sisters, mother, aunt and I went to a bar in Roslindale (where a friend of a friend of my mother's) Irish Band was playing. It was a nice way to celebrate St. Patty's Day.
The next morning we went to breakfast and swam for a while with the kids. We had lunch at Joe's and then came home. Last night, I made a cornbeef and cabbage dinner and settled in for a nice evening of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition with Emily.
All in all, it was a great weekend, even if I did feel bad for Ryun.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Julia: Genetic Consultation
Yesterday was Julia's Genetic Consult at Children's in Boston.
Before I get in to how that went, let me please make note that I have survived another trip in to the hell that is driving in Boston. So, YAY me! Every trip too and from Children's reminds me of just how much of a "country" girl I am. Boston has too much of everything, first and foremost being people, followed closely by cars, buildings, traffic lights, and idiots that don't know the difference between a walk/don't walk signal.
Anyway, her appointment went well. They are testing her for, well, exactly what I'd figured they would be testing her for based on my own research: Noonan Syndrome and Fragile X. They are basing these tests on the following findings from her developmental pediatrician (who is also on staff at Children's) and the doctor who say her yesterday's own observations:
Fragile X Symptoms that are present in Julia:
Flat Feet
Large Head Circumference
Hypotonia
Loose, Flexible Joints
Gross Motor Delay
Weakness in Conversational Abilities
Shyness
Noonan's Syndrome Symptoms that are present in Julia:
Widely Spaced Eyes
Downslanting Eyes
Short Stature (below the 15th percentile)
Low Set Ears
Widely Spaced Nipples
Hypotonia
Developmental Delay
Curly Hair
Of course, because nothing is ever clear cut (with my kids anyway) these symptoms could all mean absolutely nothing as well.
I am not really nervous about either thing but the Noonan's Syndrome thing is just slightly scary because most people with it have some sort of a congenital heart defect (that may not be discovered until something goes wrong). Obviously though, if it turns out that she has the Noonan's Syndrome, investigation of her heart by way of ultrasound and, perhaps an EKG would be in order. As far as I can tell, Fragile X seems to affect boys more severely than girls, and neither Noonan's or Fragile X appear to have any degenerative features (as in she is not out of the blue going to have more severe special needs etc).
The results will take between 2-3 months to come back.
I seem to be handling all of this remarkably well, for those who may be wondering. I think, sad to say, Emily's medical rollercoaster when she was first diagnosed with her "Tuberous Sclerosis-like" condition has prepared me well. The only really firm thought I have about any of this is that if Julia does come back with any kind of genetic abnormality, I will be pushing hard for the insurance to pay for Ryun and I to be tested. When they wouldn't pay for it when Emily was diagnosed, I pushed a little, but it was just one kid, and she was basically fine. Two kids though? I'm am thinking that it might be easier to convince them.
Julia, of course, because she is just about the most well behaved two year old ever (most of the time anyway) was perfect. She didn't even cry for the blood draw (although she made the "I am so gonna cry" look which just about breaks my heart everytime).
Before I get in to how that went, let me please make note that I have survived another trip in to the hell that is driving in Boston. So, YAY me! Every trip too and from Children's reminds me of just how much of a "country" girl I am. Boston has too much of everything, first and foremost being people, followed closely by cars, buildings, traffic lights, and idiots that don't know the difference between a walk/don't walk signal.
Anyway, her appointment went well. They are testing her for, well, exactly what I'd figured they would be testing her for based on my own research: Noonan Syndrome and Fragile X. They are basing these tests on the following findings from her developmental pediatrician (who is also on staff at Children's) and the doctor who say her yesterday's own observations:
Fragile X Symptoms that are present in Julia:
Flat Feet
Large Head Circumference
Hypotonia
Loose, Flexible Joints
Gross Motor Delay
Weakness in Conversational Abilities
Shyness
Noonan's Syndrome Symptoms that are present in Julia:
Widely Spaced Eyes
Downslanting Eyes
Short Stature (below the 15th percentile)
Low Set Ears
Widely Spaced Nipples
Hypotonia
Developmental Delay
Curly Hair
Of course, because nothing is ever clear cut (with my kids anyway) these symptoms could all mean absolutely nothing as well.
I am not really nervous about either thing but the Noonan's Syndrome thing is just slightly scary because most people with it have some sort of a congenital heart defect (that may not be discovered until something goes wrong). Obviously though, if it turns out that she has the Noonan's Syndrome, investigation of her heart by way of ultrasound and, perhaps an EKG would be in order. As far as I can tell, Fragile X seems to affect boys more severely than girls, and neither Noonan's or Fragile X appear to have any degenerative features (as in she is not out of the blue going to have more severe special needs etc).
The results will take between 2-3 months to come back.
I seem to be handling all of this remarkably well, for those who may be wondering. I think, sad to say, Emily's medical rollercoaster when she was first diagnosed with her "Tuberous Sclerosis-like" condition has prepared me well. The only really firm thought I have about any of this is that if Julia does come back with any kind of genetic abnormality, I will be pushing hard for the insurance to pay for Ryun and I to be tested. When they wouldn't pay for it when Emily was diagnosed, I pushed a little, but it was just one kid, and she was basically fine. Two kids though? I'm am thinking that it might be easier to convince them.
Julia, of course, because she is just about the most well behaved two year old ever (most of the time anyway) was perfect. She didn't even cry for the blood draw (although she made the "I am so gonna cry" look which just about breaks my heart everytime).
Heroes Quiz
Well, this sounds about right. Now if I could just get the mind reading thing down pat.
via Jay.
Matt Parkman You scored 79 Idealism, 33 Nonconformity, 8 Nerdiness |
Congratulations, you're Matt Parkman! You're a great person: caring, hard-working, and honest. You might not have the best of luck, but you do your best in all areas of life. Your kind and responsible nature is rare, and you should be proud of it. Your best quality: Heart Your worst quality: You may take more abuse than you deserve |
 |
My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
|
| Link: The Heroes Personality Test written by freedomdegrees on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test |
via Jay.
New England: Defined
The difference between today and Wednesday:
Wednesday: iced coffee from Dunkin Donuts.
Today: hot coffee from Dunkin Donuts.
*(disclaimer: This is not to say that you can't drink and iced coffee from Dunky's on the coldest day of the year because, you can and I have. It's another weird New England thing that, unless you live here, you just might not understand.)*
Wednesday: iced coffee from Dunkin Donuts.
Today: hot coffee from Dunkin Donuts.
*(disclaimer: This is not to say that you can't drink and iced coffee from Dunky's on the coldest day of the year because, you can and I have. It's another weird New England thing that, unless you live here, you just might not understand.)*
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Sensory Activity: Conrstarch and Water
Yesterday's beautiful weather provided the perfect opportunity for this fantastic (outdoor...unless you are really brave) sensory activity.
The mix is variable...I used a little bit more water than cornstarch to get that "extra gooey" feel but play with it and see what you like.
At first, Julia would only use a spoon and refused to touch it with her hand. I put my hand in, and casually dripped some of the mix on to her hand. After many times of doing this, she eventually touched it her self. At first, it was just one finger, then another and before long...
...she had her entire hand emerged. She then discovered the joy of clapping with wet, gooey stuff all over your hands!
The next two pictures demonstrate the "goo" sliding off of Julia's hand, then mine.
Finally, Julia provides a perfect picture of why this is an outdoor activity!
As per usual, click each picture to enlarge!
The mix is variable...I used a little bit more water than cornstarch to get that "extra gooey" feel but play with it and see what you like.
At first, Julia would only use a spoon and refused to touch it with her hand. I put my hand in, and casually dripped some of the mix on to her hand. After many times of doing this, she eventually touched it her self. At first, it was just one finger, then another and before long...
...she had her entire hand emerged. She then discovered the joy of clapping with wet, gooey stuff all over your hands!
The next two pictures demonstrate the "goo" sliding off of Julia's hand, then mine.
Finally, Julia provides a perfect picture of why this is an outdoor activity!
As per usual, click each picture to enlarge!
Pictures For Emily
Below are two pictures that I have taken for Emily to be used in her "visual aid" book described in the post below titled, "Conference: Executive Functioning." There will be many more pictures to add to this of course, but this is a good start.
Ready for school!
AN example of homework materials needed!
Ready for school!
AN example of homework materials needed!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Email Question
As much as I love Mozilla Thunderbird as my email program, I can't seem to figure out how to set it up so that a "signature" is attached to every email I send. They have some sort of thing called a "vcard" but it appears that the person receiving the email actually has to click on the card to see the inforomation. I am looking for it to just "appear" below my name.
Example:
Dear Blogging friends,
How the heck can I get my signature to appear on every email?
Thanks!
Sharon
Sharon Ellis
lia sophia jewelry adivsor
http://www.liasophia.com/sharonellis
http://ryshemkaju.blogspot.com
Anyone know?
Example:
Dear Blogging friends,
How the heck can I get my signature to appear on every email?
Thanks!
Sharon
Sharon Ellis
lia sophia jewelry adivsor
http://www.liasophia.com/sharonellis
http://ryshemkaju.blogspot.com
Anyone know?
Technical Stuff
Just an FYI: I have made my comments open to all (with word verification of course) and have also made it so you can link to specific entries in this blog, without having to link the entire blog.
That is all.
That is all.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
There are no words...
...send some sympathetic thoughts Eric's way, will ya?
Everyone can relate to a story like his. A good pair of jeans is priceless, and losing them, as I said in his comments, is a tragedy beyond words.
Everyone can relate to a story like his. A good pair of jeans is priceless, and losing them, as I said in his comments, is a tragedy beyond words.
Conference: Executive Functioning.
As mentioned, I recently attended the Annual Visions Of Community Conference sponsored by the Federation For Children With Special Needs. One of the three workshops I attended was called, "Executive Function Skills" and, it was, by far my favorite.
For those who may be unfamiliar, executive functioning is a term that refers to an array of cognitive functions associated with being able to generate and executive a strategy for managing unfamiliar or open ended tasks. Executive functioning skills include self regulation( or arousal, attention, and emotion) and task management skills such as organization, planning and self monitoring. Executive functioning also encompasses problems with cognitive organization.
The presenter, besides being obviously familiar with what exactly executive functioning is, was probably one of the best public speakers I have ever seen. She kept my attention throughout, was humorous, and very well informed in her area of expertise. She gave an excellent description of the different parts of the brain, which part was responsible for what, and how it all came in to play regarding executive functioning. She gave "real life" examples (some of which I could completely relate to and understand) and overall, presented a very engaging, informative and useful workshop.
Perhaps the most interesting and beneficial part for me was the "what to do and how to help" part of the workshop. I had researched on my own exactly what EFD was and how the different parts of the brain affected it (although the refresher was nice and I did learn a number of things I did not already know in this regard), but had not had a lot of success looking at the different things that I could employ in my everyday life with Emily.
Before I get any further in to the "what to do and how to help" part of this, there were three very critical things I learned. The first thing was in regard to the connection between attention and executive function. At any one time, the human brain can only hold on to 7 (+ or - 2)pieces of information at a time. In a child, the capacity to hold information is less, as their attentional systems are still developing. In a child with EFD, who has trouble with cognitive organization, the ability of the mind to hold information is diminished even further. Another key piece that I really felt was important was this: There is an unfortunate tendency for some parents and teachers to assume that their role as "helper" requires that they assume responsibility for executive dimensions of tasks. This means doing such things as settings goals for the child, planning and organizing all of their activities, and solving their problems. Doing for them is not teaching them how to use their executive functioning skills themselves. The predictable outcome is learned helplessness and oppositional behavior. This leads to the last critical thing: Don't cue to do, cue to know what to do. Again, if you do it from the, they will never learn how to do it themselves. Ask questions like, How long do you think it will take? How did you manage or know how to do it? Have you done anything like this before? How did that work out? How are you going to know what is most important? What do you want it to look like? How much time did it take you the last time you did this? This will teach them to reassess and evaluate on their own what has worked best, how to estimate time, and feel a sense of accomplishment when they have completed a task.
The main concepts taught in regard to how to help a child with EFD were; teaching forethought, teaching self directed talk, making visual aids, reading the room and minimizing multitasking. In the interest of organization, I have broken each one down in to a list form, with a description of what each concept is, and how to "make it work" for your child.
1. teaching forethought
-Ask questions like, "What will it look like if...?", "How do you see yourself?", If everything goes your way, what will it look like?" Example: American Idol is on at 8. You have told your daughter that if she wants to watch it, she needs to finish her homework first. You go in, help her set up to get it going, go put a load of laundry and come back to check on her, only to find out she hasn't even started. Initiation is a HUGE problem for people with EFD. Generally, prioritizing and goal setting is difficult. So, you ask her, "Where do you see yourself at 8 tonight? On the couch with me watching AI or doing your homework?" This helps present a "mental image" and involves your daughter by asking her where she sees herself. The steps for teaching this skill are as follows: Set a goal. Ask, "what will it look like if your achieve your goal? Look ahead. Ask, "What time will it be? Look back. Ask, "Have you been in this situation before?" "What would you do differently next time?" "What would you repeat?" Plan. Gather everything needed to accomplish your goal. Do. Do it. Stay on the timeline. Set up time checks. Are you on track? Review. "How did you do?" "Does it look like what you pictured?"
2. Teaching Internal Self Directed Talk
This was the one I found most interesting. Basically, this is teaching your child to use the "voice in their head. "You know the one that says, "Don't worry. Relax. Does this feel right? Does this make sense?" The teaching of self directed talk facilitates the development of working memory and speed of processing, and serves the cognitive functions of organization, and structuring behavior, all areas that Emily specifically needs help with. One method of teaching this was by doing it for them, literally. For example, if I walked in and saw Emily doing something she wasn't supposed to rather than speaking to her and giving her the chance to react with a "But Mom..." or a "Why can't I________?" which could lead to a potential fight and more stress for all, I would simply walk up behind her and say, "I bet Mom would be really upset with me if she saw me going this." Eventually, after a number of times doing this, the hope is that Emily would catch on and start using the "voice in her head" herself. Emily is right at the age where this method might not work well (younger kids are more impressionable etc.) but, I think I might try it anyway. In some respects, she is a "young 10" and she is right on the borderline as far as the age group that the presenter talked about.
3. Using Visual Aids
I became aware of just how visual Emily is when I read the results of her neuro-psych testing. She is definitely a visual learner which will make this next idea easy to employ (I hope)! Basically, the concept here is to get your child to "match the picture." So, for example, you would take a picture of what your child looks like when they are ready for school...coat, backpack, hat etc. Take a picture of what it looks like to do homework...complete with all materials needed and your child actually sitting and doing the work. Take a picture of the bedtime and morning routines. Then, put them in a small album or binder and when it comes time to complete one of the tasks, show your child the picture and say "match the picture." This makes it more of a game to them and perhaps, will make it easier to follow.
4. Reading The Room
Many children with EFD have difficulties with the concept of time, reading people, and assessing the situation. This is where S.T.O.P comes in to play.
S=Space and Situation: Assess the space you are in and the situation you are presented with.
T=Time: Ask, is this a good time? When do you need to be done? What other things do you have scheduled(look ahead)? Is the pace fast or slow?
O=Objects: Do you have everything you will need(make a list)? Are you using something that does not belong to you(ask first)?
P=people: Are you giving them your attention? Can you ear and understand them? Are they busy? Are they interested in what you are saying? Read their body language (facial expressions, body language).
This is something that most of us do the minute we enter a room, in the space of a few seconds. For someone with EFD, this kind of organized thought is not usually present and is a learned behavior. Teaching the concept of S.T.O.P. will help!
5. Multi tasking in most cases of EFD is an unheard of skill. Multi tasking requires organization and planning, skills that are generally not present in someone with EFD. So, things must be broken down in to manageable chunks, and worked on individually.
See it.
Say it.
Do it.
Shift it.
I have used this concept with Emily already with a writing assignment she had to do. We sat down, separate each topic she needed to write about it and she completed one at a time, until she was done. Looking at it in smaller pieces helps keep her from getting overwhelmed.
One pretty significant thing I learned about EFD was that it is greatly influenced by experience, teaching, and expectations in the environment. For people with EFD, skills that may seem implicit, are not and need to be taught in order to achieve success.
For those who may be unfamiliar, executive functioning is a term that refers to an array of cognitive functions associated with being able to generate and executive a strategy for managing unfamiliar or open ended tasks. Executive functioning skills include self regulation( or arousal, attention, and emotion) and task management skills such as organization, planning and self monitoring. Executive functioning also encompasses problems with cognitive organization.
The presenter, besides being obviously familiar with what exactly executive functioning is, was probably one of the best public speakers I have ever seen. She kept my attention throughout, was humorous, and very well informed in her area of expertise. She gave an excellent description of the different parts of the brain, which part was responsible for what, and how it all came in to play regarding executive functioning. She gave "real life" examples (some of which I could completely relate to and understand) and overall, presented a very engaging, informative and useful workshop.
Perhaps the most interesting and beneficial part for me was the "what to do and how to help" part of the workshop. I had researched on my own exactly what EFD was and how the different parts of the brain affected it (although the refresher was nice and I did learn a number of things I did not already know in this regard), but had not had a lot of success looking at the different things that I could employ in my everyday life with Emily.
Before I get any further in to the "what to do and how to help" part of this, there were three very critical things I learned. The first thing was in regard to the connection between attention and executive function. At any one time, the human brain can only hold on to 7 (+ or - 2)pieces of information at a time. In a child, the capacity to hold information is less, as their attentional systems are still developing. In a child with EFD, who has trouble with cognitive organization, the ability of the mind to hold information is diminished even further. Another key piece that I really felt was important was this: There is an unfortunate tendency for some parents and teachers to assume that their role as "helper" requires that they assume responsibility for executive dimensions of tasks. This means doing such things as settings goals for the child, planning and organizing all of their activities, and solving their problems. Doing for them is not teaching them how to use their executive functioning skills themselves. The predictable outcome is learned helplessness and oppositional behavior. This leads to the last critical thing: Don't cue to do, cue to know what to do. Again, if you do it from the, they will never learn how to do it themselves. Ask questions like, How long do you think it will take? How did you manage or know how to do it? Have you done anything like this before? How did that work out? How are you going to know what is most important? What do you want it to look like? How much time did it take you the last time you did this? This will teach them to reassess and evaluate on their own what has worked best, how to estimate time, and feel a sense of accomplishment when they have completed a task.
The main concepts taught in regard to how to help a child with EFD were; teaching forethought, teaching self directed talk, making visual aids, reading the room and minimizing multitasking. In the interest of organization, I have broken each one down in to a list form, with a description of what each concept is, and how to "make it work" for your child.
1. teaching forethought
-Ask questions like, "What will it look like if...?", "How do you see yourself?", If everything goes your way, what will it look like?" Example: American Idol is on at 8. You have told your daughter that if she wants to watch it, she needs to finish her homework first. You go in, help her set up to get it going, go put a load of laundry and come back to check on her, only to find out she hasn't even started. Initiation is a HUGE problem for people with EFD. Generally, prioritizing and goal setting is difficult. So, you ask her, "Where do you see yourself at 8 tonight? On the couch with me watching AI or doing your homework?" This helps present a "mental image" and involves your daughter by asking her where she sees herself. The steps for teaching this skill are as follows: Set a goal. Ask, "what will it look like if your achieve your goal? Look ahead. Ask, "What time will it be? Look back. Ask, "Have you been in this situation before?" "What would you do differently next time?" "What would you repeat?" Plan. Gather everything needed to accomplish your goal. Do. Do it. Stay on the timeline. Set up time checks. Are you on track? Review. "How did you do?" "Does it look like what you pictured?"
2. Teaching Internal Self Directed Talk
This was the one I found most interesting. Basically, this is teaching your child to use the "voice in their head. "You know the one that says, "Don't worry. Relax. Does this feel right? Does this make sense?" The teaching of self directed talk facilitates the development of working memory and speed of processing, and serves the cognitive functions of organization, and structuring behavior, all areas that Emily specifically needs help with. One method of teaching this was by doing it for them, literally. For example, if I walked in and saw Emily doing something she wasn't supposed to rather than speaking to her and giving her the chance to react with a "But Mom..." or a "Why can't I________?" which could lead to a potential fight and more stress for all, I would simply walk up behind her and say, "I bet Mom would be really upset with me if she saw me going this." Eventually, after a number of times doing this, the hope is that Emily would catch on and start using the "voice in her head" herself. Emily is right at the age where this method might not work well (younger kids are more impressionable etc.) but, I think I might try it anyway. In some respects, she is a "young 10" and she is right on the borderline as far as the age group that the presenter talked about.
3. Using Visual Aids
I became aware of just how visual Emily is when I read the results of her neuro-psych testing. She is definitely a visual learner which will make this next idea easy to employ (I hope)! Basically, the concept here is to get your child to "match the picture." So, for example, you would take a picture of what your child looks like when they are ready for school...coat, backpack, hat etc. Take a picture of what it looks like to do homework...complete with all materials needed and your child actually sitting and doing the work. Take a picture of the bedtime and morning routines. Then, put them in a small album or binder and when it comes time to complete one of the tasks, show your child the picture and say "match the picture." This makes it more of a game to them and perhaps, will make it easier to follow.
4. Reading The Room
Many children with EFD have difficulties with the concept of time, reading people, and assessing the situation. This is where S.T.O.P comes in to play.
S=Space and Situation: Assess the space you are in and the situation you are presented with.
T=Time: Ask, is this a good time? When do you need to be done? What other things do you have scheduled(look ahead)? Is the pace fast or slow?
O=Objects: Do you have everything you will need(make a list)? Are you using something that does not belong to you(ask first)?
P=people: Are you giving them your attention? Can you ear and understand them? Are they busy? Are they interested in what you are saying? Read their body language (facial expressions, body language).
This is something that most of us do the minute we enter a room, in the space of a few seconds. For someone with EFD, this kind of organized thought is not usually present and is a learned behavior. Teaching the concept of S.T.O.P. will help!
5. Multi tasking in most cases of EFD is an unheard of skill. Multi tasking requires organization and planning, skills that are generally not present in someone with EFD. So, things must be broken down in to manageable chunks, and worked on individually.
See it.
Say it.
Do it.
Shift it.
I have used this concept with Emily already with a writing assignment she had to do. We sat down, separate each topic she needed to write about it and she completed one at a time, until she was done. Looking at it in smaller pieces helps keep her from getting overwhelmed.
One pretty significant thing I learned about EFD was that it is greatly influenced by experience, teaching, and expectations in the environment. For people with EFD, skills that may seem implicit, are not and need to be taught in order to achieve success.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Conference
Over the weekend, I attended the Federation For Children With Special Needs Visions of Community Conference.
This is my second consecutive year attending and both times, I have found it to be extremely beneficial and informative. This year I attended a workshop on executive functioning, one on differentiated education and one on NCLB. All three were amazing. I will be updating in the near future more specifically about the executive functioning and NCLB workshops as I found them to be most interesting.
I am certainly planning on attending this conference for many years to come, and would highly recommend it to anyone with "special" children, professionals, or anyone with aninterest in learning more about special needs in general.
This is my second consecutive year attending and both times, I have found it to be extremely beneficial and informative. This year I attended a workshop on executive functioning, one on differentiated education and one on NCLB. All three were amazing. I will be updating in the near future more specifically about the executive functioning and NCLB workshops as I found them to be most interesting.
I am certainly planning on attending this conference for many years to come, and would highly recommend it to anyone with "special" children, professionals, or anyone with aninterest in learning more about special needs in general.
Pursuing The Degree
In looking at my transcript from Merrimack, I have come up with the following classes which I have taken, passed and should count toward, well, something:
6 Sociology classes (Principles of Sociology, Social Inequalities, Sociology of Law, Sociology of the Family, Confrontation, Protest and Social Movement, and Sociology of Health).
3 English classes (Introduction to College Writing, Major American Authors, and Contemporary American Literature).
2 Religion classes (Introduction to Religious Studies and Islam).
2 Philosophy classes (Perspectives on Human Nature and Values In Technology).
2 Political Science classes (Comparative Government and American National Government)
1 History class (History of American Civilization 1877-1988).
1 Psychology class (General Psychology).
1 Marketing class (Introduction to Marketing).
My next step will be to call Merrimack and find out how many classes I would need to take to get an associates degree in, well, anything. I am assuming it would be in liberal arts, with sociology, and perhaps, English as my concentrations. I had called about this quite some time ago and I think I remember being told that I would need to take 7 more classes, one of which would need to be at Merrimack for my associates degree to actually come from Merrimack. Merrimack is in North Andover, which is about an hour and a half drive from home, but, for just one class and an actual degree from Merrimack, it could be worth it. I am also going to plan looking at taking the class (or perhaps classes) online. Otherwise, I could transfer my credits to a more local school and finish it there.
Either way, I feel like this is one step in the right direction. It would certainly give me a feeling of accomplishment, especially knowing that the time and effort I did put in way back was worth it.
6 Sociology classes (Principles of Sociology, Social Inequalities, Sociology of Law, Sociology of the Family, Confrontation, Protest and Social Movement, and Sociology of Health).
3 English classes (Introduction to College Writing, Major American Authors, and Contemporary American Literature).
2 Religion classes (Introduction to Religious Studies and Islam).
2 Philosophy classes (Perspectives on Human Nature and Values In Technology).
2 Political Science classes (Comparative Government and American National Government)
1 History class (History of American Civilization 1877-1988).
1 Psychology class (General Psychology).
1 Marketing class (Introduction to Marketing).
My next step will be to call Merrimack and find out how many classes I would need to take to get an associates degree in, well, anything. I am assuming it would be in liberal arts, with sociology, and perhaps, English as my concentrations. I had called about this quite some time ago and I think I remember being told that I would need to take 7 more classes, one of which would need to be at Merrimack for my associates degree to actually come from Merrimack. Merrimack is in North Andover, which is about an hour and a half drive from home, but, for just one class and an actual degree from Merrimack, it could be worth it. I am also going to plan looking at taking the class (or perhaps classes) online. Otherwise, I could transfer my credits to a more local school and finish it there.
Either way, I feel like this is one step in the right direction. It would certainly give me a feeling of accomplishment, especially knowing that the time and effort I did put in way back was worth it.
The Kids: Emily, Katherine, and Julia
Because most of you, at this point anyway, are probably being referred from my personal journal and may already have a good background in regard to my kids, I am going to keep this short and sweet!
Emily: Emily is my oldest daughter, and she will be 10 in June. Emily is in 4th grade. She was diagnosed in 2004 with Epilepsy and a "Tuberous Sclerosis-like" condition, in 2005 with ADHD: Inattentive Type, and most recently (just about a month ago), with Executive Function Disorder. She was recently evaluated for Special Education services but, because she is making academic progress in all areas, we ended up just adding accommodations to her existing 504 plan. She needs a lot of help organizational (both physical and emotional), time management, emotional control, and maintaining appropriate levels of attention. She is currently taking Lamictal for seizure control and as a mood stabilizer. Emily also has pretty severe environmental allergies (all kinds of grass,trees, cats, dogs, dust mites). She is also allergic to the antibiotic, Rocephin.
Katherine: Katherine is my middle child, and she is 7 years old. She is in 1st grade. Katherine is currently receiving Title 1 reading help, and is being evaluated for special education services for Speech and Language. Her diction and pronunciation of many letter sounds is off. Katherine has made remarkable progress in reading and is really coming along! She also has mild asthma, moderate allergies and ketotic hypoglycemia.
Julia: Julia is my baby (that is going to be 3 in July!). Julia is currently enrolled in Early Intervention for a gross motor delay, sensory sensitivities, and some language and social concerns. She has been involved with the EI program since she was just year old. Julia's physical therapist comes out once a week to work with Julia, and we also attend a weekly EI playgroup. At various points during this time period, Julia has also received outside supplemental services for both Physical and Occupational Therapy. We are currently in the process of having Julia evaluated for admission in to the integrated preschool run by the public school in our town. Julia's only present diagnosis is overall hypotonia (low muscle tone throughout her body).
Emily: Emily is my oldest daughter, and she will be 10 in June. Emily is in 4th grade. She was diagnosed in 2004 with Epilepsy and a "Tuberous Sclerosis-like" condition, in 2005 with ADHD: Inattentive Type, and most recently (just about a month ago), with Executive Function Disorder. She was recently evaluated for Special Education services but, because she is making academic progress in all areas, we ended up just adding accommodations to her existing 504 plan. She needs a lot of help organizational (both physical and emotional), time management, emotional control, and maintaining appropriate levels of attention. She is currently taking Lamictal for seizure control and as a mood stabilizer. Emily also has pretty severe environmental allergies (all kinds of grass,trees, cats, dogs, dust mites). She is also allergic to the antibiotic, Rocephin.
Katherine: Katherine is my middle child, and she is 7 years old. She is in 1st grade. Katherine is currently receiving Title 1 reading help, and is being evaluated for special education services for Speech and Language. Her diction and pronunciation of many letter sounds is off. Katherine has made remarkable progress in reading and is really coming along! She also has mild asthma, moderate allergies and ketotic hypoglycemia.
Julia: Julia is my baby (that is going to be 3 in July!). Julia is currently enrolled in Early Intervention for a gross motor delay, sensory sensitivities, and some language and social concerns. She has been involved with the EI program since she was just year old. Julia's physical therapist comes out once a week to work with Julia, and we also attend a weekly EI playgroup. At various points during this time period, Julia has also received outside supplemental services for both Physical and Occupational Therapy. We are currently in the process of having Julia evaluated for admission in to the integrated preschool run by the public school in our town. Julia's only present diagnosis is overall hypotonia (low muscle tone throughout her body).
Welcome!
Welcome to my new "adventure!"
As the mother of three children, all of whom have some degree of special needs, I feel I have gained a whole new "education" around such areas as special needs, the public school system, and other areas of educational or health related concerns. With my youngest daughter coming closer and closer to school age, I have been giving serious consideration to going back to school to obtain a degree in either Early Childhood Education, Special Needs, or Psychology. I feel rather passionately about some things, specifically cuts in educational funding, but, it is my hope that this blog will touch on a variety of different areas in and around education.
I will be updating frequently over the next few days, with more information on each of my children, more about myself, and more about what I am hoping to achieve with this new blog.
As the mother of three children, all of whom have some degree of special needs, I feel I have gained a whole new "education" around such areas as special needs, the public school system, and other areas of educational or health related concerns. With my youngest daughter coming closer and closer to school age, I have been giving serious consideration to going back to school to obtain a degree in either Early Childhood Education, Special Needs, or Psychology. I feel rather passionately about some things, specifically cuts in educational funding, but, it is my hope that this blog will touch on a variety of different areas in and around education.
I will be updating frequently over the next few days, with more information on each of my children, more about myself, and more about what I am hoping to achieve with this new blog.
Friday, March 9, 2007
Swimming Lessons and Sickness
Yesterday the girls started swimming lessons at the Y. Emily loved it and did fairly well . Katherine was swimming in the deep end holding on to a bar bell floaty type thing and she let go of it, went under, swallowed water and couldn't get back up without help. Yikes. Needless to say, this completely ruined her for the rest of the lesson. Thing is, I am pretty sure from what I observed with the other kids in her lesson, the level (even though it is beginner) is too much for her. These other kids were jumping off the board in the deep end and swimming back. She is so not there. I am really not sure of the best way to handle this but, we are at the very least going to try one more lesson and see how it goes.
In other news, Emily came home from her lessons, didn't want to eat, and proceeded to throw up. Fun! I kept her home today on principle, but she seems fine, so maybe it was just a "thing." Who knows.
I am going out tonight (early) to run a few errands and then I will be heading to bed. I need to be up and out of the house early tomorrow(to go to the conference for The Federation For Children With Special Needs).The bus will be leaving at 7 am from Taunton.
I will be back tomorrow night or perhaps Sunday!
In other news, Emily came home from her lessons, didn't want to eat, and proceeded to throw up. Fun! I kept her home today on principle, but she seems fine, so maybe it was just a "thing." Who knows.
I am going out tonight (early) to run a few errands and then I will be heading to bed. I need to be up and out of the house early tomorrow(to go to the conference for The Federation For Children With Special Needs).The bus will be leaving at 7 am from Taunton.
I will be back tomorrow night or perhaps Sunday!
Julia
How does it feel when you throw your cup in the air and it comes back down and hits you in the head?
It hurts. Like hell.
Just ask Julia.
In other cup related news, we have officially said "buh bye" to the sippy cups, thanks to Marie and Pete. They had the kids a week or two ago and just decided to give Julia a regular cup, 1/2 full of milk. She drank it like she had been doing it for years and didn't discover the art of pouring your drink all over your tray until, well, dinner the other night. Needless to say, sippy cups will still be employed in such places as the living room, where pouring your drink all over the place is just not cool.
Potty is like the coolest thing ever to Julia which is just awesome. She appears to be getting over her fear of going in places other than home and I was even able to bring her to playgroup this week in regular pants. Cutest thing ever? She calls her underwear her "good girl pants."
It hurts. Like hell.
Just ask Julia.
In other cup related news, we have officially said "buh bye" to the sippy cups, thanks to Marie and Pete. They had the kids a week or two ago and just decided to give Julia a regular cup, 1/2 full of milk. She drank it like she had been doing it for years and didn't discover the art of pouring your drink all over your tray until, well, dinner the other night. Needless to say, sippy cups will still be employed in such places as the living room, where pouring your drink all over the place is just not cool.
Potty is like the coolest thing ever to Julia which is just awesome. She appears to be getting over her fear of going in places other than home and I was even able to bring her to playgroup this week in regular pants. Cutest thing ever? She calls her underwear her "good girl pants."
Thursday, March 8, 2007
I Never Imagined
Do you ever look at your life and think, "This is not what I imagined it would be?" I do mean this in the best of possible ways.
I always thought I would get married and raise a family. I just never, in a million years pictured all of the "little things."
I never knew that there would be the "looks." You know, the "I am so proud of you" look, or the "I am going to kill you" look, or the "Did she really just say that?" look.
I never imagined that the sound of someone else laughing could actually make my whole day.
I never imagine that the sound of someone else crying could ruin my whole day.
I never imagined what it would feel like to have someone else look up to me, in an almost "god like" fashion.
I never imagined that that someone would go from thinking I am "god like" to thinking that I know absolutely nothing and sometimes back again.
I never imagined that I would have to think of such things like...why the sky is blue, or how the bird flies, or why it looks like we are going backwards when a big truck passes us on the highway.
I never once thought that I would have to answer questions like, "How old do I have to be to stay home alone?" or "When can I start shaving my legs?"
I never once thought that my every action would have such an influence on someone else.
I never, ever imagined how hard this would all be.
I also never imagined how wonderful it would be to see all of our hard work pay off.
I never imagined loving someone so completely, even when they are yelling and screaming about going to bed or cleaning their room.
I never imagined how fulfilling this would all be.
I always thought I would get married and raise a family. I just never, in a million years pictured all of the "little things."
I never knew that there would be the "looks." You know, the "I am so proud of you" look, or the "I am going to kill you" look, or the "Did she really just say that?" look.
I never imagined that the sound of someone else laughing could actually make my whole day.
I never imagine that the sound of someone else crying could ruin my whole day.
I never imagined what it would feel like to have someone else look up to me, in an almost "god like" fashion.
I never imagined that that someone would go from thinking I am "god like" to thinking that I know absolutely nothing and sometimes back again.
I never imagined that I would have to think of such things like...why the sky is blue, or how the bird flies, or why it looks like we are going backwards when a big truck passes us on the highway.
I never once thought that I would have to answer questions like, "How old do I have to be to stay home alone?" or "When can I start shaving my legs?"
I never once thought that my every action would have such an influence on someone else.
I never, ever imagined how hard this would all be.
I also never imagined how wonderful it would be to see all of our hard work pay off.
I never imagined loving someone so completely, even when they are yelling and screaming about going to bed or cleaning their room.
I never imagined how fulfilling this would all be.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
I Fold
Pardon me, but are you f'ing kidding?
A casino? Here?
I am so adamently opposed to the idea that I am not sure I could even begin to put it in to words, but let me try.
Obviously, the monetary benefits would be huge. It means more jobs, more income for the town, and more peopple coming to town and shopping at local businesses. You all know already how I feel about education cuts so in that respect, I can see why it may be a good thing. That's about the only point I can see that is good.
Traffic, in some areas of town already stinks (can we say the rotary and the intersection of 105 and 28?). Adding a casino will certainly not help in that regard. There would have to be some major plan in place for traffic control for me to change my mind on this part.
People, people, and more people. Perhaps one of my bigger concerns? The customers. I know, not everyone who gambles is "bad" but there are certainly some concerns surrounding the type of people a casino might draw. This makes me very nervous.
My biggest point of opposition? The inevitable loss of the small town feel. There is no way that it would be maintained with a huge draw like a casino. One of the main reasons I like Middleboro so much is the small town feel, the long country roads, the vast woods, and the way "everyone knows everyone." I find it hard to imagine that it wouldn't change.
A casino? Here?
I am so adamently opposed to the idea that I am not sure I could even begin to put it in to words, but let me try.
Obviously, the monetary benefits would be huge. It means more jobs, more income for the town, and more peopple coming to town and shopping at local businesses. You all know already how I feel about education cuts so in that respect, I can see why it may be a good thing. That's about the only point I can see that is good.
Traffic, in some areas of town already stinks (can we say the rotary and the intersection of 105 and 28?). Adding a casino will certainly not help in that regard. There would have to be some major plan in place for traffic control for me to change my mind on this part.
People, people, and more people. Perhaps one of my bigger concerns? The customers. I know, not everyone who gambles is "bad" but there are certainly some concerns surrounding the type of people a casino might draw. This makes me very nervous.
My biggest point of opposition? The inevitable loss of the small town feel. There is no way that it would be maintained with a huge draw like a casino. One of the main reasons I like Middleboro so much is the small town feel, the long country roads, the vast woods, and the way "everyone knows everyone." I find it hard to imagine that it wouldn't change.
Idol Commentary
I haven't been good with my AI Blogging this season thus far. Let's be honest, I have been kind of "slackerish" when it comes to blogging period, but I'm busy, you know?
Anyway...about Idol. Based on my overall impressions from the beginning, here are my picks for who needs to go BUH BYE immediately, if not sooner:
Antonella
Haley
Sanjaya
Brandon
Top 3 girls:
Lakisha
Jordin
Stephanie
Top 3 boys:
Chris S.
Chris R.
Blake
Everyone else...
You're alright.
Anyway...about Idol. Based on my overall impressions from the beginning, here are my picks for who needs to go BUH BYE immediately, if not sooner:
Antonella
Haley
Sanjaya
Brandon
Top 3 girls:
Lakisha
Jordin
Stephanie
Top 3 boys:
Chris S.
Chris R.
Blake
Everyone else...
You're alright.
Monday, March 5, 2007
I can't wait for...
...walks on the canal.
...eating outdoors.
...camping in the White Mountains.
...fruit salad.
...running around the yard with the kids.
...lazy afternoons, reading a book by an open window, with a warm breeze blowing in.
...steak kabobs.
...summer days at the pool with the kids.
...Onset Beach.
...Erickson's Ice cream.
...cookouts.
I know. All in all, this winter hasn't been too bad. We haven't had any snow (well, none to speak of anyway), and it has only been bitterly cold a few times. Still, I am done.
I am done with winter coats. I am done looking for missing gloves. I am done fighting with the kids about wearing a hat. I am done looking out the window and seeing bare trees. I am done warming my car up every time I need to leave.
I had been hoping for one big snow storm for the kids so that they would have the chance to play in the snow (and perhaps, actually have a chance to wear their new snow pants I had to buy them this year). Now though, I am hoping that the "Arctic blast" we are expecting tomorrow will be the last. I am hoping it rains instead of snows from here on in.
The last leg of winter always stinks.
...eating outdoors.
...camping in the White Mountains.
...fruit salad.
...running around the yard with the kids.
...lazy afternoons, reading a book by an open window, with a warm breeze blowing in.
...steak kabobs.
...summer days at the pool with the kids.
...Onset Beach.
...Erickson's Ice cream.
...cookouts.
I know. All in all, this winter hasn't been too bad. We haven't had any snow (well, none to speak of anyway), and it has only been bitterly cold a few times. Still, I am done.
I am done with winter coats. I am done looking for missing gloves. I am done fighting with the kids about wearing a hat. I am done looking out the window and seeing bare trees. I am done warming my car up every time I need to leave.
I had been hoping for one big snow storm for the kids so that they would have the chance to play in the snow (and perhaps, actually have a chance to wear their new snow pants I had to buy them this year). Now though, I am hoping that the "Arctic blast" we are expecting tomorrow will be the last. I am hoping it rains instead of snows from here on in.
The last leg of winter always stinks.
Monday, Monday
Julia was up at 4 this morning and didn't fall back to sleep until 6:30. I was up until midnight, and had to get up at 6:45. She was being all cute and adorable (except when she had to go potty every 5 minutes...good that she's going of course but not so cute when you take her once, get cozy back in bed again, and not a minute later she says, "I have to go potty.".It was hard to actually be mad at her though because when she wasn't doing that she was hugging me and talking to her "boy"(her teddy bear) and just generally being cute.
Katherine was whining and yelling about bringing her blanket and pillow back upstairs and was mad that I wouldn't make her toast for breakfast. The girl would eat toast every if I let her and I just think it's good for her to have a little more variety, you know?
Emily was having a major meltdown about her hair. She was screaming and crying and flipping her head all over the place. I used my usual, "If you don't like having your hair combed out, get it cut short" which only fueled the fire. Admittedly, I shouldn't have said it, but between being tired, being that time of month, and just not having the patience this morning to deal, I was spitting right back.
So, Emily left in tears, Katherine left saying, "Aren't you so proud of me that I didn't cry when you were doing my hair?"and Julia is still sleeping.
Oh and me? I am feeling like a crappy mother for sending my kid to school crying. Mother guilt is such a wonderful thing, isn't it?
Katherine was whining and yelling about bringing her blanket and pillow back upstairs and was mad that I wouldn't make her toast for breakfast. The girl would eat toast every if I let her and I just think it's good for her to have a little more variety, you know?
Emily was having a major meltdown about her hair. She was screaming and crying and flipping her head all over the place. I used my usual, "If you don't like having your hair combed out, get it cut short" which only fueled the fire. Admittedly, I shouldn't have said it, but between being tired, being that time of month, and just not having the patience this morning to deal, I was spitting right back.
So, Emily left in tears, Katherine left saying, "Aren't you so proud of me that I didn't cry when you were doing my hair?"and Julia is still sleeping.
Oh and me? I am feeling like a crappy mother for sending my kid to school crying. Mother guilt is such a wonderful thing, isn't it?
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Meeting
Whew. I am very happy to say that the meeting is over and it went well. As a team, we have decided to add to her 504 plan more specific accomodations regarding organization, test taking, and general classroom settings. The accomodations are listed below.
-preferential seating
-parent/teacher communication as needed
-reminders to bring home important papers at the end of each day
-frequent verbal cues prior to giving directions and transitioning
-rules and expectations should be clear, explicit, and consistently reviewed for understanding
-seperate test setting for standardized tests(Emily would be removed from the classroom and would take the test in a smaller group setting)
-graphic organizers(pictures, lists etc) to help her organize her materials and thoughts
-timelines and study guides when needed and as appropriate
Overall, the team could not say enough about Emily...how bright she was, how friendly and animated she was...and of course, how talkative she was! I was very pleased with the results of the meeting and am looking forward to seeing how her added accomodations come in to play.
-preferential seating
-parent/teacher communication as needed
-reminders to bring home important papers at the end of each day
-frequent verbal cues prior to giving directions and transitioning
-rules and expectations should be clear, explicit, and consistently reviewed for understanding
-seperate test setting for standardized tests(Emily would be removed from the classroom and would take the test in a smaller group setting)
-graphic organizers(pictures, lists etc) to help her organize her materials and thoughts
-timelines and study guides when needed and as appropriate
Overall, the team could not say enough about Emily...how bright she was, how friendly and animated she was...and of course, how talkative she was! I was very pleased with the results of the meeting and am looking forward to seeing how her added accomodations come in to play.
No, I Am Not Nervous About This, Why Do You Ask?
Today is Emily's Special Education/IEP meeting at school.
Last night, I had a dream that the Burkland School caught fire. A group of students, without the permission of the school personnel decided to attempt an after hours science experiment and broke in to the school. Something went wrong and the school caught on fire. No one was hurt, but a full scale investigation was underway, and it turned out Emily was one of the students involved. She had a part in providing the paste (yes school paste) for the experiment and the principal was all over me for not inquiring with Emily about why she needed the paste. I remember thinking in my dream that the guy was insane because who would question a kid about having one tube of paste (apparently that was all that was needed)?
Yeah, I know. I love it though, when dreams are so easily interpreted. When I woke up this morning and remembered the dream, I knew immediately the reason behind it was nerves about the meeting today.
Last night, I had a dream that the Burkland School caught fire. A group of students, without the permission of the school personnel decided to attempt an after hours science experiment and broke in to the school. Something went wrong and the school caught on fire. No one was hurt, but a full scale investigation was underway, and it turned out Emily was one of the students involved. She had a part in providing the paste (yes school paste) for the experiment and the principal was all over me for not inquiring with Emily about why she needed the paste. I remember thinking in my dream that the guy was insane because who would question a kid about having one tube of paste (apparently that was all that was needed)?
Yeah, I know. I love it though, when dreams are so easily interpreted. When I woke up this morning and remembered the dream, I knew immediately the reason behind it was nerves about the meeting today.
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