Thank the Good Lord - we're finally done with J's birthday. The day is actually the 14th but it seems like we've been "celebrating" for over 2 weeks! Aunt J came up this weekend and we went to see the baseball game.
The bouncy castle - or dinosaur arrived on Sunday at 9am and stayed till 8pm. At one time there were 13 children out there! We had hotdogs, chips, cupcakes and ice-cream and of course Popsicles the whole day.
J received a game ball on Saturday because he drove in both the tying and winning run. Granted he stopped to tie his shoe on 2nd - but nevertheless he felt like a star. :-) I find it so humorous how serious people get about this. Most of the kids are almost oblivious to what's going on but the parents get into it like it's a life or death situation. Parents...... they're just nuts.
I've been sick the last couple of days. Not sure how much is physical and how much is mental. I'm just really tired. Mentally beat up.
My little "Autistic" is talking non-stop and as usual hits the ground running and expects the same from me. I don't re-charge as well as she does. She's having problems in the potty dept again. I think it's just one of those things. Roller coaster kind of progress. We just "keep on keepin' on".
Looking forward to haircut and a little *me* time today. Still need to do some laundry when I get home - but we get dinner out tonight because it's "school dinner night". That's kind of nice - start tomorrow with a clean kitchen.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Do You Trust Meds or Not?????
I'm on several email lists about autism. One link in all of them - their children were all poisoned by vaccines. The few of us that don't believe this learn very early to keep our mouths shut less you wake the lion and get your butt flamed. But just this morning I read a post about someone having problems getting a child to sleep through the night. Benedryl was first suggested then more and more drugs. It occurred to me that if you believe your child was poisoned why in God's name would you be putting more medication (made by the evil drug company) into a child and for no more purpose than your own comfort.
Now, don't get me wrong - I don't have one problem helping a child to sleep in a responsible way if only for your own personal sanity. BUT - I don't preach to all who will hear how my kid was poisoned and that my child "died in front of my very eyes". A quote that I SO hurt for people who really do loose a child never hear.
Not to mention that fact that a lot of these same people use meds to keep their child in check. So vaccines are bad and meds are good? Doesn't make good sense does it? I don't know - I don't have all the answers but I DO believe that just as no child with autism is the same - neither is the cause and to take matters to the legal system creates another problem all together.
Just a little food or drugs for thought.
Now, don't get me wrong - I don't have one problem helping a child to sleep in a responsible way if only for your own personal sanity. BUT - I don't preach to all who will hear how my kid was poisoned and that my child "died in front of my very eyes". A quote that I SO hurt for people who really do loose a child never hear.
Not to mention that fact that a lot of these same people use meds to keep their child in check. So vaccines are bad and meds are good? Doesn't make good sense does it? I don't know - I don't have all the answers but I DO believe that just as no child with autism is the same - neither is the cause and to take matters to the legal system creates another problem all together.
Just a little food or drugs for thought.
I'm The Birthday Boy!
This is what we heard out of J's room yesterday morning! We had our usual birthday breakfast, sang to him, blew candles and recited his birth story - which he absolutely loves. Then we took his brownies and apple juice to school. He was SO proud and SO excited!
S and I had picked up the treats at Walmart the night before. She loves going shopping and J loves to have someone get the stuff he dictates. :-) The only problem was S peed her pants right in the checkout. She was pretty upset. Thank God she had a jacket on. I tied it around her waste and notified the checker that there was a need for a mop. It was raining outside so no one even noticed. I think it was because we had been talking to someone in line who was from JES and I think she just waited too long. "That's an accident and accidents happen, right Mom" she said. I didn't even scold her - just told her to remember to tell me right when she first feels the pee.
J and Daddy went to the batting cages last night. Then we went out for birthday dinner - guess where. That's right - Mc Ds. :-) S actually initiated talking with a little girl that was there. Asked her how old she was and where she went to school. I was quite impressed.
We have a baseball game tonight, I'm just praying it doesn't get so cold again. :-( S and I have swimming lessons first. She LOVES swimming, and *I* love that! :-)
S and I had picked up the treats at Walmart the night before. She loves going shopping and J loves to have someone get the stuff he dictates. :-) The only problem was S peed her pants right in the checkout. She was pretty upset. Thank God she had a jacket on. I tied it around her waste and notified the checker that there was a need for a mop. It was raining outside so no one even noticed. I think it was because we had been talking to someone in line who was from JES and I think she just waited too long. "That's an accident and accidents happen, right Mom" she said. I didn't even scold her - just told her to remember to tell me right when she first feels the pee.
J and Daddy went to the batting cages last night. Then we went out for birthday dinner - guess where. That's right - Mc Ds. :-) S actually initiated talking with a little girl that was there. Asked her how old she was and where she went to school. I was quite impressed.
We have a baseball game tonight, I'm just praying it doesn't get so cold again. :-( S and I have swimming lessons first. She LOVES swimming, and *I* love that! :-)
Friday, May 09, 2008
Thoughts of a Mom
By Maureen K. Higgins
Many of you I have never even met face to face, but I've searched you out every day. I've looked for you on the Internet, on playgrounds and in grocery stores. I've become an expert at identifying you. You are well worn. You are stronger than you ever wanted to be. Your words ring experience, experience you culled with your very heart and soul. You are compassionate beyond the expectations of this world. You are my "sisters."
Yes, you and I, my friend, are sisters in a sorority. A very elite sorority.We are special. Just like any other sorority, we were chosen to be members. Some of us were invited to join immediately, some not for months or even years. Some of us even tried to refuse membership, but to no avail. We were initiated in neurologist's offices and NICU units, in obstetrician's offices, in emergency rooms, and during ultrasounds. We were initiated with somber telephone calls, consultations, evaluations, blood tests, x-rays, MRI films, and heart surgeries. All of us have one thing in common. One day things were fine. We were pregnant, or we had just given birth, or we were nursing our newborn, or we were playing with our toddler. Yes, one minute everything was fine. Then, whether it happened in an instant, as it often does, or over the course of a few weeks or months, our entire lives changed. Something wasn't quite right. Then we found ourselves mothers of children with special needs. We are united, we sisters, regardless of the diversity of our children's special needs.
We have mutual respect and empathy for all the women who walk in our shoes. We are knowledgeable. We have educated ourselves with whatever materials we could find. We know "the" specialists in the field. We know "the" neurologists, "the" hospitals, "the" wonder drugs, "the" treatments. We know "the" tests that need to be done, we know "the" degenerative and progressive diseases and we hold our breath while our children are tested for them. Without formal education, we could become board certified in neurology, endocrinology, and psychiatry.
We have taken on our insurance companies and school boards to get what our children need to survive, and to flourish. We have prevailed upon the State to include augmentative communication devices in special education classes and mainstream schools for our children. We have sued municipalities to have our children properly classified so they could receive education and evaluation commensurate with their diagnosis.We have learned to deal with the rest of the world, even if that means walking away from it.
We have tolerated scorn in supermarkets during "tantrums" and gritted our teeth while discipline was advocated by the person behind us on line. We have tolerated inane suggestions and home remedies from well-meaning strangers. We have tolerated mothers of children without special needs complaining about chicken pox and ear infections.
We have learned that many of our closest friends can't understand what it's like to be in our sorority, and don't even want to try. We have our own personal copies of Emily Perl Kingsley's "A Trip To Holland" and Erma Bombeck's "The Special Mother." We keep them by our bedside and read and reread them during our toughest hours. We have coped with holidays. And all the while, we have tried to create a festive atmosphere for the rest of our family. We've gotten up every morning since our journey began wondering how we'd make it through another day, and gone to bed every evening not sure how we did it.
We've mourned the fact that we never got to relax and sip red wine in Italy.We've mourned the fact that our trip to Holland has required much more baggage than we ever imagined when we first visited the travel agent. And we've mourned because we left for the airport without most of the things we needed for the trip. But we, sisters, we keep the faith always. We never stop believing.Our love for our special children and our belief in all that they will achieve in life knows no bounds. We dream of them scoring touchdowns and extra points and home runs. We visualize them running sprints and marathons. We dream of them planting vegetable seeds, riding horses and chopping down trees. We hear their angelic voices singing Christmas carols. We see their palettes smeared with watercolors, and their fingers flying over ivory keys in a concert hall. We are amazed at the grace of their pirouettes. We never, never stop believing in all they will accomplish as they pass through this world.But in the meantime, my sisters, the most important thing we do, is hold tight to their little hands as together, we special mothers and our special children, reach for the stars.
*******************************************************************
OH! Sing is my Sistah!!!!! Ain't it the truth! I'm always amazed at how EXHAUSTING "special living" can be! I always think it's just me till I run into another Mom or *my* Mom has S for a week. I LOVE her so much it doesn't *seem* that different - till she's gone and I get to experience that "normal" life. :-) There's only a very few days I'd trade. I'm glad.
By Maureen K. Higgins
Many of you I have never even met face to face, but I've searched you out every day. I've looked for you on the Internet, on playgrounds and in grocery stores. I've become an expert at identifying you. You are well worn. You are stronger than you ever wanted to be. Your words ring experience, experience you culled with your very heart and soul. You are compassionate beyond the expectations of this world. You are my "sisters."
Yes, you and I, my friend, are sisters in a sorority. A very elite sorority.We are special. Just like any other sorority, we were chosen to be members. Some of us were invited to join immediately, some not for months or even years. Some of us even tried to refuse membership, but to no avail. We were initiated in neurologist's offices and NICU units, in obstetrician's offices, in emergency rooms, and during ultrasounds. We were initiated with somber telephone calls, consultations, evaluations, blood tests, x-rays, MRI films, and heart surgeries. All of us have one thing in common. One day things were fine. We were pregnant, or we had just given birth, or we were nursing our newborn, or we were playing with our toddler. Yes, one minute everything was fine. Then, whether it happened in an instant, as it often does, or over the course of a few weeks or months, our entire lives changed. Something wasn't quite right. Then we found ourselves mothers of children with special needs. We are united, we sisters, regardless of the diversity of our children's special needs.
We have mutual respect and empathy for all the women who walk in our shoes. We are knowledgeable. We have educated ourselves with whatever materials we could find. We know "the" specialists in the field. We know "the" neurologists, "the" hospitals, "the" wonder drugs, "the" treatments. We know "the" tests that need to be done, we know "the" degenerative and progressive diseases and we hold our breath while our children are tested for them. Without formal education, we could become board certified in neurology, endocrinology, and psychiatry.
We have taken on our insurance companies and school boards to get what our children need to survive, and to flourish. We have prevailed upon the State to include augmentative communication devices in special education classes and mainstream schools for our children. We have sued municipalities to have our children properly classified so they could receive education and evaluation commensurate with their diagnosis.We have learned to deal with the rest of the world, even if that means walking away from it.
We have tolerated scorn in supermarkets during "tantrums" and gritted our teeth while discipline was advocated by the person behind us on line. We have tolerated inane suggestions and home remedies from well-meaning strangers. We have tolerated mothers of children without special needs complaining about chicken pox and ear infections.
We have learned that many of our closest friends can't understand what it's like to be in our sorority, and don't even want to try. We have our own personal copies of Emily Perl Kingsley's "A Trip To Holland" and Erma Bombeck's "The Special Mother." We keep them by our bedside and read and reread them during our toughest hours. We have coped with holidays. And all the while, we have tried to create a festive atmosphere for the rest of our family. We've gotten up every morning since our journey began wondering how we'd make it through another day, and gone to bed every evening not sure how we did it.
We've mourned the fact that we never got to relax and sip red wine in Italy.We've mourned the fact that our trip to Holland has required much more baggage than we ever imagined when we first visited the travel agent. And we've mourned because we left for the airport without most of the things we needed for the trip. But we, sisters, we keep the faith always. We never stop believing.Our love for our special children and our belief in all that they will achieve in life knows no bounds. We dream of them scoring touchdowns and extra points and home runs. We visualize them running sprints and marathons. We dream of them planting vegetable seeds, riding horses and chopping down trees. We hear their angelic voices singing Christmas carols. We see their palettes smeared with watercolors, and their fingers flying over ivory keys in a concert hall. We are amazed at the grace of their pirouettes. We never, never stop believing in all they will accomplish as they pass through this world.But in the meantime, my sisters, the most important thing we do, is hold tight to their little hands as together, we special mothers and our special children, reach for the stars.
*******************************************************************
OH! Sing is my Sistah!!!!! Ain't it the truth! I'm always amazed at how EXHAUSTING "special living" can be! I always think it's just me till I run into another Mom or *my* Mom has S for a week. I LOVE her so much it doesn't *seem* that different - till she's gone and I get to experience that "normal" life. :-) There's only a very few days I'd trade. I'm glad.
She is the *I* in her IEP
Team meeting yesterday. This kid is just going GANG BUSTERS! She took what they call a 4th grade probe - she read 43 words!!!! That's grade level - baby!!!!! What's really funny - I was stopped 3 times in the hall before I actually got to the meeting and was told congratulations. The WHOLE school is S's teacher. :-) We also started the *PROCESS* of getting her a laptop for class next year. You know the State - have to document and prove everything 3 times over. Puts me right over the edge. But we're looking at having one by next Sept - if not - B and I have decided we would furnish one.
I also got to see some really COOL new software out there. Like the "smart" stuff - once she types a letter a screen will pop up with words for her to pick from. I'm very excited about this. I thought Tech Club was just going to be a chance for her to be more independent and practice social skills and here she busts through that too. She really should be the poster child for inclusion. She has really blossomed. Thank God for Mrs Anderson!!!
J's game was cancelled on Wed - we were ALL so bummed. I really don't know why - it had stopped raining several hours before - but maybe the fields just couldn't be saved. Who knows. But I was really bummed. J, of course, just ran off to play - no skin off him. :-) God, he LOVES to play outside!
We received a box of books from Aunt Betty this week. We were ALL excited. They are SO cute. Lots of "Children's Letters to God" and that type. J is loving reading them before bed. He also brought home a Junie B Jones book that we're almost done with. We read while S is at swimming lessons. I love Junie B - she reminds me a LOT of J. :-)
We were all up at 6 am today - woo hoo. :-/ ughhh. Got to get our "playing" in before school. They're begging at 7 to go get the neighbors. I hold them off till 8 and then the neighborhood is up for grabs.
I'm planning on planting all my *stuff* this weekend. I thought I could get laundry done and take it easy but no going. :-/ Such is Mother's Day weekend. :-)
I also got to see some really COOL new software out there. Like the "smart" stuff - once she types a letter a screen will pop up with words for her to pick from. I'm very excited about this. I thought Tech Club was just going to be a chance for her to be more independent and practice social skills and here she busts through that too. She really should be the poster child for inclusion. She has really blossomed. Thank God for Mrs Anderson!!!
J's game was cancelled on Wed - we were ALL so bummed. I really don't know why - it had stopped raining several hours before - but maybe the fields just couldn't be saved. Who knows. But I was really bummed. J, of course, just ran off to play - no skin off him. :-) God, he LOVES to play outside!
We received a box of books from Aunt Betty this week. We were ALL excited. They are SO cute. Lots of "Children's Letters to God" and that type. J is loving reading them before bed. He also brought home a Junie B Jones book that we're almost done with. We read while S is at swimming lessons. I love Junie B - she reminds me a LOT of J. :-)
We were all up at 6 am today - woo hoo. :-/ ughhh. Got to get our "playing" in before school. They're begging at 7 to go get the neighbors. I hold them off till 8 and then the neighborhood is up for grabs.
I'm planning on planting all my *stuff* this weekend. I thought I could get laundry done and take it easy but no going. :-/ Such is Mother's Day weekend. :-)
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Oh Yeah - THAT's the job I want my kid to have!
PALEASE! The White Sox apparently have a blow up doll in their locker room with bats going up into "strategic" places. This was all done to break the "curse" of bad and no hits. Hey, I got a CRAZY idea - how about BATTING PRACTICE????!!!!!!
This will now be my MAIN example of why I think professional ball players are HUGE WASTES - and seriously DON'T have the sense God gave a goose! Yes, they have the right to do this - but *I* have the right to see and treat them as the 12 year olds that they so obviously are! And I shudder when I think that my child may very well want to be a pro ball player one day - and then I see me telling him (and yes, I WOULD put MY opinions ON my child for this one) how STUPID (yes, S I said stupid) the profession is. Baseball not exclusive - this is true. Benson, from the Bears was arrested recently and don't get me started with Urlacher and his Baby Momma crap. They're idiots, the whole lot of them. No one kept them grounded when they were growing up. No one told them that when God gives you a special talent He EXPECTS a LOT from you. And not just on the field. Ok, I'll step off my horse now. :-)
This will now be my MAIN example of why I think professional ball players are HUGE WASTES - and seriously DON'T have the sense God gave a goose! Yes, they have the right to do this - but *I* have the right to see and treat them as the 12 year olds that they so obviously are! And I shudder when I think that my child may very well want to be a pro ball player one day - and then I see me telling him (and yes, I WOULD put MY opinions ON my child for this one) how STUPID (yes, S I said stupid) the profession is. Baseball not exclusive - this is true. Benson, from the Bears was arrested recently and don't get me started with Urlacher and his Baby Momma crap. They're idiots, the whole lot of them. No one kept them grounded when they were growing up. No one told them that when God gives you a special talent He EXPECTS a LOT from you. And not just on the field. Ok, I'll step off my horse now. :-)
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Take Me Out To The Freezer?
DANG! It was COLD at the diamond today!!!! We all dressed in our J finery and our Purple Murple outfits and headed out to face the winds, rain and COLD!
But as luck would have it, cold seems to be no threat to the boy. He was on fire today. Well, as on fire as a 6 year old can be. :-) He went 3/3 at the plate and handled himself VERY well behind the plate. Catching seems to be his thing. He also scored the tying run (by SLIDING into home and getting conked on the head) and was the only person to hit the ball into the outfield. The thing is - I'm not quite sure who was more excited J or his dad. :-)
We had after game dinner at Culver's and we talked and talked about J's game. As we went to a different topic he politely asked "Excuse me, can we talk about my baseball again?" Like there was a choice. :-)
So we dropped the girl off at Social Club (today was Cinco De Mayo Party) and headed to Wal-Mart to buy a new glove. All you die hard baseball fans - don't worry - I'm saving the old glove - just in case all the luck is in it. :-)
As we're walking through the store he turns to his Dad and asks "Who were we versus today?" He cracks me up, that boy.
So the girl comes bouncing up the stairs from Social Club and produces a back pack full of *stuff*. The obviously had pinatas' and lots of candy. :-) She's smiles from head to toe. What a difference an evening can make. :-)
But as luck would have it, cold seems to be no threat to the boy. He was on fire today. Well, as on fire as a 6 year old can be. :-) He went 3/3 at the plate and handled himself VERY well behind the plate. Catching seems to be his thing. He also scored the tying run (by SLIDING into home and getting conked on the head) and was the only person to hit the ball into the outfield. The thing is - I'm not quite sure who was more excited J or his dad. :-)
We had after game dinner at Culver's and we talked and talked about J's game. As we went to a different topic he politely asked "Excuse me, can we talk about my baseball again?" Like there was a choice. :-)
So we dropped the girl off at Social Club (today was Cinco De Mayo Party) and headed to Wal-Mart to buy a new glove. All you die hard baseball fans - don't worry - I'm saving the old glove - just in case all the luck is in it. :-)
As we're walking through the store he turns to his Dad and asks "Who were we versus today?" He cracks me up, that boy.
So the girl comes bouncing up the stairs from Social Club and produces a back pack full of *stuff*. The obviously had pinatas' and lots of candy. :-) She's smiles from head to toe. What a difference an evening can make. :-)
Friday, May 02, 2008
I Wish...
"I wish S didn't have Autism." J's words ring true in my ears. "Yeah, well, then she wouldn't be S would she? She wouldn't say things like *you're a nice boy, J*.
"She might," he answered me.
"No, autism is as much a part of S as her eye color or being right handed. It's the way she sees the world."
This whole little conversation came up as we put J to bed - after leaving a family gathering rather abruptly. S was very close to melt down totally tonight. It was too warm, too loud, too close and she was tired and she couldn't really "get away "or "tune out" as she does. We tried a walk outside - but being dark I think it scared her just a little. Or at least put more anxiety in her. I'm VERY tired. My anxiety doesn't help either in the situation. And thus, this is why we don't go many places that we don't know well.
I feel very bad for B and J. They were having SUCH a good time. I MUST remember that next time we should take two cars. It doesn't seem fair to punish EVERYONE. I also feel sorry for S. It gets crazier and crazier as the years go by with meltdown prevention.
Autism is NOT a tragedy it is the fact that MOST of us are unversed in the autism language and don't know how to help them maneuver this crazy world. Hell, most of the time*I* can't maneuver the world. Little secret: the walk tonight was as much for me as it was for her. I just can't do the loud and crazy anymore. :-)
"She might," he answered me.
"No, autism is as much a part of S as her eye color or being right handed. It's the way she sees the world."
This whole little conversation came up as we put J to bed - after leaving a family gathering rather abruptly. S was very close to melt down totally tonight. It was too warm, too loud, too close and she was tired and she couldn't really "get away "or "tune out" as she does. We tried a walk outside - but being dark I think it scared her just a little. Or at least put more anxiety in her. I'm VERY tired. My anxiety doesn't help either in the situation. And thus, this is why we don't go many places that we don't know well.
I feel very bad for B and J. They were having SUCH a good time. I MUST remember that next time we should take two cars. It doesn't seem fair to punish EVERYONE. I also feel sorry for S. It gets crazier and crazier as the years go by with meltdown prevention.
Autism is NOT a tragedy it is the fact that MOST of us are unversed in the autism language and don't know how to help them maneuver this crazy world. Hell, most of the time*I* can't maneuver the world. Little secret: the walk tonight was as much for me as it was for her. I just can't do the loud and crazy anymore. :-)
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Yesterday...
was the best day in J's life. If you're a loyal reader you know that this has been said several times before. :-) The reason for this particular "best day" was that the after school daycare took them skating. *I* personally, thought it was fantastic. They paid for skating and snack. How nice is that. JS Elem School just gets better and better for us. I've never met so many nice and concerned people. Not to mention on the top of their game.
So, I had lunch with the Wild Boys yesterday. That's always fun and interesting. :-) Seems one of their co-workers is really getting up there in age and is having some difficulties. They were making fun of it because - well - that's what they do - but it's really kind of sad. There's so many people having to work longer and longer and still not making it. Bossman told me that stats say that the next generation will actually be *poorer* than the one before. How sad is that.
S informed me that I was "a nice girl" yesterday because I asked her if she was ok when she had a little coughing attack. She is SO funny sometimes. We had to watch "Naughty Kids" (the rest of you know it as "Supernanny") this morning - I had taped it last night. She is really into that. But thank God we don't have to watch reruns over and over like we did before. She's content with just one showing.
Gma sent money and treats yesterday - for good report cards. I don't think my guys really *get* that. And I'm sure that's really a bad thing. :-) J was SO excited to see the box on the front porch. Telling all his friends that he got a present! I so want that shirt "it's all about J".
Tonight is the regular baseball practice and swimming lessons with the encounter of Mothers of "neuro-typical" children. I have to admit it's kind of entertaining in a way. Kind of a life boat kind of way. ;-)
So, I had lunch with the Wild Boys yesterday. That's always fun and interesting. :-) Seems one of their co-workers is really getting up there in age and is having some difficulties. They were making fun of it because - well - that's what they do - but it's really kind of sad. There's so many people having to work longer and longer and still not making it. Bossman told me that stats say that the next generation will actually be *poorer* than the one before. How sad is that.
S informed me that I was "a nice girl" yesterday because I asked her if she was ok when she had a little coughing attack. She is SO funny sometimes. We had to watch "Naughty Kids" (the rest of you know it as "Supernanny") this morning - I had taped it last night. She is really into that. But thank God we don't have to watch reruns over and over like we did before. She's content with just one showing.
Gma sent money and treats yesterday - for good report cards. I don't think my guys really *get* that. And I'm sure that's really a bad thing. :-) J was SO excited to see the box on the front porch. Telling all his friends that he got a present! I so want that shirt "it's all about J".
Tonight is the regular baseball practice and swimming lessons with the encounter of Mothers of "neuro-typical" children. I have to admit it's kind of entertaining in a way. Kind of a life boat kind of way. ;-)
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
SO Early!
S is intent on being up before 6am every day. I usually don't mind too much - I'm kind of a morning person also - but today I had a headache and that little screechy voice and freezing cold feet just didn't set well. Not to mention that S hits the ground running and pretty much expects everyone else to do the same.
As I tumbled out of bed and stumbled to the kitchen she was already asking if she could have pancakes for breakfast. To my HUGE surprise J volunteered to make them!!! As I watched from my office chair J micro'd the pancakes and sausage, cut them up for S - AND got the juice out and poured it and returned it to the fridge - all without a spill!!! I felt as if my test results had come back and J had seen them first. :-) I couldn't believe it.
Of course the minute breakfast was consumed J started asking when he could "go knock on doors" - in other words - when could he go out and play with the neighbors. When I told him that he could go at 8:00 AND that he HAD to brush his teeth really well before he went out. He not only put toothpaste on S's brush but tried to get her to brush her teeth herself. That little "disappointed" tone "Oh, S - I thought you were going to do it yourself." Made my heart just melt.
On the way to school J told me it was the best day of his life. (he's had MANY of these days) :-)But this one is because the after school daycare is taking all the kids skating today. He has the money for snack for both of them and he was all smiles as he headed to class today.
Last day of no boss man for me. The office is so quiet and there are virtually no phone calls. He returns tomorrow and with that more work than ever. :-) I'm having lunch with the hubby today just as a celebration. :-)
As I tumbled out of bed and stumbled to the kitchen she was already asking if she could have pancakes for breakfast. To my HUGE surprise J volunteered to make them!!! As I watched from my office chair J micro'd the pancakes and sausage, cut them up for S - AND got the juice out and poured it and returned it to the fridge - all without a spill!!! I felt as if my test results had come back and J had seen them first. :-) I couldn't believe it.
Of course the minute breakfast was consumed J started asking when he could "go knock on doors" - in other words - when could he go out and play with the neighbors. When I told him that he could go at 8:00 AND that he HAD to brush his teeth really well before he went out. He not only put toothpaste on S's brush but tried to get her to brush her teeth herself. That little "disappointed" tone "Oh, S - I thought you were going to do it yourself." Made my heart just melt.
On the way to school J told me it was the best day of his life. (he's had MANY of these days) :-)But this one is because the after school daycare is taking all the kids skating today. He has the money for snack for both of them and he was all smiles as he headed to class today.
Last day of no boss man for me. The office is so quiet and there are virtually no phone calls. He returns tomorrow and with that more work than ever. :-) I'm having lunch with the hubby today just as a celebration. :-)
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
"You did a great job."
This is what S told me this morning. :-) When she went to bed last night I had 2 loads of laundry spread out over my bed. This morning she got up, crawled in bed with me and said "you put the clothes away? You did a great job." She is SO cute.
We had the "girl talk" at school yesterday. S and I talked about it and got some pads and put them in her room. She seemed to understand. She was attentive during the "talk" until about 1/2 through - then she lost interest and did her usual "shut down" , "what you doing" thing.
*I* thought the talk was wonderful. A very nice mix of morals without judgement and a LOT of acceptance. Plus a kind of "celebration" of being a girl. I really liked that. I really wish that would have been done for us. But could have should have.
So S and I will have an ongoing convo about this and I'll have to invite her in when it's "my time". Lord, give me strength. It's all so crazy. Within one school year this child has gone from Pull Ups to talking periods. If her head's not spinning - mine sure is!
We had the "girl talk" at school yesterday. S and I talked about it and got some pads and put them in her room. She seemed to understand. She was attentive during the "talk" until about 1/2 through - then she lost interest and did her usual "shut down" , "what you doing" thing.
*I* thought the talk was wonderful. A very nice mix of morals without judgement and a LOT of acceptance. Plus a kind of "celebration" of being a girl. I really liked that. I really wish that would have been done for us. But could have should have.
So S and I will have an ongoing convo about this and I'll have to invite her in when it's "my time". Lord, give me strength. It's all so crazy. Within one school year this child has gone from Pull Ups to talking periods. If her head's not spinning - mine sure is!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
"Ladies! There are Children Watching!!"
This is what I said VERY loudly at swimming lessons the other day. Damn. Swimming always brings me into the all too prominent community of BUSY-NESS. You know, those mothers who have over-scheduled, and over medicated themselves and/or their children and have a WAY off view of life. Imnsho. 2 times a week S and I go to watch (almost like a zoo field trip) these wacko people- 99.9% women. And they say the handicapped are fun to watch - I BEG to differ.
So here's the story. We're all sitting on the sides - kids are in the water for lessons. It's the 30 minute mark and some kids are done (S gets an hour) so there are little ones in the shallow end playing. One little boy is kicking AT (not connecting mind you) another boy. The mother(let's call her cell phone) gets up, shouts at the other mother (at LEAST 3 yards away) "do you see what your son is doing". The other mother - lets call her redneck (so we don't get confused)- gets up, screams at the kid, gets him out and then goes to her "corner". Cell Phone tells her son that the next time the kid does that "kick him hard". LOVELY! (and we wonder why kids are bringing guns to school) anyway - Redneck then gets up and stands at least 10 feet away from Cell Phone and starts yelling at her that Cell Phones' son hit her son in swim lessons. They're going back and forth screaming. The kids in the pool are ALL staring - wide eyed - glazed over at these two. I look over and very *loudly* say "Ladies, There are children watching!". As you might expect that doesn't go over too well. "Take it outside already".
I mean DAMN - if that is your BIG deal of the day - well you best get on your knees and thank the Lord almighty that you have a pretty GOOD life!!!! So I get the scowl all night. Well, bite me! You know, live in MY shoes - you'll find out REAL quick what's important. And I'm not talking about *Me* as in personal - anyone who has a special needs child - We DON'T get upset about that petty stuff - and neither should you. Not like that. Wooooooo, I'd LOVE to write a book. And you know who I'd ask to do a lot of it?? Donna P. Ok, she is the funniest Mom I know.
I met up with Donna and Jordon and family at the baseball game. God, it was good to talk to her in person - we email all the time. Anyway - she says what I'm thinking - a LOT!!! I'll never forget when I first met her and we were in line at Early Childhood to sign in for one of the parent meetings. She turned to the lady between her and I and said "oh, you're just sensory issues." I about peed my pants. Her and I have the same feelings about a LOT of the children out there who aren't really handicapped by nature but by their parents. Anyway - since then - her and I kind of gravitated towards each other. Jordan has MUCH more physical problems than S does - he has seizures - a LOT and I've always admired the way Donna deals with it. Kind of like I dealt with dirty diapers for 10 years - only the difference is dirty diapers would never take my child away - seizures could for Jordan. But you should see this child - don't get me wrong - I have seriously NEVER seen an ugly child and esp a special needs child - they have a light that just shines within them - but Jordan is seriously over the top gorgeous! S and him have been best buddies since they were 3 when they departed k-garten he went to one school and S to another. They live on the west side. :-)
S brought home her power point cd Tuesday. It's SO good. She picked Monkeys - because it's "her favorite animal". Mrs L says she did all the work herself. Picking sounds, facts, pictures. She really did a great job. Who knew she'd do so well at this. Now I'm even more on the point of getting S her own laptop for school next year. I'm very excited about her improvement in school because of this.
Met with L & V yesterday. Got to see L's house - omg - it's beautiful!!! She has the best taste in colors and such. We had a really fun meeting. They always make me laugh and make me feel more positive. I love her.
Ordered shirts for S and I about J. I think he'll be pleased. Hopefully they'll get here by his next game. He's been getting up so early so he can go out and play. He's out at 7:30 each morning playing. He's getting kind of grouchy - so I see him crashing and burning soon.
So here's the story. We're all sitting on the sides - kids are in the water for lessons. It's the 30 minute mark and some kids are done (S gets an hour) so there are little ones in the shallow end playing. One little boy is kicking AT (not connecting mind you) another boy. The mother(let's call her cell phone) gets up, shouts at the other mother (at LEAST 3 yards away) "do you see what your son is doing". The other mother - lets call her redneck (so we don't get confused)- gets up, screams at the kid, gets him out and then goes to her "corner". Cell Phone tells her son that the next time the kid does that "kick him hard". LOVELY! (and we wonder why kids are bringing guns to school) anyway - Redneck then gets up and stands at least 10 feet away from Cell Phone and starts yelling at her that Cell Phones' son hit her son in swim lessons. They're going back and forth screaming. The kids in the pool are ALL staring - wide eyed - glazed over at these two. I look over and very *loudly* say "Ladies, There are children watching!". As you might expect that doesn't go over too well. "Take it outside already".
I mean DAMN - if that is your BIG deal of the day - well you best get on your knees and thank the Lord almighty that you have a pretty GOOD life!!!! So I get the scowl all night. Well, bite me! You know, live in MY shoes - you'll find out REAL quick what's important. And I'm not talking about *Me* as in personal - anyone who has a special needs child - We DON'T get upset about that petty stuff - and neither should you. Not like that. Wooooooo, I'd LOVE to write a book. And you know who I'd ask to do a lot of it?? Donna P. Ok, she is the funniest Mom I know.
I met up with Donna and Jordon and family at the baseball game. God, it was good to talk to her in person - we email all the time. Anyway - she says what I'm thinking - a LOT!!! I'll never forget when I first met her and we were in line at Early Childhood to sign in for one of the parent meetings. She turned to the lady between her and I and said "oh, you're just sensory issues." I about peed my pants. Her and I have the same feelings about a LOT of the children out there who aren't really handicapped by nature but by their parents. Anyway - since then - her and I kind of gravitated towards each other. Jordan has MUCH more physical problems than S does - he has seizures - a LOT and I've always admired the way Donna deals with it. Kind of like I dealt with dirty diapers for 10 years - only the difference is dirty diapers would never take my child away - seizures could for Jordan. But you should see this child - don't get me wrong - I have seriously NEVER seen an ugly child and esp a special needs child - they have a light that just shines within them - but Jordan is seriously over the top gorgeous! S and him have been best buddies since they were 3 when they departed k-garten he went to one school and S to another. They live on the west side. :-)
S brought home her power point cd Tuesday. It's SO good. She picked Monkeys - because it's "her favorite animal". Mrs L says she did all the work herself. Picking sounds, facts, pictures. She really did a great job. Who knew she'd do so well at this. Now I'm even more on the point of getting S her own laptop for school next year. I'm very excited about her improvement in school because of this.
Met with L & V yesterday. Got to see L's house - omg - it's beautiful!!! She has the best taste in colors and such. We had a really fun meeting. They always make me laugh and make me feel more positive. I love her.
Ordered shirts for S and I about J. I think he'll be pleased. Hopefully they'll get here by his next game. He's been getting up so early so he can go out and play. He's out at 7:30 each morning playing. He's getting kind of grouchy - so I see him crashing and burning soon.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
People are Amazed!
Talking to the bossman this morning I commented about how S cannot spit. He was amazed. Talking on the phone to my sister the other night she said the same thing. I guess I never thought about it. Sometimes you get in a routine and you don't even think about what all you're doing. There's a lot of stuff like that with S. When we FINALLY got the potty thing down and I was telling my Mom, she said she didn't think it was that important to me because I never really complained about it or mentioned it much. Are you kidding me??? There's SO many things that S can't do (yet). It's really physically exhausting - like having a 90 pound 2 year old. But yet she understands things at a much more highly functioning area.
This morning she reminded her Dad about bringing home hats and crayons (stuff the Village gives away at functions) - because they were out of them when we went to the Arbor Day celebration on SATURDAY! Do you remember things like that from 2 days ago? *I* don't! She's amazing!
The weekend was fantastic! Sunday the kids were outside from 7:30 am till 7:30 pm!!! As I was putting J to bed he said "but I didn't even get to watch tv today". Nothing is EVER enough for that boy!!! Wonder where he gets *that*?????
First coach pitch game tonight. Ought to be interesting. B thinks J could be a good catcher. (Lord, help us) Have you *seen* Bull Duram - somehow I see J as more the "meat" character!
:-) There's whispering in the ranks that S wants to play tee ball. *How* do I address *this* request? ugghh.
I've told S that we're going to talk about growing up to be a woman on Wed. night. We get the school "girls' talk" on Friday so I thought I'd just introduce a little and see where she's at. Can I just tell you how much I'm DREADING that time in her life. I'm hoping they may develop a pill that allows you to have NO periods (and her and I can BOTH be on it) ;-) I'm trying very hard to stay positive about this subject and the changes it will bring to our "happy" home. :-) - Did I say changes ? Maybe "challenges" would be more like it. :-)
This morning she reminded her Dad about bringing home hats and crayons (stuff the Village gives away at functions) - because they were out of them when we went to the Arbor Day celebration on SATURDAY! Do you remember things like that from 2 days ago? *I* don't! She's amazing!
The weekend was fantastic! Sunday the kids were outside from 7:30 am till 7:30 pm!!! As I was putting J to bed he said "but I didn't even get to watch tv today". Nothing is EVER enough for that boy!!! Wonder where he gets *that*?????
First coach pitch game tonight. Ought to be interesting. B thinks J could be a good catcher. (Lord, help us) Have you *seen* Bull Duram - somehow I see J as more the "meat" character!
:-) There's whispering in the ranks that S wants to play tee ball. *How* do I address *this* request? ugghh.
I've told S that we're going to talk about growing up to be a woman on Wed. night. We get the school "girls' talk" on Friday so I thought I'd just introduce a little and see where she's at. Can I just tell you how much I'm DREADING that time in her life. I'm hoping they may develop a pill that allows you to have NO periods (and her and I can BOTH be on it) ;-) I'm trying very hard to stay positive about this subject and the changes it will bring to our "happy" home. :-) - Did I say changes ? Maybe "challenges" would be more like it. :-)
Friday, April 18, 2008
Say It Play It........
Oh, what a very very cute performance!!! The kids outdid themselves last night. They were SO good. S introduced the show "Welcome. Enjoy the show." :-) It was So cute. She did a fantastic job!!!
It was a very crazy night of running and we all know how I feel about *that*. :-) I got home from work with just enough time to change and pee and then pick up S & J and go to S's swimming lessons - then after that get her dressed (hurriedly) and drop off J at baseball practice, come home - comb our hair - get a drink and then off to the school. It was nice that it did really *fit* the time - nothing overlapped - but I still don't like that feeling of hurry.
So afterward we asked S where she wanted to eat - Mickey Ds!!! ;-) We got home about 8:55 and it dawned on me that I needed to enter Market Day orders that I had from school and cut off is 9:00!!! Well, guess what..............
I MADE IT!!!! I couldn't believe it but when I was done and checked order status they were all there!!! YAY! Now *that's* cutting it WAY to close for me!
So this morning seemed very lax compared to last night. They were both dressed by 7:45 and out and playing with the neighbors. I'm really liking our new neighbors - their kids get up at the crack of dawn too. :-)
We all walked to school today and then I went into work. My Mom called this morning and reported that Dorothy had passed away. It's sad but yet a blessing - she was getting worse and worse as time went on. I know my Mom will really miss her. S too. S and Dorothy were buddies at quilting. "Be careful, pins stick." :-)
It was a very crazy night of running and we all know how I feel about *that*. :-) I got home from work with just enough time to change and pee and then pick up S & J and go to S's swimming lessons - then after that get her dressed (hurriedly) and drop off J at baseball practice, come home - comb our hair - get a drink and then off to the school. It was nice that it did really *fit* the time - nothing overlapped - but I still don't like that feeling of hurry.
So afterward we asked S where she wanted to eat - Mickey Ds!!! ;-) We got home about 8:55 and it dawned on me that I needed to enter Market Day orders that I had from school and cut off is 9:00!!! Well, guess what..............
I MADE IT!!!! I couldn't believe it but when I was done and checked order status they were all there!!! YAY! Now *that's* cutting it WAY to close for me!
So this morning seemed very lax compared to last night. They were both dressed by 7:45 and out and playing with the neighbors. I'm really liking our new neighbors - their kids get up at the crack of dawn too. :-)
We all walked to school today and then I went into work. My Mom called this morning and reported that Dorothy had passed away. It's sad but yet a blessing - she was getting worse and worse as time went on. I know my Mom will really miss her. S too. S and Dorothy were buddies at quilting. "Be careful, pins stick." :-)
Thursday, April 17, 2008
I got tagged
My blog got tagged (thank you Julie) - here's the results:
1. Name: Kelly
2. Occupation: Bookkeeper/Secretary/ worst Mom in the world (according to J)
3. Best part of job: My hours - since I pretty much make my own when reports aren't due
4. Worst part of job: Filing
5. Dream job: SAHM with unlimited income. :-)
6. College: Some - not enough for my degree but enough for a license. ;-)
7. Area of Study: Cosmetology and Early Childhood - don't *they* go together?????
8. Best Part of College: Parties
9. Worst Part: Parties
10. Best Friend in High School: Todd and Theresa
11. Do you still keep in touch: Todd yes - Theresa no
12. Teacher that made biggest impression on you: Mrs Kornowski and Mrs Rueschel (yes, Todd I know you HATE her) :-)
13. Best thing parents did for you: Taught me to be responsible
14. Best thing a friend ever did for you: Married me
15. Best thing you ever did for a friend: Married him right back
16. Personal Hero: Eleanor Roosevelt
17. A death that really got to you: Sally Stein
18. Bar soap or body wash: Bar - the best comes from MN
19. Mouse or Gel in the hair: Depends on the day
20. Ever been to a county fair: Yes
21. Ever been to the circus: No
22. Ever been to a concert: I can count them on one hand
23. Favorite state to visit: Don't have one
24. Dream vacation: A couple of days with NO kids and nothing to do.
25. Favorite fruit: watermelon
26. Favorite vegetable: red peppers
27. Best invention ever: DVR
28. Favorite thing to do on the weekend: Read the paper in bed and then nap.
29. Ever had surgery: They cut me open twice and took out two humans!
30. Favorite thing to blog about: The kids
1. Name: Kelly
2. Occupation: Bookkeeper/Secretary/ worst Mom in the world (according to J)
3. Best part of job: My hours - since I pretty much make my own when reports aren't due
4. Worst part of job: Filing
5. Dream job: SAHM with unlimited income. :-)
6. College: Some - not enough for my degree but enough for a license. ;-)
7. Area of Study: Cosmetology and Early Childhood - don't *they* go together?????
8. Best Part of College: Parties
9. Worst Part: Parties
10. Best Friend in High School: Todd and Theresa
11. Do you still keep in touch: Todd yes - Theresa no
12. Teacher that made biggest impression on you: Mrs Kornowski and Mrs Rueschel (yes, Todd I know you HATE her) :-)
13. Best thing parents did for you: Taught me to be responsible
14. Best thing a friend ever did for you: Married me
15. Best thing you ever did for a friend: Married him right back
16. Personal Hero: Eleanor Roosevelt
17. A death that really got to you: Sally Stein
18. Bar soap or body wash: Bar - the best comes from MN
19. Mouse or Gel in the hair: Depends on the day
20. Ever been to a county fair: Yes
21. Ever been to the circus: No
22. Ever been to a concert: I can count them on one hand
23. Favorite state to visit: Don't have one
24. Dream vacation: A couple of days with NO kids and nothing to do.
25. Favorite fruit: watermelon
26. Favorite vegetable: red peppers
27. Best invention ever: DVR
28. Favorite thing to do on the weekend: Read the paper in bed and then nap.
29. Ever had surgery: They cut me open twice and took out two humans!
30. Favorite thing to blog about: The kids
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Real Problems
The health concerns in the Oct list have really been weighing on my mind. It really puts things into perspective. All the petty petty things we concern ourselves with instead of just appreciating life - warts and all. I read a passage out of a book last night that was something along the lines of "chores became fun and a chance to become closer rather than something to endure to get to relax". I like that and decided to adopt that in our house.
I'm off today - a well deserved break - if I do say so myself. I have actually started quarterlys and all sales tax is done so I'm sitting pretty. :-)
J has decided that he wants to be a "walker" today and come home right after school but S wants to go to daycare. You never know about those two. :-)
I'm off today - a well deserved break - if I do say so myself. I have actually started quarterlys and all sales tax is done so I'm sitting pretty. :-)
J has decided that he wants to be a "walker" today and come home right after school but S wants to go to daycare. You never know about those two. :-)
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Why?
It just seems so unreal sometimes. E has breast cancer. Why? She's so vibrant, so upbeat and *real*. Same with L who seems to have one tragedy after another in her life. It really tests my faith sometimes.
Greece is such a long way away and still I feel very close to her. I hurt for her. I can't imagine how it must feel. Prayers said, healing thoughts sent.
On a MUCH lighter note - today's the day. All the nasty people are coming out of the woodwork. All the people who are NEVER at fault. Ugghh. Anyway - day off tomorrow and a hair appt. Seems very appropriate. I'm in very much need of a really good laugh and the best part - I get to see my buds Sig, Phil, Johnathon and Edgar tonight. I stand in awe of what they do and shake my head in disbelief saying continuously "F That!!!" :-)
Greece is such a long way away and still I feel very close to her. I hurt for her. I can't imagine how it must feel. Prayers said, healing thoughts sent.
On a MUCH lighter note - today's the day. All the nasty people are coming out of the woodwork. All the people who are NEVER at fault. Ugghh. Anyway - day off tomorrow and a hair appt. Seems very appropriate. I'm in very much need of a really good laugh and the best part - I get to see my buds Sig, Phil, Johnathon and Edgar tonight. I stand in awe of what they do and shake my head in disbelief saying continuously "F That!!!" :-)
Friday, April 11, 2008
Some things I've been thinking about....
First - a big CONGRATS to the Swiseman! He's even on UTUBE!!! Seeing him just brought back all those memories of Rich W and his impressions and Trevor and John Mark and Lori W and the gang singing in the stands. Are we really *that* old??? Dang. He also reminded me of my father - it must be the era or the area. They talk a lot alike. Of course my Dad has a huge admiration for Swise. "He's forgotten more about baseball than I'll ever know". This coming from *my* Dad says a lot. Anyway - it's well deserved and I think the record just may go into the 1000s! ;-)
So I was thinking about how different people act. This has always amazed me that some people act one way with certain people and act a totally different way when not with those people. Which makes me wonder - just who IS the person? And then I wonder - do we ALL do this? Do *I* act one way and then a whole different way with others? And I'm not talking how you automatically start saying "sir" when stopped by a cop or please and thank you when you're with your Grandma - I'm talking about really different personalities. How one time you're really laid back and good natured and then the next minute (without help from pharmaceuticals or alcohol) you're ready to fight anyone and everyone, and it all *seems* to be linked to certain people either being or not being present. And even though I totally believe that either way YOU are the one in charge of your conduct (like "someone *made* you do something") I just wonder how and why others affect us. That probably did not make a whole lot of sense but if you've seen it happen you know what I'm talking about.
On a totally different note: my kids: My kids are shocking the CRAP out of me lately!!! Report card time - S did very well in grades (big whoop) but did MOST excellent in the numbers (ie: attends to work, participates in class, organizes herself well,) !!! She brought up a lot of her stuff. And J - well he just knocked it way out of the park!!! He got all Ms and Es (meets and exceeds) AND he also brought up ALL his numbers AND his sloppiness (yes, he still needs to be neat and work on that - but at least he's not "below" - as he was last quarter). His comprehension test came back too - 83 percentile in the NATION - meaning he's over 83 percent of all first graders in the nation! THAT's unbelievable! Even his "reasoning" test was good - THIS scares me. I mean - we all knew he'd read early (he sat in on homework for the last 4 years of his life) and I knew his comprehension was good - but reasoning - that can't be taught (well, not easily - that's for sure). So I'm QUITE proud of ALL the Daves!
S is learning to do power point in tech club. She LOVES going early and doing all this. She's really getting more and more independent! She even ASKED if she could try getting dressed by herself after swimming last night. Of course *that's* not the *best* time to try - we're all crowded in there like sardines and we're all hurrying around. So I told her she could try this weekend when we have plenty of time!!! :-) I'm just amazed at what's going on with her lately!!!
So I was thinking about how different people act. This has always amazed me that some people act one way with certain people and act a totally different way when not with those people. Which makes me wonder - just who IS the person? And then I wonder - do we ALL do this? Do *I* act one way and then a whole different way with others? And I'm not talking how you automatically start saying "sir" when stopped by a cop or please and thank you when you're with your Grandma - I'm talking about really different personalities. How one time you're really laid back and good natured and then the next minute (without help from pharmaceuticals or alcohol) you're ready to fight anyone and everyone, and it all *seems* to be linked to certain people either being or not being present. And even though I totally believe that either way YOU are the one in charge of your conduct (like "someone *made* you do something") I just wonder how and why others affect us. That probably did not make a whole lot of sense but if you've seen it happen you know what I'm talking about.
On a totally different note: my kids: My kids are shocking the CRAP out of me lately!!! Report card time - S did very well in grades (big whoop) but did MOST excellent in the numbers (ie: attends to work, participates in class, organizes herself well,) !!! She brought up a lot of her stuff. And J - well he just knocked it way out of the park!!! He got all Ms and Es (meets and exceeds) AND he also brought up ALL his numbers AND his sloppiness (yes, he still needs to be neat and work on that - but at least he's not "below" - as he was last quarter). His comprehension test came back too - 83 percentile in the NATION - meaning he's over 83 percent of all first graders in the nation! THAT's unbelievable! Even his "reasoning" test was good - THIS scares me. I mean - we all knew he'd read early (he sat in on homework for the last 4 years of his life) and I knew his comprehension was good - but reasoning - that can't be taught (well, not easily - that's for sure). So I'm QUITE proud of ALL the Daves!
S is learning to do power point in tech club. She LOVES going early and doing all this. She's really getting more and more independent! She even ASKED if she could try getting dressed by herself after swimming last night. Of course *that's* not the *best* time to try - we're all crowded in there like sardines and we're all hurrying around. So I told her she could try this weekend when we have plenty of time!!! :-) I'm just amazed at what's going on with her lately!!!
He Did it!!! He Did it!!!! GO BIG BLUE!
A DUERRISMS COMMENTARY: SWISEGOOD AS IT GETS
When I first started covering high school baseball in the Tri States fourteen years ago, Southeastern Coach Dave Swisegood was one year shy of the mandatory retirement age.
In the time that has passed since, we've watched Lonnie Lemon morph from QND Baseball coach into the Superintendent of Quincy Schools. I've seen Robin Lewis eclipse his legendary father Ed in making Beardstown Baseball a state powerhouse. We've watched highly successful and respected Swise contemporaries like Lon Fulte and Rick Parker come and go. And we've seen kids who were tween back in 1995 like Travis Cooley, Scott Gaines, and Darren Perdun, become the next generation of promising young baseball coaches. Put simply, change has come. Significant change.
Yet here is Swise, still standing on third base, still imploring his kids to "Spin the Wheel"
For fifty two years of his life, Dave Swisegood has put on "the monkey suit" as he calls it (even wearing the batting gloves up until a few years ago) and worked tirelessly to promote the betterment of young people through the sport of baseball. And note my very deliberate use of the phrase "worked tirelessly" because.....
Now 77 years old, Dave Swisegood has more energy and enthusiasm for what he does than any human being I know, in any profession I can think of. Feel free to consider the source on that one. I am exactly half Dave's age and have never been accused of lacking for job enthusiasm. Put a baseball cap on Swise and he puts me and my contemporaries to shame.
As trite and cliché as it might sound, Baseball is Dave Swisegood's fountain of youth. Or more accurately, teaching baseball.
Spend any considerable time around the man and you get the sense that he will never willingly retire from coaching; that he never has given it a single thought despite his "advancing age." There are many in the CSE Baseball Community who believe the day Swise walks away from the game; walks away from the teaching of the sport that he so loves, that his health will start to deteriorate. The "love of the game" so deeply rooted into his spirit that he simply can't live without it. Spend any time talking to the man about baseball and kids and that notion is hard to dispute. It's also nearly impossible not to instantly share his love for what he does the minute he starts talking about the game, the kids. And that to me has been the greatest part of this whole circus....
Over the last week, the humble and hardworking Dave Swisegood became the IHSA's resident "Rock Star." With win number 893, the new state high school career record, Swise has gotten the kind of media coverage in all circles far too absent his career. And as result, a whole new group of people are being introduced to this wonderful gentleman-coach and all he stands for. The more voices that join the chorus, the more I hear casual sports fans talking about "that legendary coach at Southeastern." I had two different women today approach me about Swise and use the word "charming" in describing him from Tyler Fulghum's story on Monday. (Who thought we would live to see that dawn of Swise-Groupies, but I digress....)
The important thing here is that we have lived to see something rare and special happen in Tri State sports this week. All of the values that Dave Swisegood has stood for have paid off in success both tangible and intensely personal to the man who crafted this amazing record. And he has graciously allowed so many of us, both close to him and on the periphery share in this wonderful story. It's an unbelievable number of wins, 893. More importantly, that number represents countless lessons taught to his players, that still echo today in their ears when times get tough and real life throws them a curveball. That impact is far more important to Dave Swisegood than any IHSA mark. And it is celebrated, knowingly or subconsciously, every day of those people's lives. Legacies get no better than that....
One might say this Wins Record could be the perfect swan song to a phenomenal career. Those people don't know Dave Swisegood very well.
Me? I am still trying to figure out what number victory Swise will be chasing 15 years from today.
Keep Spinning the Wheel, my friend.
For all of us.
When I first started covering high school baseball in the Tri States fourteen years ago, Southeastern Coach Dave Swisegood was one year shy of the mandatory retirement age.
In the time that has passed since, we've watched Lonnie Lemon morph from QND Baseball coach into the Superintendent of Quincy Schools. I've seen Robin Lewis eclipse his legendary father Ed in making Beardstown Baseball a state powerhouse. We've watched highly successful and respected Swise contemporaries like Lon Fulte and Rick Parker come and go. And we've seen kids who were tween back in 1995 like Travis Cooley, Scott Gaines, and Darren Perdun, become the next generation of promising young baseball coaches. Put simply, change has come. Significant change.
Yet here is Swise, still standing on third base, still imploring his kids to "Spin the Wheel"
For fifty two years of his life, Dave Swisegood has put on "the monkey suit" as he calls it (even wearing the batting gloves up until a few years ago) and worked tirelessly to promote the betterment of young people through the sport of baseball. And note my very deliberate use of the phrase "worked tirelessly" because.....
Now 77 years old, Dave Swisegood has more energy and enthusiasm for what he does than any human being I know, in any profession I can think of. Feel free to consider the source on that one. I am exactly half Dave's age and have never been accused of lacking for job enthusiasm. Put a baseball cap on Swise and he puts me and my contemporaries to shame.
As trite and cliché as it might sound, Baseball is Dave Swisegood's fountain of youth. Or more accurately, teaching baseball.
Spend any considerable time around the man and you get the sense that he will never willingly retire from coaching; that he never has given it a single thought despite his "advancing age." There are many in the CSE Baseball Community who believe the day Swise walks away from the game; walks away from the teaching of the sport that he so loves, that his health will start to deteriorate. The "love of the game" so deeply rooted into his spirit that he simply can't live without it. Spend any time talking to the man about baseball and kids and that notion is hard to dispute. It's also nearly impossible not to instantly share his love for what he does the minute he starts talking about the game, the kids. And that to me has been the greatest part of this whole circus....
Over the last week, the humble and hardworking Dave Swisegood became the IHSA's resident "Rock Star." With win number 893, the new state high school career record, Swise has gotten the kind of media coverage in all circles far too absent his career. And as result, a whole new group of people are being introduced to this wonderful gentleman-coach and all he stands for. The more voices that join the chorus, the more I hear casual sports fans talking about "that legendary coach at Southeastern." I had two different women today approach me about Swise and use the word "charming" in describing him from Tyler Fulghum's story on Monday. (Who thought we would live to see that dawn of Swise-Groupies, but I digress....)
The important thing here is that we have lived to see something rare and special happen in Tri State sports this week. All of the values that Dave Swisegood has stood for have paid off in success both tangible and intensely personal to the man who crafted this amazing record. And he has graciously allowed so many of us, both close to him and on the periphery share in this wonderful story. It's an unbelievable number of wins, 893. More importantly, that number represents countless lessons taught to his players, that still echo today in their ears when times get tough and real life throws them a curveball. That impact is far more important to Dave Swisegood than any IHSA mark. And it is celebrated, knowingly or subconsciously, every day of those people's lives. Legacies get no better than that....
One might say this Wins Record could be the perfect swan song to a phenomenal career. Those people don't know Dave Swisegood very well.
Me? I am still trying to figure out what number victory Swise will be chasing 15 years from today.
Keep Spinning the Wheel, my friend.
For all of us.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
I'm amazed!
We had yearly IEP meeting yesterday! There were SO many things that I was amazed at. #1 would be that S is at late 1st early 2nd grade reading level!!!!!! That blows me away! That's only 2 grade levels away !!! There were a lot of really good "S stories". She is a real character. Took Mrs V to the office "you'll see when we get there". Seems like since we have mastered the bathroom she has really grown in independence! She participates in class a LOT and she's doing a Science project with Bella and Valeria. I'm so proud of her I could just BUST!
That brings me to "the boy" (said in a growling voice). Lord, if that child doesn't break me - nothing will. He is just SO hard! He had a TOTAL meltdown yesterday when we told him he was going to breakfast at school because we had a meeting. Crying - hyperventilating - the whole thing. All because two boys picked on him at breakfast. (or so we thought). We told him that we would talk to Ms O and she would be aware of the problem and be able to help him. He got there - he sat with Austin (I thought) and all was fine. Well, when him and I discussed the whole thing later at night it all comes out that he WANTED to sit by these two boys - and that they told him he couldn't because there was a seating arrangement and the boy who I thought was Austin was actually Angelo - one of the kids he wanted to sit with in the first place. Talk about "Oscar Award". I don't think any girl could out drama this child! So, I've really got my work cut out for me when it comes to getting this child to adulthood.
Tax season is winding down and I'm trying to figure out a good schedule that allows me to be with my children but still not so much that I want to kill them! :-) Plus, we have baseball and swimming to work around and school things. S is really into the extra curriculars. She wants to play basketball, baseball, and be in the talent show. :-) She is a total over achiever! :-)
That brings me to "the boy" (said in a growling voice). Lord, if that child doesn't break me - nothing will. He is just SO hard! He had a TOTAL meltdown yesterday when we told him he was going to breakfast at school because we had a meeting. Crying - hyperventilating - the whole thing. All because two boys picked on him at breakfast. (or so we thought). We told him that we would talk to Ms O and she would be aware of the problem and be able to help him. He got there - he sat with Austin (I thought) and all was fine. Well, when him and I discussed the whole thing later at night it all comes out that he WANTED to sit by these two boys - and that they told him he couldn't because there was a seating arrangement and the boy who I thought was Austin was actually Angelo - one of the kids he wanted to sit with in the first place. Talk about "Oscar Award". I don't think any girl could out drama this child! So, I've really got my work cut out for me when it comes to getting this child to adulthood.
Tax season is winding down and I'm trying to figure out a good schedule that allows me to be with my children but still not so much that I want to kill them! :-) Plus, we have baseball and swimming to work around and school things. S is really into the extra curriculars. She wants to play basketball, baseball, and be in the talent show. :-) She is a total over achiever! :-)
Saturday, April 05, 2008
One More, Swise!!!!! Go Big Blue!
Central-Southeastern baseball coach Dave Swisegood meets with his players after winning Friday night’s game against Canton. Swisegood now has 892 career wins, moving him into a tie for the most all-time wins in Illinois High School Association history. (H-W Photo/Jennifer Coombes)
Click here to view the Whig Gallery
By MATT SCHUCKMAN
Herald-Whig Sports Writer
AUGUSTA -- Most of the Central-Southeastern baseball players had a theory for what Suns coach Dave Swisegood might do with the game ball used to record the final out in Friday's 10-1 victory over Canton.
"He'll probably use it to hit infield tomorrow," catcher Garrett Janssen joked.
Don't bet on it.
Although he tucked it in his coat pocket for the time being, Swisegood had plans for the ball that commemorated his 892nd career victory, which tied him with Oak Park-River Forest coach Jack Kaiser for the most in Illinois High School Association history.
"I'm going to put it right on the mantle," said the 77-year-old Swisegood, who will attempt to break the record Monday when the Suns (6-4) travel to Lewistown. "And I'm going to look at it."
He expects it to elicit a flood of memories.
"The real memories I'll have are of the players who have given me that," said Swisegood, who has a career record of 892-480. "I mean that. I've been blessed with good players."
Like the ones who made the record-tying victory look so simple.
Sophomore left-hander Sean Grosnic did not allow an extra-base hit, struck out six, walked two and picked off one in his most high-profile and pressure-packed start of the season.
"I really wanted to pitch the record-tying or record-breaking game," Grosnic said. "But I'm so speechless about it. I'm just glad I won."
His composure was critical, especially when a throwing error by shortstop Regan Bruenger and back-to-back singles -- all with two outs -- led to Canton (5-1) taking a 1-0 lead in the top of the third.
"Last year, a couple bad things may have gotten to him a little bit," Janssen said. "I think that shows his maturity. He's grown up a little bit. He's pretty good. When he's on, he's tough."
Getting some help from his defense made Grosnic tougher.
Following the error in the third, Central-Southeastern buckled down to end two innings on force plays at second base and closed the game with a double play on a grounder up the middle that left Swisegood smiling.
"Swise is a competitor," Janssen said. "Anything it takes to win, he's all for it."
That's especially true of taking an extra base.
Down 1-0 in the third, Brent Kassing got C-SE's rally started with a one-out walk. Markus Vonholt doubled to right-center field -- the only extra-base hit in the game -- took third on a wild pitch and scored on a throwing error by Canton catcher Lucas Barton.
In the fifth, the Suns plated three more as two runs scored on wild pitches and Kassing stole home on the back end of a double steal.
"What I really appreciated the most was they got the first run and we came right back," Swisegood said. "Any coach loves that. We didn't fold up the tent."
No Swisegood-coached team ever will, which is why the all-time victory record is nearly his alone.
"I'd be lying if I said it didn't mean anything," Swisegood said. "I still think the thing I am the happiest about is my team having success. Those guys deserve this. I haven't had a hit all year. They are getting it done."
There's extra incentive for that.
There's history being made.
"It's unbelievable," Janssen said. "That doesn't even happen just once in a lifetime. As many years as he's been around is what's remarkable. He's just a legend."
That's why a legendary celebration awaits.
Other than an ovation from the small crowd gathered at the Southeastern High School field and an on-field cheer from his team, the postgame activities were fairly similar to Swisegood's first 891 victories.
"The next one is the one we're waiting for," Janssen said.
That's when Swisegood will stand alone.
-- mschuckman@whig.com/221-3366
Click here to view the Whig Gallery
By MATT SCHUCKMAN
Herald-Whig Sports Writer
AUGUSTA -- Most of the Central-Southeastern baseball players had a theory for what Suns coach Dave Swisegood might do with the game ball used to record the final out in Friday's 10-1 victory over Canton.
"He'll probably use it to hit infield tomorrow," catcher Garrett Janssen joked.
Don't bet on it.
Although he tucked it in his coat pocket for the time being, Swisegood had plans for the ball that commemorated his 892nd career victory, which tied him with Oak Park-River Forest coach Jack Kaiser for the most in Illinois High School Association history.
"I'm going to put it right on the mantle," said the 77-year-old Swisegood, who will attempt to break the record Monday when the Suns (6-4) travel to Lewistown. "And I'm going to look at it."
He expects it to elicit a flood of memories.
"The real memories I'll have are of the players who have given me that," said Swisegood, who has a career record of 892-480. "I mean that. I've been blessed with good players."
Like the ones who made the record-tying victory look so simple.
Sophomore left-hander Sean Grosnic did not allow an extra-base hit, struck out six, walked two and picked off one in his most high-profile and pressure-packed start of the season.
"I really wanted to pitch the record-tying or record-breaking game," Grosnic said. "But I'm so speechless about it. I'm just glad I won."
His composure was critical, especially when a throwing error by shortstop Regan Bruenger and back-to-back singles -- all with two outs -- led to Canton (5-1) taking a 1-0 lead in the top of the third.
"Last year, a couple bad things may have gotten to him a little bit," Janssen said. "I think that shows his maturity. He's grown up a little bit. He's pretty good. When he's on, he's tough."
Getting some help from his defense made Grosnic tougher.
Following the error in the third, Central-Southeastern buckled down to end two innings on force plays at second base and closed the game with a double play on a grounder up the middle that left Swisegood smiling.
"Swise is a competitor," Janssen said. "Anything it takes to win, he's all for it."
That's especially true of taking an extra base.
Down 1-0 in the third, Brent Kassing got C-SE's rally started with a one-out walk. Markus Vonholt doubled to right-center field -- the only extra-base hit in the game -- took third on a wild pitch and scored on a throwing error by Canton catcher Lucas Barton.
In the fifth, the Suns plated three more as two runs scored on wild pitches and Kassing stole home on the back end of a double steal.
"What I really appreciated the most was they got the first run and we came right back," Swisegood said. "Any coach loves that. We didn't fold up the tent."
No Swisegood-coached team ever will, which is why the all-time victory record is nearly his alone.
"I'd be lying if I said it didn't mean anything," Swisegood said. "I still think the thing I am the happiest about is my team having success. Those guys deserve this. I haven't had a hit all year. They are getting it done."
There's extra incentive for that.
There's history being made.
"It's unbelievable," Janssen said. "That doesn't even happen just once in a lifetime. As many years as he's been around is what's remarkable. He's just a legend."
That's why a legendary celebration awaits.
Other than an ovation from the small crowd gathered at the Southeastern High School field and an on-field cheer from his team, the postgame activities were fairly similar to Swisegood's first 891 victories.
"The next one is the one we're waiting for," Janssen said.
That's when Swisegood will stand alone.
-- mschuckman@whig.com/221-3366
Friday, April 04, 2008
Nearing the end..
Tax season is drawing to a close. Thank GOD! I'm really looking forward to a. one day off a week and b. MUCH less hours! Maybe I'll even get my house back. :-)
I'm thinking I'll pick up the kids at 3 and have the afternoons with them. I think that could be kind of fun. Plus we need a jump on homework with tee ball season here. This *could* be a really good thing. :-)
Ok - we've had some major growing up in the house recently. You've read my post about S walking to school with a neighbor on Tue and Thurs - well, J is now in need of a "cup" for baseball. I find this both very amusing and very disturbing. J has a fascination with this area already and when his Dad explained the "cup" and that it needs to be "adjusted" sometimes I thought "My God, he'll never catch a ball - his hands will be down there ALL the time!" So this will be on our shopping list this weekend. Lovely ........
I'm hearing it will be in the 60s this weekend!!! OHHHHHH BOYYYYY - I see my truck getting cleaned out (again). :-)
S has been asked to announce the Say It, Play It show at school. We practice every night. She is SO funny. Her Dad asked her to say it again last night and she told him "I will on Tuesday." In other words "step off, Dad" :-) Her humor is killing me lately.
Rex is "on my list" today. Stupid cat had to be SO loud this morning - woke the girl up. :-/ I was NOT happy. S believes that if she's up - EVERYONE should be up and she will talk non-stop till you are. After you arise she then nags at you constantly to do one thing after another. It's like being pecked to death with beak less bird.
Speaking of wildlife, we had a "sick" ground squirrel around the house the other night. I'm not *real* sure that Rexie wasn't the cause of it. As B went out Rex came running in - and it was then that B found the ground squirrel. Anyway, he had to "fix it" with a shovel. J wanted to watch. Why does this SO disturb me. We talked excessively about that it was the only humane thing to do because there was obviously something wrong with it and that you should NEVER approach a wild animal like that - but to go get Dad. (Mom wants NOTHING to do with rodents - even dead ones).
I'm thinking I'll pick up the kids at 3 and have the afternoons with them. I think that could be kind of fun. Plus we need a jump on homework with tee ball season here. This *could* be a really good thing. :-)
Ok - we've had some major growing up in the house recently. You've read my post about S walking to school with a neighbor on Tue and Thurs - well, J is now in need of a "cup" for baseball. I find this both very amusing and very disturbing. J has a fascination with this area already and when his Dad explained the "cup" and that it needs to be "adjusted" sometimes I thought "My God, he'll never catch a ball - his hands will be down there ALL the time!" So this will be on our shopping list this weekend. Lovely ........
I'm hearing it will be in the 60s this weekend!!! OHHHHHH BOYYYYY - I see my truck getting cleaned out (again). :-)
S has been asked to announce the Say It, Play It show at school. We practice every night. She is SO funny. Her Dad asked her to say it again last night and she told him "I will on Tuesday." In other words "step off, Dad" :-) Her humor is killing me lately.
Rex is "on my list" today. Stupid cat had to be SO loud this morning - woke the girl up. :-/ I was NOT happy. S believes that if she's up - EVERYONE should be up and she will talk non-stop till you are. After you arise she then nags at you constantly to do one thing after another. It's like being pecked to death with beak less bird.
Speaking of wildlife, we had a "sick" ground squirrel around the house the other night. I'm not *real* sure that Rexie wasn't the cause of it. As B went out Rex came running in - and it was then that B found the ground squirrel. Anyway, he had to "fix it" with a shovel. J wanted to watch. Why does this SO disturb me. We talked excessively about that it was the only humane thing to do because there was obviously something wrong with it and that you should NEVER approach a wild animal like that - but to go get Dad. (Mom wants NOTHING to do with rodents - even dead ones).
Thursday, April 03, 2008
How DARE she!!!!
Jenny McCarthy is the most obnoxious skank I've ever seen! Last night on Larry King she said "I watched my child die in front of me". That is WRONG on SOOOOOOO many levels.!!!!
First - my child is NOT dead! God DOES have a plan for her and she IS on a mission. (thanks to you who made that shirt, btw) Autism is NOT a death sentence! People ALL over have and ARE living with it. Look at all the WONDERFUL people in history who have had it and managed QUITE nicely!
Second - what about the people who really HAVE lost their child??? I bet ANY of them would give their eye teeth to have their children back and instead the kid have autism. My friend SN can't hold her J anymore - she can't laugh at his happiness --- *I* can!!!! How DARE her say THAT!!!!! Yes, I mourn a child I will never have - but it is not NEAR the same as actually putting one in the ground!!!! She is WAY over the line!!! How is it that after just 2 years of living with Autism - that SHE gets to speak for us????? Lets hear from some of those "Refrigerator Moms" - lets hear from those who went before us - who REALLY did the WORK!!! THEY didn't *let* their children die! They did what they could - they pushed the boundaries.
Marge D is a PERFECT example of this. In the day that her child came about we all called it "retarded" - but whatever the "label" HER child learned to cook, clean, hold a job. MARGE did this!!! She put limits on her child - made her do above and beyond - she TAUGHT her. She didn't hire a bunch of therapists and lawyers and try to change her daughter!
Or my friend Jeannie who found a BEAUTIFUL group home for her son. Who CELEBRATES that he crushes cans daily. Who is SO proud and so loving to him. Who goes to visit weekly and is more and more inspired every time.
I guess that's where I am now - Autism is SO much a part of S that I fear if it was gone - I would loose a lot of "her". The way she tells you things that are SO funny. The truly WONDERFUL way she looks at life! The way she always smiles! And God love it, her humor.
I do hope your son never hears what you've said Jenny McCarthy! He did not die! Accept him, love him and stop trying to change him! And STOP talking for the Autistic world - go back and sit on your toilet and show your boobs - you're better at that!!!
First - my child is NOT dead! God DOES have a plan for her and she IS on a mission. (thanks to you who made that shirt, btw) Autism is NOT a death sentence! People ALL over have and ARE living with it. Look at all the WONDERFUL people in history who have had it and managed QUITE nicely!
Second - what about the people who really HAVE lost their child??? I bet ANY of them would give their eye teeth to have their children back and instead the kid have autism. My friend SN can't hold her J anymore - she can't laugh at his happiness --- *I* can!!!! How DARE her say THAT!!!!! Yes, I mourn a child I will never have - but it is not NEAR the same as actually putting one in the ground!!!! She is WAY over the line!!! How is it that after just 2 years of living with Autism - that SHE gets to speak for us????? Lets hear from some of those "Refrigerator Moms" - lets hear from those who went before us - who REALLY did the WORK!!! THEY didn't *let* their children die! They did what they could - they pushed the boundaries.
Marge D is a PERFECT example of this. In the day that her child came about we all called it "retarded" - but whatever the "label" HER child learned to cook, clean, hold a job. MARGE did this!!! She put limits on her child - made her do above and beyond - she TAUGHT her. She didn't hire a bunch of therapists and lawyers and try to change her daughter!
Or my friend Jeannie who found a BEAUTIFUL group home for her son. Who CELEBRATES that he crushes cans daily. Who is SO proud and so loving to him. Who goes to visit weekly and is more and more inspired every time.
I guess that's where I am now - Autism is SO much a part of S that I fear if it was gone - I would loose a lot of "her". The way she tells you things that are SO funny. The truly WONDERFUL way she looks at life! The way she always smiles! And God love it, her humor.
I do hope your son never hears what you've said Jenny McCarthy! He did not die! Accept him, love him and stop trying to change him! And STOP talking for the Autistic world - go back and sit on your toilet and show your boobs - you're better at that!!!
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Mr G Long - If you're out there...
You, sir, are a HUGE Prick!!!!! Why the hell would anyone RIP into someone who it calling for tax information. I am ONLY the messenger - and then --- when you called back and found out that YOU had the wrong fax number - did you appologize???? NOOOOOOO - see this is exactly why rich people are HATED! Hated, Mr Long - I hope your money keeps you warm at night because YOU are HATED! If you treat me, a total stranger this way how must you treat your own family????? I STILL cannot believe that someone would do what you did for ONE piece of paper!!! You made a HUGE deal out of nothing!
I now see why it really is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter heaven. YOU, Mr Long are the PERFECT example!
I do hope you're happy "Big Man"!!!!!!!
I now see why it really is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter heaven. YOU, Mr Long are the PERFECT example!
I do hope you're happy "Big Man"!!!!!!!
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
She's growing up!
S walked with a couple of neighbors to school today. There's a tech club that starts at 7:30 a.m. and she got to go by herself. I just got word from the teacher that does the club that things went very well. I'm so proud I could just bust! S was so excited - grinning from ear to ear when the girls picked her up.
I watched Mozart and the Whale yesterday. What a good movie! So many characters reminded me of S.
I've got to get a menu together and plan a couple of cooking dates with S. I really think she's ready. I'm starting to see her future and it's looking bright. :-)
I watched Mozart and the Whale yesterday. What a good movie! So many characters reminded me of S.
I've got to get a menu together and plan a couple of cooking dates with S. I really think she's ready. I'm starting to see her future and it's looking bright. :-)
Monday, March 31, 2008
My Sister..
My sister is unbelievable! We truckstered south this weekend to see her in the Windmill Follies "You can't get there from here". She was SO good. I can't get over how she can memorize all those lines and look so at ease on stage. We really had a good time. I'm so glad we went and get this - we surprised her. I thought for sure somehow she'd get wind of it - see our truck at Mom and Dad's, we'd slip up, even pop in at Mom and Dad's. It was too funny. You should have seen the look in her eyes. What a fun time.
S did very well - we sat from 6:30 - 9 and she only lost it just a tiny bit at the very end. In fact after the first scene she was quite concerned that "Arthur" one of the characters had been in an accident with a dog. I was so surprised she even knew the man's name was Arthur. She really "got" it.
J was "sick" today - he was up a lot last night burning hot and this morning was still kind of out of it. So he stayed home. I stayed home also and really caught the house up. He was content to lay on the couch, so I knew he was sick.
S took the play book to school and I guess talked their ears off about it. I also think she realized that Keith (from Dan's store) was in the play also.
During her week at Gpa and Gma's there was a bomb threat at Central - the kids were all bussed to the church and S and Gma had to go home early from quilting. She also visited Lola in the hospital and seemed quite concerned about Lola's "owie". Gma was on the radio in Carthage and Gpa and S both clapped for her when she was done. It's cute what S deems as important.
This weekend in TKD and Social Club. S is very excited about it. She's really doing well with conversation and with in general being more grown up. It's fascinating to watch her.
S did very well - we sat from 6:30 - 9 and she only lost it just a tiny bit at the very end. In fact after the first scene she was quite concerned that "Arthur" one of the characters had been in an accident with a dog. I was so surprised she even knew the man's name was Arthur. She really "got" it.
J was "sick" today - he was up a lot last night burning hot and this morning was still kind of out of it. So he stayed home. I stayed home also and really caught the house up. He was content to lay on the couch, so I knew he was sick.
S took the play book to school and I guess talked their ears off about it. I also think she realized that Keith (from Dan's store) was in the play also.
During her week at Gpa and Gma's there was a bomb threat at Central - the kids were all bussed to the church and S and Gma had to go home early from quilting. She also visited Lola in the hospital and seemed quite concerned about Lola's "owie". Gma was on the radio in Carthage and Gpa and S both clapped for her when she was done. It's cute what S deems as important.
This weekend in TKD and Social Club. S is very excited about it. She's really doing well with conversation and with in general being more grown up. It's fascinating to watch her.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
You all know this guy........... "The Hell"
6 to tie and 7 to Break
by B-Ball Fan on Tue Mar 11, 2008 1:12 pm
That is what Central/Southeastern's Baseball Coach Dave Swisegood's Baseball team needs to win this spring for him to become the All-time Winningest baseball Coach in IHSA history. You can't meet a more knowledgeable and better man in high school baseball than Dave Swisegood. Good luck Dave and your team, and may you coach many more than 7 more wins @ Augusta & Camp Point.
Coach Dave Swisegood
Swisegood, '98 vikings, Hall of Fame inductees
by Doug Endres
Southeastern coach Dave Swisegood is being inducted into the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
The induction ceremony is Feb. 5, at Lisle.
Swisegood begins his 50th season as a high school baseball coach this spring. He has 845 career wins and 12 regional/district titles coaching at Plymouth and Southeastern high schools.
Swisegood ranks second on the state's all-time victories list. He began coaching in 1956 at Plymouth High School. He spent 25 years at the school, finishing with a record of 417-207. He spent the next 24 years at Southeastern where he has posted a record of 428-230. His career winning percentage is 65.9 percent.
"Coach Swisegood is a phenomenon, a legend to so many," said Southeastern principal Todd Fox. "He coached many of our student-athletes parents and grandparents. There will truly never be another Dave Swisegood."
Besides baseball, Swisegood is the assistant basketball coach at Southeastern.
He is a former minor league baseball player and former scout for the Cincinnati Reds.
Swisegood resides in Augusta with his wife, Francis.
The 1998 Nauvoo-Colusa Viking basketball team, which won the Class A state tournament, is one of six teams and 84 individuals being inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The ceremony is April 30 at the Bone Student Center on the Illinois State campus in Normal.
Nauvoo-Colusa finished the '97-'98 season with a record of 31-3. They were the first unranked team to defeat three straight ranked teams and win the Class A state tournament in state history.
Members of the team were: Joe Wilson, Emmett Reidner, Doug Siegfried, David Hamma, David Griffiths, Brian Griffiths, Kenny Haas, Patrick Weaver, Paul Goetz, Marshal Stott, and Kellen Fernetti. They were coached by Reno Pinkston who was assisted by Frank Gayton.
by B-Ball Fan on Tue Mar 11, 2008 1:12 pm
That is what Central/Southeastern's Baseball Coach Dave Swisegood's Baseball team needs to win this spring for him to become the All-time Winningest baseball Coach in IHSA history. You can't meet a more knowledgeable and better man in high school baseball than Dave Swisegood. Good luck Dave and your team, and may you coach many more than 7 more wins @ Augusta & Camp Point.
Coach Dave Swisegood
Swisegood, '98 vikings, Hall of Fame inductees
by Doug Endres
Southeastern coach Dave Swisegood is being inducted into the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
The induction ceremony is Feb. 5, at Lisle.
Swisegood begins his 50th season as a high school baseball coach this spring. He has 845 career wins and 12 regional/district titles coaching at Plymouth and Southeastern high schools.
Swisegood ranks second on the state's all-time victories list. He began coaching in 1956 at Plymouth High School. He spent 25 years at the school, finishing with a record of 417-207. He spent the next 24 years at Southeastern where he has posted a record of 428-230. His career winning percentage is 65.9 percent.
"Coach Swisegood is a phenomenon, a legend to so many," said Southeastern principal Todd Fox. "He coached many of our student-athletes parents and grandparents. There will truly never be another Dave Swisegood."
Besides baseball, Swisegood is the assistant basketball coach at Southeastern.
He is a former minor league baseball player and former scout for the Cincinnati Reds.
Swisegood resides in Augusta with his wife, Francis.
The 1998 Nauvoo-Colusa Viking basketball team, which won the Class A state tournament, is one of six teams and 84 individuals being inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The ceremony is April 30 at the Bone Student Center on the Illinois State campus in Normal.
Nauvoo-Colusa finished the '97-'98 season with a record of 31-3. They were the first unranked team to defeat three straight ranked teams and win the Class A state tournament in state history.
Members of the team were: Joe Wilson, Emmett Reidner, Doug Siegfried, David Hamma, David Griffiths, Brian Griffiths, Kenny Haas, Patrick Weaver, Paul Goetz, Marshal Stott, and Kellen Fernetti. They were coached by Reno Pinkston who was assisted by Frank Gayton.
It's been a week and a half already.
Only one kid this week and it's definitely EASIER but it just seems still so stressful. I got home last night and collapsed. Napped before dinner. What the heck? J fell asleep on his initial garbage picking expedition! Him and Dad are going again tonight.
Finally got my taxes done today. Now my problem is J's ssn. Seems someone else is using it. *Lovely*. So now begins THAT whole mess. I have also faxed my 1099 Int to Eileen with questions about the trust's tax return. Special Needs just sucks ALL the way around! Is there ever a time that you don't have to contact this person, or set up this insurance, or look this or that up???? Can I just say I'm looking forward to the Old Folks home - where they let you read and watch movies and bring you ice cream every night at 8:30. :-)
My Mom was on the radio this morning tooting the horn about The Follies. Do you think the DJ said ANYTHING about the adorable granddaughter she had with her??? NO!
Dan was happy to see her (Dan's store). She's already gathering things to take to J. I think J misses her - esp at night. He seems just a little forlorn. He started out sleeping in her room - but decided not to after the first night. I think it was because her recorder doesn't have a "repeat" button and quits in the middle of the night. Who knows with that boy.
Finally got my taxes done today. Now my problem is J's ssn. Seems someone else is using it. *Lovely*. So now begins THAT whole mess. I have also faxed my 1099 Int to Eileen with questions about the trust's tax return. Special Needs just sucks ALL the way around! Is there ever a time that you don't have to contact this person, or set up this insurance, or look this or that up???? Can I just say I'm looking forward to the Old Folks home - where they let you read and watch movies and bring you ice cream every night at 8:30. :-)
My Mom was on the radio this morning tooting the horn about The Follies. Do you think the DJ said ANYTHING about the adorable granddaughter she had with her??? NO!
Dan was happy to see her (Dan's store). She's already gathering things to take to J. I think J misses her - esp at night. He seems just a little forlorn. He started out sleeping in her room - but decided not to after the first night. I think it was because her recorder doesn't have a "repeat" button and quits in the middle of the night. Who knows with that boy.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wouldn't you think by your 40s
.....you'd know how to SHUT your mouth? Well, seems I haven't exactly learned that lesson. So Easter was just a little more intense than was wanted.
I can be SO patient with my child, so unbelievably understanding - but then why do I totally LOOSE it with others? Why can't I take a breath and think reasonably? Oh, well, there's just another chink in the armor that must be worked on.
The kids had a BLAST. They SO love their "cousins". K,L,L, and M - they all get a long well, too. We have the usual "tattle tailing" but nothing severe.
Got together with T&R and had a FANTASTIC time. The girls rein supreme in Tribond - AGAIN! Thank you Barry Manilow!!! :-) It was SO good to laugh so much.
My sister, as usual, cooked up a storm. Not only does she really cook well - she makes it look SO effortless. I always feel guilty not doing much - but I feel like I'm in the way a lot. I just really SUCK at cooking.
It snowed on Easter Day and we got to hide eggs in the snow. We hid them in the basement too. They kids loved finding them. I'm not sure we could have erased the smile on S's face. It was plastered there all day.
We left her with Gma and Gpa for the week. J seems to be under the weather today. A fever and sore throat. We'll see what some sleep does for him today. He's supposed to go "picking" with Dad tonight. Sanford and Son has nothing on them. :-)
The drive home was SO peaceful. J did the headphones and B and I talked the whole way. It was nice for a change. I love S so much - but having a break is really nice too.
Back at work I return to a whole cabinet full of work - :-/ So I guess I should get at it.
I can be SO patient with my child, so unbelievably understanding - but then why do I totally LOOSE it with others? Why can't I take a breath and think reasonably? Oh, well, there's just another chink in the armor that must be worked on.
The kids had a BLAST. They SO love their "cousins". K,L,L, and M - they all get a long well, too. We have the usual "tattle tailing" but nothing severe.
Got together with T&R and had a FANTASTIC time. The girls rein supreme in Tribond - AGAIN! Thank you Barry Manilow!!! :-) It was SO good to laugh so much.
My sister, as usual, cooked up a storm. Not only does she really cook well - she makes it look SO effortless. I always feel guilty not doing much - but I feel like I'm in the way a lot. I just really SUCK at cooking.
It snowed on Easter Day and we got to hide eggs in the snow. We hid them in the basement too. They kids loved finding them. I'm not sure we could have erased the smile on S's face. It was plastered there all day.
We left her with Gma and Gpa for the week. J seems to be under the weather today. A fever and sore throat. We'll see what some sleep does for him today. He's supposed to go "picking" with Dad tonight. Sanford and Son has nothing on them. :-)
The drive home was SO peaceful. J did the headphones and B and I talked the whole way. It was nice for a change. I love S so much - but having a break is really nice too.
Back at work I return to a whole cabinet full of work - :-/ So I guess I should get at it.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Knocking out the ISAT
Well, *my* kid is knocking the ISAT test out of the park! Mrs C stopped me yesterday and showed me S's test so far. That stinker picks up the darnedest things. She was shown a newspaper clipping from Sat when they died the river green - she told them all about it. I remember *J* asking about it and as I recall S wasn't even in the room!!! She's really impressing them by what she has retained. And since she really doesn't play on the same scoring field as others she's never been made to feel anxious about tests - so she's just flying through stuff! I'm so proud of her!
Really really looking forward to the weekend. NOT looking forward to seeing Theresa. Nothing against her - it's just all the finance talk makes me sick to my stomach. We're trying to see if we can also get together with T&R also. He took back his crown in the lip syncing program. ;-/ Aunt J's stuff was SO funny, though. She sent pictures. She also told me that Ack was going to Girl Scout Camp and when I reported that to the kids J was upset because "she was a favorite". Ok, name one that's not I said - he didn't have an answer. S was concerned that Tiny might not be there - no, Tiny goes for visits but he's a keeper. ;-)
S is staying the week of Spring Break with Gma and Gpa - who she told me the other night - talks a lot. :-) I don't even remember how it came up - but she just said matter of fact like "Gpa talks a lot". ;-) I said "So does S." She smiled.
Mr Chad has to take care of Rexy. Sally reported to me that he (Mr Chad) was a nice man. :-) She's really coming on strong lately. LOTS of communication and not all over the place. She's holding her attention more and more.
We swim tonight. This will be J's last session. We got the tee ball schedule last night and it looks like Tues and Thurs will now be tball practice. S will stay in swimming, though. She loves it so much and I honestly don't mind an hour to sit and read. It would be nice if it was a little *cooler* though, but beggars can't be choosers.
We leave Friday morning for Gmas (for b-fast) and then on to Aunt J's. I've got a whole suitcase full of "stuff" for the kiddos. I sure hope the weather cooperates. S is looking forward to flying kites and petting Bob. Sadie will stay with Gpa for a well deserved rest from children and cat. Dad says she really misses us though when we leave. Goofy dog doesn't even know when she's got it good.
Really really looking forward to the weekend. NOT looking forward to seeing Theresa. Nothing against her - it's just all the finance talk makes me sick to my stomach. We're trying to see if we can also get together with T&R also. He took back his crown in the lip syncing program. ;-/ Aunt J's stuff was SO funny, though. She sent pictures. She also told me that Ack was going to Girl Scout Camp and when I reported that to the kids J was upset because "she was a favorite". Ok, name one that's not I said - he didn't have an answer. S was concerned that Tiny might not be there - no, Tiny goes for visits but he's a keeper. ;-)
S is staying the week of Spring Break with Gma and Gpa - who she told me the other night - talks a lot. :-) I don't even remember how it came up - but she just said matter of fact like "Gpa talks a lot". ;-) I said "So does S." She smiled.
Mr Chad has to take care of Rexy. Sally reported to me that he (Mr Chad) was a nice man. :-) She's really coming on strong lately. LOTS of communication and not all over the place. She's holding her attention more and more.
We swim tonight. This will be J's last session. We got the tee ball schedule last night and it looks like Tues and Thurs will now be tball practice. S will stay in swimming, though. She loves it so much and I honestly don't mind an hour to sit and read. It would be nice if it was a little *cooler* though, but beggars can't be choosers.
We leave Friday morning for Gmas (for b-fast) and then on to Aunt J's. I've got a whole suitcase full of "stuff" for the kiddos. I sure hope the weather cooperates. S is looking forward to flying kites and petting Bob. Sadie will stay with Gpa for a well deserved rest from children and cat. Dad says she really misses us though when we leave. Goofy dog doesn't even know when she's got it good.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
SO many things........
The boy broke his board and rec'd his orange belt. He had one little melt down but they were patient and he brought it back and finished. S did VERY well also. 4 hours of sitting and watching and SHE held it together. She was a little under the weather and was content, for the most part, to lay her head on my lap and let me rub her hand. ;-)
That weekend J also lost his tooth. His dad convinced him to let him pull it so he could eat cake at Ts birthday party. It was over in a second.
The birthday party was a HUGE hit. They were there from 2-7. J stayed till 8:30! S was VERY good - and they both had a ball giving their presents that they had picked out.
Our trip to the ballet had to be cancelled. Mrs P got our tickets and SO enjoyed the outing . So that all worked out perfectly.
Work is getting a little too much. Since I've had to cover a lot of hours I'm really feeling burnt out. My patience is at an all time low. I'm really looking forward to going to Aunt J's.
Speaking of - S had to do a "favorites" sheet. Her favorite place to go: Aunt J, her favorite day of the week; Monday (of course), her favorite friend: Taisha, her favorite TV show: COPS, her favorite food: chicken, and her favorite song: If You're Happy and You Know it." I got such a kick out of this assignment. She takes her ISATs today. From my IDM meeting I'm finding out more and more that there is no such thing as "normal" students.
IDM meeting - I'm always more and more amazed at what actually transpires at school. Learning the ins and outs have made me even more appreciative (if possible) of public school teachers. I can't say enough how very much I am pleased with my school.
So I took a day off yesterday and in the midst of the naps and laundry - I decided I'd like to win at least $100,000 tax free money. I made a mental list of all I would do with that money. And you all thought I was just playing hooky. ;-)
That weekend J also lost his tooth. His dad convinced him to let him pull it so he could eat cake at Ts birthday party. It was over in a second.
The birthday party was a HUGE hit. They were there from 2-7. J stayed till 8:30! S was VERY good - and they both had a ball giving their presents that they had picked out.
Our trip to the ballet had to be cancelled. Mrs P got our tickets and SO enjoyed the outing . So that all worked out perfectly.
Work is getting a little too much. Since I've had to cover a lot of hours I'm really feeling burnt out. My patience is at an all time low. I'm really looking forward to going to Aunt J's.
Speaking of - S had to do a "favorites" sheet. Her favorite place to go: Aunt J, her favorite day of the week; Monday (of course), her favorite friend: Taisha, her favorite TV show: COPS, her favorite food: chicken, and her favorite song: If You're Happy and You Know it." I got such a kick out of this assignment. She takes her ISATs today. From my IDM meeting I'm finding out more and more that there is no such thing as "normal" students.
IDM meeting - I'm always more and more amazed at what actually transpires at school. Learning the ins and outs have made me even more appreciative (if possible) of public school teachers. I can't say enough how very much I am pleased with my school.
So I took a day off yesterday and in the midst of the naps and laundry - I decided I'd like to win at least $100,000 tax free money. I made a mental list of all I would do with that money. And you all thought I was just playing hooky. ;-)
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
No More Yayakeeper
I'm really getting the business about switching screen names. But one thing - no spam. I'm LOVING that!
Too much going on lately. Have to duck out of our ballet on Sunday - Tommy is having his birthday party on Sunday. You know THAT comes first.
Had swimming last night. 'The boy' is hysterical. Dang, he was in a good mood. He had taken his robot to school - him and Dad had made it- and they got to show case them in the library. Then he was so excited to be in S's class at swimming. She was too. Kept saying it over and over and over. :-)
She's got a really upbeat aide lately. Makes me tired to be around her. There should be a law against someone being *that* perky. B went picking last night. He finds the wildest stuff. He came how with some kind of school stuff that is going for like $350 a piece now!!! Too wild. Someone from Golden has been bidding on his Windmill checks. He was going to contact them and cut out the middle man. :-)
S and I had our regular weekly encounter with the public at large last night. What is it about a locker room that makes people STARE? I don't know - *I* don't see S that different - but I guess she is - the adults just stare and stare at us. Of course I'm usually laughing inside about how there is ALWAYS some woman screaming at her kids to hurry up and making a scene. Sometimes they get so crazed that S has to get in the middle of it - repeating their screams. Now THAT gets the stares! I have to wonder what those women think when they hear themselves in her voice. *I* find it comical.
Had a TON of stuff I had to fix yesterday because of my "buddy" Heather. Good Lord, I swear I don't know what she does. There was a return that I caught that hadn't been electronically filed - even though she logged it in. There was one that was rejected and low and behold she had put in the wrong SSN. I think bossman is getting a bit nervous. I told him to call B and between her and I we could probably work out something. I'd rather know the night before that I'll be staying the duration the next day than having someone call in. Which I'm still waiting for today. I've had a phone call from her around this time every day for a week now. Ugghhh.
Too much going on lately. Have to duck out of our ballet on Sunday - Tommy is having his birthday party on Sunday. You know THAT comes first.
Had swimming last night. 'The boy' is hysterical. Dang, he was in a good mood. He had taken his robot to school - him and Dad had made it- and they got to show case them in the library. Then he was so excited to be in S's class at swimming. She was too. Kept saying it over and over and over. :-)
She's got a really upbeat aide lately. Makes me tired to be around her. There should be a law against someone being *that* perky. B went picking last night. He finds the wildest stuff. He came how with some kind of school stuff that is going for like $350 a piece now!!! Too wild. Someone from Golden has been bidding on his Windmill checks. He was going to contact them and cut out the middle man. :-)
S and I had our regular weekly encounter with the public at large last night. What is it about a locker room that makes people STARE? I don't know - *I* don't see S that different - but I guess she is - the adults just stare and stare at us. Of course I'm usually laughing inside about how there is ALWAYS some woman screaming at her kids to hurry up and making a scene. Sometimes they get so crazed that S has to get in the middle of it - repeating their screams. Now THAT gets the stares! I have to wonder what those women think when they hear themselves in her voice. *I* find it comical.
Had a TON of stuff I had to fix yesterday because of my "buddy" Heather. Good Lord, I swear I don't know what she does. There was a return that I caught that hadn't been electronically filed - even though she logged it in. There was one that was rejected and low and behold she had put in the wrong SSN. I think bossman is getting a bit nervous. I told him to call B and between her and I we could probably work out something. I'd rather know the night before that I'll be staying the duration the next day than having someone call in. Which I'm still waiting for today. I've had a phone call from her around this time every day for a week now. Ugghhh.
Monday, March 03, 2008
*Some* People!
Good Lord - is it a full moon? Have all the CRAZIES come out or what??? I'm so tired of rude, insensitive people. So very tired. I sometimes feel like I'm really putting my children at a disadvantage because I'm teaching them to be considerate of others - to hold up your end of a bargain, to be responsible. Silly me. I find like Noah sent to find one honorable man. (wasn't it Noah - maybe Moses?) So my kids get screwed again. Forget seeing J make his robot or S getting ready for school tomorrow. I *get* to work again tonight. I've never seen a younger generation that is SO sick all the time. Personally, I blame it on all the anti-bacterial stuff. ;-)
J went to his very first sleep over last night. Down the street (T&V's). He called a couple of times - laughing his head off - trying to tell "spooky stories", but really not getting anything out. The second time he needed his blankies. He's so funny - doesn't really care what others think about sleeping with a blankie. I'm *kind* of proud of that.
S was ok till this morning. While we sat and read books this morning I was questioned several times about where J was and when she (S) would be able to go to a sleep over. I told her that maybe she could go to Aunt L's for a sleepover. I'll have to run that past L. ;-)
She did VERY well over the weekend. We were invited to a birthday party (last minute) and even though this is VERY tricky for her she did well. She was a little anxious when we got there because she really didn't know what to do - not a lot of welcome - iykwim. But she held it together and managed to even have a good time. She did come and get me and tell me it was time to go home. She's so funny. She really does know her own tollerence.
J went to his very first sleep over last night. Down the street (T&V's). He called a couple of times - laughing his head off - trying to tell "spooky stories", but really not getting anything out. The second time he needed his blankies. He's so funny - doesn't really care what others think about sleeping with a blankie. I'm *kind* of proud of that.
S was ok till this morning. While we sat and read books this morning I was questioned several times about where J was and when she (S) would be able to go to a sleep over. I told her that maybe she could go to Aunt L's for a sleepover. I'll have to run that past L. ;-)
She did VERY well over the weekend. We were invited to a birthday party (last minute) and even though this is VERY tricky for her she did well. She was a little anxious when we got there because she really didn't know what to do - not a lot of welcome - iykwim. But she held it together and managed to even have a good time. She did come and get me and tell me it was time to go home. She's so funny. She really does know her own tollerence.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
NOT happy!!
What is it with the *younger* generation? Ok - I know I'm sounding like Gpa now - but dang! Could you all just SHOW up to work? Is that REALLY too much to ask? And why is it that children half my age are ALWAYS sick??? IF that's really true? I mean, give us all a break - the sick thing is getting old. Even if you are sick - at this age you can usually fight it off without a lot of problem. I mean if you can handle a hangover and still party the next night - for God's sake show up to work. Have you no shame? Ok - I'm done ranting. :-) I feel SOOOOO old.
So here I sit. The thing that kind of ticks me off is that you would think I have no life - which in a way I don't ---- BUT there are 2 little people counting on me tonight to help with homework, make dinner, find Yao Ming's picture (we just read a book about him), watch "Naughty Kids" with. It's those 2 that get cheated. Ah, well, par for the course I guess. I hear on the radio that if you actually show up to work for 5 days straight at Burger King you get to be manager. Scary huh?
I think I may have found an answer to S's want of a beach this summer. Seems my nephew can get us over to the Marina and there is a beach there. YAY, Meme. Always good to have family in blue collar jobs! :-) So I'm going to ask my Oct buddies if they can pack up some seashells from the coasts and send them to me. I think Sharon would love this mission. :-) My little Republican candidate. ;-) So maybe it will be a family thing with us and Meme's. There's one checkmark off my list for the summer. S has a whole list of stuff she wants to do. Camping is on there too - but that's another thing we'll probably do back home too. At least at first - see how she really does and then we'll know if we can trek out or not.
So here I sit. The thing that kind of ticks me off is that you would think I have no life - which in a way I don't ---- BUT there are 2 little people counting on me tonight to help with homework, make dinner, find Yao Ming's picture (we just read a book about him), watch "Naughty Kids" with. It's those 2 that get cheated. Ah, well, par for the course I guess. I hear on the radio that if you actually show up to work for 5 days straight at Burger King you get to be manager. Scary huh?
I think I may have found an answer to S's want of a beach this summer. Seems my nephew can get us over to the Marina and there is a beach there. YAY, Meme. Always good to have family in blue collar jobs! :-) So I'm going to ask my Oct buddies if they can pack up some seashells from the coasts and send them to me. I think Sharon would love this mission. :-) My little Republican candidate. ;-) So maybe it will be a family thing with us and Meme's. There's one checkmark off my list for the summer. S has a whole list of stuff she wants to do. Camping is on there too - but that's another thing we'll probably do back home too. At least at first - see how she really does and then we'll know if we can trek out or not.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Wow, it's been a doozie here lately. We've been trying to go out since Valentine's and between just not having the time and not having a babysitter it just hasn't happened. Of course the weather hasn't helped either. More snow yesterday. B is on jury duty so he's been excused from snow call out. I have to admit that's nice.
S is going though this phase where she calls me Mom and my last name. It's starting to grate on my nerves a little. J is starting to really get intolerant of S's "quirks" - esp the echoic. I can understand that. I'm going to start the book I got this weekend. Figure we'll do the whole family tree thing and what we're good at on Friday night and then while S is gone to Social Club I can do the Autism stuff with J. I'm hoping he responds well. I want him to know - but I don't. He pushes her so well without knowing it but then again I wouldn't mind him knowing why I don't help *him* as much. I've always tried to do for him what I do for her --- IF he asks - but it's a strain.
He's been out of sorts lately too. Maybe he is getting it that his family is so very different. I don't know - I'm just hoping to explain to him that all of his feelings are OK - even when he's feeling that life isn't fair. But that he also needs to see the beauty in S too. Lord, give me the strength and wisdom.
So on a lighter note. Market Day yesterday. Pretty much dropped the ball and we still pulled in over a hundred dollars. I forget how crazy tax season gets and that I have to really plan ahead even more than normal. Can I just say that I SO identify with Kate. ;-) Mr F met me at the door and was all gung ho to unload the truck. I explained that we couldn't do anything till the rep got there. But again he came in and told the driver he was ready to help him. The driver told him the same thing I had said. But as I'm lugging out the lunch tables and setting them up - he disappears! :-) We gave him the business about that. He's really a good guy.
Need to write to Rachel and ask about HB Island. I'm kind of hoping that our two families can do that this summer. Also need to ask her about their plans for the fair. I enjoy going to the fair with Todd because it's just like going to a Village function with B. I never have to worry about parking (the cow barn) or about where we're sitting or anything like that. The only thing is the kids get ansy if (when) we stop to talk to someone. (which is about every 2 feet) Rachel and I had a blast talking on the way there last year. But I think the best part was watching Todd "tap" in the wood from his trailer. That and sitting in the stands and SEEING the trailer. Need to do some planning so we can do all the things we want to.
Can't believe Feb is almost over. Still haven't done our taxes. Well, I've done the input - but still have to ask some things about Special Needs Trust and also J's SSN that seems to be already used again. :-/ NOT looking forward to straightening THAT out. I should prob make sure it's copied right from the actual card.
SO many things to do - not to mention all the appointments that need to be made. One nice thing - the dentist is coming to the school and even though it's not going to make up for our reg check up - at least they will have their teeth cleaned and that way I can wait till summer for check ups. J esp needs to have some xrays done and make sure all of those teeth are where they're supposed to be.
S is going though this phase where she calls me Mom and my last name. It's starting to grate on my nerves a little. J is starting to really get intolerant of S's "quirks" - esp the echoic. I can understand that. I'm going to start the book I got this weekend. Figure we'll do the whole family tree thing and what we're good at on Friday night and then while S is gone to Social Club I can do the Autism stuff with J. I'm hoping he responds well. I want him to know - but I don't. He pushes her so well without knowing it but then again I wouldn't mind him knowing why I don't help *him* as much. I've always tried to do for him what I do for her --- IF he asks - but it's a strain.
He's been out of sorts lately too. Maybe he is getting it that his family is so very different. I don't know - I'm just hoping to explain to him that all of his feelings are OK - even when he's feeling that life isn't fair. But that he also needs to see the beauty in S too. Lord, give me the strength and wisdom.
So on a lighter note. Market Day yesterday. Pretty much dropped the ball and we still pulled in over a hundred dollars. I forget how crazy tax season gets and that I have to really plan ahead even more than normal. Can I just say that I SO identify with Kate. ;-) Mr F met me at the door and was all gung ho to unload the truck. I explained that we couldn't do anything till the rep got there. But again he came in and told the driver he was ready to help him. The driver told him the same thing I had said. But as I'm lugging out the lunch tables and setting them up - he disappears! :-) We gave him the business about that. He's really a good guy.
Need to write to Rachel and ask about HB Island. I'm kind of hoping that our two families can do that this summer. Also need to ask her about their plans for the fair. I enjoy going to the fair with Todd because it's just like going to a Village function with B. I never have to worry about parking (the cow barn) or about where we're sitting or anything like that. The only thing is the kids get ansy if (when) we stop to talk to someone. (which is about every 2 feet) Rachel and I had a blast talking on the way there last year. But I think the best part was watching Todd "tap" in the wood from his trailer. That and sitting in the stands and SEEING the trailer. Need to do some planning so we can do all the things we want to.
Can't believe Feb is almost over. Still haven't done our taxes. Well, I've done the input - but still have to ask some things about Special Needs Trust and also J's SSN that seems to be already used again. :-/ NOT looking forward to straightening THAT out. I should prob make sure it's copied right from the actual card.
SO many things to do - not to mention all the appointments that need to be made. One nice thing - the dentist is coming to the school and even though it's not going to make up for our reg check up - at least they will have their teeth cleaned and that way I can wait till summer for check ups. J esp needs to have some xrays done and make sure all of those teeth are where they're supposed to be.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
When will we EVER *get* it???????????
The following letter was written to "Big Brother" (the TV 'reality' show) on behalf of the Autism community. Peronally *I* find offense at the letter. Ummmm People, WORDS DON'T HURT!!!! And if that is the WORST thing that you've been called (and no one was really ever "called" this) well, then - consider yourself blessed.
Do I care for the word? NO. But it's a WORD. Not a sword. People who "get it" are going to understand - no matter what the word da jur' is. And people who are ignorant will prob remain that way. We want so much tollerence for our chilren - well, to get you MUST give. Having someone fired and the show taken off the air (not that we ALL wouldn't benifit from some "de-programing of a LOT of things on TV) will NOT make your child better. It will NOT find funding for research, it will NOT teach others about it.
Lord, will we EVER get over ourselves??????
Laurie writes:
I hope this is ok with everyone, I did this on the fly this morning because I'm on the run today. Someone had sent me this A-Champ online letter writing link and so I sent one in on behalf of ACC. I figured we would pretty much all agree that having someone on national television refer to a person with ASD as a 'retard' was unacceptable. Here's the form letter, I didn't take the time to customize it, this was what the A-Champ folks put together and it went to several CBS execs and producers of the show:Laurie Jerue3104 Treesdale CourtNaperville, IL 60564-4609February 19, 2008Sumner RedstoneRe: Demand an apology from CBSDear Mr. Redstone:We are writing to express our dismay and disgust at comments that were made by Adam Jasinski during the broadcast of "Big Brother" program. In episode 2, Jasinsiki describes his plans to open a hair styling business catering to people with autism who he refers to as "retards."Just as we are confident that CBS would not tolerate the use derogatory epithets regarding race, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation we hope that the use of derogatory terms for people with disabilities in also unacceptable in your programming.We believe Jasinski's should be terminated immediately, and we believe that the show should be cancelled. Further, we expect an apology to people with autism, developmental disabilities and their families from Jasinski, Big Brother, CBS and National Amusements. While Jasinski's displayed gross ignorance, the producers of the show chose to use his comments to forward the show's storyline. This displays a conscious choice on their part to demean and hurt a large group of people to further their own commercial goals.While a large number of people with autism do have mental retardation, a very large portion do not and they are perfectly capable of understanding that they have been denigrated in an extremely demeaning way by a program broadcast for profit by CBS.Family members of people with autism, especially parents, are constantly challenged by the great deal of misinformation surrounding autism. Broadcasts such as Big Brother makes caring for a family member with autism all that more difficult.It is appropriate I believe to note that the Holocaust began with the extermination of developmentally disabled children in a secret program called Aktion T-4. The techniques, organization and personnel for Aktion T-4 went directly to run the extermination camps at Treblinka, Sobibor and others. All extermination campaigns begin with the de-humanization of the target group. And referring to developmental disabled people and people with autism as "retards" indeed fails to recognize the humanity of people with these disorders.Sincerely,Laurie Jerue, President, Autism Community Connection, a 600+ member parent support group in Naperville Illinois__._,_.___
Do I care for the word? NO. But it's a WORD. Not a sword. People who "get it" are going to understand - no matter what the word da jur' is. And people who are ignorant will prob remain that way. We want so much tollerence for our chilren - well, to get you MUST give. Having someone fired and the show taken off the air (not that we ALL wouldn't benifit from some "de-programing of a LOT of things on TV) will NOT make your child better. It will NOT find funding for research, it will NOT teach others about it.
Lord, will we EVER get over ourselves??????
Laurie writes:
I hope this is ok with everyone, I did this on the fly this morning because I'm on the run today. Someone had sent me this A-Champ online letter writing link and so I sent one in on behalf of ACC. I figured we would pretty much all agree that having someone on national television refer to a person with ASD as a 'retard' was unacceptable. Here's the form letter, I didn't take the time to customize it, this was what the A-Champ folks put together and it went to several CBS execs and producers of the show:Laurie Jerue3104 Treesdale CourtNaperville, IL 60564-4609February 19, 2008Sumner RedstoneRe: Demand an apology from CBSDear Mr. Redstone:We are writing to express our dismay and disgust at comments that were made by Adam Jasinski during the broadcast of "Big Brother" program. In episode 2, Jasinsiki describes his plans to open a hair styling business catering to people with autism who he refers to as "retards."Just as we are confident that CBS would not tolerate the use derogatory epithets regarding race, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation we hope that the use of derogatory terms for people with disabilities in also unacceptable in your programming.We believe Jasinski's should be terminated immediately, and we believe that the show should be cancelled. Further, we expect an apology to people with autism, developmental disabilities and their families from Jasinski, Big Brother, CBS and National Amusements. While Jasinski's displayed gross ignorance, the producers of the show chose to use his comments to forward the show's storyline. This displays a conscious choice on their part to demean and hurt a large group of people to further their own commercial goals.While a large number of people with autism do have mental retardation, a very large portion do not and they are perfectly capable of understanding that they have been denigrated in an extremely demeaning way by a program broadcast for profit by CBS.Family members of people with autism, especially parents, are constantly challenged by the great deal of misinformation surrounding autism. Broadcasts such as Big Brother makes caring for a family member with autism all that more difficult.It is appropriate I believe to note that the Holocaust began with the extermination of developmentally disabled children in a secret program called Aktion T-4. The techniques, organization and personnel for Aktion T-4 went directly to run the extermination camps at Treblinka, Sobibor and others. All extermination campaigns begin with the de-humanization of the target group. And referring to developmental disabled people and people with autism as "retards" indeed fails to recognize the humanity of people with these disorders.Sincerely,Laurie Jerue, President, Autism Community Connection, a 600+ member parent support group in Naperville Illinois__._,_.___
She has the ESP n
Ok there has been some more spooky things going on with our gal S:
1. A couple of weeks ago as I was getting dressed I was feeling very uneasy about the outfit I had chose for the day. But you know how it goes in the morning - there's really no time to dress and re-dress so I put it on and decided "good enough". S was NOT around me when this happened. In fact she was in her own room playing People. When I went in to get her dressed she looked up and said "That looks good, Mom - you look pretty today." She NEVER talks like that. *Maybe* after *I* compliment her she may throw me a bone - but NEVER on her own.
2. Pasta Bingo night last Friday. I came in late (due to work) she met me and told me "I'm going to win Bingo and get Moon Sand". Sure enough - it wasn't 5 minutes later that she called Bingo and promptly walked up to the prize table and got her Moon Sand.
3. Saturday morning I had to work. B and I had worked it out that him and S would drop off J at TKD and then prob go to Mickey D's. I had *kind of* told S that she and Dad would be going to get something to eat. NOT known to me - B had been THINKING in the shower that he and S would maybe go to Wally World because he needed new pants. Again - not even telling me, they dropped of J and as they were heading down the road he aked her "S, would you like to go to McDonalds or Wal-Mart?"
Her reply was "Wal-Mart, Daddy because you need new pants." !!!!!!!! *I* do the man's laundry and *I* didn't think he needed new pants!!!!
She just makes my day sometimes!!!!
1. A couple of weeks ago as I was getting dressed I was feeling very uneasy about the outfit I had chose for the day. But you know how it goes in the morning - there's really no time to dress and re-dress so I put it on and decided "good enough". S was NOT around me when this happened. In fact she was in her own room playing People. When I went in to get her dressed she looked up and said "That looks good, Mom - you look pretty today." She NEVER talks like that. *Maybe* after *I* compliment her she may throw me a bone - but NEVER on her own.
2. Pasta Bingo night last Friday. I came in late (due to work) she met me and told me "I'm going to win Bingo and get Moon Sand". Sure enough - it wasn't 5 minutes later that she called Bingo and promptly walked up to the prize table and got her Moon Sand.
3. Saturday morning I had to work. B and I had worked it out that him and S would drop off J at TKD and then prob go to Mickey D's. I had *kind of* told S that she and Dad would be going to get something to eat. NOT known to me - B had been THINKING in the shower that he and S would maybe go to Wally World because he needed new pants. Again - not even telling me, they dropped of J and as they were heading down the road he aked her "S, would you like to go to McDonalds or Wal-Mart?"
Her reply was "Wal-Mart, Daddy because you need new pants." !!!!!!!! *I* do the man's laundry and *I* didn't think he needed new pants!!!!
She just makes my day sometimes!!!!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Have you hugged a Huskie today?
School shooting at NIU yesterday. Can I just say how much my heart hurts for all of these kids. It's SO sad to know that all of these kids have had to grow up (not to mention the little ones following) with this kind of "knowledge" that this "could" happen. It's just SO SO sad. There's just TOO much CRAZINESS in this world!!!!
My heart and thoughts go out to everyone effected directly and all of us effected indirectly. Hopefully VTech and NIU and ALL of us can join together and heal ourselves so this may never happen again!!!
My heart and thoughts go out to everyone effected directly and all of us effected indirectly. Hopefully VTech and NIU and ALL of us can join together and heal ourselves so this may never happen again!!!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Look Out World...
....... I've been thinking. On the "drive" into work today I started thinking about how MUCH paper we get from school. This in turn started my thoughts of how as we advace technically and go to a more computerized world we use MORE paper. Like, remember how we didn't use paper wastefully at school when I was little - and then go back to my Grandma when they used slate??? The slate thing got me to think about how difficult it would be to get first graders to copy problems down on paper let alone slate and then I started to think about how much LESS we are progressing in that area then - say - the "slate days". THIS then started my mind to go to Autism in the "slate days". I then looked at the facts that Autism is more a social problem. S and others do have learning problems too - along with physical (motor skills and such) but we mainly focus on social. In the slate days we weren't THAT social. Think about it - you walked to school - where you LEARNED - you had recess - but other than that - not a lot of socialness, your parents didn't see other parents till Sundays or maybe if they went to town to sell something - but there just wasn't the "networking" that we have today. So Autism was almost a way of life in some ways.
I think of Little House on the Prarie and remember that episode where there was that Buzbee character who was "slow" but he was taught life skills - farming, fixing - stuff like that. See, S would be FINE in "those" days. Maybe she'd be determined "slow" but she would "make" it.
Ok - now think about this. In "those" days I wouldn't be SO afraid of dying - because even though they lived VERY far apart from each other and didn't see or correspond with each other daily they did "see" to each other in times of trouble. They "helped each other out". Now, we are at each other's doorstep in an instant - what with phone, email, airplane, car and yet we're farther apart then we used to be. Think about that for a moment.......
So what sums this up? Oh, heck. I don't know. Just my crazy train going around in my mind with the conductor downing a 5th of gin. :-)
I think of Little House on the Prarie and remember that episode where there was that Buzbee character who was "slow" but he was taught life skills - farming, fixing - stuff like that. See, S would be FINE in "those" days. Maybe she'd be determined "slow" but she would "make" it.
Ok - now think about this. In "those" days I wouldn't be SO afraid of dying - because even though they lived VERY far apart from each other and didn't see or correspond with each other daily they did "see" to each other in times of trouble. They "helped each other out". Now, we are at each other's doorstep in an instant - what with phone, email, airplane, car and yet we're farther apart then we used to be. Think about that for a moment.......
So what sums this up? Oh, heck. I don't know. Just my crazy train going around in my mind with the conductor downing a 5th of gin. :-)
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
What is it with Teachers??
They do nothing but think of homework. :-) I got homework at my last PBIS meeting! I mean a whole 3 ring binder of stuff to read and then report your opinion. I thought I was too old for homework! S and J LOVE this idea and found it extremely funny that Mommy had to sit down and read last night along with them, instead of to them. :-)
Last night we had to count out and bag 100 things to add to a class snack mix. J chose Goldfish. I should have bought stock in those things in the early days of S. Who knew that 10 years later we'd still have them as a staple.
B was out at midnight last night. J came in my room sometime around 3 a.m. and I just let him stay. S joined us around 5. Saide and Rex have a vested interest in this too - more room for them - until the kids show up.
All kinds of new things at work today. New cordless mouse, air cond/fan (port). LOVE the mouse. Took me a couple of times to get used to how FAST it is. Thinking seriously of getting one (or 2) for home.
Had a long talk with the boy last night at swimming. Kind of got him talked into taking lessons again if he can start back another class. I should have seen that coming. He just isn't all that into the laps that have to be done - and like his mother - his "crawl" could really use some work. He didn't seem to have any problems with him maybe being the biggest kid in the class and *I* surely don't. I really wish I would have been held back a couple of times. I think freestyle would have come MUCH easier. I think - once again- we (as a society) can't handle holding someone back and so if they even have the faintest clue - they go to the next level. I really think it wouldn't be a bad idea if there was a manditory two years at every level. I think the confidence and skills would soar. But what do I know. ;-)
I've signed S up for a cooking project thing (it's tech name) that comes to the house every month. I thought it would kind of force my hand. Dang - why does having children MAKE you do the stuff you really HATE doing. I just cringed when she announced that she'd love to help me cook. Ugghhh - why, why?????? That's like saying - "Mom, I'd love to own a mouse". Ok - maybe not THAT bad - but it's a close second. The next thing you know, they'll decide they hate to read - and that will tear my heart out.
Last night we had to count out and bag 100 things to add to a class snack mix. J chose Goldfish. I should have bought stock in those things in the early days of S. Who knew that 10 years later we'd still have them as a staple.
B was out at midnight last night. J came in my room sometime around 3 a.m. and I just let him stay. S joined us around 5. Saide and Rex have a vested interest in this too - more room for them - until the kids show up.
All kinds of new things at work today. New cordless mouse, air cond/fan (port). LOVE the mouse. Took me a couple of times to get used to how FAST it is. Thinking seriously of getting one (or 2) for home.
Had a long talk with the boy last night at swimming. Kind of got him talked into taking lessons again if he can start back another class. I should have seen that coming. He just isn't all that into the laps that have to be done - and like his mother - his "crawl" could really use some work. He didn't seem to have any problems with him maybe being the biggest kid in the class and *I* surely don't. I really wish I would have been held back a couple of times. I think freestyle would have come MUCH easier. I think - once again- we (as a society) can't handle holding someone back and so if they even have the faintest clue - they go to the next level. I really think it wouldn't be a bad idea if there was a manditory two years at every level. I think the confidence and skills would soar. But what do I know. ;-)
I've signed S up for a cooking project thing (it's tech name) that comes to the house every month. I thought it would kind of force my hand. Dang - why does having children MAKE you do the stuff you really HATE doing. I just cringed when she announced that she'd love to help me cook. Ugghhh - why, why?????? That's like saying - "Mom, I'd love to own a mouse". Ok - maybe not THAT bad - but it's a close second. The next thing you know, they'll decide they hate to read - and that will tear my heart out.
The Perfect Book by Steve Seskin & Allen Shamblin
Don't Laugh at Me
I'm a little boy with glasses,
the one they call a geek.
A little girl who never smiles
'cause I've got braces on my teeth.
And *I* know how it feels to cry myself to sleep.
I'm the kid on every playground
who's always chosen last.
I'm the one who's slower
than the other's in my class.
You don't hae to be my friend,
but is it too much to ask?
Don't Laugh At Me
I'm the beggar on the corner.
You've passed me on the street.
I wouldn't be out here beggin'
if I had enough to eat.
Don't think I don't notice
that our eyes never meet.
I was born a little different.
I do my dreaming from a chair.
I pretend it doesn't hurt me
when people point and stare.
There's a simple way to show me
just how much you care.
Don't laugh at me.
Don't call me names.
Don't get your pleasure from my pain.
In God's eyes we're all the same.
Some day we'll ALL
have perfect wings.
Don't Laugh At Me!
I'm fat
I'm thin,
I'm short
I'm tall
I'm deaf
I'm blind.
Hey, aren't we all???
I'm a little boy with glasses,
the one they call a geek.
A little girl who never smiles
'cause I've got braces on my teeth.
And *I* know how it feels to cry myself to sleep.
I'm the kid on every playground
who's always chosen last.
I'm the one who's slower
than the other's in my class.
You don't hae to be my friend,
but is it too much to ask?
Don't Laugh At Me
I'm the beggar on the corner.
You've passed me on the street.
I wouldn't be out here beggin'
if I had enough to eat.
Don't think I don't notice
that our eyes never meet.
I was born a little different.
I do my dreaming from a chair.
I pretend it doesn't hurt me
when people point and stare.
There's a simple way to show me
just how much you care.
Don't laugh at me.
Don't call me names.
Don't get your pleasure from my pain.
In God's eyes we're all the same.
Some day we'll ALL
have perfect wings.
Don't Laugh At Me!
I'm fat
I'm thin,
I'm short
I'm tall
I'm deaf
I'm blind.
Hey, aren't we all???
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Ok - I love em' and all... BUT....
If I'm home with them alone once more this week - well, *someone's* NOT going to be happy! Ughhh-- it's snowing again and B's out till midnight. I HATE that. I was home with *them* yesterday and then all night alone - AND swimming. I'm running on empty lately. I *finally* get caught up with household things - not to mention a "new and improved" chore list - and here we go again. Not to mention things at work.
Tax season help is NEVER from here - so bad roads mean - late help or no help at all. It's beginning to be that "crazy" time of year. Gotta love February.
J's report card was VERY good. In fact - a little spooky. They were all taken to the library and they had to read (not to his teacher ) for one minute. The correct words were then counted and they sent home a graph of where J landed in accordance with all the 1st graders ---- he's OFF the charts. The average was 20 something --- he's in the 70s!!!! I just never guessed he'd be THAT far up. Granted it was only the 2nd quarter so the other's will prob get closer by spring - but still..... He DID get one "below standards" and guess what in......... writing. Not surprising at all - because it's about *sloooooowwwwiiinnnnnggggg doooooowwwwwnnnnnn*. :-) But in other things he came up - like the important stuff - grades I feel can always be "learned". I focus on the number parts: "Pays attention in class, follows directions". Stuff like that. He was all proud that he got a 4 (the highest) in "Participates in class discussions". I tried to explain that *that* catagory really didn't count - since it was already hot wired into his DNA. :-) He's been a trip lately. All this "you hate me" crap and "my homework is too hard" "I don't like to write".... blah, blah, blah - just call him GW Bush Jr.
S on the other hand, is doing well. Thank God, they don't act up together. I think they hold meetings about whose turn it is. And lately Sade seems to be in on the meetings. I swear - I'm up and going all night and the minute I sit down (after getting them to bed and all) and have one minute to myself- she barks with this "tone" to be let out. Ugghhh. So as I was saying - S is doing well. BUT if we have anymore snow days that may change. She is NOT a fan of days off. The first time it happened I had not even prepared her for it with a "there may be no school tomorrow" so she was ticked. I had her call my Mom to kind of take the focus off that: "Grandma," she immeadately whined when the phone was picked up, "there's no school. I no go school!" In that "drama" voice of hers almost like she was "telling on me". It was comical.
Can't believe it's February already. Signed them up for swimming again - well, not J. He decided he didn't want to. I intend for "natural consequences" to make a mark on this one. He went last night and had to do his homework while they all swam. I think on Thurs he'll have to go and just watch. Hopefully between the heat and the boredom he'll see the error in his ways. :-) But you know him - if I pressure him - he'll NEVER go beyond his level. Dang he's exhausting.
Tax season help is NEVER from here - so bad roads mean - late help or no help at all. It's beginning to be that "crazy" time of year. Gotta love February.
J's report card was VERY good. In fact - a little spooky. They were all taken to the library and they had to read (not to his teacher ) for one minute. The correct words were then counted and they sent home a graph of where J landed in accordance with all the 1st graders ---- he's OFF the charts. The average was 20 something --- he's in the 70s!!!! I just never guessed he'd be THAT far up. Granted it was only the 2nd quarter so the other's will prob get closer by spring - but still..... He DID get one "below standards" and guess what in......... writing. Not surprising at all - because it's about *sloooooowwwwiiinnnnnggggg doooooowwwwwnnnnnn*. :-) But in other things he came up - like the important stuff - grades I feel can always be "learned". I focus on the number parts: "Pays attention in class, follows directions". Stuff like that. He was all proud that he got a 4 (the highest) in "Participates in class discussions". I tried to explain that *that* catagory really didn't count - since it was already hot wired into his DNA. :-) He's been a trip lately. All this "you hate me" crap and "my homework is too hard" "I don't like to write".... blah, blah, blah - just call him GW Bush Jr.
S on the other hand, is doing well. Thank God, they don't act up together. I think they hold meetings about whose turn it is. And lately Sade seems to be in on the meetings. I swear - I'm up and going all night and the minute I sit down (after getting them to bed and all) and have one minute to myself- she barks with this "tone" to be let out. Ugghhh. So as I was saying - S is doing well. BUT if we have anymore snow days that may change. She is NOT a fan of days off. The first time it happened I had not even prepared her for it with a "there may be no school tomorrow" so she was ticked. I had her call my Mom to kind of take the focus off that: "Grandma," she immeadately whined when the phone was picked up, "there's no school. I no go school!" In that "drama" voice of hers almost like she was "telling on me". It was comical.
Can't believe it's February already. Signed them up for swimming again - well, not J. He decided he didn't want to. I intend for "natural consequences" to make a mark on this one. He went last night and had to do his homework while they all swam. I think on Thurs he'll have to go and just watch. Hopefully between the heat and the boredom he'll see the error in his ways. :-) But you know him - if I pressure him - he'll NEVER go beyond his level. Dang he's exhausting.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
I LOVE my truck!
We have received about 8 inches of snow this week - really in the last day. But never fear - my truck handles it SO well!!!! I just love that beast in the Winter. Almost makes up for the "not playing well with other vehicles". :-)
S is gone to Social Club today. I'm SO excited to see what she thinks. It's all special needs kids. They went into the city to see High School Musical on Ice. I will be very interested to hear what she thinks.
S is gone to Social Club today. I'm SO excited to see what she thinks. It's all special needs kids. They went into the city to see High School Musical on Ice. I will be very interested to hear what she thinks.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
RIP VERMIN!
We have solved the rodent problem in the house. 2 little nasty, disgusting, rotten mouses dead - cat informed us of the one and B roasted the other. :-) B has closed up every little single hole in the house. So now we'll all die of Legionare's desease - but there will be no rodents. :-)
S checks the traps every day and comes in and tells me "no mouses, Mom". She is so funny. We had the big colaboration meeting last week. It was ok. Honestly it went really well until Mr W started with a "tone" and I had to politely let him know THAT wasn't going to fly. Once he shut up - we all got down to work and realized that we were on the same page - we just had a little miscommunication lately. So we're good again. Change is hard on Mom too. :-)
S checks the traps every day and comes in and tells me "no mouses, Mom". She is so funny. We had the big colaboration meeting last week. It was ok. Honestly it went really well until Mr W started with a "tone" and I had to politely let him know THAT wasn't going to fly. Once he shut up - we all got down to work and realized that we were on the same page - we just had a little miscommunication lately. So we're good again. Change is hard on Mom too. :-)
Friday, January 18, 2008
VERMIN!!!!!!
To my absolute HORROR - I discovered this morning that we have ...... VERMIN! ICK!!!! When I told S about it her advice was "call the police." Girl after my own heart. The only way to stop a mouse = a gun! :-) Rexie has been sitting in there (the kitchen) at night and staring at the stove or the fridge and now I know why!!!! Now my question to everyone has been "can a cat that has no front claws still catch a mouse?" My vet tech niece says yes. My Oct list says - no - or she would have already. The list advises that yes, it's possible but kitty must be really "into" it because it is more difficult. Well, we know how "energetic" kittty is. Haha. So I'm guessing we'll have to depend on poison. God, I HATE mice!!!! Told hubby that I was NOT cooking till the thing was GONE! (I'll do anything to get out of cooking) :-)
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
HE's HERE!!!!!!!
Staley Da Bear has entered Bolingbrook!!! To my kids he's a very close 2nd to Santa!!! When I dropped them off this morning - "Staley's Car is here" was being screamed from teh back seat. Staley travels in a van with his picture and Bears signia all over it.
J was dressed to the 9s with sweat suit and shirt. S had her shirt on and wanted to wear her stocking cap and scarf all day - I talked her down from that one. God, it's crazy.
I, on the other hand, am down. I'm not sure it's a sickness or what. I slept from 9-3 yesterday and had NO problem sleeping through the night also. I started to read "10 Things Children with Autism Want You To Know" at swimming lessons last night and got so upset about what the author was saying that I darned near threw it in the pool. I'm SO very different than so many of the special needs parents that I meat.
On this line - what is it about this world and NOT wanting to categorize but TEACHING it???? Think about it - what do we first start teaching kids - colors, sorting shapes - all of this is categorizing. Putting things in a pile and assigning that pile a name - then when they get that mastered we tell them they shouldn't categorize and God forbid assign a name to ANYTHING!!!! Autistic, "has" autism - what's the big difference??? Personally I really dislike "has" autism because the fact is Autism "has" her!!! But seriously - what the heck does it matter? It used to be lumped into "retarded" and that wasn't right so we came up with Autism and now that's not right. Just what is it that we want???? I can really see how people get very frustrated with Special Needs parents.
I think this might be part of my down mood lately. I'm tired of the WHOLE thing - all of those "parents". And I've kind of lost the fire in my belly that usually dismisses and gives them a pass.
J was dressed to the 9s with sweat suit and shirt. S had her shirt on and wanted to wear her stocking cap and scarf all day - I talked her down from that one. God, it's crazy.
I, on the other hand, am down. I'm not sure it's a sickness or what. I slept from 9-3 yesterday and had NO problem sleeping through the night also. I started to read "10 Things Children with Autism Want You To Know" at swimming lessons last night and got so upset about what the author was saying that I darned near threw it in the pool. I'm SO very different than so many of the special needs parents that I meat.
On this line - what is it about this world and NOT wanting to categorize but TEACHING it???? Think about it - what do we first start teaching kids - colors, sorting shapes - all of this is categorizing. Putting things in a pile and assigning that pile a name - then when they get that mastered we tell them they shouldn't categorize and God forbid assign a name to ANYTHING!!!! Autistic, "has" autism - what's the big difference??? Personally I really dislike "has" autism because the fact is Autism "has" her!!! But seriously - what the heck does it matter? It used to be lumped into "retarded" and that wasn't right so we came up with Autism and now that's not right. Just what is it that we want???? I can really see how people get very frustrated with Special Needs parents.
I think this might be part of my down mood lately. I'm tired of the WHOLE thing - all of those "parents". And I've kind of lost the fire in my belly that usually dismisses and gives them a pass.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Some Solutions....
Sometimes things seem to be on a collision course of busy. Wanting to do too much and really giving nothing the full attention it deserves and then God steps in. :-)
I've found a home course for my Yuen interest and that allows time for my sister AND lets me kind of "try it out" before making the huge 2 day commitment. I *love* it when stuff like this comes together and really kind of "points" you in the right direction. Now if that would happen with my problems with S and school.
Aunt J got kicked by a horse and S was quite upset that one of them would have done that. She wanted to know exactly who did it and how were they to be punished. She is so funny.
I've found a home course for my Yuen interest and that allows time for my sister AND lets me kind of "try it out" before making the huge 2 day commitment. I *love* it when stuff like this comes together and really kind of "points" you in the right direction. Now if that would happen with my problems with S and school.
Aunt J got kicked by a horse and S was quite upset that one of them would have done that. She wanted to know exactly who did it and how were they to be punished. She is so funny.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Hmmm- Never noticed before
"People see me,
I'm a challenge
to your balance.
I've over your heads
how I confound you and astound you
to know I must be one of the wonders
of God's own creation
and as far as you see you can offer me
no explanation.
I believe Fate smiled and Destiny laughed
as she came to my cradle
'know this child will be able'
laughed as she came to my mother
'know this child will not suffer'
laughed as my body she lifted
'know this child will be gifted
with love, with patience, and with faith
she'll make her way,
she'll maker her way'. "
-Natalie Merchant "Wonder"
Is this not my S or what??? I've loved this song from the day it was released but never really thought about the lyrics. Today it hit me like a ton of bricks.
I'm a challenge
to your balance.
I've over your heads
how I confound you and astound you
to know I must be one of the wonders
of God's own creation
and as far as you see you can offer me
no explanation.
I believe Fate smiled and Destiny laughed
as she came to my cradle
'know this child will be able'
laughed as she came to my mother
'know this child will not suffer'
laughed as my body she lifted
'know this child will be gifted
with love, with patience, and with faith
she'll make her way,
she'll maker her way'. "
-Natalie Merchant "Wonder"
Is this not my S or what??? I've loved this song from the day it was released but never really thought about the lyrics. Today it hit me like a ton of bricks.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
It's Starting
Getting into tax season. Seeing little signs of "crazy". :-) Hired a part time person for evenings and it wasn't someone with my name. :-) Why is it no one has your name until it doesn't come in handy.
We're on tooth watch. The boy has another one coming loose. I swear he's going to be a toothless wonder forever. The one that was knocked out from Preschool - still hasn't broke through. I'm getting just a little worried. Dad made a Dr appt for him - the headaches are getting worse. And figure Dr can look at his leg. Since he pulled his groin at camp he's been favoring it just a little. THAT was a trip. Think he can trip over air now - you should see him on crutches (or cruNches) as he says.
I ran into Gabby last night and BOY did I get a lot of questions answered. I'm SO happy to hear others are having the same problems I am - well, you know - not happy that we have problems but happy that I'm NOT loosing my mind. You start to wonder after a while. That damn NCLB crap is making teachers and school have aides that should be with special needs kids help out in class to get the class up to where the Govmt thinks they should be. Can I just SCREAM now?? Well, we don't have that exact problem with S but we do have a problem where she's ASKED to do her work!!!! WHAT ? I'm glad to know I'm not the only parent who is up in arms about this. There's talk about a Special Needs PTO for the district and having one Spec Needs parent on every PTO (which we already have). But I still think it's a GREAT idea.
So I didn't really get to see the urchins swim last night. J's teacher called me over to talk about J going down one level - I kind of thought that's where he should be anyway. I forget what "color" they are from year to year. I want him to have the basics down solid. And S - well she did fine - cheap therapy really.
Talked to L this morning - seems her and E were the only people at visitaion last night! I still can't believe that - just when you had the market cornered on goofy people. :-) Also found out that my hubby does have a heart. :-) He said some really nice stuff about me to her on Monday. Who knew he had it in him. :-) Looking forward to Saturday and our "family night" with the S's. We always have such a good time - and this time we have so much to talk about. :-)
S and I are both looking ahead to Easter - would like to ride again. When we were home at T-giving Storm wasn't feeling too good. M said she's better lately - putting on some weight. Plus there will be kite flying and hay rack ride. :-)
We're on tooth watch. The boy has another one coming loose. I swear he's going to be a toothless wonder forever. The one that was knocked out from Preschool - still hasn't broke through. I'm getting just a little worried. Dad made a Dr appt for him - the headaches are getting worse. And figure Dr can look at his leg. Since he pulled his groin at camp he's been favoring it just a little. THAT was a trip. Think he can trip over air now - you should see him on crutches (or cruNches) as he says.
I ran into Gabby last night and BOY did I get a lot of questions answered. I'm SO happy to hear others are having the same problems I am - well, you know - not happy that we have problems but happy that I'm NOT loosing my mind. You start to wonder after a while. That damn NCLB crap is making teachers and school have aides that should be with special needs kids help out in class to get the class up to where the Govmt thinks they should be. Can I just SCREAM now?? Well, we don't have that exact problem with S but we do have a problem where she's ASKED to do her work!!!! WHAT ? I'm glad to know I'm not the only parent who is up in arms about this. There's talk about a Special Needs PTO for the district and having one Spec Needs parent on every PTO (which we already have). But I still think it's a GREAT idea.
So I didn't really get to see the urchins swim last night. J's teacher called me over to talk about J going down one level - I kind of thought that's where he should be anyway. I forget what "color" they are from year to year. I want him to have the basics down solid. And S - well she did fine - cheap therapy really.
Talked to L this morning - seems her and E were the only people at visitaion last night! I still can't believe that - just when you had the market cornered on goofy people. :-) Also found out that my hubby does have a heart. :-) He said some really nice stuff about me to her on Monday. Who knew he had it in him. :-) Looking forward to Saturday and our "family night" with the S's. We always have such a good time - and this time we have so much to talk about. :-)
S and I are both looking ahead to Easter - would like to ride again. When we were home at T-giving Storm wasn't feeling too good. M said she's better lately - putting on some weight. Plus there will be kite flying and hay rack ride. :-)
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Oh the Things they Say!
The kids got gift cards in the mail yesterday and of course were anxious to spend them. When we went out to Wally World we discovered they had closed. Some long faces - but they managed to suck it up. We went to the grocery store where we purchased some LONG over due booze and some munchies for the NY's evening. As we were coming out almost to the car, J says "I'm not good.........I have something in my pants." My heart in my mouth - I cautiously ask "what do you have in your pants" (thinking the WORST) His reply?......"Snow'. Both B and I breathed a sigh of relief. He doesn't even have a clue about how many mini strokes he causes.
The girl is hysterical in her own right. At the store B suggested to her that she put her item on the bottom "that be a good idea, Daddy". She just so calmly disarms you and makes you wonder just *who* has the *problem*. She told me today that she has two nicknames "Daddy's pretty girl" was one. Which really shocked me. She's not normally moved or even cared about the whole pretty thing. I think she may be coming "out" more and more.
The girl is hysterical in her own right. At the store B suggested to her that she put her item on the bottom "that be a good idea, Daddy". She just so calmly disarms you and makes you wonder just *who* has the *problem*. She told me today that she has two nicknames "Daddy's pretty girl" was one. Which really shocked me. She's not normally moved or even cared about the whole pretty thing. I think she may be coming "out" more and more.
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