tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56392178263769903872024-02-06T19:50:42.937-08:00wHAITIng for our daughterTracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-53149749983565018662011-12-17T03:46:00.000-08:002011-12-17T04:02:09.670-08:00Seven<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRTtssFrXaBxNx6z8Je75nmeQaMLn5RwH74SnChIcTSreVIHOgKOqvuEeB6KYLnGQpKjV9GvVxQmpOdS9IWIcT2ilXjQ74fg2tXyaMT8YkGxKR53UIk77Xbob0m_zyRP6nqq9U-ynYBk/s1600/Preston2011.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 291px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687062891680801090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGRTtssFrXaBxNx6z8Je75nmeQaMLn5RwH74SnChIcTSreVIHOgKOqvuEeB6KYLnGQpKjV9GvVxQmpOdS9IWIcT2ilXjQ74fg2tXyaMT8YkGxKR53UIk77Xbob0m_zyRP6nqq9U-ynYBk/s400/Preston2011.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">1. In the past seven years, he has managed to: spray paint one of our cars red, stick florescent pink "floam" to the ceiling of our kitchen, flour the entire first floor of our house, get lost at a triathlon, leave our house before any one was awake on a Sunday morning and knock on a neighbor's front door (who we don't even know), spill dish soap all over both family room couches, and get hit square in the face with a lacrosse ball.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">2. He has many knick names: P, Mr. P, Peanut, Peanut Butter, Preshy P, Presto</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">3. He has a heart of gold and adores his family, especially his older brother.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">4. He would like to dress like a gangster, but we don't allow it. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">5. His favorite food is anything that is a dessert. He would never eat a fruit or vegetable if he had his way.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">6. He is brilliant in school, and is an amazing reader. So far he has read over 40 AR books just since September.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">7. There is no one else in the world like Mr. P. and there are no words to describe how much we love this boy.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Happy Birthday, Peanut!</span></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-11243573848830083632011-09-27T04:41:00.000-07:002011-09-27T05:21:42.355-07:00Back to the Blog<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgo-aIdyEPTGAB_GhXUT-Pt1L92vdYZrusy7cFxdXzyBoRkyBgr38w5O73MaYfpOYEtm5dAW9McY2mnD_BprwawGfESe8b9vrauXenbtLAuVhU3ivmvJHZxwWMObek-o20A3NdVmbCoQw/s1600/Copy+of+NY14.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 365px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657012722544997298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgo-aIdyEPTGAB_GhXUT-Pt1L92vdYZrusy7cFxdXzyBoRkyBgr38w5O73MaYfpOYEtm5dAW9McY2mnD_BprwawGfESe8b9vrauXenbtLAuVhU3ivmvJHZxwWMObek-o20A3NdVmbCoQw/s400/Copy+of+NY14.jpg" /></a> Some of our NY friends!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpBD6R-0W_qvF2pUZgGiJ7cicRAuYSe2Z7tO9i1kO6XJmqxBb2HDLeIahXFnLjm2oMMmSGomuI34iPfacjfpN8IgingYsGzNTS8VGDleaCnOvU8o5smCBvwArDgWaQyEXzwcgr6mdiPHM/s1600/NY17.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 292px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657012315323460194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpBD6R-0W_qvF2pUZgGiJ7cicRAuYSe2Z7tO9i1kO6XJmqxBb2HDLeIahXFnLjm2oMMmSGomuI34iPfacjfpN8IgingYsGzNTS8VGDleaCnOvU8o5smCBvwArDgWaQyEXzwcgr6mdiPHM/s400/NY17.jpg" /></a> Fun afternoon with our NY cousins<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrVVr01UHn2PJ_pKRWVs_EizMH_vGegRLRptdkekrL5bFR3H5Sb5KocyXBBRHaN6wSDcwbnH-GPfJZwbM52Uva4-07JT9SnZ_6HOIbbYs_8lyX_TV6EB5dmUJZLgsZWPTid1pCKwDcGM/s1600/lastdaysummer.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657007333493119042" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrVVr01UHn2PJ_pKRWVs_EizMH_vGegRLRptdkekrL5bFR3H5Sb5KocyXBBRHaN6wSDcwbnH-GPfJZwbM52Uva4-07JT9SnZ_6HOIbbYs_8lyX_TV6EB5dmUJZLgsZWPTid1pCKwDcGM/s400/lastdaysummer.jpg" /></a> Enjoying one of the last days of summer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13-lQ3W9tL4NU3NgUQhuNKyCe3hNYbLmnUz0zXylamNza2K-z0T-rdPIaYSkENcEOjLEi-1YLZpy2sX-I_FfHhHnsoeccKVH5vpvJqzH3u1Ne3Re9TXgZmTISIwy6RMbvvi9iCtW7kXM/s1600/firstpreschool.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657007257942327458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13-lQ3W9tL4NU3NgUQhuNKyCe3hNYbLmnUz0zXylamNza2K-z0T-rdPIaYSkENcEOjLEi-1YLZpy2sX-I_FfHhHnsoeccKVH5vpvJqzH3u1Ne3Re9TXgZmTISIwy6RMbvvi9iCtW7kXM/s400/firstpreschool.jpg" /></a><br />Ave's first day of preschool<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMdiww3unyFln9j7kDWmdubsOStZs2GhuiEjc9bVxwei45O1yLvE__SR_EeJrY-ddlnXG0Lm489FJKUk4qtjTsL3lXmLz_MldXL1D2EMppjRd0zXGRWVceQO3Ko4v9PLnZWiT9iRB7vE/s1600/firstandfifth.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657007199157179474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMdiww3unyFln9j7kDWmdubsOStZs2GhuiEjc9bVxwei45O1yLvE__SR_EeJrY-ddlnXG0Lm489FJKUk4qtjTsL3lXmLz_MldXL1D2EMppjRd0zXGRWVceQO3Ko4v9PLnZWiT9iRB7vE/s400/firstandfifth.jpg" /></a><br />Boys start the first and fifth grades<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZeLVpYkIE9EH9xvnWUl3pwb33wCnDOW7Isa7FdcQtvAN27mDtTinOARJ6EFUTcirYUyIV4Mxu6apIZlZjCL460M5JiqXS6P8tCoCaazMb6RLHXjEyOccsMBzTbiPpTL7hb4TSjU_sqA/s1600/harborisland.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 269px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657007138966920210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZeLVpYkIE9EH9xvnWUl3pwb33wCnDOW7Isa7FdcQtvAN27mDtTinOARJ6EFUTcirYUyIV4Mxu6apIZlZjCL460M5JiqXS6P8tCoCaazMb6RLHXjEyOccsMBzTbiPpTL7hb4TSjU_sqA/s400/harborisland.jpg" /></a><br />Beautiful <a href="http://huntingisland.com/"><span style="color:#000099;">Hunting Island State Park</span></a>, SC<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK-V9pHX3RBrtU9gJUqQbyp98XWhcLJD7pDNNyMF253AfiJb4fxtPGdX5elTR9D8cmMEpVg6FszR6JmR6QF3GJhhcU_-52JXW78mVxyaggARsK78EoWEtw6_h8cBWKDFi3rdqtrxErZs/s1600/harborisland2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657007083036646066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisK-V9pHX3RBrtU9gJUqQbyp98XWhcLJD7pDNNyMF253AfiJb4fxtPGdX5elTR9D8cmMEpVg6FszR6JmR6QF3GJhhcU_-52JXW78mVxyaggARsK78EoWEtw6_h8cBWKDFi3rdqtrxErZs/s400/harborisland2.jpg" /></a><br />Boys love their skim boards<br /><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSey2pCqFo12jIiBIrTRFzd4kZ4YcKF2w8veH6ISJUUMQjtxsV5H2HFYPYPf9lW-BofqZpJ-w5RJJnF5Jz6-aTnVI5X9URJJPc9bF7rQ1nJaWeaCBgqqqXUBUFzXo3NwEvRd4DT_jU2c/s1600/cadenturnsten.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657006486101469954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSey2pCqFo12jIiBIrTRFzd4kZ4YcKF2w8veH6ISJUUMQjtxsV5H2HFYPYPf9lW-BofqZpJ-w5RJJnF5Jz6-aTnVI5X9URJJPc9bF7rQ1nJaWeaCBgqqqXUBUFzXo3NwEvRd4DT_jU2c/s400/cadenturnsten.jpg" /></a> Sneak preview to <a href="http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1810180144/info"><span style="color:#000099;">Dolphin Tale</span> </a>for turning 10!<br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPVZyplDtM41Ty6som0WIRpEZ_vDKD522qUm1WEf8WYaUQ2xP9itZOJE-sPO0P460sJ8ql-2trRaSp73U-64YWyt5Vla4iHB7QkPjO00ye3FIktcVGYuGtucV9u1FD86c6cDWHa7BmCto/s1600/balletgym.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657006294725787602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPVZyplDtM41Ty6som0WIRpEZ_vDKD522qUm1WEf8WYaUQ2xP9itZOJE-sPO0P460sJ8ql-2trRaSp73U-64YWyt5Vla4iHB7QkPjO00ye3FIktcVGYuGtucV9u1FD86c6cDWHa7BmCto/s400/balletgym.jpg" /></a> P starts tumbling and Ave tries out dance</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">So I fell off the edge of the blogging world for the entire summer. Mike asked yesterday, "What happened to the blog?" Oops, I honestly had been so busy I completely forgot about it for the past couple months. Of course, he could keep up the blog too...but dont' hold your breath on that one. </span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">We did have a </span><span style="font-size:130%;">great summer, and like always, it flew by much too fast. Spent a lot of time at the pool, as it's really to hot to do anything else. However, I am so thankful my job gives me the summer off so we can spend time together. We visited NY like we always do, kids love going to Granny's. We tried to new beach location this year and went to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harbor_Island,_South_Carolina"><span style="color:#000099;">Harbor Island, SC </span></a>which was gorgeous but beyond infested with mosquitoes. Did a short trip over Labor Day to <a href="http://oceanislebeach.com/"><span style="color:#000099;">Ocean Isle</span></a>, which still holds the top place on our favorite beaches list. If I could move to the beach, I would...so playing the lottery weekly. Again, not holding my breath on that one either. I contemplated homeschooling, moving to the beach and having boogie boarding class everyday at 9am but not sure that would be the best education for the kids. Of course, they thought it sounded awesome. I am still undecided.</span></div><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Boys started the first and fifth grades and are loving it. Avery is now in preschool just two mornings a week and seems to be doing well (or let's say I haven't heard otherwise!) What you don't know, can't hurt you, right? :)</span><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Caden turned the big double digits and Avery turned four, which she was thrilled about! She is already got her list of what she wants for her NEXT birthday! Mike made an adorable video, and I'll upload that soon!</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-69120640067588586962011-06-12T08:28:00.000-07:002011-06-12T08:42:39.519-07:00Missed the Month of May<span style="font-size:130%;">Oops, didn't manage to make a single post during the month of May. We were busy and with school winding down didn't even give it much thought. Anyway, to summarize May:</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">-Caden's been playing in weekend lax tournaments, mostly in town. This weekend he is in Greensboro. Sitting at lax tournaments in 95 degree heat is not my idea of fun, but he loves it. Preston has been tagging along with Cade and Mike at lax practices. He loves to hang out with is big brother (if only the feeling was mutual.) </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">-Preston now officially a first grader and is Mr. Smarty-Pants. Or, at least that's my evaluation of him! :) He is now reading chapter books and scored in the 98th percentile for the stardardized testing at the end of the year. He told me that he didn't get any questions wrong, and he was darn close. He missed 2 questions on the entire test over four days of testing. This is the same kid who spray painted our car red, dumped two bags of flour over the entire first floor of the house and got lost at a triathlon. He has come a long way! :)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">-Avery is growing taller by the second and soon will be towering over all of us I am afraid. She is lanky, thin, and muscular. Her language is coming along, little by little. We did get her signed up for preschool two days a week for the fall. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">We have been doing lots of boating. Papa bought a pontoon boat and all the kids LOVE it. So we go out at least one day over a weekend if not both. The lake water is already like bath water though, so that's a bummer. Not refreshing at all.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Up for June:</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">More lax, Preston's starts gymnamstics, and spending our days at the pool. Might make a zoo trip this week since it's supposed to drop below 90 for the first time in weeks. Might squeeze in a trip to the Atlanta aquarium as well...and maybe visit our friends in Asheville. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">That's the May update...a month late! :)</span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-37174858946073024502011-04-24T13:38:00.000-07:002011-04-24T13:45:34.388-07:00Happy Easter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewZnGqQXN8VDrSrWCDHl-Ca3BEmrMOaNSk_yNhiJOxGSKADZMlz8-rjudn_J_-YKeHHqstdY54rCjjLS-izTTueirF8NDZQ6ix1Z__Mn-w8IKqjfqVXm9FhKrexF2v8yElg7pMsLwhIk/s1600/EASTER+057-1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 356px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599253230184748546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewZnGqQXN8VDrSrWCDHl-Ca3BEmrMOaNSk_yNhiJOxGSKADZMlz8-rjudn_J_-YKeHHqstdY54rCjjLS-izTTueirF8NDZQ6ix1Z__Mn-w8IKqjfqVXm9FhKrexF2v8yElg7pMsLwhIk/s400/EASTER+057-1.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">A beautiful 85 degree day today! We all managed to make it to Mass at 7:15am, then a boat outing and hopefully planting a small garden in a bit. Lake water was a chilly 67 degrees, so no one really made it in for a swim. But it was great to be out on the water, courtesy of Papa's Pontoon! Hope everyone is having a wonderful Easter!</span></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-3132858958229855932011-04-20T13:56:00.000-07:002011-04-20T14:13:10.426-07:00Government = One Big Mind Boggling Mess<span style="font-size:130%;">Set out today to get Avery's Social Security number. Our USCIS agent said once her greencard arrived to just take it to SS office and she'll get a SS number. Now, I am not naive enough to believe it would be THAT easy, but now that she has a greencard what else can they need? Right? WRONG.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So I set out with: </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">-Adoption decree, birth certificate, greencard, medical records, etc.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Basically, I packed up the filing cabinet and brought it with me. We get called relatively quickly which thrilled all three kids because we were heading to the Nature Museum next to see the butterfly release after we finished. NOT. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">As soon as I sit down, I can tell that not only does this lady mean business, but that she is not going to make any small talk. She asks for the application, check. Greencard, check. My driver's license, check. Adoption decree (Haiti), check. Which leads to our first roadblock. We have an emailed adoption decree both Haitian/translated to English. She wants, you guessed it, an original. I explained to her, it went down in the rubble (I don't know if it did or didn't but we'll probably never know) So, she then proceeds to tell me my "email" copy must get certified. Okay, but by WHOM do you recommend "certify" it? She said the man who signed it in Haiti. I tell her he did not survive earthquake for one, and two, how does she think I am getting anyone's John Hancock in Haiti? Seriously. So then she says get it certified by my attorney. Ummm, what attorney? UGH.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So, she gets her manager. The manager agrees, that is nonsense. So, she'll accept medical records instead. GREAT, I am so relieved I brought those. Wrong. Second road block. Although the records are all signed, and dated, she wants an original signature and a "stamp." Now I am getting pissed, I say like a postage stamp? HAHA. Anyway, she wants a stamp that has the doctors office name on it. Can anyone spell A-N-N-O-Y-I-N-G. Can these people be making up any more rules as they go?</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I cry and slam my papers around a bit and off we go, back up I-77N to get doc's INK signature (next to his signature that is already on there) and a "stamp." I said, stamp every page, stamp the heck out of that paperwork. Doctor asks if they also need his retina scan :)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Anyway, can our goverment make getting these adopted kids US citizens any more difficult. Honestly, it's so rediculous it's hard to put into words. And to top the afternoon off, the kids missed the butterfly release and now everyone is ANNOYED!</span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-562212774414944902011-03-13T21:44:00.000-07:002011-03-13T21:48:21.345-07:00Caden's Letter<span style="font-size:130%;">Dear Family and Friends,
<br />This is Caden and I am walking again this year in the JDRF “Walk to Cure Diabetes.” I am now 9 ½ years old which means I have had diabetes for about eight years of my life. I don’t remember life without diabetes but it seems like it would be fun to not have diabetes. None of my really close friends have diabetes so sometimes I wish I was like them. My friends are really nice about it and never make fun of me, but sometimes kids that don’t know me well stare or ask a lot of questions. </span>
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />My mom calculated that I have pricked my fingers close to 20,000 times since I have been diagnosed. The tips of my fingers are bruised and I don’t have feeling in some of the tips from being pricked so many times. I wear an insulin pump and we have to change the site (a needle under the skin) every other day. So, my parents have put the needle in my skin about 600 times. I ice my skin for a long time so it’s numb before we put the needle in but sometimes it still hurts.
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<br />I am hoping to be cured soon, and my doctor said there is an “artificial pancreas” that is very close to being perfected. This would be a device just like my pump, except it would do everything for me without finger pricks! It would be like having a healthy pancreas but I just would be wearing on the outside of my body. My mom would really like me to have this before I go to college and I hope to go to Duke. I would like to play soccer and lacrosse there. Go Blue Devils!
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<br />I have an online JDRF fundraising page if you would like to donate to my walk team. My mom has posted it a few times on Face Book so if you already donated, THANK YOU! I am trying to raise $5000 this year and so far I have $2000 raised. My walk is on April 9th and I will walk with my family and also my lacrosse team, since my teammate has diabetes too. </span>
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<br />My team page online: <span style="color:#000099;"><strong><a href="http://www2.jdrf.org/goto/Caden">http://www2.jdrf.org/goto/Caden</a> </strong></span></span>
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>
<br /></strong></span>Thank you to everyone who wants to help my team raise money to find a cure!!!
<br />
<br />Love,
<br />Caden
<br />
<br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;"></span>
<br />Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-44352259333753620462011-02-28T15:32:00.000-08:002011-02-28T15:43:58.395-08:00Bad Blogger<span style="font-size:130%;">I am pondering shutting down the blog....just don't have time to keep it going (or enough creative juices flowing in my mind to think of things to write about!) We have had a pretty routine couple of weeks and now that spring is here (it was 80 degrees yesterday) the boys are well-underway with sports, sports and more sports. Caden had four soccer games back to back on Saturday and he rarely gets a sub. So needless to say he got his workout for the day. Preston had lax and Mike had lax practice for the team (or one of the many teams) he coaches. Sunday was more lax for both Mike and Cade. We're always out and about on the weekends it seems but it's hard to deny kids activities they love so for now we make it work. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Off topic...any advice on where to bring a 3 year old with bad behavior? Miss Avery only listens to me. If I am around she is abnormally good. If I not around, she is abnormally bad. Whines, talks back, won't share, has a temper tantrum, puts her fingers in her mouth, squirms all over the floor, runs/jumps all over the house, etc. If I ask her why, she just responds with "I want to be good, or I don't want to be bad." She has had these behaviors since she came home over a year ago and there really hasn't been much change. Any advice on what to do or who might be able to help? Is it a child psychologist? A behavioral therapist? Both? Are they covered by insurance? Is she too young to get help with her behavior?</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I have tried everything. Not making a big deal out of bad behavior, making a big deal, sitting on her bed, chair, or standing in the corner. Nothing sinks in. She fidgets, squirms, makes some strange noises (on and off), copies everything anyone says (but I think this is part of her learning the language) but needless to say these behaviors are wearing us out. So, if anyone has ANY ideas...please feel free to share! :)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-65216502449955193502011-02-07T10:40:00.000-08:002011-02-07T12:52:11.699-08:00The Apparent Project: The Un-orphanage<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XhaEQLikh8rIfFet9GmaaO0gKuwzFillcxxLE1eB1VMxeyGZKRHSuHhGeJxP9ECy7kG1n16ll17Mb-xfiRRYZCEwgMLI7o_T3Mrerem6mwfiXfkgn3-BkZRWFUkkf7j4wUYiNYC7Y4M/s1600/fair+trade.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 193px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 146px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571053114538767218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XhaEQLikh8rIfFet9GmaaO0gKuwzFillcxxLE1eB1VMxeyGZKRHSuHhGeJxP9ECy7kG1n16ll17Mb-xfiRRYZCEwgMLI7o_T3Mrerem6mwfiXfkgn3-BkZRWFUkkf7j4wUYiNYC7Y4M/s400/fair+trade.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Please check out the post written by my neighbor and blogger, <a href="http://www.thewatsonunit.blogspot.com/"><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Laurie</span></a>. She found this great site that is selling awesome jewelry made out of recycled materials all in an effort to employ Haitians and allow them to make a living to support their own families. Enough to allow them to raise their own children and not have to drop them off at an orphanage just because they don't have enough money to feed them. Many Haitian orphans are not from deceased, ill or missing parents, but from LIVING PARENTS who just can't provide for their own children. Please, take a peek at Laurie's blog and check out the </span><a href="http://www.apparentproject.org/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">APPARENT PROJECT: The Un-Orphanage! </span></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-74699120731420737152011-02-01T05:23:00.001-08:002011-02-01T05:42:18.117-08:00So Proud of this Boy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEite1EJEElm6_F9FzlHk-1kOL8aXJ-yS9-KSR55ifRm_XPJf2cSq_eNYJL0G1lXi6XDc52Rzk4-fO77-ob3z5hIGbexurmQB15qWkYOrnk9TytCI1GxXjQ47ZnpCncoaHcmaQA5e4Bh9uU/s1600/CADEN+018.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 248px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568711247565548130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEite1EJEElm6_F9FzlHk-1kOL8aXJ-yS9-KSR55ifRm_XPJf2cSq_eNYJL0G1lXi6XDc52Rzk4-fO77-ob3z5hIGbexurmQB15qWkYOrnk9TytCI1GxXjQ47ZnpCncoaHcmaQA5e4Bh9uU/s400/CADEN+018.jpg" /></a><br /><div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">This year we are committing to JDRF again, after taking a couple years off. Caden's school has traditionally raised (50K!!!) for the American Diabetes Association each year for the past five years or more. We let Caden walk with his school and raise money for ADA so he felt included in this huge school event. However, JDRF is the research foundation focuses primarily on finding a CURE for diabets, especially type I. Type I diabetes is not in the person's control, is not related to the person's diet or lifestyle, like Type II usually is. Type I affects kids usually, who can be affected before they can even speak. Caden was diagnosed as a 22 month old baby and although we do want a cure for all diabetes, we are especially passionate about Type I. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">And even better, Caden's school is thinking of making the change from ADA to JDRF next year which means 50K directly to research a cure! YEAH!</span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">What's really exciting is some of the new areas of research which would make Caden's life WAY easier and improve his likelihood of living a long and healthy life. One, is the </span><a href="http://www.artificialpancreasproject.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">bioartificial pancreas</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">. This would be a device implanted into the body which would act just as a healthy pancreas does, therefore, no more blood sugar worries. Some other things on the horizon are: inhaled insulin, beta cell therapy and a closed loop pump (i.e. the pump would automatically know what to do and would make adjustments on its own!)</span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">So it's very exciting to see that our dollars raised are working!!! Our dream is that one of the breakthroughs mentioned above will be available for Caden before he is off to college. Also, as many of you know the longer you have diabetes the greater the chances for complications (eye problems, kidney failure, etc.) and Caden has had it his entire life. So the sooner the better! </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Thank you for considering our cause. If you would like to donate to his walk fund his personal page is listed <strong><a href="http://www2.jdrf.org/goto/Caden"><span style="color:#ff0000;">here!</span></a></strong> </span></div><div></div><div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-47632120743028740072011-01-25T15:39:00.000-08:002011-01-25T15:57:42.631-08:00Happy Gotcha Day, Avery!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKWi3uBp1mIUd5rQLeiIX4dfrrHbqMWl4TSvlDdRxRsXl2mKeyrOh8o5gfTKz_1_cfGJ3-8C2nx0_e_71J59qL1bTREKKBBSWpMsK7c-DZ7Ya7VLoG6lNEwxZMf8c4mF3ZpsRBcQdt_s/s1600/oneyear.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 387px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566276476858169330" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioKWi3uBp1mIUd5rQLeiIX4dfrrHbqMWl4TSvlDdRxRsXl2mKeyrOh8o5gfTKz_1_cfGJ3-8C2nx0_e_71J59qL1bTREKKBBSWpMsK7c-DZ7Ya7VLoG6lNEwxZMf8c4mF3ZpsRBcQdt_s/s400/oneyear.jpg" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOBFm8RoLG1d5FwhLXwbvzxjvqPrv2quS0C2eqjQdCY4u8izPQTKs88CF_TxkOXRZvZd93UkWsOS5U4V1RMMkByt876lCdZwWQzuX4PG6KftXIMC6HrWNLdfNGhzNTpJpgMcqhHRiCAI/s1600/one+year4.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566276192596028994" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOBFm8RoLG1d5FwhLXwbvzxjvqPrv2quS0C2eqjQdCY4u8izPQTKs88CF_TxkOXRZvZd93UkWsOS5U4V1RMMkByt876lCdZwWQzuX4PG6KftXIMC6HrWNLdfNGhzNTpJpgMcqhHRiCAI/s400/one+year4.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOWVdyOr-uXXsq-HcbVaxlC3kaA9bhP6xATQfpAGgZuLJJ45NytsCPNCKDUSsMluOUo_SHPOkT8JTKU_syBH2MFxdmz7QBP85-uH_Em6fxBEahyphenhyphenx9I5g7PGPwC0X35zQY24SGRh4Ikzg/s1600/one+year+5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566276055801461986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOWVdyOr-uXXsq-HcbVaxlC3kaA9bhP6xATQfpAGgZuLJJ45NytsCPNCKDUSsMluOUo_SHPOkT8JTKU_syBH2MFxdmz7QBP85-uH_Em6fxBEahyphenhyphenx9I5g7PGPwC0X35zQY24SGRh4Ikzg/s400/one+year+5.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCtMIYyZNDJWrduXxyZ7dqKz2-49SsyWJdhkZ7iPQpA4c815NiwZ91YIvPcIxMIm1AH2AcTpdg_NDxSBc3KtQe-q6KpCkUb4JGFJpar7UAX5sz2Xy-7fo8xzyydVtnDsy6dycHLCiUOs/s1600/flight8.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 329px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566275903815534306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCtMIYyZNDJWrduXxyZ7dqKz2-49SsyWJdhkZ7iPQpA4c815NiwZ91YIvPcIxMIm1AH2AcTpdg_NDxSBc3KtQe-q6KpCkUb4JGFJpar7UAX5sz2Xy-7fo8xzyydVtnDsy6dycHLCiUOs/s400/flight8.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyQ46s4Co8nBXJaWOyN0Wu-Nk5eW89mAjhGjDEcU3CHdTtrOoTgWtLL88mFG_AI8BAITSu3-jM0kgfoxpnZ6hoqS0Uq1NBrV49D9pzkOXQ4yerFBSmiBEfhjXuzvZ7LWXsyk9wZhsUMw/s1600/flight6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 311px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566275843976150626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyQ46s4Co8nBXJaWOyN0Wu-Nk5eW89mAjhGjDEcU3CHdTtrOoTgWtLL88mFG_AI8BAITSu3-jM0kgfoxpnZ6hoqS0Uq1NBrV49D9pzkOXQ4yerFBSmiBEfhjXuzvZ7LWXsyk9wZhsUMw/s400/flight6.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnB2HLuF_m_lnS245GMLPeM9f2RA9mElj_WoNWs7QWxcpPg-b-spq8OmJIYHKgI2OeukXqNb39eEEcLICYEDqnVZ-ivTzkRUc2-dUXJo1-giwUSEkGmQEQNAZWv3YETGBe8rG8hJy3J0/s1600/flight4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566275273647579474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnB2HLuF_m_lnS245GMLPeM9f2RA9mElj_WoNWs7QWxcpPg-b-spq8OmJIYHKgI2OeukXqNb39eEEcLICYEDqnVZ-ivTzkRUc2-dUXJo1-giwUSEkGmQEQNAZWv3YETGBe8rG8hJy3J0/s400/flight4.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDx_tLC9FCN9fYkc4-BB6bcxN2YPoX02jIcL5ST8C3OWtq2rCchuJlAHuiupVmnrT6DKtelXbCB0p34Wd_DNGqqPfYTBnGXgi9GZLmA7J9pR3AMuV8POBkmyiF9cV06q1X3rjQlTOaLlw/s1600/flight3.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566275172529835618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDx_tLC9FCN9fYkc4-BB6bcxN2YPoX02jIcL5ST8C3OWtq2rCchuJlAHuiupVmnrT6DKtelXbCB0p34Wd_DNGqqPfYTBnGXgi9GZLmA7J9pR3AMuV8POBkmyiF9cV06q1X3rjQlTOaLlw/s400/flight3.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTwmmj958KTm6kKSEg7_FdB_GlxDLNl5wMMotq2tYDYjAPv6W4g2J0-5Y_881mT9dn7a9HL7PxE8SFc4LSdTtyBU2tGPYzoTLB9iOvIeKHPaIw3AUR2MnFloE-nLtnae8RQBb3ul_mDao/s1600/flight2.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566275076340318146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTwmmj958KTm6kKSEg7_FdB_GlxDLNl5wMMotq2tYDYjAPv6W4g2J0-5Y_881mT9dn7a9HL7PxE8SFc4LSdTtyBU2tGPYzoTLB9iOvIeKHPaIw3AUR2MnFloE-nLtnae8RQBb3ul_mDao/s400/flight2.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTW-BncdwBCcAbfwDA2dDdfi93lGcE0bLsxj4qQ_W9YlJHtwtT7w7hu09KwXNCcY9QZg_hXlj4F8ZjUuM_ipLhKUZSHkJQIxhS-_rcL0kIT2k0KnjfzwqmlwMGEyifzTUbg3uiDQLQPY/s1600/flight.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566274945693749106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTW-BncdwBCcAbfwDA2dDdfi93lGcE0bLsxj4qQ_W9YlJHtwtT7w7hu09KwXNCcY9QZg_hXlj4F8ZjUuM_ipLhKUZSHkJQIxhS-_rcL0kIT2k0KnjfzwqmlwMGEyifzTUbg3uiDQLQPY/s400/flight.bmp" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">One year ago today, we were recovering from what may have been the most stressful 3 days of our lives. It started with chaos (the earthquake) and for the next 2 weeks we were on the worst rollercoaster ride ever. From one hour to the next, we didn't know what would be thrown at us. We went from thinking we would have to start the adoption process over, to almost getting on a plane heading to the wrong city, to turning back home, to heading to Orlando, and sitting for 3 straight days with NO sleep AT ALL. Waiting, waiting and waiting some more. I have NEVER experienced any thing like it and nor do I hope to again. I really can say I felt absolutely delirious by the end. </span><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">However, that was one year ago and we have come a long way. Avery has settled in well and continues to grow and progress each day. Life is not perfect (whose is?) but everything is finally starting to feel like normal again. It took such a long time to recover from her unexpected arrival and the rediculous experience at the Sanford International Airport. Adoption is not easy but adding all that to the experience made it that much more difficult. Plus, my university classes had already begun so the day after we returned home from the AWFUL place (Sanford) I was back at work FT. That equals stress. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I must say I am so glad it's all behind us now and we can continue to grow as a family. Oh yes, and NEVER return to that airport again. I am also so thankful that she is young enough to not remember any of it! </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">Happy Gotcha Day, Avery! We love you!</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-84764358867961272302011-01-23T07:46:00.000-08:002011-01-23T07:52:29.252-08:00Even Pongo is a JETS fan!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXr3MOJaAkk2yGDsqxl9g_C-22-vyRRX8TJm8zB2J5tthi7FZQvRgcfglVkDo8vDgv1mdbbaiFp2oZfpiwZhAM30m1IG5KuYXmUYuqSSoqroNv8KcTaaNnbcBakneuZncOVR-x16Wxvus/s1600/pongo.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565409422542169826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXr3MOJaAkk2yGDsqxl9g_C-22-vyRRX8TJm8zB2J5tthi7FZQvRgcfglVkDo8vDgv1mdbbaiFp2oZfpiwZhAM30m1IG5KuYXmUYuqSSoqroNv8KcTaaNnbcBakneuZncOVR-x16Wxvus/s400/pongo.jpg" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Boys are taking care of Caden's class pet this weekend. Pongo, a hampster, is also a JETS fan! Who knew! Looking forward to the game later! GO JETS!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">And, we are implementing a new reward system for the boys. They can accumulate marbles in a jar (got this idea from another adoption family) if they do good deeds, don't argue with each other, etc. They have to get 100 marbles for to earn a reward. Right now, they want to earn their own hampster (to share) and they plan to name him Mark Sanchez.</span><br /><br /><br />GOOOOO JETS!<br /></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-56677789672567397352011-01-13T04:09:00.000-08:002011-01-13T04:36:45.718-08:00One year<span style="font-size:130%;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxuJ_AMdSKtkVsNQXb2yrLb1FOPvFIeniiIyA0-wd_WpXuwcA1u-eS9vmE00GuwRUt-VCAOV1QWcQhyo9bPUKeI_SZtGdYo7XZUS-eyxSekHS4XRXG-PW7nt4t-62Gtz-ws49kY9Y91o/s1600/oneyear.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 387px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561644605248758610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxuJ_AMdSKtkVsNQXb2yrLb1FOPvFIeniiIyA0-wd_WpXuwcA1u-eS9vmE00GuwRUt-VCAOV1QWcQhyo9bPUKeI_SZtGdYo7XZUS-eyxSekHS4XRXG-PW7nt4t-62Gtz-ws49kY9Y91o/s400/oneyear.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">It's now been exactly one year since the earthquake struck Haiti. I remember exactly where I was when I got the news. I was sitting on the couch working on my computer when the phone rang. Mike had called to say his boss had told him an earthquake hit Haiti. To be honest, I didn't really think all that much of it at first. I figured it was probably small and the chances it hit right where Avery lived was slim. It probably hit way out in the mountains/countryside. But as I turned on the news channels, I quickly realized it was much bigger than I ever imagined. I immediately thought two things. One, wonder if she is stuck, hurt or didn't survive? Two, our adoption paperwork is in ruins. We will have to start over, which I really couldn't stomach the thought. We had been 2 years into what was turning into a 4 year process and the thought of starting over made me sick both for her and us.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">As the days passed, everything was so confusing. We heard rumors the kids might get flown to US only for the next hour to bring a completely different rumor. This rollercoaster ride went on for almost 2 weeks. We had minimal sleep, numerous cancelled flights, and the feeling of complete chaos and uncertainty. There were moments of elation, scurrying to get her room ready mixed with moments of doubt and the feeling she would really never get home.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">However, as you can see from the photo, it all worked out in the end for our family. I often wonder what Avery's birthparents are doing. Are they alive? Do they wonder where she is? I wish there was a way we could tell them how well she is doing. Her smile is the biggest smile I have ever seen. She is so loving and adores her family. She has her moments like any toddler does, but overall she is what I would describe as radiant. I would not want to relive last year again...but I so thankful for the outcome and giving our little girl an extra tight hug today!</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;">Also,yesterday, HULU starting showing the </span><a href="http://www.hulu.com/watch/202472/adopting-haiti"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong>Adopting Haiti</strong></span> </span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">documentary. Avery is right around the 2:40 mark yawning, wearing a striped dress sitting next to her nanny. I didn't really catch a glimpse of her much after that, but I'll have to watch it again. It was a good documentary, but it was so much more intense actually living the experience. I thought they should have captured the anguish parents lived through for 2 1/2 days at the Sanford International Airport. But, that could have been a movie all on it's own I guess. We ordered a copy of the video for Avery since she is so young so doesn't remember any of it. It will be amazing for her to learn someday what she lived through and overcame at such a young age.<br /></span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-47547321203636730192011-01-11T06:29:00.000-08:002011-01-11T06:35:06.757-08:00SNOW DAY<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQo816cZ65EdMu8W3O3Z2k2q3U6UIOHAc3yCQTcNfdof0VxatyCJUAA-uFZUFFZN_KXMrDdtB3ASA7cvaws1vMxRBLrhZZpSrR5W8zuhujbEg9HMy9YWFyFrZEBN-39TiXUSH7IMl2taE/s1600/SnowStormJan11.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560936752577561186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQo816cZ65EdMu8W3O3Z2k2q3U6UIOHAc3yCQTcNfdof0VxatyCJUAA-uFZUFFZN_KXMrDdtB3ASA7cvaws1vMxRBLrhZZpSrR5W8zuhujbEg9HMy9YWFyFrZEBN-39TiXUSH7IMl2taE/s400/SnowStormJan11.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">The annual NC winter storm hit a couple weeks earlier than it did in 2010. Last year we got a pretty good snow fall the same week Avery arrived from Haiti and she was in climate shock. This year, she enjoyed it a little, but she is still not a huge fan of snow or cold. Can't really blame her, after being away from upstate NY for the past 12 years, I must say I am no longer a fan either. But, the great part is, when snow falls in NC we're assured at least a couple snow days. Today is our second one in a row and we may go for the hat-trick tomorrow. Worked out well for me since this week was my return back to work! I got to milk a few more days of vacation out of this wintery weather! </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-86211901723553015502011-01-06T08:31:00.000-08:002011-01-06T08:32:50.485-08:00Last (but not least!)<span style="font-size:130%;">M's 2011 Resolutions<br /><br /><br />1. Spend less time worrying about work and more time with family<br />(hence the reason why my list is last)<br /><br />2. To get in shape both physically and mentally…for real!<br />(I’m almost friggin’ 40 years old)<br /><br />3. Help more with bath duty, reading & tucking in<br /><br />4. Spend more time outside with the kids<br /><br />5. Run a half marathon<br /><br />6. Read directions<br /><br />7. Stretch<br /><br />8. Don’t worry about the future<br /><br />9. Travel<br /><br />10. Last but not least, cherish every moment with T!<br /></span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-22482276384645909812011-01-06T02:36:00.000-08:002011-01-06T02:41:31.336-08:00Caden's 2011 "Resolutions"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3Fl5gNZACghGf5puGdgmJ40hLyvF-KKoGtGaG2M18e71rfAVKOEYm7rIrU9hlKuRqJmHPcKNEQ3dzCI4MIba-vJMzBHy7qpStZn0hChvo_dePGh7OuqGqjZANuFEthN8wm-rMqW176M/s1600/reef.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559021112238584386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3Fl5gNZACghGf5puGdgmJ40hLyvF-KKoGtGaG2M18e71rfAVKOEYm7rIrU9hlKuRqJmHPcKNEQ3dzCI4MIba-vJMzBHy7qpStZn0hChvo_dePGh7OuqGqjZANuFEthN8wm-rMqW176M/s400/reef.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;">1. To go scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I cut him off right then and there and said he needed to think of 5 things that would improve himself or help other people. And if there were places he wanted to visit....they need be within driving distance. Needless to say, he's still working on his list.</span></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-33395829493885615612011-01-05T16:21:00.000-08:002011-01-05T16:26:17.023-08:00Preston's 2011 Resolutions<span style="font-size:130%;">1. To go camping</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">2. To be nicer to my brother and sister</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">3. To help mom clean the house </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">4. To go to Bob Evans for breakfast</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">5. Play more board games with my family</span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-18790873991822929942011-01-03T05:24:00.000-08:002011-01-03T05:42:48.727-08:00Family Resolutions<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84D2YrQiVGrTXSkPm9UXNzPsxLVBgJl0lun5a3zFQlEfNO63FkrxsisupaQ1XeDA51Sqq9evvrcDRe2rxbQX_-23J-g06LBbhzxVmXg90mWlJ84KmZSPczyBTxWbDzg85SnAgP-NPLyk/s1600/pb.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 153px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557954088832793458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84D2YrQiVGrTXSkPm9UXNzPsxLVBgJl0lun5a3zFQlEfNO63FkrxsisupaQ1XeDA51Sqq9evvrcDRe2rxbQX_-23J-g06LBbhzxVmXg90mWlJ84KmZSPczyBTxWbDzg85SnAgP-NPLyk/s400/pb.gif" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">So this year I am trying something new. Each family member is going to list 5 things they want to do or accomplish in the New Year. I'll take my turn first, so no one else has made their list just yet.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">1. Break my addiction to Haagen-Dazs Chocolate PB ice cream. I did somehow manage to lose about 20 pounds this past year (it was 20 of the 35 I had gained over the past 6 years) so I am still not back to where I want to be. I have plateaued for the past 3 months, most likely do to this perfect mix of rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter. I can not tell you how many little pints of this stuff I have eaten, and I won't venture to guess, but it's embarrassing. If there was a world record for the most PB ice cream eaten, I am sure I would have broken it.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">2. Get back into Tri's. I haven't figured out when I'll train, with 3 kiddos and a FT job (many laugh that I call my job FT) it pretty much leaves me working out at 5am (YUCK) or late at night when I have lost all motivation to do so. So today is Jan 3rd and I need to get this figured out today or else it will be June and I'll still be sitting around thinking about it. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">3. Have more patience with my kids and read to them more. These I lump together because I find listening to my 6 year old read out loud to be slow and painful torture. Listening "patiently" as he sounds out words drives me nuts but I know he loves to and it's good for him to do it daily. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">4. Getting more organized. Especially with meals, money/bills, and laundry. Need I say more?</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">5. Spending more quality time with Mike. We have tried to make an effort the past 6 months to do stuff alone and I think we've done pretty well. We went to a winery (boring), Atlanta, and out for New Year's Eve. This weekend we're heading to the mountains for his birthday. I hate having to rely on my mom or anyone to watch the kids because I know watching kids is not always fun...so we try to go away only a few times a year. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">6. I am going to add on one more for good measure! To do more outdoor activities with the kids. To take day trips biking, fishing, hiking or a weekend camping (I HATE CAMPING.) The boys have reached an age where I think they'll really enjoy all these activities and now's the time to get out there and do it! </span></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-13150772789032110302011-01-01T20:29:00.000-08:002011-01-01T21:02:23.592-08:00WELCOME 2011!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlfonRA6aJDQ1rkcIVmZFA5ZjFDUev8kPIv-oBvBeyw5zjQIge_7qqWz57AWMduTpyoc2upDHuOK-Z5t0am4PCmHrv_6tGsrgP_UD5vCG2IU2btrF57xkAv9Cl7647P0_Jztyt5o6NYg/s1600/NewYears2011+052.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557449212217290242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwlfonRA6aJDQ1rkcIVmZFA5ZjFDUev8kPIv-oBvBeyw5zjQIge_7qqWz57AWMduTpyoc2upDHuOK-Z5t0am4PCmHrv_6tGsrgP_UD5vCG2IU2btrF57xkAv9Cl7647P0_Jztyt5o6NYg/s400/NewYears2011+052.jpg" /></a> <div>As bad as this might sound, I am so happy 2010 is over. I know life is short and I shouldn't be wishing time (or an entire year) away, but I am glad to see it come to an end.<br /><br />We were blessed by the arrival of our third child (albeit a bit unexpectedly due to the sudden earthquake.) That whirlwind began way back in January and seemed to last well into the Fall. For one, we waited for over 40 hours in an airport food court, spend 1000's of dollars on cancelled flights and felt completely exhausted when the government finally released her. We didn't prepare as well as we could of (can anyone really prepare?) for the arrival of a little girl who had never really seen the world outside of her concrete walls. And although she did unbelievably well given the circumstances, it was overwhelming for Mike and myself.<br /><br />Our boys had to welcome to a new sibling, who arrived very untraditionally, who couldn't speak or communicate with them. Life as they new it as a family of four, was now permanently changed and they each dealt with it in their own way. I believe it impacted our 6 year old the most as he moved from the baby to the middle child, and he is living up to that title very well lately! :) But, I think everyone is starting to really settle in to what is finally starting to feel like normalcy. And, arriving at that feeling of a new norm took much longer than I thought it would.<br /><br />Aside from that major event, we called 911 for the first time for Caden this summer. I made a mistake with his insulin (which I thought was completely life threatening) and I had a migraine for two days following. He was fine and got a firetruck silly band from the EMS crew out of it.<br /><br />Preston started Kindergarten and that has gone perfectly. He hasn't had one issue at school (not that I expected any) and I am so happy that he is enjoying school so much. He LOVES art, PE, recess...the typical things that most kids love at school. He lives for dress down day, and I love seeing his face light up when I pick him up.<br /><br />We are excited about the New Year and what it holds for our family. Caden is trying out for a travel team in lacrosse and playing soccer. Preston is going to play lacrosse and Avery might try soccer! We hope to travel to new places and spend time together as a family bike riding and possibly "try" camping. And, above all, we hope to get Avery US Citizenship which is another story all on it's own...so we're still working on that!<br /><br />Overall, we had so many positive changes in 2010, I can't believe I am glad that year is behind us. But, honestly, huge life changes whether good or bad, can be so overwhelming and exhausting.<br /><br />Here's to hoping that 2011 is slightly less exciting that 2010! :) </div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-87121068171195515952010-12-18T17:45:00.000-08:002010-12-18T19:43:16.254-08:00Preston is 6<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxcY1amFHkGEsL_vTdaPgXrj_yTohmmphal3hatcWrwkcoe2D4gy3Qvrl_z1qYLqBWjKQBtJpspgv6jNL5IHKrcTadndq5TQjcZdeloProk6iYGZ0JEKq0QvTRxXXhPRTEXwqyAY7MMs/s1600/PBDAY+six+2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552205266842969922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxcY1amFHkGEsL_vTdaPgXrj_yTohmmphal3hatcWrwkcoe2D4gy3Qvrl_z1qYLqBWjKQBtJpspgv6jNL5IHKrcTadndq5TQjcZdeloProk6iYGZ0JEKq0QvTRxXXhPRTEXwqyAY7MMs/s400/PBDAY+six+2.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKhQIjJdjAiBlguvXcNYoml5FIKt0smOQ5JictSrz9jpMhgupUwiwGOdtBi0tsOlOwhM9P9fmtTWW18XJo_vHhrltzTUQqdfdLzn4QtAh1r1_yMI8TDbSdwsCRQdYIgKUDKjiaOGOKls/s1600/PBDAY+six.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552205132797740258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKhQIjJdjAiBlguvXcNYoml5FIKt0smOQ5JictSrz9jpMhgupUwiwGOdtBi0tsOlOwhM9P9fmtTWW18XJo_vHhrltzTUQqdfdLzn4QtAh1r1_yMI8TDbSdwsCRQdYIgKUDKjiaOGOKls/s400/PBDAY+six.jpg" /></a> </div><div></div><div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">A little late posting (it's that time of year!) He had a nice 6th birthday on Wednesday. We were supposed to hit the Great Wolf Lodge on Thursday night and the kids were going to skip school Friday, but Mike hurt his back so we had to reschedule to January. Preston did pick out his candy cane cake, opened gifts and we ordered Outback for dinner. His favorite present was<span style="color:#ff0000;"> </span><a href="http://www.orbeezone.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Orbeez</span></a>. Caden loves Orbeez too. Not sure what the fascination is with these things, but it keeps them busy for a while!</span> </div><div></div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-90633031013096608912010-12-05T18:02:00.000-08:002010-12-05T18:06:46.498-08:00This photo is to blame<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6QVmtvqPp9g5OClFa-IMr-N8XYCrlSRNjj_5MNCS3Lp1PEaWnIDaFoXTYzJVEv7RkAEY-ZqvsDSQcvtzmgRG5DGvYJzbztTCIccuqXhYHubr2D8ZLx4Pnv2AX1GQ1wmnkNhvVuDsvBQ/s1600/haitianprincess.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547384482817986978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6QVmtvqPp9g5OClFa-IMr-N8XYCrlSRNjj_5MNCS3Lp1PEaWnIDaFoXTYzJVEv7RkAEY-ZqvsDSQcvtzmgRG5DGvYJzbztTCIccuqXhYHubr2D8ZLx4Pnv2AX1GQ1wmnkNhvVuDsvBQ/s400/haitianprincess.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I am almost positive this beach photo is to blame for the rash decision to remove the locs. I just ordered it from our photographer and it came in the mail this week. Seeing it reminded me how much I miss her afro/headband style! Hopefully, after getting these locs out, she'll have some hair left on her head for an afro!</span></div><br /><div></div><div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-34138007962605235222010-12-05T17:38:00.000-08:002010-12-05T17:48:30.325-08:00Four hours in...<span style="font-size:130%;">And only 15 locs out. About 200 left. Yes, I am taking Avery's Sisterlocs out. I know, what a waste of time, and as my husband likes to frequently remind me (MONEY!) but I really thought I would love these. They ARE so convenient. I haven't had to lay a finger on her hair since we got them put in. We went for one re-tightening session and that was also very uneventful and easy. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">But, from day one I was not in love at all with how they looked on her. I thought after a few months time they would grow a little, and therefore grow on me, but they haven't. (They have grown a little....but haven't grown on me!) I miss her afro poof hair, pig-tails and fancy beads. And, until the locs grow for another 1-2 years there was really nothing I could do with them. Nothing at all. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So, we spend four hours today trying to work those little locs out. WHAT A PAIN but they are coming out little by little. I would guess it takes 5-10 minutes per loc and we have at least 200 more to get out. I plan on doing 5-10 each day, so yes, we should be done by the time she can drive.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Anyway, I think she just looks more like "Avery" with her hair the way it used to be. My husband thinks I have lost my mind but he is used to my antics. So, he gave me a fuss for just a little while. So I am praying.....</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">1. That I can get them all out </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">2. I won't want them put back in as soon as I am finshed! :)</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So that battle with hair continues...and Monique (our hair girl) is SOOO not going to be happy. </span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-53077147803616274002010-11-30T11:17:00.000-08:002010-11-30T11:26:31.443-08:00What happened between 8 and 9?<span style="font-size:130%;">Last year, Caden was 8 years old and was SO into the Elf on the Shelf. We do Elf on the Shelf "against the rules" at our house as I let the kids (GASP!) touch and hold their elves. They sleep with them, carry them around, etc. Preston even brought his to school today (Yes, all the other parents will soon hate me.) Anyway, last year every morning both boys BELIEVED in the magical elves and were so excited to see where they were hiding each morning. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Fast forward to this year, Caden is convinced I am the one hiding the elves. The elves are not magical, and he is going to prove it. He is planning on hiding his own elf, where I can't find it. That way he'll know if the elf doesn't hide again, it's because I have not been able to find it. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">He also no longer believes in Santa. I'll take some of the blame for that one. He asked me if Santa Claus was real. I said, "Yes he's real!" and Caden said he knew I was lying and that he was well aware Santa was not real. So he said, just tell me the truth. I want you to tell me the truth about Santa because all my friends already know that Santa isn't real. So I said, "Fine, you're right, Santa isn't real." He started to cry. So, I quickly said, "Just kidding, he's real!" as I felt so bad he was upset to hear that Santa was indeed pretend. But, seems there is no going back as he still insists Santa does not exist because "I" told him so! </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Why was last year so simple and this year so complicated!? What happens in a boy's brain between 8-9 years old? UGH!!!!!!!!! </span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-32017456221447589442010-11-19T17:23:00.000-08:002010-11-19T17:45:44.990-08:00List of Averyisms<span style="font-size:130%;">So a few months ago, Avery could barely put two words together. Honestly, from January 2010 until October 2010, we saw very little improvement in her language. It was really starting to stress us and for lack of a better word, it got a little annoying. Not that she could help it, but day in and day out, she would babble and it got so frustrating having no way of understanding her.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Well, the past couple weeks I have noticed a pretty big improvement. Mind you, at least 30% of what she says, even I can't understand. But here is a list of phrases that she uses regularly that "I" can understand. Not sure most people could, but I am starting to learn the language of Avery I guess.</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Mine"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"I like that" or "I want that"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Why?"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"I have to go pee pee"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Avery nite nite"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Preston stop"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"No hitting" and "no whining"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Grandma loves you ---which means Grandma loves me (Avery)"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Mommy loves you" "Daddy loves you"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Where's Papa? Work?"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"I'm three"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Mommy nice" "Daddy nice" </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Drink please"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Put that away"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Can you read this?"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Can you help me?"<br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;">"Wash hands"<br />"Yummmmmmmm"--her response to all food commercials</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"I went"---her response to anything I tell her to go do</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Who me?"----her new favorite phrase</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Avery eat!"----the first words out of her mouth when she gets up in the morning</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Mommy running"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"</span><span style="font-size:130%;">Baby crying"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"I hungry"</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Pizza"---her response to what's her favorite food</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Haiti"---her response to where are you from</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">"Love you mom"---my favorite</span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-55310098727944151242010-11-19T14:06:00.000-08:002010-11-19T17:19:37.461-08:00Proud Mom even if it has to do with Duke<span style="font-size:130%;">So, at the risk of sounding like an annoying bragging Mom, I need to post how PROUD I am of our 9 year old. He received a letter home from the principal yesterday that he was selected for the </span><a href="http://www.tip.duke.edu/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Duke University Gifted and Talented Program</span></strong> </span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">(which I have never heard of.) It was funny because as he was rushing off to school this morning, he said oh here....here's something my teacher gave me yesterday. I opened it up and said, Cade, this is a big deal! Do you know what this is? He said not really! So I proceeded to explain it too him and he said, oh cool. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I would have to agree...cool, very cool. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Anyway, I know some day he'll read this blog and I want him to know how proud we all are of him. He works VERY hard on his school work and we are happy for him that his time/effort is paying off. Oh yeah, and we're Big East Fans and Big East Fans are NOT Duke fans. College basketball season is upon us and Duke is ranked #1 (BLAGH)....However, Duke may be growing on me just a little! :)</span>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5639217826376990387.post-44851939112390500452010-11-18T05:41:00.000-08:002010-11-18T06:58:40.047-08:00DMB in Buckhead<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHtO6lwYiDhQqS4SrDB_XlWAvXwh8XmOzqKAa_wsRlhOTqoA9IesqYCm0ZDauTQTbGdsve7Py0ktjzhfR-Y-jFmohhHl_ae8b-1i_M69ZzXMT2j2eGQgyMNMTjk2QGF2KElWEpLGyDk0/s1600/dmb.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540890656299743106" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHtO6lwYiDhQqS4SrDB_XlWAvXwh8XmOzqKAa_wsRlhOTqoA9IesqYCm0ZDauTQTbGdsve7Py0ktjzhfR-Y-jFmohhHl_ae8b-1i_M69ZzXMT2j2eGQgyMNMTjk2QGF2KElWEpLGyDk0/s400/dmb.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">I didn't figure out the surprise trip ahead of time and it turned out GREAT! We ended up at the Dave Matthews Band Concert in Buckhead, Georgia. Mike had to attend a work related meeting there so it worked out to combine the concert into that. On the way there, he hinted at where we were going. I said, "I sure hope we are not heading to a concert!" as I had pictured myself lounging by a pool sipping on a margarita at a spa all day. A concert didn't sound at all relaxing (I have nightmares of attending a Van Halen Concert with him and not getting my hearing back for a week.) But, once it sunk in I was really looking forward to it. Especially since we hadn't been to a DMB concert since college and he is not touring next year. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">We ate dinner at </span><a href="http://www.dantesdownthehatch.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Dante's Down the Hatch</span> </span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">which has an old pirate ship interior complete with a real crocodile swimming around the tables. The food is fondue style which is my favorite. It was good, a little overpriced, but that's how those fondue places are. We could walk there from our hotel (the </span><a href="http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Buckhead/Default.htm"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Ritz-Carlton</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">....more on that in a second) and also walk to the MARTA which we took to the concert.</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">So, when we checked into our original hotel, they asked us if we would move 2 blocks down the road because they had overbooked. At first we said, naaa, don't think so as we were already running a bit late and wanted to get settled in. But as the manager explained it would be a free night and at the Ritz-Carlton. Oh, well, now that's different! So we easily accepted that offer. Now, he did fail to mention just parking our car at the Ritz was $32 a night and ordering a hamburger and side salad would cost $43, but at least our room was FREE. I had no idea what it costs to stay there but I looked it up online and the rates are $389-$2700 per night. It is a five diamond place. I personally thought our room smelled weird, but supposedly it's one of top 25 hotels in the entire country. I wouldn't ever pay $389 to stay there but apparently someone does. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:130%;">It was awesome to get away for the night (thanks again to Grandma) and she said the boys had perfect behavior. Avery was probably Avery, but she is only 3 so she can get away with it for now! :) Came home to Preston wiping out down our neighbor's driveway on his bike. Back to reality in a hurry!</span></div><div></div>Tracyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10741050458056101576noreply@blogger.com2