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GIFTS: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives

Personal Blogs

In the book Gifts mothers shared personal stories about how a child with Down syndrome enriches their lives. Because of the value of stories of families, here are some excerpts of recent posts to personal blogs.

If you know of a blog you believe would fit into this listing, you may submit it here.

Garden of Eagan » Building and Bowling

Posted 4 hours ago

We got that darned play set up! The 500 page instruction booklet says, "two skilled craftsmen: Approximately 24 work hours". Ummmm I would not call Dean and I "skilled". We're not dumb, and we can read directions and stuff, but we are not skilled.

Angela's favorite PCA Brett was DYING to help us build this thing. So Saturday morning I picked ... [Link]

Three Weddings » Magic Marker Monday

Posted 4 hours ago

I finally have something to share for Magic Marker Monday!  Peanut brought this masterpiece home from school last week.  I'm lucky to have it since Peanut's teacher feels it is the preschoolers' job to decorate all the blank walls around the school.  It is a much cheerier place as a result of their talents.  The problem is, it takes ...

[Link]

Red Lights » First Week of School is Behind Us

Posted 7 hours ago

Mikey and I both survived the first week of school! Mikey actually did more than survive... he thrived. He had probably the best week of school of his life. He just seems to be coming in to his own these last few weeks and its so exciting to watch. I'm going to just bask in it and cherish every moment as ...

[Link]

Lovely and Amazing » Sarah Palin: Disability Advocate or Rhetorical Cloud?

Posted 8 hours ago


I decided to launch the promised (or threatened depending on your perspective) political discussion of our 2008 presidential tickets with the infamous addition of Sarah Palin to the McCain campaign. It would seem more logical to begin with an exploration of both party platforms, but as it is her nomination for Vice President that has incited repeated and painful, as ... [Link]

Where There's A Will » This Sunday covered a lot of miles

Posted 10 hours ago

Today was our Buddy Walk! We were up extra early and getting ready to make the longish drive (after the 24 hour drive to Canada I have a different distance perspective). We had never been to the Denver Buddy Walk before and rather enjoyed the contrasting weather of the cold and rainy Cleveland Walks. Will and Liv waited patiently at ... [Link]

5 Minutes for Special Needs » Magic Marker Monday — Beach Collage

Posted 11 hours ago

MMM

" It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."

~Pablo Picasso

Welcome to Magic Marker Monday! If you haven't heard about Magic Marker Monday yet, click here and then hurry right back…

BW

This little gem was a complete surprise! We were working on cutting skills last week ...

[Link]

Mom-Blog » Introductory Week to September OVER

Posted 11 hours ago

Well, week 1 has gone behind us.  First of all, Amelia had a fantastic week.  She got all 4’s and a few 5’s and I think on two 3’s on her 1-5 scale progress reports.  She can write a capital “F”.  I was joking to my sister, why didn’t they start the year with “A”?

Only later did I realize that ...

[Link]

Our Roads Traveled » Doggie Days

Posted 11 hours ago

Nate has been asking for a dog for months. He knows exactly what he wants: BIG RED DOG and he plans to name him Clifford! He has narrowed it down to a red golden retriever. Every time he sees a dog that closely resembles a red golden retriever - and even when they don't - he gets very excited and ... [Link]

Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » Query

Posted 11 hours ago

Does anyone know how I might go about renting a TV? I've gone the Rent-A-Center route before (for our last debate-watching and election night parties) and am willing to do it again, but would appreciate a more convenient option. My husband, unsurprisingly, thinks this is a great opportunity to invest in a new TV (plus an entertainment center to fit ... [Link]

Life With My Special Ks » Stand up to Cancer - Part 2

Posted 11 hours ago

Did you watch? Did you? I cried off and on through the whole thing... but especially through this part... All Julian wanted was to be 5. Cancer sucks.

[Link]

RAISING JOEY » I can’t believe it…

Posted 12 hours ago

More baby squirrels today! Except this time, they didn’t get loose in the house. They were still stuck up about the stove in the vent. Unfortunatly, one was dead which was blocking the other one from getting out. Thankfully our neighbor came over and helped my husband get the live one out and set loose behind our house in the woods. ...

[Link]

Elliot’s Expeditions » Happy, happy birthday to you!

Posted 12 hours ago

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

[Link]

EmmaSage » Romp For Research

Posted 12 hours ago

On Sunday, September 14, 2008, Emma Sage and her family [and friends] will be RoMPing in New York City at the Down syndrome Research and Treatment Foundations ~ Romp for Research fund raiser.

We would love for you to join us.....

at the world-famous Asphalt Green, 555 East 90th Street (York Avenue between 90th and 92nd Streets) in Manhattan at 2:30 on ... [Link]

EmmaSage » My Name is Sarah

Posted 12 hours ago

Emma Sage has added a link to her blog list.

I urge all of you to go visit My name is Sarah and read her first blog entry.

Sarah left a comment for Emma Sage and I, under her Day of Firsts.....and shared with us the link to her blog.

When I clicked over, my heart just leaped out of my chest, as ... [Link]

Our Vietnamese Ladybug » Parents of Special-Needs Children Divided Over Palin’s Promise to Help

Posted 13 hours ago

By JENNIFER STEINHAUER and AMY HARMON
Published: September 6, 2008
NYT

Amid the barbs and hockey banter Wednesday night, Gov. Sarah Palin directed an emotional appeal to the hearts of millions of parents with children who have special needs, promising they would “have a friend and advocate in the White House” in a McCain-Palin administration. As she spoke, the camera panned to her ... [Link]

2 Pirates and a Princess » No Longer a (Parrothead) Virgin

Posted 13 hours ago

Yes, I finally attended my first Jimmy Buffett concert! Yeah! I now believe that the world would be a MUCH MUCH better place if everyone attended at least one Jimmy Buffett concert, especially the pre-concert tail-gating party.

R&J and the babysitter showed up at our house at 8am (the concert was moved to 3pm due to the impending storm). We caravaned ... [Link]

Dylan Update » Hi Daddy

Posted 15 hours ago

Daddy is out of town for military stuff. He's been gone over a week now and we really miss him. We thought we'd drop him a note to let him know that we were thinking of him and are proud of how hard he's been working.

Love You Daddy.

Dylan, Jonah, Jack, Snickle, Fritz and Mommy [Link]

Not That You Asked » A Sad Fact

Posted 15 hours ago

Here are some things I don't enjoy:

menu planning
grocery shopping
putting away groceries
cooking
cleaning up the kitchen

The eating part is nice. All the rest of it I could live without. [Link]

Dylan Update » School Starts Tomorrow

Posted 15 hours ago

Tomorrow is the big day and the bus arrives at my house at 9am! I'm very excited and have been talking with Mommy about riding the bus all day. (I keep signing bus over, and over, and over). I'm looking forward to learning lots in my class. You can bet that Mommy will post pictures very soon. [Link]

Beneath the Wings » Just to Show......

Posted 15 hours ago

No wonder the downstairs neughbors were getting "rain" from their roof!
Some of our thirty-five year-old pipes..... [Link]

Finnian's Journey » Ugly feelings

Posted 15 hours ago

Today I am having some ugly feelings. My dear friend had her baby today and he's beautiful . . . and normal and healthy. I've been bracing myself for this for weeks. I am happy for her because I love her. But I am also filled with envy, jealousy, and self pity. It doesn't change our situation; our baby is ... [Link]

Finnian's Journey » 2 months (photos)

Posted 15 hours ago






[Link]

All 4 My Gals » Political Views ~ Part One

Posted 16 hours ago

I have been praying all week about sharing my views. Today in church God spoke miraculously to me through the sermon. I was amazed and humbled and feel certain that He wants my voice to be heard. I had chills and butterflies in my stomach, as being in communication with Him is an exciting thing!

I ask that before you make ... [Link]

Banana Migraine » An Update of Sorts

Posted 17 hours ago

Life has been flying by lately!

Vincent and Dominic are finally getting into their school routines. Dominic likes his 2nd grade teacher, and is having fun making new friends. Vincent has been working hard to get all of the students at his school ready for ISTEP testing.

Delphine moved up to a new class at the daycare and is having ... [Link]

Sunflower Stories » Happy Birthday, Grampa Larry!

Posted 18 hours ago

From 3 of your 4 grandbabies!!!




Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sing-a-long to this classic ballad by Aidan:
Howdy, howdy, howdy!
My name is Grampa Grampa!
I love to sing! I love to dance!
I love to siiiiing, cuz I'm Grampa! Grampa!!!
My name is Grampa, Just Grampa!
I just love to daaaance!
That's the end.


we love ya, ol' man! [Link]

Rustin's Rodeo Roundup » No title

Posted 18 hours ago


Rustin on the Red Carpet: We went to the 2009 Calendar Gala. Mommy and Grandma were hoping to see Brad Pitt and The Los Lonely Boys, Daddy was hoping to sit by Angelina Jolie, Rustin was just happy to see Monte Warden and The Biscuit Brothers perform. No such luck seeing Brad, Angelina, or Los Lonely Boys. But a good ... [Link]

Rustin's Rodeo Roundup » No title

Posted 18 hours ago


[Link]

Rustin's Rodeo Roundup » No title

Posted 18 hours ago


[Link]

Rustin's Rodeo Roundup » No title

Posted 18 hours ago


[Link]

Rustin's Rodeo Roundup » No title

Posted 18 hours ago


[Link]

Elliott's Nest » Good way to start the season...

Posted 18 hours ago

Go Steelers!! Next week will be interesting and fun!! [Link]

Days with Dylan » Lucky

Posted 18 hours ago

For some reason it has taken me a little while to get here... But as I was sitting on the couch last night with my 2 year old daughter Cassidy, and my sweet son Dylan on my lap, I realized that I am incredibly lucky. I mean incredibly lucky! I know that not everyone is able to experience this kind ... [Link]

Conny Wenk News Blog » Swen, der verschmuste Pirat

Posted 19 hours ago

Meet "Swen, the cuddly pirat". This pirat is for all young (and old) pirates who still love to cuddle and snuggle .. and who want something else than mainstream ... or are just looking for a neat gift. The pirat is the beautiful work of Manati-Mum and can be ordered at DaWanda's - Products with Love. Go for it!

There couldn't ... [Link]

Conny Wenk News Blog » Artikel in Fellbacher Zeitung

Posted 19 hours ago

Simone und ich waren diese Woche in der Fellbacher Zeitung, um die Bilder unserer 46PLUS-Wanderausstellung dort aufzuhängen. Die Ausstellung ist dort bis Ende Oktober zu sehen - Es lohnt sich! :-)



[Link]

Life With My Special Ks » Q&A #23

Posted 19 hours ago

Do you mind if I ask, does Kennedy still have the extra thumb or did you choose to have it removed?
Kennedy does not have the thumb anymore. They removed it when she was 6 months old. She was in a cast up to her shoulder for about a month afterwards! You should have heard some of the comments we got... ... [Link]

5 Minutes for Special Needs » This Just In: A New Team Member

Posted 21 hours ago

Anissa, from hope4peyton, will be joining our 5MFSN in this time spot.

Yeah. How lucky are we?

Smart. Funny. And an advocate that isn't afraid to go all MOTHER OF THE BEAST when necessary.

But, you know. In a good way.

Anissa blogs at Peyton's Hope Page where she encourages us to Live, Laugh, Live, Hope.

In order to get to ...

[Link]

Three's a Charm » Walking for Joaquin

Posted 21 hours ago

We are so excited to participate in our first mile long Buddy Walk on Saturday, October 4th at Southside Park in Sacramento. We plan on walking it together as a group of friends and family and we've started a team called "Baby Joaquin"...walking for Joaquin.

Buddy Walks will be held all over the country to increase awareness, raise funds for local ... [Link]

Prince Vince Meets the World » Styria (That is where we live)

Posted 22 hours ago


I love this time of year in Austria. It is still warm enough for swimming and the fresh fruits and veggies are ripe. We took a trip up to Bookie’s parents today and enjoyed a relaxed day with fine food.

[Link]

Reimer Reason » Priceless

Posted 22 hours ago

The thought of watching such cuteness on a regular basis, almost makes me almost want to vote Republican. [Link]

Big Dawg Tales » Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac...Hate to say I told you so.....But!

Posted 22 hours ago

Sometimes I hate it when I am right. Bush and the gang once again bail out the Corporate CEO's on the backs of the taxpayers. Below is Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac info from CNN and then some links to my past posts. My previously stated estimate of over $100 million may be low....

U.S. seizes two mortgage giants

Federal officials ... [Link]

The Bates Motel » Football Hooligans

Posted 24 hours ago


Football Hooligans
Originally uploaded by sammi's momEngand played in a World Cup qualifying match yesterday, so Steve and Samantha both dressed for the occasion. England won, by the way. I, in my infinite ignorance of anything to do with sports, have virtually no idea of what this means. I guess it means that England will now play a whole bunch ... [Link]

Elliott's Nest » All by myself

Posted 25 hours ago

Look at what Brendan did all by himself!! (just don't look at my messy house)
[Link]

5 Minutes for Special Needs » A Family Built By Birth and Adoption

Posted 26 hours ago

The Internet makes the world seem small sometimes. As I visited blogs of 5MFSN commenters, I discovered a blog titled "Cornish Adoption Journey." While exploring the blog, I discovered that the Cornish family lives in the same city as my former in-laws. I also spent a year living with my in-laws, and attended the same church as the Cornish family. We ...

[Link]

Gabi's World » Sunday Scripture

Posted 27 hours ago


This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. ~Romans 3:22-24 (NIV) [Link]

Beneath the Wings » “What can we do different?” vs. “Mommy Bashing”

Posted 30 hours ago

I once read that when administrators and school psychologists were asked the question, "Whose fault is it if the student is not succeeding?", and given the choices:
parent
student
school
a huge percent (98%?) said "parents and/or student.”

ie., It couldn't be because of the teacher/school!

My daughter Ricki is one of the first students with Down syndrome to be really integrated into a grade ... [Link]

Reimer Reason » The Printer is His Friend

Posted 30 hours ago

DQ and I were hanging out in the backyard this afternoon when I heard the ominous sound of the lock on the french doors clicking. Kellen had locked us out. At first I was enjoying the September sun and didn't care too much...but later I thought it best that I go see what he was up to. I peeked in ... [Link]

Elliot’s Expeditions » hAPpY FiRsT bIRtHdAy iSaAc JoSePh! {09.07.08}

Posted 35 hours ago





Teddy bears and seas of blue
Smiling in honor of you
An infant, not long ago
Now, one candle is aglow
You are growing up so fast
How quickly a year has passed
You are special, sweet, and wise
A present before our eyes.

For a year, I’ve watched you shine
An angel I can call mine
Sent from Heaven, just for me
Filled with hope and dignity ... [Link]

EmmaSage » My Sweet Baby

Posted 35 hours ago

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com
My Sweet Baby who makes my heart sing and brings me such great joy!!! She is growing up into such a lovely young girl. [Link]

Life With My Special Ks » Crazy day!!!

Posted 35 hours ago

Today my mom and I took the kids to the Riverfest here in town. We mostly went because Uniqua and Spongebob were going to be there, but we ran into a lot of friends, got to watch Kassidy's best friend McKenna dance with her dance team and we got to eat fattening yummy food! After lunch, the kids (Kass and ... [Link]

Kwisteena's Kwaziness » Kallie's Dance Class

Posted 37 hours ago

Today Kallie started her Hip Hop and Jazz class. SHE LOVED IT! She did really good following instructions and at least tried to do every move. I spoke with the teacher about getting a DVD so that we could do the moves with her at home to reinforce things that she learns in class. There will actually be a show ... [Link]

Now I'm a Mom » A Special Joy 3: Babies With Down Syndrome.......

Posted 37 hours ago

Parenting.com is doing something really cool!
"In honor of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October, we're showcasing photos of your beautiful babies, who happen to have Down Syndrome."
Look who just happens to be featured on one of their pages:
http://www.parenting.com/gallery/Baby/A-Special-Joy-3-Babies-With-Down-Syndrome/16
What's also really cool too is that many of our online friends are featured in these galleries as well! Go ... [Link]

Beneath the Wings » Continuing the “Bathroom Saga”-But its not all about plumbing!

Posted 37 hours ago

Thursday afternoon I went with my daughter (D.E.), her fiancée (Yaacov), and his father to buy ceramic tiles for the bath. It had become obvious that the pipes in the bath are completely shot. Even the tub had minute holes, leading to seepage underneath.
Now Yaacov’s father has an Arab acquaintance who deals in ceramics, so we left at 3:00 ... [Link]

Archie's Room » News Bite

Posted 37 hours ago

I just wanted to stop in a moment to say that all is well with my Uncle Tom. The surgeon declared my uncle’s surgery a success on Thursday, and on Friday Uncle Tom was wheeled back into the operating room where that same surgeon closed my uncle’s chest. Thank goodness for the intricate workings of fate, as well as a healthy ...

[Link]

Yeah, but Houdini didn't have these hips. » But It's Saturday!

Posted 38 hours ago

Hello, and welcome to a rare weekend post from me! This one is specifically for any of you who might have happened over here after reading an article in the Sunday New York Times about Governor Palin and the role in this election of funding for services for people with disabilities.

If you just read that one, please be sure to ... [Link]

RAISING JOEY » No title

Posted 38 hours ago

Patricia Bauer wrote a wonderful post regarding Sarah & Trig Palen, and Down syndrome everyone should read if they haven’t already.

“Questions, we get questions”

She also posted this cartoon that I also have to share (to those of you who might find it offensive, I’m sorry).
20080906_glenn-mccoy-cart.jpg

[Link]

RHETT'S JOURNEY » Halloween???

Posted 38 hours ago

Rhett and Chloee and I wandered around the mall today. BIG mistake. I shouldn't have gone to the mall with the Disney Store in it.

Why?

Because they had their Halloween costumes in. I know, Halloween is almost 2 months away. But they were soooo cute.

Chloee is going to be Tinker Bell from her outfit that we got when she won ... [Link]

Dylan Update » School Orientation

Posted 39 hours ago

Yesterday, Mommy and I went to my school orientation. I officially start school on Monday but my class got together to go over paperwork (parents), catch up on our summers, and familiarize ourselves with our classroom again. It was great to see everyone and I was particularly happy to see E. She and I kissed several times....until Mommy intervened. Drat. ... [Link]

Dream Big » All is Clear

Posted 39 hours ago

I'm sitting in a hotel room in a suburb just outside of Chicago. I guess that means everything is okay right?! Affirmitive. I finally got ahold of the pediatrician yesterday while we were driving up here. He knew that I was worried and immediately assured me she was fine.

He said the reason he called personally was b/c the radiologist reading ... [Link]

Life According to Emma & Joe » Hippotherapy

Posted 40 hours ago


Joe riding CJ and being helped by Heather

Joe works with all of those "toys" (shape sorters, balls, cloths pins, grippers) while he rides

Joe was back in the saddle again after taking the summer off from hippotherapy. This fall he will ride at the same time as his pal Tim. Emma saw Tim's big sister Elisabeth riding and she has ... [Link]

Loving Life » I want a Cricut!!!

Posted 41 hours ago

ooh ooh ooh I want one of these!!
It's a Cricut Expressions.
This thing does it all.
Scrapbooking
Vinyl Lettering
School Projects
The list goes on and on!
The Cricut Expressions is the craft fanatics must-have!
And, here is YOUR chance to win one. Yep. Just go and visit the link below and read the directions for your chance to win one!!
[Link]

Life in the Slow Lane » Candidates' Positions on Issues Affecting People with Disabilities

Posted 43 hours ago

The American Association of People with Disabilities monitors and publishes non-partisan information about each candidates' position/policy on disability issues. [Link]

Big Dawg Tales » Governor Sarah Palin and Down Syndrome

Posted 43 hours ago

I felt this was a great article that I wanted to post over here.

Taken from Patricia Bauer Disability news. While I know many readers of my blog read Patricia regularly I know some that don't would appreciate this resource. Big hat tip to Patricia for this great article.

Questions, we get questions
September 5th, 2008

Just when you think you’ve heard ... [Link]

EmmaSage » Down syndrome

Posted 44 hours ago

What is Down syndrome?

I know that those of you who visit our blog, know that Emma Sage has Down syndrome.

It is part of who she is, but it does not define her, just like one aspect of our being does not define us.

Patricia E. Bauer has a wonderful piece answering questions that seem to be popping up about Down ... [Link]

Our Vietnamese Ladybug » The Support the Palins Really Need

Posted 44 hours ago

By Ellen Crosby
Friday, September 5, 2008; A21

Ever since John McCain picked Sarah Palin to be his running mate, many
have lavished praise on her decision not to have an abortion after she
and her husband learned that their youngest child, Trig, would be born
with Down syndrome. Do those telling Palin "attagirl" and "way to go"
have any idea what challenges and struggles Trig's ... [Link]

Big Blueberry Eyes » Noodleboro - Teaching Kids Important Lessons

Posted 44 hours ago

Noodleboro has recently come out with 3 new children's board games. Each game teaches an important lesson in a fun way. We received the Learning To Share Fun Park Game; the other two games are Learning About Manners Picnic Basket Game and Learning To Listen Pizza Place Game. The games are for ages 4+ and for 2-3 players.

Kayla loved the ... [Link]

Praying For Parker » Standing Table

Posted 45 hours ago

You know your PT rocks when she can put your kid in one of these and and yet your kid still adores her.

IMG_2257

IMG_2250

IMG_2247

Thanks, Jodi! You rock!

parker_badge2

Saturdays Parker and I write a column over at 5 Minutes For Special Needs about our homeschooling journey: Everything Parker Knows He Learned At Home.

...

[Link]

5 Minutes for Special Needs » Wonder In The Journey

Posted 45 hours ago

parker_badge2

This week has been a rough one.

It started out with a leaking g-tube. Then a weekly weigh in resulting in yet another loss.

When you are four years old and weigh only 23.5 pounds, each and every ounce counts. Losing .5 in a week has a way of making your parents worried out of their gourds a wee ...

[Link]

Life According to Emma & Joe » Apple Picking

Posted 46 hours ago





The Macintosh are in season this week at Clearwater apple orchard. Annie Sung came with us this morning to pick a few crisp apples. [Link]

Life With My Special Ks » BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS!!!!

Posted 47 hours ago

So I totally stole this idea from Heather over at Whittaker Woman. But I LOVE to read and she was asking what our favorite books are! SO here are some of my favorites... you should check them out! What are some of your favorite books? Do you get time to read? I usually go an hour early to pick Kass ... [Link]

RAISING JOEY » Changes coming our way

Posted 2 days ago

We’re going to be seeing some major changes in Joey’s therapy coming. Joey’s PT and OT both left Easter Seals and Easter Seals hasn’t found anyone to replace them and they were the only PT & OTs in our area. Needless to say, Joey would have gone without. After thinking for a few days, Patrick and I decided to leave Easter ...

[Link]

'til my head falls off » newsflash

Posted 2 days ago

having a babysitter for Friday night still means you have to get up on Saturday morning.
I should remember this more acutely next time.
Owie my head.
xoxo-
silly mommy with the hangover [Link]

Lovely and Amazing » We Need to Talk...

Posted 2 days ago

Following the announcement of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin addition to the McCain presidential ticket, the online Trisomy 21 community has been rife with debate. Hostility and hurt feelings have been here, there, and nearly everywhere! Cries from the anguished scream "Stop it! Stop it right now!" coupled with pleas to take the politics elsewhere so they might not infringe on our ... [Link]

Elliott's Nest » This is how you do it....

Posted 2 days ago


Since Aidan has been saying a lot of new words, we have been trying to have him say "Dada." He has a "word" that he says for "Dada," along with the sign, but the word doesn't really sound like "Dad" or "Dada" to me; I think he might actually be trying to say "Daddy." To make a long story short, ... [Link]

What-evah » OK Media Pundits, knock it off!

Posted 2 days ago

You're setting women back 40 yrs! Back to the days of June Cleaver and Harriet Nelson.

Whether you agree with the politics of Sarah Palin or not, we women should proud to have a woman running in this race!!! Stop the "she has children at home she shouldn't be running" or "where are her poor children while she's out campainging?" crap. ... [Link]

Not That You Asked » A Little Clarification

Posted 2 days ago

Gosh, I hope I haven't stepped on any toes with that Sarah Palin post. Just the mention of her name seems to bring such strong feelings of either love or hate. Interesting election season we're having.

I admit that I am assuming a lot about Sarah Palin's motivations for having baby Trig just based on her proclamation of Christianity. Having grown ... [Link]

Wintertree Design Blog » sad news

Posted 2 days ago

Yesterday while I was putting Nathan down for a nap, the phone rang but I couldn’t get to it. After he fell asleep, I came downstairs and my mom said that Lisa, Nathan’s PT had called, so I called back. Her news hit me like a ton of bricks. Vital Rehab, near Irving Park & Austin, where I take Nathan for ...

[Link]

Our Vietnamese Ladybug » Wading in again

Posted 2 days ago

Need to clarify my previous post...clinic escort--briefly...exactly twice, a long, long time ago. Quickly realized how NOT black and white the issue was. Can't believe I am putting my feelings on such a personal issue out here for everyone to see, but for now I have also realized that my questions in the last post were rhetorical. I know what ... [Link]

Prince Vince Meets the World » Culture and Traditions

Posted 2 days ago


Who would have known that we were such traditionalists? Actually my Uncle and his family gave Vince a Dalahäst when he was born. With his name and birthday on it. Vince loves all things animals, including his little horse:


Stretching after playing to relax the muscles. No seriously, he sits like that a lot. ...

[Link]

5 Minutes for Special Needs » The Power of Words

Posted 2 days ago

Have you ever had someone say something to you that changed your world or gave you a new perspective?

The first time it happened to me was in the months following 9-11. I was riddled with anxiety about the safety and future of my children and had fallen in a deep depression. My 10 week old son was in the hospital, ...

[Link]

Gabi's World » Confession

Posted 2 days ago

Maybe I better clarify my post a bit from yesterday. Yes, Preston did go pee pee in the potty, but I don't think he really knew what was going on. This is how it happened: Preston woke up with a dry diaper on. Knowing that he was going to have to pee at any moment, I brought him to the ... [Link]

Reimer Reason » I Wonder Where He Heard This One

Posted 2 days ago

This week Kellen revealed to us another new phrase. It's almost as good as the last one. We were eating dinner and I asked Sweet Husband about his day. He was only seconds into his response when Kellen said, "It's not...about...you." I'm thinking I'm going to use that phrase back on him very soon. [Link]

Finnian's Journey » Don't know what to say

Posted 2 days ago

I wonder more and more lately what to tell my other kids about Finn. Kevin knows that Finn had Down syndrome. Being that he's going on 12 years old, he's definitely more aware of things, and had a lot more questions than the other kids did when Finn was in the hospital. I think that's when we told him, back ... [Link]

All 4 My Gals » Contraception Not Abortion

Posted 2 days ago

I fully intend to spend a bit of time this weekend explaining my political views and how they came to be such an engrained part of who I am.

I just read this statement in it's entirety. THIS statement that I have heard taken out of context by not only my husband but by many conservatives debating online.

Obama:
“When it comes specifically ... [Link]

Life With My Special Ks » DSAMT Fall Fiesta!

Posted 3 days ago

The Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee invites you to join us for the fourth annual

Fall Fiesta Dinner & Auction
An evening to benefit the Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee

with special guest Delbert McClinton

Saturday, September 20, 2008 | 6:30 – 10pm

The Factory in Franklin, Tennessee
Building 8 | 230 Franklin Rd | Franklin, TN 37064 | map

$100 / person ... [Link]

EmmaSage » No title

Posted 3 days ago

This afternoon, I was waiting for the bus and as it pulled up, I noticed that Emma Sage was not in the front seat as she had been all week [I had suggested that would be a good placement so the driver could watch her closely and she could chat with the driver]

I look and she is in the ... [Link]

Bump on the Road » What a whirlwind!!

Posted 3 days ago

Haven't had much time to blog lately as our lives have been a virtual whirlwind of activity. I can't believe what we packed into a few weeks (and a million boxes!)

The wedding went very well and Dad and Menny are very happy.

Dad and Menny both moved out successfully.

We managed to pack all of our stuff and move successfully. We even ... [Link]

Ralph and the Crew » Am I the only one?

Posted 3 days ago

Am I the only one who is weary of reading and hearing " Down's baby", "Down Syndrome child", "Down Syndrome baby" and such? I know it rolls off of the tongue easily, but that doesn't make it right. Or am I just too sensitive? It takes a little more effort to say child with Down Syndrome. It takes a little ... [Link]

Elliot’s Expeditions » Poor Elliot.

Posted 3 days ago

We just returned home from Elliot’s two-year well baby check-up. Darn it. He has a nasty ear infection and get this…he’s down in weight, setting him back to his 19-month weight of 20 pounds. He’s 25 months old. Needless to say, the pediatrician is at a loss. Big surprise! LOL! So, we are being sent to feeding specialists, upper gastrointestinal ... [Link]

Where There's A Will » It's so not fair...

Posted 3 days ago

...that all the big kids get to come home with homework and Will has to miss out!
Will took it upon himself to find some "homework". The kids have to keep an eagle eye open though, or a math paper gets the once over with some crayon.

Check out the serious homework face too.

[Link]

Life With My Special Ks » Stand up to Cancer!!

Posted 3 days ago

Did you know that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month? Tonight at 8:00 (7:00 central) there will be a star studed live telethon airing on ABC, NBC and CBS called Stand Up To Cancer! You won't want to miss it!! [Link]

Gabi's World » Guess What Preston Did???

Posted 3 days ago

He pee pee'd in the potty this morning! :o) [Link]

Sunflower Stories » One is 4 Years Old & One is 4 Weeks Old

Posted 3 days ago

Our sweet boy Seanie is a big four year old boy now! Awww, time goes by too fast! He celebrated his special day by taking his favorite treat to school to share with his friends: yogurt! His teacher said that Sean enjoyed passing them out to everyone and really liked wearing the special birthday hat they made.


Aidan was home ... [Link]

MY COOL FAMILY » monuMENTAL

Posted 3 days ago





Before I leave, i just wanted to show you what we just did. He wanted it.... I finally broke down and got it done. I almost cried. I don't know if i like it. Maybe it'll grow on me. Maybe I'll just wish it would grow. [Link]

Big Dawg Tales » McCain Palin and Obama Biden on Education.

Posted 3 days ago

I am seeing and hearing all kinds of different versions of policy at this time. I thought I would post on here some of what I have found from both sides. Please comment away about whether you agree or disagree with anything posted.

An Alaskan Parents View on Palin and Special Education:

Parentalcation

The Department of Early Development Student and School Achievement ... [Link]

Garden of Eagan » Prayer please

Posted 3 days ago

Ok... I'm not quite sure what to do. Angela's picture is being shown on the Jumbotron (or whatever that big screen in Times Square is called) on the 28th, and I still don't have the money for airline tickets. We have a place to stay, and a hand-holder to get me from the train to Times Square, but...no money to ... [Link]

Elliott's Nest » Lightning McQueen

Posted 3 days ago

Last night my sister and I made our seasonal trip to Once Upon a Child to pick up some clothes and books for the kids. We both go a little crazy in there. The one we go to is in Dublin, so they tend to have some items that look like they've barely been worn that are decent brands. I ... [Link]

Three Weddings » Day Cares, Writing and Watermarks

Posted 3 days ago

Day Cares

Remember my guest posts on running a day care at Home Biz Notes? It was well received and several questions were asked from readers. As a result, I was asked to write another series of posts answering those questions. The series started yesterday. If you have considered opening a home day care, I hope you will stop by ...

[Link]

Elliot’s Expeditions » Thank you, Sarah!

Posted 3 days ago

"...And in April, my husband Todd and I welcomed our littlest one into the world, a perfectly beautiful baby boy named Trig. From the inside, no family ever seems typical.

That's how it is with us.

Our family has the same ups and downs as any other ... the same challenges and the same joys.

Sometimes even the greatest joys bring challenge.

And children ... [Link]

Life With My Special Ks » You found my blog HOW?! (Part 3)

Posted 3 days ago

It’s been so interesting to see how different people came to my blog… and what crazy things they will put into search engines. Here are some of them… funny and not so funny!

toddler addicted to wii
(I'm thinking that's a little young to be addicted to video games. At least give them till they're 5!)

i hate potty training
(me too!)

prizeatrn prizey
(umm... what?!) ... [Link]

'til my head falls off » What he said.

Posted 3 days ago

I read this piece over at Blogging Down about why the McCain/Palin ticket isn't necessarily a good thing for disability rights. It was Jen over at I Never Thought.. who said it first, but I totally agree: A chromosome won't change my vote.

Her kid might be like mine, but she doesn't stand for the things I think are important.
Especially when ... [Link]

Ramblings of the Bearded One » The End of the World is Nigh

Posted 3 days ago

.
On September 10th, CERN will being an experiment to recreate some of the conditions created at the point of the Big Bang using The Large Hadron Collider.

Scientists assure us it is perfectly safe
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7468966.stm

I wonder if there are many of us who will be a touch disappointed if the world doesn't actually get sucked into non-existence...



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