Happily ever after....

हप्पिली एवर आफ्टर

2011-04-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

MAKING A BLOGGY COMEBACK!!!
I have changed my blog name from (Justin Chanelle and Tristan) to (Happily Ever after) We are in the middle of a huge transition. We are moving back to Vancouver after living in Montreal for 6 years. It's been a crazy ride!!! Things are finally settling down and this chick is ready to get back to work and reality. We plan to live happily ever after thus the new name for the new beginning! I plan to become an avid blogger once again. I am sure my family will be pleased now that I am moving to the other side of the country. If any of my fellow bloggers have any idea why my title is showing up all weird please fill me in!!!

Maybe I wasn't talking but I sure was paying attention and learning

2010-04-29T06:41:00.000-07:00

Now that Tristan is starting to talk more and sign less I am really blown away by how much he really knows.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

HE FINALLY SAID IT...

2010-04-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

3 small words that I have dreamed of hearing from my little boy
and guess what?
It is his first sentence too <3
He can say a lot of words now but this is the first time he has ever put three together at once.
I am so happy and excited I want to shout from the rooftops.
My little boy really is starting to talk

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Tristan can sing his ABC'S

2010-01-24T05:18:00.001-08:00

For quite some time now Tristan has been able to sign and say many of the letters of the Alphabet at my request. Recently he has started singing the entire thing independently. This is so huge for him and I am one very happy and proud Mom. He is very proud of himself as you can see by the little smirk on his face. I just love the way he says W so cute! His pronunciation isn't perfect but you can tell what he is saying. Like all new words it will all come clearer with practice!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

The best gift

2009-12-12T18:20:00.000-08:00

I so wish I could bring this sweet guy home. All I can do is advocate and donate. Please do everything and anything you can. I look at this sweet face and all I can imagine is my Tristan. Alone in living conditions I can't even bare to imagine. With no chance of a future. Lucky to have a 5th Birthday even. :( Please I am begging help me help them! Having Tristan in my life has made huge changes. I just wish every family had a child with Down Syndrome. It truly is a blessing. I hope to be able to adopt another child with DS one day. If you can't adopt please donate and help those that can and are trying. It is expensive!!!!

Please Grab This Button!
URGENT PLEA!

How can you tell when your child is feeling better??

2009-12-08T02:58:00.000-08:00

Tristan and I had a glorious 6 hours of sleep. Not the broken 2 hrs here 1 1/2 there kind but 6 solid hours. I feel like I can run a marathon. Well maybe not quite but your getting the point. He only required one breathing treatment last night and was up at 5 am. He got out of bed, put on his hat and coat and came through to me.

Seems he was having trouble getting one of his boots on. (There was a sock stuffed inside haha)

Now listen here women! Stop laughing and get over here and help me get this boot on!!!

I'm sick of sitting around here and I'm going to my Grandma's! I'm Mad! Yes in between using some of his "New words he learned on the school bus" He was also saying Mum mum mum Which is what he calls grandma.

Bet you thought I was going to say school.
Maybe when your feeling better little guy!!

The cutest Nativity scene ever

2009-12-07T09:03:00.001-08:00

My Mom picked up this Nativity Scene for Tristan the other day. I thought it was cute but also thought it was a bit expensive for what it was. Even tried to talk her out of it. Well Mom knows best once again. It is awesome even plays the song Silent night.

As you can see it has been Tristan tested and Mom approved. He played with it for hours. Even wanted to bring the people to bed with him the first night.

Mish Mish Train

2009-12-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

Having a little snuggle as they watch the train go around and around. Lil boy had a rough night. Low sats and was quite blue but a couple nebulizer treatments and he is doing well but tired out. Looks like he will be needing to go see respirology. We just decided Tristan was too healthy and didn't need to see him anymore but I'll have to call him this week. I think he will go back on the Singulair.

Tristan loves the train. He calls it our Mish Mish Train. Christmas is his newest word. He hasn't had alot of chance to practice it yet but as with all his words they get clearer and better pronounciation after some practise. I'll take Mish Mish

He kept pulling Santa off the track

Ice Princess

2009-12-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

I took these photos of Chanelle a few years ago. I just love them!!! About time I finally got around to doing something with them.

Chloee loves her Jingle bells

2009-12-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

We take them off at bedtime as they are way too noisy. When we go get them first thing in the morning she comes and even lifts her head so we can put the collar on. What a cat!!

School Photos

2009-12-02T05:05:00.000-08:00

Even though they forgot their smiles at home I still love these pics! Kinda hard to take a bad picture of these two :)
Chanelle Grade 5

Tristan Kindergarten

I Smell Snow!!

2009-11-30T06:41:00.001-08:00

Seems I only blog when it snows! We had our first snow fall of the Season this morning. Actually it is still falling. I just may get that White Christmas I so desire! Then after New Years it would be dreamy if it didn't snow again until next year :)
Last time I blogged Dad was still recovering from Surgery. Well he went to a rehab place and improved quite alot but then plateaued. His mobility will never be regained so we weren't able to bring him home. He did however come to live at my place for the summer while we waited for a bed in the Veteran's Hospital. Where he now lives. I have worked in a few Care Homes and have to say the Vet Hospital is the Ritz of all Care Homes. Sure makes it easier to leave him. He seems happy most of the time and they have alot of activities so he is busy. My Mom visits him every single day. It sure warms a girls heart to see her parents love for one another after 50 years. Can't imagine how difficult it is for Mom to leave him there day after day and return to her empty home alone. She sure is a strong women and I am lucky to have her.
Tristan has started kindergarten. I finally decided on Inclusion. He gets on the big bus with his sister and absolutely loves school. He has an aide but spends his entire day in the classroom. He is settling into the routine nicely and does his work with very little help. He is even using scissors independently. His classroom is currently learning the signs for the book Brown Bear. He already has a best friend he plays with every lunch and recess. A little girl named Leila. Big sister was quite the mother hen the first few weeks and needed to be reminded to go back to her own class several times. She was worried about Tristan and took it upon herself to check on him frequently. After a few months she has settled down and rarely needs to be reminded to go back to class LOL. It is nice to know she looks out for him though.
Since starting school Tristan's language skills have taken off. He is talking alot now. Has even learned some bad words. We went to visit Grandpa on Saturday. As soon as we stepped off the elevator he said "Let's go Ice Cream" See now that Dairy Queen is closed for the Winter the only time he gets his Fav soft serve is when we visit Grandpa.
I have a bunch of photos but will only post them after I get caught up reading every ones blog. I have missed you all can't wait to see what's been going on :)

C is for Cute

2009-03-15T07:28:00.000-07:00

Sweetness

2009-03-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

Brothers

2009-03-13T08:47:00.001-07:00

Delirium, Justin, killer flu, Who needs a dining room table!

2009-03-13T06:53:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I last blogged. What a month it's been.
My dear old Dad is doing well. It's been really tough and heartbreaking. My Dad asked me yesterday what was wrong with him. When I asked him what he meant he told me he woke up from surgery and he wasn't the same. This is the first time he has shown any acknowledgment to the fact that he is NOT the same. A month ago the man came to Tristan's 5th Birthday party walked down my stairs into the car out of the car into the hospital for his surgery the next morning. When he awoke from surgery he was dramatically altered. Whether he has Delirium or if the surgery has caused his Dementia to progress quickly is the question. A month later Dad still isn't up walking like before or even able to swallow solids. He is on a Puree/minced diet and can't manage even a soft piece of fish. These I know are common problems in Alzheimer's and Dementia patients BUT it usually happens slowly over time. So there is a really good chance that Dad has suffered from Delirium which is reversible and in time he may regain his previous skills. So this is what we pray and hope for. Dad will be going to a Rehabilitation centre as soon as they can get his UT and chest Infections under control. He has come a long way. He went from memories in the 50's and not remembering me to asking me how Chanelle is doing and sobbing when it comes time for me to leave as he misses me when I'm not there. Although this is sad it is also Joyous! He knows me and loves and misses me. A few weeks ago I was praying he would regain his memory and he has. My Dad is back and fighting and one day he will walk up my stairs into my home for Saturday movie day. These are my prayers, hopes and dreams :)
This is a month for dreams coming true. My first born who I have not seen in 3 years has been here for a visit. I moved from Vancouver 3 years ago and Justin decided he wanted to stay. Broke my heart but I understood as well. We finally got to have a visit. My parents, sister and I all chipped in and bought him a plane ticket for his 21st Birthday. He came for 2 weeks. Sadly we all got the flu and were sick for most of his visit. Didn't matter though it was nice to have him here. Sick or not. The four of us snuggled up in bed and ate soup and watched the "Life goes on" box set and many other movies and it was just like old times.

Here is a photo of Tristan that makes my heart soar. One of the things alot of people have been preoccupied about is whether or not Tristan will learn to eat with a fork and spoon. I have never been too concerned. I use up all my concerns on little things like will he have to have a feed tube or fundo surgery because he's eroding his esophagus away. Anyway just thought I'd post this up for all those with worry and concern! Not only does he use a spoon he also can balance a bowl of soup on his lap while sitting on the sofa and singing the ABC's along with Rachel from signing time. LOL To all you new Mom's with Chromosomally enhanced children that read my blog. Please don't waste one precious moment worrying over such trivial things. Trust me you'll regret it. Spend your time focusing on your baby because before you know it they'll be all grown up and independent!

Praying from home

2009-02-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

I have a cold. Not good! Means I can't visit my Dad. It's officially a week since surgery and Dad has gotten a little better everyday. He has a long way to go though. He isn't really opening his eyes or talking much but he does recognize us so that's a good thing. This has been the longest week of my life. I can't wait to see my Dad's smile. It is going to be a moment of celebration. I already miss him more than words can express.
Tristan and I had a chance to play with his new puzzles. His Aunty Cindy sent them for his Birthday. Most of Tristan's Favorite things are made by Melissa and Doug and they are Mommy approved. These are the best puzzles ever! I just love his counting. Proud Mom :) You have to turn the volume up to hear

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Dad is out of Surgery.

2009-02-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

They weren't able to get to the Aneurysm Via Catheter and had to do open but he is doing well! He is in ICU but stable and we have gotten a few smiles. I appreciate all the prayers :) Thank you everyone!!

Tristan had his party today and.......

2009-02-08T17:23:00.000-08:00

His Grandpa went into the hospital right after. My father has an Aneurysm and tomorrow morning they will remove it. Once he is all healed and home I bet you'll notice alot more blog posts. Here is a photo we took this afternoon. My parents, Myself, My children and My sister and her 2 children. Pray Pray pray Please!

Oh and here is the cake I baked. Can you tell which color is missing? LOL

We have all come so far

2009-01-30T05:50:00.001-08:00

Today my baby turned 5 years old. Feeling a little melancholy and Joy all at once. My last baby is growing up way too fast. This time of year is a tough one for me. Tristan's Birth is definately something I celebrate. Of course come on look at him he's awesome. BUT At the same time it always stirs up the bad feelings too. The fear and sorrow I experienced when I first heard the words "I think your son has Down Syndrome. I am so sorry" It felt like someone hit me in the back of the head with a brick. I didn't even know what it meant. Of course I had heard of Down Syndrome and saw a few people that had Down syndrome but what did it mean. I didn't actually know someone that had this extra Chromosome. All through elementry school and high school never once did I see a child that had Down Syndrome. Where did they hide all these children. Yes these were some of my first thoughts. I also thought I should have 5 or 6 more children just to be sure one of Tristan's sibilings would want to care for him once I grew old and no longer could. I giggle about that one now. Yes I have come far too. Today I no longer expect either of his sibilings to take care of him. In fact I am quite confindent that he will be just fine. He may need their love and guidance but who doesn't need that from their family. Luckily our society has come far too. We no longer hide children with Down Syndrome away. We advocate fiercely and passionately. The past 5 years have flown by so quickly. I am so proud of how far we have come. Thank you sweet boy for all you have taught me. I am truely blessed!

-27 and -37 with the wind chill!!

2009-01-15T05:34:00.000-08:00

So we are staying in for a few days. EEK! Hurry up spring!! I know it's not even February yet. I usually despise winter but have been enjoying it up until the past few days. I can't take this kind of cold!

To share or not to share

2009-01-13T04:30:00.000-08:00

After my latest attack I have been left wondering if I even want to blog or discuss my life at all online. After plenty of consideration I have decided to continue. I have recieved numerous e-mails and comments over the past few years from New parents. That is one of main reasons for sharing our Journey. I don't sugar coat our lives I keep it real. Life isn't always easy but whose life is?? I remember being so afraid and alone after Tristan was born. It was the message boards and blogs that helped me through the first few years. In the end the few awful people out there can't win. I am not sure why I let it weigh on my heart so heavily but I have been really upset by this. I think the main reason is I am super sensitive right now. I am in the process of registering Tristan for kindergarten. I am going to send him out there to a school where he will be one of the few children that are different. Although he has been in Early intervention Preschool since he was 18 months old. This just isn't the same. Tristan has been lucky enough to have the same Educator every year and she is the best. I am really sad because in a few months we will have to say goodbye. I am not sure if I could have made it through the past few years without her. She is a wonderful educator and has been such a huge support for me. It is on to a new place and new people. Although I feel certain that there will be awesome supportive people at the new school I can't help but feel afraid. I often hear people say "Change is good" I'm not feeling it right now. Note to self: keep reading your favorite poem and smile because it's going to be just fine

ROAD LESS TRAVELED

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth

Then took the other as just as fair
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet, knowing how way leads onto way
I doubted if I should ever come back

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence
Two roads diverged in a wood
And I took the one less traveled by
And that has made all the difference

Robert Frost

2009-01-07T19:41:00.000-08:00

I got an anonymous comment from someone today that really stung! I was told that "I am an Irresponsible person because I didn't have an amnio and abortion." (this is what you get when you join anti abortion groups on facebook) Apparently "I have ruined my daughters life by forcing her to grow up with a retarded brother." I wish this type of Ignorance didn't hurt but even though I have grown and know it is not factual. I have to admit it still leaves me feeling broken and ANGRY! I made this montage and am leaving it everywhere I visit and advocate online. Just in case anyone else stumbles across us and doesn't get it!! When I discussed this with Chanelle her response was......."What?? Don't they know I am lucky. I wish I could use the F word on them they are not smart!!" This alone has cushioned the blow :) I just hope and pray that no one ever ever ever says something so hurtful to her face. If someone ever called her brother retarded I think it would break her heart. This is the reason we even had a conversation. I am concerned that this could happen one day and I felt discussing it before hand might better prepare her. Tristan will be attending kindergarten at her school next year. Yea so basically the reality is? Hmm let's see?? I am not ruining anything, it is mean people like you that will make my daughters life harder. As you can see in the montage she and her brother are doing just fine!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Creative Girl

2009-01-06T13:09:00.000-08:00

If you click the photo to enlarge you will see she has put alot of detail into this Beach scene. Their is a sun Tanner a fisherman a swimmer and a purple whale because she ran out of blues LOL

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T07:17:00.001-08:00

We had a fantastic Christmas and are still having it. I love when the kids have no school, no Therapy and No Dr. Appointments!! It is glorious and wonderful and I am a very Happy Mommy. Well except I am missing my Justin. This is a hard time of Year to have my first baby so far away. Hopefully we can be together soon. I haven't seen him in 3 years. :(
On Christmas Eve My sister had her usual bash. Except this year she had it in her new gorgeous home. I am very happy for her. It was a wonderful time and the food was delicious! Then my friend Kevin came over and helped me set up a 100 piece train table. Took 3 1/2 hours. Christmas morning Tristan was in his glory. He played with that train for hours

Here is a LO from Tristan's first Christmas. He is 11 months old and still so tiny he fit in a stocking LOL He took his time but he did finally grow. I was looking at all Tristan's first Christmas photos and they are Bittersweet. I was so worried about his future in the first year that I feel I didn't spend enough time focusing on the moment and the precious gift he was. He was the sweetest cuddliest baby!

After Breakfast and gift opening we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa's house. In this photo everyone is laughing because of Tristan. He has always been a passive little guy but latley he is really coming into his own. In this photo he is telling Chanelle off and reclaiming his hat that she swiped from him for a sec for a photo OP. LOL

My Poor Old Dad looks so tired and worn out. We are waiting the surgery day it should be in January. Please pray for him. Maybe if the Dr can safely remove this Aneurysm my Dad will get his Pep back :)

With everythng that is going on this man still has the greatest smile!

As you can see I got my new Camera YAY! Thanks Mommy :) and it's Pink too. In case you didn't know I have a Pink obsession and collect all things Pink. My Mom made an awesome Turkey feast and went overboard and spoiled everyone!! I regret I didn't get enough photos. I didn't even get a single one of my Sister. With all the kiddos we are just too busy for photo time these days I guess. LOL Oh well we were all together and had a nice time that's what counts! I did manage to get a few of my niece and nephew though :) I just love this photo of Kieran!

Miss Ainsley saying Cheese.

I now have 2 LIL Chefs in my house.
Tristan with his cinnamon dinosaur cookie dough and cutter

Chanelle's first time baking cookies from scratch all by herself. I didn't do a thing. Offered some advice here and there but that was it. Very proud of you Chanelle and the cookies were delicious! I got her the cutest cookie cutters ever! We just love them.

Chloee Fetches Barbie

2008-12-22T09:21:00.000-08:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Phase one of the Gingerbread Train

2008-12-21T14:10:00.001-08:00

Tristan pushing Chanelle's arm away. Apparently she was trying to help him a little too much!

I can do it MYSELF!

Counting the Jelly Beans. That's my girl I taught her well. Everything can be Educational.

Fabulous

2008-12-20T07:07:00.000-08:00

I was given an award from my newest bloggy friend Cheryl @ Ruby's Life LINK HERE Thank you so much Cheryl I love all your photos too!

Sitting on top of the world

2008-12-17T15:49:00.000-08:00

The Out of Sync Child plays in the snow!

2008-12-17T12:33:00.001-08:00

AND LOVES IT!!

I can't say enough about how much progress Tristan has made with his Sensory Issues! I almost broke out into the ugly happy cry as I watched him enjoy himself out there :) My neighbors would have thought I was nuts when asked why I am crying. My response would have been "I am just so happy he can play in the snow" Only Mommies that have children with Sensory Integration problems understand that response. LOL

Who wrecked the Christmas tree?

2008-12-16T06:56:00.000-08:00

CHLOEE!!!!!!

She actually kept picking this little one up in her mouth and running from me. Took forever to get it back. She's a nut and I love her :)

WASN'T MOI!

Prayer request

2008-12-15T21:17:00.000-08:00

My Dad. He has an aneurysm. They say it is at a very dangerous size. He went through Pre-op. He was declined for surgery. His Lung function is 30% :( He is taking new meds. Please pray they help before his Aneurysm breaks and they can safely remove it. If I walked into the hospital tomorrow with the very same aneurysm. I'd be rushed in for emergency surgery :( My heart is breaking. And I can't sleep much these days!!!!!

Photo shoot at Grandma's

2008-12-15T17:26:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite one

My 2 fav guys!!!

If you look up Pure and Sweet in the Dictionary you will find this photo!!!

The original CHEESE face!

And.... My Gorgeous Mommy in her Rawkin X-mas PJ's and I so know she is going to love that I put her into the Bloggy world in her PJ's BUT since she facebooked it I figured it was all good :) Love you Mom :)))))))))

Brushfield spots

2008-12-14T15:32:00.001-08:00

Fighting over a Chicken :)

2008-12-12T05:13:00.000-08:00

Since Mr smarty pants can sort and Identify his colors we have now moved onto sorting clothing, food, Animals, Transportation and household Items. I bought this groovy magnetic game from Super Duper Publications LINKHERE

So I hand the magnets To Tristan one at a time. We say what it is and he places it in the correct category. He was doing awesome UNTIL He got to the chicken. Now he mixed up a few prior and I would tell him No no no this one goes here. Except when he placed the chicken in the food category and I told him no no no and placed it with the animals He got upset with me and told me MO MO MO and put it back with the food. After going back and forth with this for 5 minutes it hit me. He is absolutely right! Chicken is food too LOL!!!

SNOW

2008-12-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

and tons of it! If I was a winter girl I'd have glorious gorgeous photos just like many of my fellow bloggers! Umm Yea did I mention I don't love snow much!!

2008-12-06T14:15:00.000-08:00

Tanta Hoise Hoise Hoise

2008-12-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

Here is a Tristan cutey funny. This morning Chanelle wasn't ready in time for the school bus. Typical Monday morning what can I say. So I drove her. On the way there I hear lil boy's sweet voice from the back "Tanta Hoise Hoise Hoise" Now I knew that Tanta was in fact Santa since we have been watching DVD's and reading books about Christmas and Santa since the day after Halloween. I could not figure out what "Hoise Hoise Hoise" was if my life depended on it. So we drop off Chanelle and head back towards home and again at the same place in the road Tristan says "Tanta Hoise Hoise Hoise" So I slow down and take a look and there was Santa and Three Reindeer. Then it hit me "Santa Horse Horse Horse. :) Our next trip to the library I need to find a book on horses then also a book on Deer so my precious hilarious lil boy can see they are in deed different. Actually maybe him and I will do little home school project.

Precious Joy

2008-12-01T16:55:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make. When I take photos of my children it's all about the scrapbook page and what I can make with them. I recently have grown a huge interest in making these types of layouts. The only problem is! In the past all my photos have been close ups. As my scrapbooking knowledge grows, So does my imagination and interests. It's hard to place your child in a scene if the photo is a close up and there body is cut off. I soon will have a better camera with a higher MP. Soooooo soon I can take full body shots and crop just the face close ups if I love the expression. Very exciting can't wait. If I were to do that with my camera now the quality would just right out suck. So for now these were the best shots I could find to make a snow scene. These are from last winter. I used the kit Holiday Home designed by KARI HENTZELT. LINKHERE

HUGE SENSORY MILESTONE!!!

2008-11-25T09:13:00.000-08:00

I have to write this down quick. Today something huge happened!! My little boy got his hair cut by his favorite stylist. Moi lol and guess what? For the first time ever he did not cry. Not a single tear was shed by either of us. There are no words to express my excitement and Joy! Haircuts have been so hard on both him and I for the past 4 years and finally we are at a peaceful place. The days of Tristan being so overstimulated that he passes out are over! YAY. Finally all my hard work appears to be paying off. All those massages, bath spas and the Listening of the Dreaded Gregorian Chants. You should see the boy try and run when he hears them starting LOL Poor child but I believe they are paying off. I am so pleased he is continuing to spend time in the sensory room at the EI centre. I think this has helped him leaps and bounds with his tolerance. This winter him and I will be going swimming at the indoor pool. In th past he hasn't been able to tolerate the sounds in there. I have confidence for the first time that he is going to love it!!
Also yesterday we met a new Speech Therapist and we loved her!! Tristan has been receiving all therapy in our home. In the past his sensory issues didn't allow him to settle in enough at the centre to benefit from the therapy. For the first time recently Tristan actually showed off his skills for the ST and OT. They were very surprised. I think they thought I was a Mom that was in denial about my child's delays. I think they didn't believe me when I told them all the things Tristan was able to do and say. They were blown away by his signing abilities. Thank Goodness for Signing time. Because of his ASL knowledge Tristan knows his colours and counts and says the ABC's and identifies so many things. The therapist informed me if I was willing to try therapy at the centre that they could offer him more. So we had our first try and he did excellent. He Cooperated for 5 out of the 7 activities, she had planned for the session. Not too bad for a first day!! Yippee my boy is finally showing off his skills and I couldn't be prouder!!! There was also a discussion about Tristan getting Behavioral therapy as well. My guys comprehension is really good but he has alot of attitude to go along with it. He thinks he is the boss and he thinks that he will do what he wants, when he wants and where he wants. You got another thing coming little boy. LOL It's called discipline. *SIGH but he's so cute it's hard. He has me wrapped around his littlest finger! BUT now that he is all healthy and thriving so well. I need to step up and be a little stricter. In the past it's always been about quality time and making every second count. I still want to do that but at the same time I have to find place for compliance. He understands therefore he needs to learn to comply. *SIGH I promise to do my best! It will benefit him in the end. I know!

TAGGED by Melissa

2008-11-21T04:51:00.000-08:00

I love doing these :) You can find Melissa's blog HERE I recommend going by and seeing her Dillon. Very Cute! On with the TAG
1. Who was your 1st love?
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith
2. Do you still talk to your first love?
Actually No. Honestly I never have. YET anyway
3. What was your 1st alcoholic drink?
O'keefe beer. I used to sneak sips from my downstairs neighbors beer when he left it on the fence. I was just a little girl probably around 7. Did that for years. Right up until I was old enough to buy my own.
4. What was your 1st job?
I worked in an office
5. What was your 1st car?
JEEP Cheroke
6. Whose the last person you text today?
Texas
7. Who is the person you first thought of this morning?
Cloe. Actually she was an Animal. We got a new cat yesterday.
8. Who was your 1st grade teacher?
Mrs Cran
9. Where did you go on your 1st airplane ride?
New Brunswick or Florida. Not sure which came first
10. Who was your 1st best friend & are you still friends with them?
Aside from my Brother it was Nancy and Yes she was just here last night.
11. What was your 1st sport played?
T-ball
12. Where was your 1st sleep over?
I'm not sure. Maybe Evelyn and Claude's
13. Who was the 1st person you talked to today?
Tristan
14. Whose wedding were you in for the 1st time?
My sister
15. What was the 1st thing you did in the morning?
Changed a Pullup
16. What was the 1st concert you went to?
Madonna. With my friend Tina. She cried when Madonna first came on stage. LOL The girl is still obsessed with her 20 years later
17. What was your tattoo or piercing?
I have 2 Tattoo's and Ears, nose and navel pierced. Considering getting a Marilyn. Haven't decided yet.
18. What's the 1st foreign country that you went to?
I have never left North America. Not in a hurry to either.
19. What was your 1st run in with the law?
I got caught shoplifting when I was 11 or 12
20. When was your 1st detention?
Grade 7 they didn't really do detention in elementry school LOL
21. What was the 1st State you lived in?
I have never lived in the states Born in Quebec
22. Who was the 1st person the break your heart?
Luke. I had a huge crush on him when I was 14 and he didn't like me back. Found out later he is Gay.
23. Who was your 1st roommate? Kim my sister
24. Where did you go for your 1st limo ride?
A friends Birthday. We went to a bunch of different clubs.
I am going to tag Nicole LINK HERE RK LINK HERE and Laura LINK HERE

Angelic Ainsley

2008-11-17T18:09:00.000-08:00

I used the Enchanted forest page kit from catscrap designed in collaboration by madam min and milla designs. with a special gift (moss) from Dawn Vander Stoep, createwings.

Random Questions, Fall 08: #5 Hot or Cold?

2008-11-17T12:51:00.000-08:00

Yay RK posted some Random questions LINK HERE I love the Random questions!! I haven't done them the past few rounds but Now that the weather stinks and I am back in full bloggy mode! I am not a winter girl so the amount of time I spend outdoors will be limited to Dr's appointments, Therapy and absolute necessity shopping! I even have most of my Christmas shopping finished. Yes you heard me right all done so I can avoid the crowds of humans at the mall. I don't love grumpy pushing people at the mall. Kills all my Christmas spirit. On with RK's Randoms.

1. What do you set your thermostat on in the winter? A toasty 78, chilly 62, or somewhere in between? Is it different from night to daytime?
Well I have mine all at 62 and lower at night. I am always hot and can barely stand visiting others during the winter because their heat is always too high for me. I have electric heat so if we are a bit cool we sometimes turn the heater up in the room we are sitting in but doesn't happen often.

2. Has this changed over the years?
Are you adjusting your heat use this year due to heat costs/financial frugality? Well I am the frugal girl extraordinaire. I need to be to maintain my excessive shopping therapy. BUT Luckily I have always been this way. Well since I have had my own place. My ex and I often had adjust the temp of the heater wars in the past :)

3. If you have kids, are they cooperative with dressing warmer for the chilly times or do they still prefer to be in the least clothing possible?
My children mostly like to wear as little clothing as possible. They like to have a cozy blanket when we watch TV in the evening. Tristan will keep his housecoat on and slippers but this is the first year. In the past his slippers had to be Robeez or else they would get torn off as well as his socks. Chanelle has always been challenging to keep in clothes. It's a sensory thing.

4. What is your favorite item of cold-weather clothing? I have a really snugly Pink housecoat that I just love. I also have a pepto bismol color Pea coat that I'm very fond of.

MONDAY'S IN MOTION

2008-11-17T03:29:00.000-08:00

This is my first week doing a Monday's in Motion. LINK HERE It Will have to be my last until Christmas. My video doesn't work on my Camera anymore. The word on the street is sshh "Santa is going to bring me a new camera this year" lol I've been a really good girl :)
This is a video of Tristan right around his 3rd Birthday.

Lazy weekend

2008-11-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

This is what the kiddos did while I did some scrapbooking. I had to climb through the Fort if I wanted to get a drink or use the washroom.

Enchanted Forest digital scrapbook kit/Rainy Saturday Afternoon = scrapbooking :)

2008-11-15T14:54:00.000-08:00

For Both Layouts I used the Enchanted forest page kit from catscrap designed in collaboration by madam min and milla designs. with a special gift (moss) from Dawn Vander Stoep, createwings.

1st scrapbook layout I ever made

2008-11-13T10:58:00.000-08:00

With alot of help from Katrina I might add LOL I started scrapbooking because of Katrina. I didn't even know it existed before I met her. This was my first layout. So creative LOL Sorry it is tiny but my PC crashed a few years ago and I lost alot of stuff that wasn't saved to disk :(

In the process of looking for this for RK I found a bunch of oldies. Thought I'd share some of my lil boy that isn't so little any more. This is Tristan at 2 months. He probably finally might at least weight his birth weigh again. He went down to 4 pounds a few days after birth and it took him forever to gain it back. He was so little. Look at his little legs they aren't even as long as the buckle in between.

This is one of my favorite photos and Poem. Don't you just love my erasing skills LOL I always swore I would do this one over one day now that I know how to do things much better. I still might one day. Tristan is 14 months here

This is a really special LO for me. I am really sad to say that these photos no longer exist. They got deleted in the PC crash a few years ago. These are the first photo of Tristan walking. He was 16 months old. At least I have this but it's not printable because it is resized :( Don't you just love this bug kit. It was designed by Katrina Bosch. I am not sure who designed the Elements for the other layouts as I longer have them. They got deleted in the crash too.

Thank You Thursday

2008-11-13T07:07:00.000-08:00

I came across a blog I enjoy very much. LINK HERE This is where I found "Thank You Thursday" and I have decided to take part. I believe if I focus on what I have more often than on what I don't in general, I myself am a much happier girl. So here goes...
This week I am Thankful that I have my Mom. I am extremely thankful that she takes such good care of Dad. Some days it must be so challenging. Especially with the threat constantly lingering that he could die anytime now. She could loose her best friend for almost her entire life and she sure handles it so well. Not perfectly cause no-ones perfect. I am so grateful I have such a wonderful strong Mom. I hope when I grow up I can be half as strong as she is. I really enjoy our afternoons out shopping and having lunch. They are memories I will cherish forever. I am really happy My Mom fell in love with the same winter coat for Chanelle and since it was quite expensive decided to go half with me :)(don't worry there will be photos. gorgeous coat!) I am also thankful that Tristan spent a bit of time with his Aunts and Grandma so Chanelle and I could have Mother daughter day and make our own memories. Shopping, lunch and a Movie. It was fabulous. I didn't realize it but I really need to find a way to spend more one on one time with my girl!
I am thankful for the delicious lunch my friend Sue made for me. It was a great time. Just having another adult to chat with for a few hours was really nice. The fact she also has a little boy with Ds means she can totally relate to some of my thoughts and feelings. This is super cool!
I am also grateful for the 3 boxes of clothes my friend Heather gave Tristan. This is a huge help and takes alot of stress off me.
I am really excited my order from "Super Duper Publications" has arrived. Just knowing that my sweet guy has a few gifts for Christmas here and ready for opening is thrilling. I Love Christmas and seeing the kiddos opening their gifts. I can't wait!
I am Thankful for the 4 loaves of bread left on my doorstep the other morning. The bread Fairy came AKA Sharon. I have a friend that works at a bakery and leaves me little surprises from time to time.
I am thankful that even though Tristan is quite sick the past few days, he is ok. There was a time when for Tristan getting an everyday flu meant a week stay in the hospital on oxygen and nebulizer treatments every few hours. I am so happy to say he has a flu and will be fine at home with me and his Tylenol. I am really happy I no longer have to pin him down every few hours for those endless nebulizer treatments. I am holding onto the machine for a while longer just in case but seriously am considering donating it to a family that could use it to avoid extensive hospital stays.
I could go and on this week. I have had an amazing week and have so many wonderful people in my life. I am blessed and thankful for it.

Why do fevers always happen at night?

2008-11-13T05:44:00.000-08:00

This is what I did last night instead of sleeping I watched him sleep and Breath! Can you say Post Traumatic Stress much?

TREAT

2008-11-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

The kids had a great Halloween. We trick or treated with cousins and Raven. First we did our street then we headed to grandma's and did hers too. Something awesome happened this year. My littlest boy completely understood and loved it. Every last second. In the past he has always done the noodle (AKA the flop and drop) and ended up in the stroller. Not this year. He walked so nicely and held Mommies hand and took in all the people and costumes and it was wonderful. When people opened the door you'd hear the sweetest little voice say "TREAT". Alot of people took too long admiring how cute Tristan was so a few times he just helped himself to the candy put it in his bag and said "BYE" of course it was really hard not to laugh as I explained that this behavior is a little on the rude side :) I am a bit sad that my sweet little princess is no more. She wanted to be the killer from scream this year. What happened to princess, barbie, unicorns and pink Bunnies. My little girl is a Tomboy and a serial killer on top of it. I live on a crescent street and there are 5 children on my street the same age as Chanelle. So there are 6 of them out there running around every day. Well for the past 2 weeks we have had 6 serial killers playing hide and seek and riding scooters. They kinda reminded of the movie ET when they all have their costumes riding their bikes. They all chose a serial killer from a famous horror movie for their costumes. We had Freddy Kruger, 2 Jason's, Mike Myers, The clown from IT and of course my little scream killer. Craziness but I couldn't help laughing. I remember being that age and loved all things horror. The age of Innocence. Before the reality of what a Serial killer really is and means sets in

My Niece and Nephew "Captain feather sword" and "butterfly"

The sweet face behind the mask

The cutest Pirate ever!

BOOtiful girl and I Love my MUMMY

2008-10-31T07:19:00.000-07:00

The dark ugly depression cloud subsides. I battle with bouts of depression and it is no fun. I am so lucky it comes and goes and never stays forever. Fall is in the air and I love it! Best time of year to go for long walks. The leaves everywhere, the cool wind blowing. I love the smell of fall. Wonderful feeling to snuggle up on the sofa with some nice red wine and the scent of a candle in the air. I always say I love Spring the most but truthfully I love the fall. The only thing I don't like about it is I just know Winter is leering around the corner. Just push these ugly thoughts aside and take in the glorious fall. :)
The kids have been having alot of fun with all the Halloween festivities. We have been making crafts, cookies and did a huge pumpkin. Chanelle went pumpkin picking with her school but unfortunately her pumpkin was too rotten to carve. It exploded when we tried. Luckily my friend Andrew came by last week with a surprise gift of a pumpkin. It weighs 40 pounds so if anyone has any really good recipes for pumpkin please leave them for us.
I made this LO with Last weeks Friday Freebie @ Digital Freebies. It is designed by Little Mrs. Liz LINK HERE

The kids had fun modelling for me. Which was a blessing especially with Chanelle. She hasn't been much of a joy to photograph latley. I was very pleased and we all had fun. Here Tristan is checking to make sure sissy has her smile on lol He has recently become the everything police. He is in charge of making sure Chanelle follows the rules.

As you can see Chanelle had a blast cleaning out the Pumpkin

Unfortunately LIL Boy didn't want anything to do with it. Chanelle got a bit of pumkin gew on Baby and here is Tristan rescueing her. He was so upset he almost dove right off the table even though he knows how to get on and off via chair safely. Don't mess with his baby! As you can see by the look on his face he is not happy.

and here is our glorious Pumpkin for Fall 2008

Alot of Change

2008-10-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

I am not much of a blogger these days am I? Things have been going well. A few bumps in the road but nothing I couldn't manage. I decided to switch Tristan's Preschool. He is going to be getting one on one with the Educator at EI once a week then Mackay Centre once a week. My main concerns for Tristan right now are his speech and his listening skills. LOL He hears fine BTW! I decided that since I am already Tristan's Mom,Dad,nurse,educator etc...... I just didn't have the patience or the Emotional ability to also be his Aide. He will be going to kindergarten next fall and only then does he qualify for an aide. So instead of holding him back a year like I had planned I am going to go ahead with kindergarten. I did learn alot about Tristan in his 2 months of mainstream and am way more confident that I am making the right choice for kindergarten. I am sad he still doesn't qualify for an aide as he would do just fine in the Preschool if he had one but Mommy just can't be the aide. At least I gave it a try! I am pleased he will be back with his Educator at EI. She works really well with him and I have faith she will help him learn to comply. He really needs to learn that he has to follow directions from others. In his world Mom rules and he ignores everyone else. The preschool was an eyeopener for me. Mom won't be coming to kindergarten so learning to follow direction from others is crucial. Once summer rolls around Tristan will be old enough this year to qualify for an aide for Day camp. So I think this experience will help him get ready for kindergarten as well.

Halloween cookies

2008-10-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

The kiddos had a blast making cookies the other day!

Morph fun

2008-09-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

Made with Morpheus Photo Morpher

Look who we got to meet yesterday

2008-09-19T04:49:00.000-07:00

Laura and Aaron! I think Laura has been my bloggy friend for about 2 years. She has been a wonderful support for me and a cherished friend. I was so excited to get to meet her IRL yesterday. I have to say Mr. Aaron is even cuter in person. If you don't know them already you can check out her blog HERE

After lunch we went to the park and took some photos

I love this photo!

This is the best photo we got of us together Im hoping Laura got one with her entire face in it. It is interesting that we look alot alike. We could pass for sisters.

aww goodbye snuggles

I don't suck this week

2008-09-09T14:30:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce I got over my Blah Whaa poor me self and am back to my usual Happy self. Note to self "avoid blogging and speaking about your feelings while you have PMS. My awesome little boy just loves his preschool. He is quite unhappy about not going on the school bus. He pouts out his bottom lip every morning. He waves and says "bye bye Well" (Chanelle) "bye bye Cool Buff" (school bus)Yes my sweet guy is really beginning to talk so much he blows me away. The first few days in school I kinda attached myself to Tristan but today I stood back for most of the class and he did super! He stayed in circle time and participated. The Educators are both alot of fun and I think Tristan is already warming up to them. He was more interested in being in the kitchen with them during snack instead of sitting with all the kiddos. The one thing Tristan seemed to enjoy the most was the Choo Choo Train. When they transition from story time to circle time all the children join together like a train and Choo Choo over to the circle time Carpet. He was so cute and just loved it. It warmed my heart to see him enjoying himself with all the other kids. I am really happy I decided to make this transition. It has been a bit rough on me. I am still learning how to adjust to my New Normal. I love my New Normal but it didn't come with a Manual and there aren't as many experienced people that came before me to ask advice from so it can be rough going at times.
My Mom recently had surgery and is now Home and well. Believe me I am counting my blessings these days. The entire day Mom was in surgery until the minute she got home and I saw she was ok it was like I was holding my breath. Alot of things have been happening. Why does everything have to happen all at once? Two of my close friends have both lost their Moms to the Cancer Beast. I have mentioned many times on this blog that I never use the word hate and prefer to always say "I don't like" with one exception! I Hate Cancer! My Dad will go to have a CT scan this week. From what I can understand his Aneurysm needs to be removed ASAP as it is growing and at a dangerous size. Because of his age and current health the Dr's are concerned the surgery may be too evasive for him. My Dad and I had a long chat the other day and it left me feeling more at peace. He explained to me that as he has gotten older death has become less a scary thing. When someone dies now he more focuses on where they are going and who will be there to greet them. Where as most people focus on who they are leaving behind and how sad they are. I will be attending my second funeral this month on Saturday and hope and pray it will be the last one in a very very long time. It is really scary when alot of your same age friends all start loosing their parents. How do you respond when one of your lifetime best friends comes to you crying and says "I don't have any parents anymore" My heart is breaking for them. I just pray they can find some peace. I have been having some concerns with my own health. I did get some medication that has relieved alot of the abdominal bloating and pain I was experiencing. I will be having some tests done and hopefully it won't be anything too serious. I did find a small lump and will be having a biopsy on Oct 29th. I have a past history of precancer cells and think this is the same thing. That's what I am hoping and praying anyway. I have been way more exhausted then usual but I think it is just because it is an emotional time for me. So this explains my lack of photos and fun on my blog. I pulled out my rain boots and umbrella and am going to partying around it. It sure does rain when it pours though! I won't accomplish anything positive if I get depressed. Might as well dance in the rain!

Adventure in Mainstream has begun

2008-09-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

Tristan started Preschool yesterday. Although he has been going since before he turned 2 I feel as though yesterday was his first day. You see before he used to go to an Early Intervention (EI) preschool where every child had some sort of delay. He now is in a school where he is the only one with Developmental Delays. I have to start by saying everyone has been wonderful at the new school. I have spoke to many of the Moms and they have all been friendly and have made me feel welcome. Tristan absolutely loves it and is doing fantastic! I have been having a rough time. This new adventure has re-opened some old wounds. I find myself back in the hospital room with the Dr telling me my gorgeous baby boy has Down Syndrome. Back to the scariest place I have ever been. How can you love someone so much and feel so afraid and disappointed at the same time. The guilt of having such feelings is overwhelming. Then I just have to remind myself that I am human. It's ok to feel sad. It doesn't mean I love Tristan any less. It doesn't mean I want to change him. It just means that I am going through a rough spot. Tristan has taught me and given me so much in his 4 short years. I am blessed to have him. Today I didn't feel like being the Mom with the child that is different and I got scared and it hurt and I cried. You know what That's ok. I will tuck him into bed tonight kiss his little nose and Pray that God can give me the strength to be less selfish. That is what this is about. As humans we can all be selfish. So when my IRL peeps read this. Understand that I know Tristan will do awesome but I can't always be awesome I haven't felt this way in a very long time. It's just a transition side effect. :) Ok on with the photos..

Here he is with his Pillow for circle time. Diego of course

As you can see he had little time for a photo shoot he was really excited to get going

This is what happened after lunch. This child hasn't needed a nap in over a year. Guess this Mommy can have some reading time again YAY :)

Summers over :(

2008-09-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

This is Laura one of my best friends. We have been friends since we were young kids. She invited me to a Cabin for Labour Day weekend. We had a blast

The cabin

The view from the Cabin

We found this huge spider on the dock

They had a dress up trunk and the kiddos all had a blast

Princess Wooden shoes

nice glasses

Chanelle Brodie and Tyler

Mr Cute loves his boat

Nice way to end the summer. Popsicles lakeside :)

The Mother at the swings

2008-08-19T05:20:00.001-07:00

I have seen this all over the internet lately but haven't taken the time to sit down and read it in completion. This is something I can really relate to. Especially right now as the day quickly approaches for Tristan to begin his first day in a typical preschool. This is going to be our first time joining a group of all typical children. There are going to be 18 Mothers at the swings. You know when Tristan was born and I was told he had Down Syndrome, the first thing that flew to my mind was how hard it would be to have a child that is not accepted because he is different. I now know that there are tons of people out there with open hearts and minds and see Tristan for Tristan and have accepted him. Unfortunately I have crossed paths with many that are quite Ignorant. These people leave me feeling beaten and defenseless. I need to learn how to handle these type people better and not let them drag me down. This is well written and really hits home and has inspired me and given me the strength to walk through those doors on the first day. Well this and the support of family and friends. I have been feeling very alone on this journey lately. Silly me how could I forget that Tristan will be right there beside me. Thank you Vicki Forman!
Vicki Forman LINK HERE

The Mother at the Swings

by Vicki Forman

It's a Sunday afternoon. My nine-year-old daughter Josie is at home drawing cartoons with my husband and I'm swinging my six-year-old son Evan at the park. Evan laughs and giggles and with each wide arc of the swing, his smile grows ever larger. The mother next to me smiles herself and says, "Boy, he really loves that, doesn't he? I mean, kids just love to swing, don't they?"

Yes, I think, kids do love to swing. But the reason my son loves to swing isn't the same reason her daughter, in the swing next to us, loves to swing. My son loves to swing because he is blind and non-verbal, because he has what is termed "sensory integration dysfunction" and requires enhanced "vestibular input." Swinging gives my son the kind of stimulation other kids, those who can see and talk and run and ride a bike, get by simply being and doing.

And, yes, he also loves to swing because all children love to swing.

I smile back at this mother and I swing Evan higher and he laughs louder, his squeals of delight growing bigger with every push.

"He really loves to go high," the mother at the swings says. "He's not afraid at all."

"He's not afraid because he can't see," I say. "He has no idea how high he's swinging."

"Well, he must have other ways of knowing," she says. "Because he definitely loves it."

My son was born at twenty-three weeks gestation, weighing only a pound. His twin sister died four days after birth when we removed her from life support. Evan was hospitalized for six months and came home blind, with feeding difficulties, chronic lung disease and global developmental delays. Soon after that, he developed a serious seizure disorder and was on medication until his fourth birthday. He did not walk until he was five, still does not eat anything other than pureed baby food and formula from a cup, and has only a word or two -- variations on "muh muh" -- which he uses indiscriminately for "more" or "mama" or "open." I have watched my friends' newborns become toddlers and school-age children who can walk and laugh and talk and read, all while my son continues to function at the level of a two-year-old.

And yes, he has a beautiful laugh and a beautiful smile which grow only louder and wider on the swings.

When Evan was still in the hospital, a social worker gave us a handout, a road map for the potential reactions of friends and family members to our new status as parents of a super preemie. Potential support people came divided, according to the handouts, into the following categories: the rocks, the wanna-be-theres, and the gingerbread men. It warned us that people we might think were "rocks" could unexpectedly turn out to be "gingerbread men." Just like the story, they run, run as fast as they can from you when they hear of your baby's birth.

I quickly found that the guide was right, that I was supported by only one or two rocks, and that the rest of my friends and family members had become gingerbread men. As Evan's disabilities became more obvious, after he left the hospital and in the time that followed, I found new rocks and said goodbye to the gingerbread men. And I found a new category for the characters in the social worker's handout: the mother at the swings.

The mother at the swings wants to know. It's why she makes her observations, and why she pretends there is nothing different, nothing dissimilar about her child and mine. All kids love to swing. The mother at the swings would like for me to tell her what it's like, how my son is different, and how he is the same. She wants to know about the cane he uses, and the challenges of having a non-verbal child, and how I manage to understand my son and communicate. She'd like to ask, What does his future look like? And How are you with all this?

She wants to know but she doesn't know how to ask. And so she tells me that all kids love to swing.

~

It has taken me years to know what to say to the mother at the swings, and how to say it. To reveal the truth, graciously. To let her in and help her understand. To tell her that yes, all children love to swing, and my son loves to swing and the reasons are both the same and different. That it's hard to watch her daughter, with her indelible eye contact and winning smile, and not mourn for what my son can't do. That some days my grief over my son is stronger than my love.

It has taken me even longer to appreciate the mother at the swings, to know that she and I have more in common than I once thought. To know that her curiosity is a mother's curiosity, one borne out of love and tenderness and a desire to understand a child, my son, one who happens to be different. That she will listen and sympathize when I offer my observations. That her compassion and thoughtfulness mean she will take the knowledge I share and use it to understand other mothers like myself, some of whom could be her neighbor, her cousin, her sister, her friend. And, finally, that she wants to know so that she can teach her own child, who also loves to swing, how to embrace and treasure what makes us all different. And the same.

TROPIC THUNDER/WORDLESS WEDNESDAY /SPECIAL EXPOSURE WEDNESDAY

2008-08-12T17:02:00.001-07:00

Yes I blobbed all 3 into one post

This was going to be my Photo for this week. I often blog in advance if I have a boring evening and I know the next morning will be a busy one. I had this all picked out and tossed and turned all night. Yes this is how much the movie Tropic Thunder has upset me. It breaks my heart and makes me so sad and afraid. This is the world that I will one day soon have to send my precious, smart, sweet, wonderful little boy out into. A world that finds humour in someone Else's struggles. Well I change my mind. I owe it to my guy to not let them win. Instead of this being all I have to say today through photography. I am posting a bunch of photos I took of my guy, my educator that has taught me more in the past 4 years than any other person on Earth. He is a person that deserves respect just like you and I and he will leave his mark on this world! Oh yes he already has!!!
Look into these eyes and tell me you cannot see a person that deserves to be treated with respect

Spending time with Tristan is always a pleasure. He has brought new meaning to the phrase "Take time to smell the flowers." You know I never really got it before I met him.

Tristan has a cheeky little personality. He learns from his mistakes just like everyone else. The great thing about Tristan is he never holds a grudge and is forgiving. So don't worry he will forgive you for being so Ignorant and believing that your words don't hurt us. He might even forgive you if you don't care.

What's that Grandma I can't touch? It might break?

"Well Mom you always say Kisses make it better."
I wish more people could be this easy to be around!

When you use the word Retarded to describe something distasteful it really hurts people like me, my son and so many other people out there that deserve to be respected. Think before you speak and please think before you make a movie because the pain is unbearable! I have this wonderful guy and I am going to make sure he gets to do whatever it is he wants in life and I will fight for his respect every step of the way. He deserves it. Don't you think? After all he does have to work so much harder to accomplish small things alot of us take for granted. Tristan is only 4 years old but one day he will grow into a wonderful self advocate. If one day he wants to make up his own little sign and scream at the top of his lungs to demand respect. You'll see me standing there right beside him. Why? Because he is amazing! Until that day I guess I will have to be just a little bit louder than usual to be sure his voice is heard as well!

Tropic Thunder Protest

2008-08-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Try this Tuesday

2008-08-12T04:18:00.000-07:00

As you can see from my Magic Marker Monday post that Tristan is not a fan of coloring. It isn't something I push but something he must learn to love if he is going to learn to write. Tristan and I often use less traditional methods to express his creativity. His favorite one is the Popsicle/Jello painting.

I make our coloring Popsicles with just water. Although I have seen it done with juice especially good idea if your child is in need of extra nutrition and calories (this came in handy post T@A surgery) He then has a variety of colors of jello to choose from and dips his Popsicle in the jello and paints on the paper. I don't like my children to consume too much sugar so we don't do this everyday or anything. Usually on the weekend as a treat. This activity is fun and doubles up as an introduction to coloring and also good sensory stimulation. You have to know there will be alot of tasting of the Popsicle. :) Chanelle and I also enjoy this activity. Loads of fun and sweet!

Boycott Tropic Thunder

2008-08-11T16:11:00.000-07:00

In case you can't make it out, the caption on the poster says "Once upon a time... there was a retard"

My heart hurts. I can't believe anyone would find this movie funny. Here is a Petition I signed. I hope all my friends and family that read my blog will stand with me and sign this petition and help raise awareness. Sticks and stones will break my bones but words and names hurt way more!

The petition

"Tropic Thunder"is a big-budget, R-rated summer comedy made by DreamWorks/Paramoun t and directed and co-written by Ben Stiller, who also stars. The movie plot centers around a group of pampered actors who are lost in the jungle while making a war movie. Stiller's character, Tugg Speedman, is presented as a fading action hero who earlier failed in his bid for Oscar glory while portraying Simple Jack, a character with an intellectual disability. Speedman's portrayal of Simple Jack is featured as a movie within the movie.

A national coalition of disability advocacy groups has objected to the frequent use of the word "retard" in "Tropic Thunder" and its promotional materials. Early promotion of the film described Simple Jack as a "retard" and an elaborate DreamWorks marketing website that was taken down this week in response to complaints carried the tagline "Once upon a time ...There was a retard."

One scene that has been much discussed on the internet is the one in which Robert Downey Jr.'s character advises Stiller's character to "Never go full retard"

The term "retard" has been characterized by disability rights advocates as hate speech that heaps insult and possible harm on a group that has a long history of being stigmatized and vulnerable. They compare it with racial, ethnic and sexual epithets and stereotypes that have historically been used by majority groups to target and humiliate minority groups.

Studio executives have said the film is a comic satire intended to josh actors and the entertainment industry, not people with disabilities. They say the film plays broadly for laughs, offers equal offense to all groups, and is intended only as entertainment without a deeper subtext.

Stiller's performance as Simple Jack is visible in the film from beginning to end, and provides a critical plot point needed to advance the film to its conclusion. The plot involving Simple Jack, and Stiller's portrayal of the character, occupy close to 30 minutes of screen time. In character, Stiller speaks in a stilted, stuttering, adenoidal fashion, and wears overalls, bad false teeth and a classic institutional bowl haircut.

Number of repetitions of the word "retard" or its variations: At least 16 in the "full retard" scene alone, not counting the uses of words like idiot,âmoron,imbecile, stupid,dumb and the dumbest M*****F***** that ever lived.All are used to describe the character of Simple Jack, who is described in an introductory segment as a "mentally impaired farm hand who can talk to animals."

In a filmedtelevision report on Speedman's portrayal of Simple Jack, Stiller stutters in a stereotypical fashion through lines like "I've got a G-G-G-G-G-good brain" and "You M-m-m-m-m make me happy." The television interviewer (Access Hollywood's Maria Menounos) responds in a mocking tone, saying, "Can Speedman M-m-m-m-make audiences happy?"

In a conversation with his agent, played by Mathew McConaughey, Stiller's Speedman talks about his plans to adopt a child. "At least you get to choose yours," says the agent, looking sadly at a photograph of himself with a slack-faced teenaged boy who appears to have an intellectual disability. "I'm stuck with mine." (The teenaged boy turns up with his father on an airplane later in the movie, staring vacantly out the window.)

The "full retard" scene between Stiller's Speedman and Robert Downey Jr.'s Kirk Lazarus is more extensive than the clip distributed on the internet. Among the lines not included in the Internet version:

Stiller: You know, it was an intense experience, you know? I just did the work. I watched a lot of retarded people, spent time with them,observed them, watched all the retarded stuff they did ; In a weird way, I had to free myself up to believe that it was okay to be stupid or dumb.

(Exchange with Downey Jr.) To be a moron. to be moronical. To be a moron. To be an imbecile. To be the dumbest M**** F***** that ever lived; Stupid ass Jack.

Stiller is made to re-enact Simple Jack to entertain his captors, and dons a coconut wig, improvised overalls and borrowed dentures to act the part. When he doesn't perform the way they like, they hit him and say "more stupid."

The link to sign the petition is HERE

Magic Marker Monday

2008-08-11T10:45:00.000-07:00

This week I have photos of Tristan and his new triangular Crayons that promote Tripod grasp. I ordered them from Super Duper Publications LINKHERE
Unfortunatley my Camera isn't working so great these days. So the photos are a bit blurry.
He is adjusting the crayon here

OK all set up ready to colour

I have to be honest Tristan is not in Love with these crayons but I am hoping they will grow on him. He has a hard time to keep his fingers in this position for long and looses interest fast. As you can tell by his sweet drawing.

BTW the 2 dark lines you see I did to encourage Tristan to use the crayons. If you click the photo it will enlarge then you can see his little light lines that he made :) It's a start

Princess can have stitches too

2008-08-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

Chanelle's Stitches are healing well. We went to have them removed yesterday as prescribed but the Dr didn't feel she was ready. He wanted her to have them for at least 5 extra days just to be sure. It was a good thing because she popped one. Chanelle asked the Dr if she was allowed to swim and run and he told her it would be fine. I didn't think it was good advice but did allow her to go to daycamp. When I picked her up she was bleeding and one of her stitches had popped and came out. Needless to stay I have decided Chanelle will remain house bound until these stitches come out. Chanelle's Dad and her Aunty Cindy ordered her flowers and balloons as a surprise and she was very excited. When the delivery guy brought the flowers in Tristan started singing happy birthday it was the cutest thing ever! My Mom also came by and brought Chanelle a get well fairy. Chanelle collects fairies. Then she took her home with her and they made Strawberry Shortcake together. Lucky Little girl has so many people that love her and she really felt it this week. The constant phone calls of friends and family checking in on her have made her feel so special. I have been having nightmares. Ever since Chanelle had her first seizure and we almost lost her I periodically had episodes of nightmares. Always the same idea either Chanelle is hurt or missing. I hope my mind can rest at ease and these nightmares will subside. The three of us are all sleeping in the same bed again. *SIGH They will sleep in their own rooms in their own beds one day. One day very soon!
Here are some photos of my wounded Princess. I was disappointed with the photos of the flowers most of them turned out blurry. I so need a new camera!

Everyone Poops takes a bath

2008-08-01T05:27:00.000-07:00

This is Tristan's favorite book ever! He reads this book several times a day. Tristan never used to enjoy being read to. He always wanted to look through his books independently. He used to get angry if asked to point at things. Reading his books was just something he wanted to enjoy alone. Everyone Poops changed all that. He is more than happy to sit on my knee and have me read this over and over. Guess what? He even points out all the Poops for you. I have to admit the first time I read this book I couldn't help but laugh ALOT! Unfortunately Tristan loves this book so much he decided to drag it into the bath when I wasn't looking. Guess we are going to have to get a new one :)Hey maybe they sell them waterproof!

WARNING PHOTOS AHEAD MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME VIEWERS!

2008-07-30T22:22:00.001-07:00

Everyone blogs for different reasons. I blog for several. One of the main ones is to build a virtual scrapbook for my children. I blog about the good the bad and now the ugly. One day we will sit around talking about a rather large scar and how it came about and we will have photos too. Chanelle got her first stitches tonight. Really nasty and yes of course I have photos. She fell running on Gravel rock and really ripped her knee open. No Idea how many stitches because I was so busy holding her down and convincing her the Dr was STILL cleaning her wound as he stitched. Also freaking because she is behind on the tetinus. Now I'm SUPER freakin because she got one. Chanelle has had severe reactions to vaccinations in the past. Severe as in a 90 minute seizure. One little girl will be sleeping with Mommy. My Mom has Tristan again. Anyway it took 8 hrs before she was taken in to be seen. Everyone pray Chanelle stays seizure free!! I'm so afraid! UGH!!! I am counting my blessings. I have a Mom that rushed right over to get Tristan I have an awesome friend Laura that came and drove us I have a wonderful sister that offered to come over and I have another wonderful friend Wendy that came and helped me sooth and hold Chanelle down and talk to her. Now we have to follow through with our promises. Chanelle was upset she is going to miss Halloween day at daycamp tomorrow. So Wendy and I promised we would all dress up and play Wii HEHE good times :)

On Vacation

2008-07-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

From the internet that is. Im a single Mommy and have tons to do around the house. The one man/women show needs to focus! I am addicted to blogging and will miss it so much BUT Once September hits and I become a one on one aide 4 days a week I will have zero time to do anything. Time to get painting etc.... Beaches and camping and and and......... I'll be back with photos :) Hope you all have the most amazing August!!!

SPECIAL EXPOSURE WEDNESDAY and WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2008-07-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

Chanelle and I had Mommy/daughter day and spent it at La Ronde AKA Six Flags. We decided to pick up Tristan a little gift while we were there. Tristan spent the day and night with Grandma and Grandpa. Lucky boy he had them all to himself. This is what he got. Can't choose just one. WARNING severe cuteness alert! I can barely handle it.

In this photo he is actually saying the word "candy" He's been signing it for a few years but he actually said it YAY!!

Try this Tuesday

2008-07-29T05:43:00.000-07:00

Ok I just love this. I have read a few of the other ladies ideas and they have been really helpful. This is the greatest idea ever. Whoever came up with TTT thankyou thankyou thankyou. One thing I have learned since Tristan was born is if you need to ask a professional ask a Mom :)
Ok so mine for this week is about Lite Brite and play dough. Tristan uses Lite Brite to help with his fine motor skills. (also because it's fun. Fun and therapy doesn't get much better than lite brite) The only problem is Tristan gets too frustrated when he gets the peg backwards and it doesn't fit and then he gives up. So what I do to prevent this and set him up for success is I place the pegs in a clump of play dough so when he picks it up it is always facing the right way. Tristan loves his Lite brite now :)
Did you know there is online Lite Brite? LINKHERE Chanelle really had fun with this.

Magic Marker Monday

2008-07-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

This is my first week for Magic Marker Monday. I recently discovered 5 minutes for Special needs and this is what they do for Mondays over there. I just love doing these!
Tristan has loathed anything that had to do with colouring up until recently. Today when I was visiting my parents we pulled out the markers and paper and Tristan got right to work making me some art. As you can notice Tristan is Ambidextrous just like his Momma. I do have to admit I notice he favors his right hand for colouring but does have a tenancy to switch when he gets tired.
Now I just have to show these to OT so we can figure out how to get Tristan to hold the marker correctly. Anyone know where I can order those plastic thingy's you put on the pencil that forces proper pencil holding?

Reeces Rainbow Montage

2008-07-27T04:50:00.000-07:00

I wasn't aware that some Provinces in Canada do not allow international adoption? I am not going to get into my views on Canada's Immegration laws. Let's just say I am shocked that they would deny a young child. They let everyone else in WOW!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Word of the Weekend

2008-07-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

"GUCKY" also known as Yucky. Yup this is Tristan's newest word. Doesn't get much cuter than Tristan. I so need a video camera!

I cream

2008-07-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

The photo my Mom took that I used for my Wednesday photo. It is taken in Dairy Queen. Tristan usually blogs with me and today is no different than usual. I showed him his photo and he turned and looked at me and said "I cream" He kinda sounded like Max from the TV show Max and Ruby. He keeps repeating it even as I am typing. Music to my ears. Tristan was the silent child up until recently. Everytime he says something new my heart soars. He has the sweetest little voice ever and I am the happiest Mom on the planet right now :) OK were off to get some I Cream.

My friend Nicole @ All 4 my gals posted this

2008-07-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

LINK HERE If you haven't already I encourage you to go by. Nicole has 4 beautiful girls and is one of my favorite inspirations. This You tube is So amazing So inspirational So a must see!

Shut up about your perfect kid

2008-07-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

This is the next book I'm going to read.There is web site and it seems really interesting. LINK HERE
I have a feeling this book may be seriously funny. Has anyone read it?

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY and SPECIAL EXPOSURE WEDNESDAY

2008-07-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

My Mom took this photo and I chose it because I just love my sons eyes. He has the most beautiful Brushfield spots. They shine like diamonds.

If you want to see more photos or participate click the photo.

Potty update

2008-07-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

I am happy to say that Tristan is doing really well. He hasn't begun going into the bathroom on his own but is cooperating well and going pee just about every time now. I think it will be a while before he gets the number 2 down though. He just refuses to go near the potty or toilet with that. Well at least not before he goes. It's always fun to reach in your underwear and throw it in the toilet and flush it. Yes this is what he has been doing. He is very shy about the number 2 and sneaks away when he needs to go and even tries to flush it and hide it from me. So I have decided to not make a big deal over it. You have to start somewhere right?

Numb

2008-07-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

That's the only word to describe how I feel. Things are finally going awesome with myself and my 3 kiddos BUT Now other things are crazy. My Dad is 84 years old and we have known for a while that he has an anurism. The surgery required to remove it is aggresive. The Dr wanted to wait on surgery out of concern that my Dad may not survive the surgery. The sad time has arrived. The anurism has grown to the size that if he doesn't have the surgery it will definately burst and likely kill him. Damned if he does and damned he doesn't. Over the past year I have been prepping to say goodbye because I was aware it could have burst at anytime anyway. I just realized I could have prepped my entire life and never would be ready to say goodbye. Thank God I have faith and have been good enough in this life and believe that I will be welcomed in heaven. So it isn't a forever goodbye right? Maybe he will live for another 10 years. :) That could happen too he is tough. I have to be prepared though. My Dad and I have a bond that is very unique. I can tell him anything. I don't really reveal my true inner self to anyone. There are two. My dad and my Jody. The only two people on the planet that I feel really understand me. My Dad is the guy I go to when I am at my lowest. He knows all and has given me the best advice (too bad I didn't always take it lol) Anyway I feel like I am holding my breath. I am keeping busy.
Also My Mom. Greatest Mom any girl could want. She needs a bladder surgery soon too. When I found out I was ok with it because it is a day surgery and she is the toughest chick I know. But now Dad's surgery is more important and hers may need to be postponed so she can be there for him. Also one of my Mom's best friends (and one of my dearest friends Mom) has been very ill and diagnosed with lung and spinal cancer and it isn't looking so good for her. My heart is breaking for my Mom she has too much. Mom if your reading this please stop worrying about me I'm good. A good way to describe my mom. Taken from the movie Steel magnolias "I never have to worry because my Mom worries enough for the both of us" or something like that. Yea that's my Mom. I am writing all this out because I don't express myself well emotionally and blogging is therapy. It really is. I love all my blog friends and am so happy I have you and if you read all this YOU RAWK!!! God Bless You. Please Pray for us.

Pool fun

2008-07-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

Somebunny sleeps with his baby

2008-07-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

Tristan has kind of adopted one of Chanelle's dolls. He carries it around alot. Gives her hugs and kisses and says "Aww baybay bee" He shares his food with her and occasionally colours with her (or on her is more accurate LOL) Tristan also has a new snuggle buddy.

Why is she so happy

2008-07-14T18:02:00.000-07:00

Chanelle received a package from puralator. It was some gifts from Daddy. Guess what she got? Something she has wanted for quite some time now

She got her Wii

and a really pretty necklace

Thanks Daddy! You made our girl very very happy!
Here is a must see video so hilarious!!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Justin and Lee Ann

2008-07-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

I don't write about my oldest child (Justin) too often. My blog really should be called Justin, Chanelle and Tristan. Since Justin lives on the other side of Canada and we don't get to see one another, there just isn't a whole lot of current affairs to discuss. Justin will be celebrating his first anniversary with his girlfriend Lee Ann. I haven't had the chance to meet Lee Ann yet but hope to this summer. Yes that's right there is a chance Justin will be coming for a visit this summer. Here is a photo of Justin and Lee Ann. Lee Ann Graduated this year. Aren't they the cutest couple ever? Thank goodness for facebook. Thanks to Lee Ann I now get to see recent photos of Justin and get to know her a little bit at least. Sometimes Geography sucks :( I miss Justin so much and really am looking forward to the day we live close again.

Miss Bliss

2008-07-12T06:44:00.001-07:00

The kit used to make this layout is "Scarlett Embroidered Doll kit" Designed by Blushbutter. The kit can be found HERE

The great English Nanny blog

2008-07-10T05:43:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across a wonderful resource on my google adventures.LINK HERE It is a blog full of advice and resources for parents. I have only read up on all the potty learning stuff on there but definitely plan on returning to explore some of the other topics.
Here is quote that I have read before but saw it on the The great English Nanny blog and thought I'd share it here

How to Treat your Child
Don’t spoil me. I know quite well I ought not to have all I ask for. I’m only testing you.
Don’t be afraid to be firm with me/ I prefer it. It makes me feel more secure.
Don’t let me form bad habits. I need you to detect them at an early stage.
Don’t correct me in front of people if you can help it. I’ll take more notice if you talk quietly with me in private.
Don’t make me feel my mistakes are sins. It upsets my sense of values.
Don’t protect me from consequences. I need to learn the painful way sometimes.
Don’t be upset when I say ’I hate you’. I say it when I hate myself.
Don’t take too much notice of my small ailments. Sometimes they get the attention I need.
Don’t nag. If you do, I’ll have to protect myself by appearing deaf.
Don’t forget I can’t express myself as well as I’d like to. That’s why I’m not always very accurate.
Don’t make rash promises. I feel let down when promises are broken.
Don’t tax my honesty too much. I’m easily frightened into telling lies.
Don’t tell me that my fears are silly. They’re terribly real – you can help if you try to understand.
Don’t put me off when I ask questions. If you do, you’ll find that I stop asking and seek my information elsewhere.
Don’t think it’s ever beneath your dignity to apologize to me. An honest apology makes me feel surprisingly warm towards you.
Don’t ever suggest that you’re perfect or infallible. It gives me too great a shock when I discover you are neither.
Don’t forget I love experimenting. I couldn’t get on without it. Please put up with it.
Don’t forget I can’t survive without lots of understanding love. Spend time getting to know who your children really are remember they will only be children for such a short time.

Adventures in Potty Learning

2008-07-09T15:37:00.000-07:00

Guess what! Tristan is 100% using the toilet and hasn't had wet unders for the entire week. HAHA Ya right. A girl can dream. I think Tristan is doing quite well though. I did break down and started using pull ups a few days ago. Only because I didn't have the right underwear and couldn't deal with all the little puddles. I did go to the Mothership (aka Wallmart) and My Mom and I bought every single pair of the training soaker unders and as of tomorrow it will be back to pull ups only at bed. When we go out I put a pullup OVER his underwear so he still feels when he urinates and prevents him from getting the idea that it is a free for all. At the same time keeps his car seat dry. One of my most favorite things about Tristan is that he is a child who really really loves to be praised and aims to be pleasing. This characteristic alone may be the key to getting him using the toilet independently. I am finding he only urinates in very small amounts and very frequently. I plan to discuss this with the Dr because it concerns me that maybe he isn't emptying his bladder properly. I have a friend whose child has this problem and it went undiagnosed until he was about 18 and he now has risk of going into Renal failure his Kidneys are very swollen and have been for a long time. He has to use a bladder scanner to ensure he is emptying enough. Anyway I am not a pro and have no idea how much a little guy like Tristan should be peeing so it is worth mentioning just to be safe. Maybe this has something to do with his digestive issues. Tristan had a swallow study and it showed he digests way slower than he should. Assuming his bladder is fine and this is how he pees it makes for a long road for the potty learning. He has to go every 15 minutes. Sometimes he resists though and flat out doesn't want to sit at all. I am not being pushy at all. I find if I go into the bathroom and sit on the toilet he is happy to sit on his potty and has more success. When he is successful and actually urinates in the potty you should see him celebrate. His eyes light up and he jumps up and shouts "HURRAY PEE" My little boy is so proud of himself. He may be taking a little longer to learn to do this but he is learning and I couldn't be any happier. Who cares if it takes a week, a month, a year, 10 years. He is trying and we get to celebrate every single success. Another thing about Tristan that I really love is he helps me to appreciate the little things. Just seeing his sweet little smile and how proud he is of himself when he is successful makes my heart soar and whether or not he is toilet trained completely anytime soon Just doesn't seem so important anymore. Thanks again baby boy you just keep teaching me.

Purpose Driven life

2008-07-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't gotten my book back from the neighbor yet I signed up for a daily newsletter from Purpose Driven Life. It is a daily devotional. Todays letter reminded me of something that I need to focus on better. Patience. Here is todays

Patience with Imperfection
by Jon Walker

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2 (NIV)

*** *** *** ***

Today’s guest devotional is by Jon Walker –

Humorist Dave Barry says, “A perfect parent is a person with excellent child-rearing theories and no actual children.”

The same could be said of a perfect world or a perfect family; there’s only one way to mess things up: People!

Living with imperfect people requires patience, and you – now I say this as a friend – are one of the imperfect people who requires patience! Unfortunately, I’m an imperfect person too.

Patience means putting up with me when you’d rather lose your temper; it means forgiving me when you’d rather nurture a grudge.

In addition, patience is a muzzle on a mouth full of murmurs that are passed along as prayer requests. Patience puts the long in long-suffering. Patience is love in action because “love is patient” (1 Corinthians 13:4 NIV).

Patience and a critical spirit are mutually exclusive. Even when your complaints are justified, patience pushes and pulls you toward forgiving and forgetting: “A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense” (Proverbs 19:11 NIV).

Being patient may try our patience, but we become stronger when we learn to love imperfect people. Patience frees us to develop godly diversity in our relationships, where we no longer require everyone to act and look and think the same way we do.

If you would like to subscribe for the daily devotional
LINK HERE

Art class

2008-07-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

Aww how cute your pets are watching you colour (Mom receives dirty look) Why do those two get to sit closer ("They are having their art class DUH!") LOL Excuse Moi I did not know!

I finally chose the day!

2008-07-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

TODAY..........

Last night we did a home sleep test. It went ok. He sat with his bottom lip out for about 2 hours before he would go to sleep. I felt horrible but this needed to be done. He really was upset having to have his toe all taped up. Tristan's SATS were sitting at 99 awake and 95-97 asleep. Not too bad considering they were dipping in the 70's and 80's before he had his Adenoids and tonsils out and palette shaved. Things went so well I decided that today is the day. Tristan wore his last diaper in my Mom's car to return the monitor to the hospital. He has had 3 potty successes and one accident so far. I am feeling maybe this won't be as hard as I thought :) Mind you I have only been at it for 3 hours. LOL Tristan loves his new big boy unders Grandma. So far only Thomas has had a shower but Diego is still safe HEE HEE He keeps going back and forth between the big potty and the little one. I am leaving it up to him to decide.

Look at the you tube a friend sent me today. I have been reading this book for months now. I had no idea there was a video. Tristan loves it YAY another tool.

and here is the song

Oh my there sure is alot of stuff for T to watch on you tube for Potty learning. We have loads of inspiration now.

This is Tristan's fav we have this DVD

ok one more this one had me LOL "Super Duper pooper"

What do you think

2008-07-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

I have decided to blog about my adventures in potty learning. I think if I write about it everyday and get feedback and encouragement it will help me to stick with it and stay on track and not throw in the towel. I have been on this adventure a few times before and it has to be said "It has been my least favorite part of raising young children" I dreaded it both times and have really been anxious about the day I seriously begin this journey with Tristan. Once I get started there is no going back. I don't believe in Pull ups. It's going to be cold turkey bye bye diapers except at bed. I have been told by OT and our educator that once I start I need to stick to it and not go back to diapers because it sends the message that giving up is ok and just sets us back. This is why I have been waiting. I have wanted to be sure he was ready. Now the question is am I ready? All that is left to do is pick the day. Hmm I have 4 diapers left. Should I go get the nightime pullups and not pick up any diapers. I dunno I'll see in the morning. We are doing his in home sleep test tonight. Thankfully the alarm is shut off and I won't have to reset the thing all night long. Maybe Tristan will surprise me and maybe he will catch on and it will be a breeze. *SIGH What do you all think? Should I make it a private only viewable by friends& family? Is it appropriate to blog publicly about this adventure? Half the reason I blog is to show others how wonderful Tristan is. How he is more the same as the typical child than differant. I do my best to be completely honest. I try hard to not only show the sweet side of raising a child with special needs. There are good things and bad things just like parenting all children. What if someone reads about Tristan's potty adventures and is inspired. Maybe our adventure can help someone else. I mean Potty learning is something that most parents will have to go through. It's a normal everyday fact of life. Let me tell you Right about now I'm wishing someone else had a potty blog that I could visit daily. I love parenting but this is the one thing I really wish I could just say "I'm not going to do this one". Let me know what you think. Comment here or email me thanks :) Oh and if anyone out there that has a child (especially a boy) and has any advice please feel free to share :)

Summers here

2008-07-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Neglected blog! we are busy! My car broke down a while back and I still haven't bought a new one. This means less time to do what I usually do. Walking is way time consuming but it is kinda nice too. We are literally taking time to smell the flowers. In all honestly once I get a new car I will never go for a walk. LOL Well might drive somewhere nice to go for a walk. Like St Annes or a beach. With all the walking I am doing you would think I would be loosing weight. Umm no this proves my theory that walking is overrated and not a suitable activity for weight loss. I'm going to stick to my step class and Turbo Jam.
Chanelle is in day camp again this summer. She is loving it. She likes her "guy" aka "camp counselor". Yes when I was dropping her off the second day her counselor came over to say hello and as he approached she informed me "That's my guy" hehe Yes when I picked her and her friend up at the end of camp they both giggled and talked about the counselor all the way home. They are 9. When I asked them if they thought he was cute they both giggled and Chanelle said "No he's just fun to bug" I know one Momma (me) that is going to have her hands full throughout Chanelles teen years. Can't wait! She came home yesterday a little mad at him apparently he called her lemon girl all day. She was dressed all in Yellow. I told her it was cute and her response was "Yea once but annoying like crazy all day long" Chanelle has my sense of humour and really doesn't like to be teased. Chanelle has gone to do laser tag today with the camp. It is her first time I wish I could have gone so we could have a photo. I am looking forward to hearing all about it.
Tristan and I are enjoying our days together. We have been having picnics and swimming and playing in the park. Tristans speech is really taking off. Everyday he says new things and keeps surprising me. He is counting to ten really well now. He also has the cutest version of "Patty cake" I will try and catch him on video. There aren't words to express the emotions. My heart soars every time Tristan reaches a new Milestone. Never imagined myself praising my child excessively because he said the word "Poop" LOL Now when the day comes that he learns to use the toilet (and he will) I think I will break down and cry my face off with tears of joy. We talk about it all the time and we watch Elmo's potty time every morning. My neighbors must think we are crazy because Chanelle and I both sing along too. One bad thing about summer "open windows" LOL If you haven't seen Elmo's Potty time you must get it. So Hilarious! There is even a girl on the DVD that has a little something extra.
I am in a bit of a creative slump. Haven't even taken any photos. Not sure why but hopefully it will pass. Maybe it is the exhaustion from all this walking. HA

Wordless

2008-06-26T04:41:00.000-07:00

Heavy MTL Festival

2008-06-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the Heavy MTL festival. I didn't go for the entire weekend because I just couldn't be away from my kiddos that long but I did make it for Sunday. My favorite band of all time (Motley Crue) played and I had the time of my life. Luckily one of my bestest friends ever (Andrew) Had a security pass and got moi in for free YAY Andrew Rawks!! I didn't get great photos it was kinda hard with the gazillion people, bright lights and being hosed down every couple minutes was hard on the camera LOL
Here is the best one I got Vince Neil. He sure has gotten himself back into shape. Looking good Vince :)You have inspired me if you can get back into those hot pants I am going to work harder to try and get back into mine.

Enchanted Forest digital scrapbook kit

2008-06-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for the perfect kit for years for this photo. Chanelle is 3 years old and this is her first ballet recital costume. I used the Enchanted forest page kit from catscrap designed in collaboration by madam min and milla designs. with a special gift (moss) from Dawn Vander Stoep, createwings. I am so in love with this kit. LINK HERE

Time for RK's random questions

2008-06-17T19:28:00.001-07:00

The Random Questions process
~Choose one or all of the questions to answer.
~Either respond with a comment to this post with your answer or put up a post on your own blog for a full response.
~Don't forget to include any funny or interesting story to illustrate your answer in action.
~Be sure to leave a comment on this post to let us know where to find your post so we can come check it out!

This round is starting at the beginning again... just plain old random.

1. Are you a snapshot or portrait person? Let's see your current favorite pic!
I am a snapshot girl. I used to be the Portrait queen before I discovered digital scrapbooking. This is my fav photo right now. It is the last photo taken of all 3 of my kiddos together. So sad it was Christmas 2005 last time we saw Justin. We miss him so much :(

2. What's the craziest thing you did last month? (You define crazy for yourself.)
I have a hard time remembering last night so I will write about something that happened this month :) Going into a burned and water damaged apartment building with only 20 minutes to help a friend throw her salvagable items of all she has left in material in garbage bags is likley one of the craziest things I have EVER done. Pure adreneline. The security people were literally standing breathing down our necks saying things like hurry you have 3 minutes left UGH like it was some kind of gameshow and not a traumatized women and child trying to grab their valuables.

3. What is your current must-have food or drink?
I am addicted to salad with roasted chicken on top and ranch dressing

4. What is the last movie you saw and what did you think? Give us a review and rating.
I can't remember the last time I actually sat down and watched a movie. However when I clean house I often have either Grease, Highschool musical or Hairspray on. I love all 3 these are my fav movies couldn't even tell you how many times we have watched them.

Wonderful You

2008-06-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

I have had my eye on this kit for a while now. Once I took this photo I knew I just had to buy it. So I splurged (it was on sale how lucky) and bought myself a few new kits the other day. I just love this photo and this kit is so much fun. I will be able to do so much with it. The kit is called "BathFun" and was Designed by Verena Karolyi You can find it HERE

Apple of Grandma's Eye

2008-06-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

I made this LO with a photo my Mom took. Great shot Mom! I used the "bit of my heart" Kit made by Retrodiva that I bought at Digital freebies. LINK HERE

Dinner for Father's Day

2008-06-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

We went to a nice Chinese Buffet with my parents for dinner on Father's Day. The past week and a half feels like a huge blur it was nice to go out and do something normal.
Here are a few photos from Father's Day. Mom next time we have to remember to get you in the photo. I am happy we all agreed to go to this buffet. My children just love this place. Tristan is in love with their fried chicken. This time we got to sit beside the fountain full of huge fish so Chanelle was thrilled. Tristan on the other hand didn't take much notice he was too busy eating chicken LOL

Therapy

2008-06-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

Yes after this weekend I just may need some. The tenants on the front of the building on the bottom floor and a few on the front second were able to go in their apartments. Each tenant had 20 minutes and were allowed to bring 2 people with them to help bring stuff out that was salvageable. I have never seen anything like this in my life it was so horrible. The floor was all up and water everywhere black soot covering everything. Just imagine the worst it could be then make it million times worse UGH! My friends daughter who is 14 said all she cared about was getting her stereo out. The poor girl. We weren't allowed to move any big furniture and the plugs needed to be unplugged behind the wall unit. I could here her in her room screaming and struggling to figure out a way to get to the sockets without moving the furniture. I shouted out to her uncle who went in to help her and luckily he was able to free her precious stereo. Now will it function we don't know yet. We didn't get much we only had 20 minutes but what we did get looks pretty good. I have been doing laundry solid and with vinegar and baking soda the stuff doesn't smell all that bad but not all that good either. On Saturday we will be going back to see what else we can get out of there. My other friends Mom finally managed to get all her cats out safely. This Women loves Animals and for her to leave a Cat would be comparable to me leaving one of my kids behind. I am so relieved she got them all. One of my friends that lives in the back lost everything as did most of the building. We have been searching and haven't had any luck finding my girlfriend Wendy a new home yet. Not even anything for the first of July forget for Immediately. UGH When I moved to Montreal I was homeless for 2 months and stayed with my Mom and the Anxiety. I can't imagine how she feels or any of these victims. The guy that started the fire was in ICU last I heard with burns to 80% of his body and not likely to make it. I hear it was too windy to light the BBQ outside so he thought he'd bring it in and unscrewed the propane tank. OUCH

Here is a video of the fire

2008-06-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE