Life - Not just a cereal anymore!

A princess party

2009-03-08T14:35:00.006-06:00

Libby was invited to a princess birthday party for her friend Caitlyn, who also has Down syndrome and is turning 5. I think this was our first actual party that Libby was invited to that wasn't family, so I was excited to see how she did.

We were told to dress in a princess dress or party dress so all the girls showed up absolutely adorable!! Thank you to Emily Ann for giving us so many adorable dresses to choose from - as you can see, we chose the Cinderella dress. Libby did very well with the others, took part in the tea party (except I didn't give her any tea), loved the dance party, and the ice cream cake - only one issue where Libby "helped" by opening one of the gifts when she broke free. All in all, it was a GREAT time!!!

Here are some pictures of my little princess:

Dancing the Chicken Dance:

The tea party

What, No Tea?? Just because I can't drink out of an open cup yet?????

Libby and Chris

Our "almost" 7 year old!!!

A fun evening with friends

2009-02-09T13:31:00.008-07:00

Scott and I used to chaparone some high school trips right when we were married (he did it for years before as well).

There were a set of sisters that we got to know and just adored - we had gone to school and were friends with their older brother.

We were able to get together with Deidre, her Mom, Karen and Deidre's adorable little baby Alexis (Andy was out of town). We haven't seen each other for about 3 years (Deidre came to Libby's baby shower, and then moved to California and back to Denver during those years).

Here are pictures of Deidre and her sister Kali holding an infant Christopher:

Also, some pictures from Saturday night:

I don't know what it is, but Chris just LOVES playing with babies -- and that Libby's just kept hugging poor Alexis!!

It was nice having "Grandma Karen" here as well!!

Look at this smile! Just Beautiful!!!

Christmas Pictures 2008

2009-02-06T14:02:00.007-07:00

I'm a little delinquent, but I'm gettin' them up before Valentine's Day!!! Here are some pictures from our trip to Omaha this past Xmas -- what a GREAT trip it was - honestly, one of the better years!!!

Picture of Chris being COOL (not that he even has to try!!)

Both kiddos on Santa's lap!!

Christmas morning - the chaos begins!!!

Chris being a "goof"

Here's a picture of Scott with Barbee - I had made her a quilt out of the boys' old baby clothes that she can use with the grandkids!!!

Picture of Libby playing with Chris' drum machine -- I think she might like it better than him!!!

Picture of the 4 Davis grandkids

The best part -- Chris had gotten a Steve Spangler Coke/Menthos kit in his stocking and he and Grumpa Marty took it behind their house to set it off. The geyser was HUGE (click on the picture to see it bigger) -- the cutest part was when he wanted to "try it again" and it didn't work the 2nd time (with the same Coke & Menthos) -- science at it's best!!!!!

I'm just stunned......

2009-02-05T20:17:00.002-07:00

So, I barely have enough time in the day to do the things I need to do (taking care of kids, etc.). Today (and tomorrow), Chris is off of school for conferences -- he seems to be off at least a day a week for the next 4 weeks -- that should be against the law!!!

Anyway, I am always rushing to get stuff done so I have those magic hours between 8-10 p.m. for ME. The kids are in bed and I try to have everything done so I can read, watch TV, or whatever I want to do.

I started this blog quite a while ago and really do try to keep up with it. (I'll try to get those Xmas pics posted before Valentines day!!) My dear, sweet husband turned me on to twitter - I'm kimdavis99 - and now, gosh darn it, I'm on facebook. I've got something like 50 blogs that I keep up with, and now here I am finding friends from high school, my wonderful Down syndrome world, and now, I've been finding amazing friends from my time at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln - in the marching band. Those were some of my favorite years of my life and I've thought of these folks often, even "Googled" them, but most of the time, I get kicked off the computer by my 6 year old.

Here it is - 8:25 p.m. - and I'm at the computer just stunned at the people that I've hooked up with during the last few days. Now, I'm going to have to start digging out the old photos and getting them scanned in - Like I've got time for that!! :)

Lots to do, as usual, but for now, I'm heading back to facebook and will look thru my youth!!!

GREAT news!!

2009-01-30T10:18:00.002-07:00

I know, I know, I've been VERY delinquent in my blog posting -- We had a week in Omaha for Xmas and the kids got sick from there and Libby just recovered from pneumonia, so I'm back.

Do you remeber this post and this post????

WELL, we thought we would be going to arbitration to settle on the van - I heard from the insurance company today and we found out that we are being held 0% responsible and will be getting 100% of our deductible back - woo hoo!!!

Before we had gotten the van, we had two 5-year old cars, so we had increased the deductible as they were both paid off. When we bought the new van, we kept the same deductible without thinking about it. Ironic enough, the bank that held the loan for the van had sent us a letter while we were on vacation that the deductible was too high and it had to be lowered for them to keep the loan.

Nothing like having to pay $5k last summer in order to start the process and get us a 2nd new van.

BUT, with the suck-y economy, it sure will be nice to get that $5k check back!!!

Woo Hoo!! It's a good day!!

We've been assigned a group

2008-12-09T17:48:00.002-07:00

I had just received a call from the DU project leader (I also verified that I could blog about the study, just not the specifics of the name of the reading process that we'll learn about). Libby is in group A.

There will be 3 groups:

Group A
Group B
Control Group

This project obviously has a theory of what they're thinking will work well with kiddos that have DS. We won't be sure if that theory will be trained in group A or B until the study is over. They will then train those in the "other" group and the control group with the process that will hopefully work well.

I was able to drive down to the initial meeting with my friend Brianna, who's son Michael is a cutie and hopefully Libby's husband one day!! We're both excited to participate! The leader even explained the control group isn't necessarily a bad group to be in -- that group will just continue "as is" and to be honest, I am thrilled to be in a group that will be trained in a specific process, but I also would hate to learn one process, have it not work well, and have to learn and teach Libby another process. If that's the case, the control group will be good as you'll know which one is doing well and can start it once the info has been collected and shared with the group.

Anyway - training is in January - 2 different Saturdays, 4 hours each day -- daycare IS provided onsite in their early childhood center, so the kids will have fun while we learn.

DU is here at the house next monday for the entire morning to evaluate Libby, video tape her, and gain the knowledge in my daughter so they can measure how well (or not) she is learning based on the reading method we'll be using with her.

I'll update again about the study after the DU visit if there's any additional information.

Saying goodbye to EI

2008-12-04T13:52:00.008-07:00

Since Libby was about 5-6 weeks old, we have had the same OT coming to the house - her name is Jamie and she is just amazing!! When Libby turned 1, we were able to start speech with Januea, who is amazing as well. When Libby was about 15 months old, Jamie (who is in her mid-20's) had to have emergency heart surgery, then while recuperating, a blood clot broke loose and she had a stroke (she OK now). During that time, a PT came in her place (named Jill -- isn't that funny how they are all J names!!) and we had Jill for about a year or so.

Libby turned 3 last Sunday - today was our last visit with Jamie and Januea, who came together this time. They did some of Libby's favorite games, then the party started -- who can resist a 3 year old with graham crackers, chocolate pudding, and sprinkles!! Libby absolutely loved it and had a blast!!!

The session ended with them giving her an adorable book about Libby - with pictures of Libby. We read it before she went down for her nap!! She's been looking a lot at Chris' baby book, so I know she'll love looking at pictures of herself.

It was a sad day saying good-bye to the group of folks that have helped her from birth, but the pudding party was a great ending!! We'll miss you Jamie, Januea & Jill!

(I was so proud that I didn't cry while hugging and saying good-bye, but yes, tears have shown up as I write this post!!)

Here's a pic of the book they made for her - it's adorable!!!

E. T.

2008-11-22T20:14:00.008-07:00

About a week or so ago, a friend of Scott's had passed along a link from youtube about a John Williams tribute -- one guy, four part, a cappella - see here. It's an amazing video -- great vocals!

Once Chris started watching this (and he watched it about a hundred times!!!), he has been asking about the movie E.T. I got the movie and tonight we ordered a pizza and decided to watch it.

Chris LOVED it -- for a movie from 1982, it actually really held up fairly well. The styles were out of date, but it held both of our attention for the entire 2 hours. Chris laughed, he cried when he thought E.T. was going to die, and he stood up and cheered when the kids saved the day at the end. This was probably one of my favorite moments with Chris in his short 6 1/2 years -- absolutely amazing watching him, watch a movie from my youth. (of course it got me thinking, but I don't think he's ready for Wizard of Oz yet - those flying monkeys still get Scott!!)

Anyway - if you haven't seen E.T. for 25 years like I hadn't, it's time!! Watch it with your kids!!

We're going to be a part of a Down syndrome study

2008-11-14T20:36:00.003-07:00

The University of Denver (DU) is going to be doing a study on Down syndrome and how younger kids learn (and could learn better). The age bracket for the study is 2.5 - 5 years old - from my understanding, the study will be 10 months long and we will be monitored a few times during this time. I will be trained a particular way to read a story (I believe it's just reading, but will find out more later) - from what it sounds like, this way of reading/teaching will help Libby to learn better.

I talked to one of the leaders this afternoon and we are eligible and I will meet with the head of the study on 11/24 to get all of the information that I need (they are also sending me a bunch in the mail as well).

Here's a link to the news story about it:

http://www.9news.com/rss/article.aspx?storyid=103099

I will update as much as I can on this topic - it definitely intrigues me!! I hope this helps Libby!!!

Yes he did!!

2008-11-05T06:40:00.002-07:00

Congrats President Obama!!

Happy Halloween 2008!

2008-10-30T20:30:00.004-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRUMPA!!!!

What a crazy couple of days - we had a classroom party for each Libby and Chris, as well as a night-time party, and then the actual trick-or-treating tomorrow -- whew!!

Chris is a pirate and Libby as Abby Cadabby (new muppet on Sesame Street, a pink fairy - think abra cadabra)

Here are a few from the classroom parties!!

And ones with the teachers...

Don't 'cha miss the 80's

2008-10-30T06:00:00.002-06:00

My friend Gayla is hosting an "80's Day" -- if you didn't know, Scott (my husband) and I met in the 8th grade on the school bus. We didn't date until the last couple of years of college, but we certainly had our share of pictures from the 80's. I still LOVE the music and part of me even misses the fashion (remember the "Forenza" sweaters!!!)

Here we are going to Homecoming (I think 1987) -- we went as "friends" and decided to wear all black -- LOVE that mullet!!!

Here's Scott and I in May 1988 at our High School Graduation - my bangs are getting bigger....

Here's us about a year later (1989) - look at those bangs on me!!! Scott on the other hand cut his hair for his fraternity house fund raiser.

If you'd like to see more of the 80's -- visit Gayla!!!

Libby's School Pics and the "Ball"

2008-10-29T16:06:00.005-06:00

We finally got Libby's school pictures back the other day - these were taken about a day after the stitches came out of her forehead.

This past weekend, we also had the Bal Swan Pint Sized Ball at Libby's pre-school. Each spring, the school has a ball fundraiser for big $$$, but this one if for the kids (but is still a dress up situation).

Scott was kind enough to fly in for the ball! Chris loved exploring the school and all of the playgrounds, while Libby was VERY content to sit with the singing pirate the whole time (it's the same music lady that they have every week).

Here's a link to the picture we had taken of both kiddos:

Link to pictures

as well as some of Libby in her Mallory dress!!

The West Wing

2008-10-27T17:45:00.002-06:00

Today, Bravo (cable/satellite channel) ran an entire day of The West Wing!! I am currently watching the debate between James Brolin and Martin Sheen -- I don't know about you, but part of me wishes it was this easy!!! I wish our schedule would have allowed me to watch the entire day, but I was able to catch as much as possible!

It's a GREAT series (I have it on DVD) but I always love to see the re-runs!! I hope they do this every day until the election!!!

I'm a happy Kim today!!!

It's been awhile

2008-10-17T21:05:00.005-06:00

It's not that there's nothing to tell you or that nothing is going on - I JUST DON'T HAVE ANY TIME!! With Scott's travel and Libby getting closer to that 3 year old mark - that's when the Early Intervention services stop here at the house and she "graduates" into the school system - yippie - can you feel the happiness (NOT).

Anyway - I took both kids to the pumpkin patch this afternoon. Libby and I had already been there once with her pre-school class, but Chris wanted to pick out a pumpkin himself. Libby had trouble in the fields with tripping over the vines, and then when we went to the kids area, she had trouble climbing up the huge blow up slide - needless to say, she was not the happiest camper.

I got a few great pictures:

As I sit at my desk, the picture on my calendar is the pumpkin patch from last year - look how much both kiddos have changed!!! (OK, and last year, it was pants and a sweater for Libby - this year, it was perfect at about 74 degrees). The best part of the day - sharing the joy of a caramel apple with my kids!!!

Our Buddy Walk

2008-09-28T17:42:00.006-06:00

Normally speaking, October is Down syndrome awareness month - most cities have their buddy walks during the month of October. Because we sometimes have snow after late September, our local Chapter, the Mile High Down Syndrome Association, hosts our Buddy Walk one of the first Sunday's in September.

We were able to raise $2,810 for the MHDSA and we were met by some friends that morning to walk around one of our beautiful parks/lakes. All started out great that day, good friends, good fun, and a chance to raise money to help families just like ours - it's a great day for all!! Thank you to EVERYONE who came to walk or donated to our team - I appreciate it more than you know!! (The Thank You notes are "almost" done, so hopefully y'all will receive them this week)

A little over halfway around the lake, Libby fell off of Scott's shoulders - Scott was the hero and held onto her for most of the way down, but she did fall about 2 feet to the sidewalk - certainly much better than the 6+ feet she would have. We took one look and knew we had to take her in for stitches. Lucky for me, neither one of my kids bleed profusely from their heads - not sure where that gene came from, but I like that one!!!

5 stitches later, we were on our way home - Libby had actually fallen asleep while they were stitching her up, so I know she wasn't feeling a thing!! She had some pretty good road rash next to her eye, but with a cute Hello Kitty bandaid, she looked adorable.

The bad news of this update is that her school pictures were that next Tuesday, so we'll have probably one of the cutest scabby pictures ever!!!

From the Buddy Walk:

From the hospital:

All bandaged up:

Politics and Pokemon

2008-09-17T19:39:00.003-06:00

A lot of you have heard this one from me, but thought I would pass it along for those that haven't....

One morning, Chris said to Scott and I,
"If I was old enough to vote, you know who I would vote for?"
"Who would you vote for Chris???"
"I would vote for Barack Obama because his name sounds like a Pokemon!"

That is probably a better reason than a lot of people have for voting their choice (on both sides).

Hail to the Pokemon!!!

It's not that I don't have an opinion......

2008-09-17T12:55:00.002-06:00

OK, Politics.

I've got a political opinion - a pretty big one at that. If you know me personally, I'm ALWAYS willing to share that opinion with whomever would like to hear about it. I think I'm a VERY fair listener, but I do not tolerate those people that are angry about the elections, I do not tolerate people that do not want to listen with respect, and I have the utmost respect for those that have posted their feelings but have done so without being angry at the "other side" for what they believe.

I have a child with Down syndrome - I love her to pieces and want the best for her as she grows up. I also want the best for my son and my husband and I.

This economy stinks right now - there is nothing "strong" about our economy - Gas prices are the highest ever, housing market is still bad, our country is so in debt, it makes my personal debt look "not so bad", the job market stinks - all in all, the US is in a lot of trouble right now.

I personally hold the current president to the fire on this one - I've not ever been a big fan of W, but right now, I think this country can stand for a change of the guard. There was a lot of criticism of Clinton's personal life when he was in Washington, but with regards to how he did the job of the president, I think he did a pretty darn good job.

It intrigues me that McCain has chosen Sarah Palin for his running mate. I will still shake my head over anyone who thinks that he didn't choose her for strategic reasons - She's a spunky woman, she has a child with special needs, she's made a lot of changes in Alaska. My first reaction when this was announced, was "WOW - that might be a problem for the Dem's".

Would I vote for her because she's a woman - Nope.
Would I vote for her because she has a child with DS - Nope.

I hope no one does the above - it's not about her being a female or her kids - it's about what her platform stands for.

I categorically oppose most everything that she stands for. She had an amnio at 13 weeks with her baby, Trig, and CHOSE to keep that baby. That's a big thing - I'm not pro-abortion - in fact, I hope that abortion rates go down - significantly. I'm pro-choice. I think it's up to me what I do with my body, not the president's religious beliefs, but my choice. I also think that doctors need to be "schooled" on providing current and up-to-date information for expectant parents regarding outcomes of their choices.

I find it odd that Palin found out that her baby had Down syndrome at 13 weeks along in her pregnancy, but declined to tell anyone (even her family and children) about the DS. I don't have a problem with her waiting the few days to tell her husband so that she could tell him "in person". I really don't even have a problem with her hiding her pregnancy from the general public - but from her sister, who has a special needs child - from her own children??? It's not that they wouldn't understand - if they were old enough to make the observation in the hospital while meeting Trig that "he sure looked like he had DS", than they were old enough to be told before the baby was born. Make all the excuses you want about it - but if she can't face up to telling her children about their sibling, what else would/could she hide??

I'm getting off on a tangent - John McCain is "old" - just watching him at the convention showed that he had a tough time even going down the stairs. He doesn't raise his arms very high to wave (and he points a lot into the crowd - Joe Biden does this as well - must be an old Washington thing) - he just gives me the creeps.

He's voted with Bush 90% of the time, but now wants to distance himself from the current president since he's not popular. He's been VERY negative with his campaign - I'm just not a big fan of running such negative ads on TV. He's also changed his campaign slogan to Barak's slogan of change. Yep, you did change partway thru your campaign.

I have a best friend that is from a VERY liberal family - both she and her Mom were very big Hillary supporters. When Obama got the ticket, she, at first, didn't even want to vote in the election as she didn't like Obama. It is our right and our privilege to vote in this country and we know from the past, that it does come down to just a few votes sometimes (and when you're Al Gore, you might actually have more votes, but not win - OK, had to put that one in). I hope everyone that can, will vote - and vote for who they think will make the better leader of the country.

I don't think that having Sara Palin in the white house will be an advantage to me (with a special need's child) - it's not her platform - it's McCain's.

I've been following the polls and am happily relieved to see that things are evening out again (depends on where you look). I think the American public is watching the current president and what is happening to the country and will hopefully bring in some new ideas, some change.

Comment, if you want - but I ask, please be respectful!

My little LIW (Laura Ingalls Wilder)

2008-09-04T17:54:00.004-06:00

I "SO" love dressing her up and doing her hair - she's my own living doll!! (and yes, I have all of the episodes of Little House on the Prairie - known as LHOTP in my house).

Libby's First Day of PreSchool

2008-09-02T08:38:00.004-06:00

What a morning it was - we woke up to our first chilly "need a jacket" morning and it was Libby's first day of pre-school.

She is attending Bal Swan, which is part special needs, part not - they have a huge waiting list for the "regular" kiddos. They have a 2.5 classroom, which is what she's in. Her teachers are Ms. Hope and Ms. Jean (Ms. Jean looks like Nana G, so Libby took to her pretty quickly when they came for a home visit).

Here are some pictures from this morning.

Our own Pretzel Company

2008-08-23T12:36:00.003-06:00

I ran across "Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels" in the freezer section at Target. They are WONDERFUL and the fact that both my husband's and my name are on the packaging is pretty cool. I'm awaiting the t-shirts that I'll be able to buy once they're available on their website.

We've only had the grilled cheese flavor and they truely are the best frozen pretzel I've ever had - if you see them available, you'll have to give them a try!!!

School

2008-08-23T12:29:00.002-06:00

Well, the first week of school went VERY well for Chris. Out of his class of 22, he has 3 other kiddos from his Kindergarten class - enough to feel comfortable, and little enough to make a lot of new friends (in my opinion).

I am thrilled that we were able to get him into full day Kindergarten last year. Our school only has 1 out of 5 full day Kindergarten classes - the other 4 are half day. We did have to pay for the "extra" half day, but I think it really helped him to become confident with his work this year.

He did come home on Thursday and told me that they had to take a math test to show his teacher what they knew - Ms. Kohler told them that it would be really hard and they may not know all the answers. Chris was thrilled as he blazed thru it and knew all the answers - there's my math and science guy.

On Monday, is our placement meeting for Libby. She turns 3 on Nov 30th, so right around 90 days before her birthday, they evaluate her. Just with her DS diagnosis, she'll qualify for the district's pre-school - I think this will help place her in a specific school. I'm not too worried about this yet as she also starts a private pre-school after Labor Day - it's in a different school district, so she cannot receive her therapies there, but we do have the option of adding additional therapies if we would like.

All in all, the school situation for both kids is going VERY well in our house. I hope we start off on a "good foot" with the school district on Monday!!!

THE NEW VAN!!! WOO HOO!!

2008-08-23T11:40:00.004-06:00

I don't think I celebrated the "other" new van enough - maybe it didn't know how much I appreciated it. Maybe I was just a little down at the fact that I was now the driver of a mini van and not my beloved Camry any longer.

Now that I've been without the "other" van for a month, I COMPLETELY under appreciated it.

Since Scott travels so much, we've just had the Camry to drive - we've had to load everyone up and take/pick up from the airport a few times, but nothing too bad.

We picked up the 2008 Honda Odyssey on Tuesday evening. I talked to the sales guy a few days before to set up a time and to have him do A LOT of the leg work before-hand. I mean, it's not like it was a tough sell. They did a great job - literally just about $120+ more total $$$ for a year newer car - he did his work. (For those that have asked, the 2009's are not in yet, but I'm sure they're making room for them).

The color is officially GREEN, but it's a fairly sparkly silver (it's that gray/green color Ted!!)

I appreciate the Navagation system, the DVD player, extra 8th seat, place to plug in the Wii on long trips, the iPod hook-up that the other didn't have, the million cup holders that it has (literally, something like 18 cup holders). I am now a proud mini-van owner and driver.

**PS - I did find a penny on the car lot and picked it up for luck - it was even dated 1969, the year I was born. That's gotta mean something, doesn't it??

First Day of First Grade and other miscellaneous stuff

2008-08-19T09:59:00.009-06:00

Today was Chris' first day of first grade - what a big boy we have now!!! (Literally - big boy - we had lots of comments on how much taller he got over the summer)

Traditional pictures taken this morning on the front porch - he was decked out in Star Wars Clone Wars - he has seen the movie twice since it opened on Friday - so the target demographic on that one!!!

Chris being a ham with Libby

Couple of recent cute pics of Libby

The Van

2008-08-13T20:43:00.005-06:00

Chris is sad - the minivan that he so loved has been totalled!! While he is sad, Mom and Dad are happy, happy campers!!!!

We have our insurance thru American Family and they have really treated us well thru all of this. We're assuming that our claim will go thru arbitration since the semi truck driver says something completely different than both Scott and the witness. We're running it thru our insurance now, but will get our deductible back once the case has been ruled on.

They are moving mountains to get things done now - we're hoping to be in our new van sometime next week. We are heading back to the Honda dealership and getting "another" Honda Odyssey. I truely think that we are all alive today thanks to that very sturdy van. We are getting a few hundred $$$ less than our purchase price - which is excellent!! Considering that we now have to buy a new 2008 (since we took the last 2007), it will still cost us a few $$$ more, but I'm at peace with that now!! Just happy that all is working out OK!!

Tropic Thunder

2008-08-12T20:37:00.003-06:00

A lot has been written about the Ben Stiller movie "Tropic Thunder" - it's made a lot of print and television press about the boycott by groups supporting disabilities. I'm not a big fan of Ben Stiller, but he's a HUGE presence in Hollywood. I know this movie is a satire about Hollywood actors, I know that it has an R rating, but kids are still going to see this movie, kids are still going to quote this movie, and someday, somehow, this movie will hurt my daughter's feelings.

The blog entry by Steve Gorelick says EXACTLY what I would have loved to say.

Men!!!!! (she says shaking her head)

2008-08-12T18:26:00.003-06:00

Since Scott is home for 2 days this week, I asked him if he would take Chris out this afternoon to get his haircut and buy him a pair of tennis shoes for school (he lives in Crocs, but they obviously won't work for Gym class).

The boys come home 2 hours later - neither one has a haircut and Chris has a new pair of Heely's. These are those tennis shoes with little wheels in the heel so you can kind of skate when you walk.

WHAT???

You bought our son a pair of really expensive shoes that he can't even wear to school???

Scott smiles and says, "No Dear, I bought him a pair of "regular" tennis shoes as well"

I shake my head - next time, I'll just take him myself (and maybe that's what Scott was going for!!)

Things are looking up

2008-08-12T15:40:00.003-06:00

We've had such a string of "bad" things happen to us lately, that today, we have had a few bits of good news.

First of all, Libby's 3 week bout with diarrhea is now over -- she was tested for a lot of things since we went swimming in the Hot Springs over our vacation, but all is well with her.

Secondly, we should hear about our van tomorrow. It's taken over 3 weeks to get an answer on whether or not it will be totalled from that horrendous car wreck and we should know more tomorrow (keep those fingers crossed that we can just go get a new van instead of fixing this crushed up one). Unfortunately, because we bought a new 2007, we will still be out $$$ since we'll have to go and buy a new 2008 now for more $$$$, plus we will lose about $1500 in value from our purchase price, just because of the model year. That's better though than trying to fix it and always having the accident associated with the car and possibly have issues with it, but when we would want to trade it in, it would be worth much less because of the accident.

Thirdly, I love United -- I booked Scott's flight to Oslo, Norway and was trying to figure out the upgrades, which kind of just disappeared. So, I called the customer service and got the most wonderful, helpful person that got Scott set in the "upper deck" of the plane on a seat that will turn into a flat bed. Yeah!!!

Fourth, took Chris into the Allergist and even though we had that allergic reaction in South Dakota, he agreed with me that the fact that he ingested so much of the pecans, but didn't ever have his throat and tongue swell up is a GREAT thing.

Finally, my husband is home -- might only be for 2 days, but it's nice to have him here and the kids won't let go of him!!!

It's a good day in Colorado!!

Fun in the fountain

2008-08-06T18:05:00.004-06:00

Chris is participating in a science camp this week at our Nature/Science museum. They have the most gorgeous fountain out front and on hot days, it gets crazy busy with kids "cooling off". I had a couple of towels and changes of clothes in the car, so we had some fun.

Libby was VERY apprehensive about the whole thing - she would stand and stare and giggle, then take ONE step forward. She would stand a couple of minutes, stare and giggle, then take another step forward. She did this a half dozen times until she was standing in water and getting a little "spray", but never did want to run thru the water. Chris on the other hand ran as fast as he could while laughing loud and screaming at the top of his lungs - true kid fun.

The first picture shows how huge the sprays are - the rest are the kids enjoying the afternoon!!

Chris & Dad moment

2008-08-05T13:54:00.002-06:00

Scott was home for about 22 hours this week (yes, this WEEK). He picked up Chris from science camp (all Chris wants to know is when he will be able to blow things up - not sure what the counselors think of us, but that's his Mythbusters influence).

Anyway, Scott picked up Chris from camp yesterday afternoon and stopped by Staples for some office supplies. Chris was having fun and lifted Scott's t-shirt in the back and got underneath the shirt with Scott and even put his arms thru the same arm holes. So, basically both of them are in Scott's t-shirt walking around the office store with Chris behind Scott.

Chris starts to cough and cough and cough -- Scott pulled him out so he could look at him and asked if he was OK. Chris' response:

"Dad, some of your stink got caught in my throat and I choked"

Gotta love that one - I wish I could have seen if anyone heard that!!!

Be Strong little Emma!

2008-08-03T13:30:00.005-06:00

My friend Meredith and her husband Mike travelled earlier this year to the Ukraine to adopt 2 adorable kiddos that had Down syndrome. You can read about their journey here.

Their oldest, Emma, has needed heart surgery since birth. About 50% of kids with Down syndrome have heart issues and need surgery to correct. Emma didn't receive that surgery and laid in her orphanage until Meredith and Mike came to get her to bring her home.

Tomorrow morning (Monday), Emma will undergo her much needed surgery. The Cornish's have been told by many doctor's that this couldn't be done, but fought hard to find someone that would do it.

Please keep the Cornish family and sweet little Emma in your thoughts as she proves to the world just how strong she is!!!!

My Husband is a ROCK STAR!

2008-08-01T06:10:00.004-06:00

My Husband is a Rock Star!

Almost Literally! Almost!

Scott travels a lot - I mean A LOT! He writes books, trains and speaks the world of Java for a living.

Back in May, he was asked to speak at a conference called Java One - it is THE Java conference of the year.

He not only got the highest rating of the conference (rated by the attendees), but he got the highest rating of the conference EVER - I couldn't be more proud.

Once the conference is over, Java One will then nominate certain speakers to be part of their Rock Stars - Scott was inducted as a Java One Rock Star:

http://java.sun.com/javaone/sf/2008/rockstars.jsp

Go Dad!!!!

Vacation - Part 3 - Unbelievable relations, Carhenge and the "Big Crash"

2008-07-24T20:54:00.007-06:00

At this point in our vacation, we've been gone for 8 days - we had a wonderful High School reunion and a pretty good vacation to Mt. Rushmore.

We head back across South Dakota to Yankton - it's in the SE corner of the state. We are here for a family reunion on my Mom's side. I used to go to these reunions every summer and stayed with my 2nd cousin Dawn, and her family - I have wonderful memories of those summer trips (I saw my first girl/girl fight and I learned to drive a stick shift).

Just a little background -- my Mom's Dad's name was Rudy. He was one of 13 children. My Mom's name is Gladys and we figure she has about 50-60 first cousins (LOVE those
big catholic families). The third generation is me -- I can't even begin to think about how many of us there are.

There were 3 of the original 13 children still alive and in attendance at the reunion. In total, there was about 125 people there. Of that 125, there were 3 of us from that 3rd generation that had little girls with Down syndrome. There is NO WAY that there is not a genetic link somewhere - it's too much of a coincidence. It's really, really cool that Libby has cousins just like her!!!

After we left Yankton, we drove thru the northern part of Nebraska as Scott has always wanted to see Carhenge, which is in Alliance, NE. It's like Stonehenge, but with cars.

We were right outside of Chadron, when it started to rain harder than I've EVER seen - I mean not rain drops, but buckets (my Mom would call it a "gully-washer"). It wasn't safe as you couldn't see anything while driving. We weren't comfortable pulling over on the right shoulder as it was VERY narrow and seemed to head down into the ditch pretty quickly. We saw a car up ahead that had pulled over on the left into someone's driveway. Scott slowed down, put on his turn signal and before he could turn, we were hit by a semi-truck - yes, an 18 wheeler.

Our brand new, Honda Odyssey, with only 3k miles on it was sitting in the middle of a 2 lane highway and was completely im-moveable. Scott was the smart/sane one and said we had to get out right away as you couldn't see thru the rain and someone was going to hit the van again. We pulled both kids out and ran over to the car that was originally pulled over and I opened the back door and put my kids in their backseat (only in Nebraska can you feel safe in doing that with a strange car). Scott and I then stood in this cold pouring rain for the next 10+ minutes while we waited out the storm. I did go back to the van and get my purse, camera, and registration/insurance papers.

About a dozen people stopped to make sure we were OK and that the police were called - it was so nice. About an hour later, another cop car took us into town where the tow truck met us to get out some stuff for the night. Insurance was called while I was still in my wet clothes!!!

The next morning, I was able to find a rental car out of Scottsbluff, NE that would deliver it to our hotel about mid-aftenoon. We then started the LONG drive back to Denver.

And yes, we did stop by Carhenge - how could we not???

We are all OK - should hear about the car in the next day or 2 whether it will be totalled out or not. The insurance companies are not agreeing on anything so I'm sure it will go to arbitration. (I mean really, how can it not be the trucker's fault - the gal from the car where I put my kids stepped forward as a witness saying that Scott slowed down and had his turn signal on and everything).

Chris is pretty sad about the van - he's hoping that it can be fixed - I'm hoping to trash it and get a new one as I'm a little leary of someone who can fix that bad of a car and say that there won't be any issues.

Will update on the insurance saga once more info becomes available.

Hope you enjoyed the tour of our Vacation - I'm sure it will be awhile before we do it again!!!

Vacation - Part 2 - sightseeing around Mt. Rushmore and their local hospital

2008-07-24T17:15:00.013-06:00

The next trek on our vacation was to head about 10 hours from Omaha to Mt. Rushmore. Chris had learned about the presidents this last year in Kindergarten and with the election coming up, we thought it might be cool for him.

On the way across South Dakota, we stopped in Mitchell, SD to see the Mitchell Corn Palace -- they were in the process of replacing the corn on the outside. It's a pretty "corny" (pun intended) place, but they had the best popcorn balls I've ever had!!! MMMMMM

Here are a few pics from Rushmore:

Chris "performing" on stage

We also drove past the Crazy Horse monument - it's not done yet and was fairly expensive, so we didn't stop, but drove by:

That evening (Tuesday), Chris ended up having an allergic reaction to a pastry (that was ordered without nuts, but ended up being filled with them). We were supposed to have gone to a Chuckwagon/Supper show, but ended up taking Chris to the Custer County hospital to be pumped full of steroids to get the swelling and hives down. Scott ended up staying the night with him there.

We did the alpine slides (both kids just LOVED them) and panned for gold in a gold mine that wasn't really profitable - Cranky old man Scott had fun with that one!!

On the last day, we headed south a bit to the hot springs and went swimming and had a BLAST!!!

On the way to Yankton, for our next "leg" of the journey, we stopped by Wall Drug. Here is a pic of Chris (unhappily) and Libby as well as a very weird and odd person made out of toliet paper that was hanging on the back of my door in the bathroom. I just "had" to take a picture (thus, you have to see it while reading my blog).

Except for the hospital stay, it was a really fun "leg" of the trip.

Stay tuned for Part 3 - Unbelievable relations, Carhenge and the "Big Crash"

Vacation - Part 1 - The fun part

2008-07-23T20:23:00.011-06:00

Scott and I graduated from the same high school, the same year. We didn't date until the last couple years of college though - just remained great friends thru the Jr. High and High School years.

A couple of weekends ago, we headed back for our 20 year high school reunion. I have learned to have VERY low expectations when it comes to things like this. I had such a GREAT time during both evenings - so much fun seeing everyone and catching up. I took "some" pictures, but wish I would have taken more. Here are a few of some that might actually be looking here (that's you Amy!!)

Here's a pic of Scott and I before we left the first night - unfortunately, we didn't get a picture the second night.

This is Michele Blank and Laura Wilson - VERY good friends from the band side of things - I even ended up living with Laura for 3 years of college.

This is Shelley Wehling -- I used to go to her house after school in Jr. High -- she had the coolest Mom!!

This is Amy Birmingham - she was my very first friend when we moved to the neighborhood that my folks still live in. We spent many days at the swimming pool and over at each other's houses!!!

This is Larissa Cisar - Larissa was in the band with us in High School, but I really got to know her in college (lots of late nights parking my car in the bank drive thru - after hours - and sleeping on her floor of her sorority).

This is CeAnn Childress - She and I were both flute players that sat next to each other from 7-12 grade (pretty much going back and forth with who was first and second chair). She was one person who I was VERY excited to see again!!

This is Chad Sexton - he was a drummer in the band while my friend Tana and I decided to play/hold cymbals for 2 years. They were a fun group to hang around with!!! Chad is now the drummer for 311 -- he's still a very down to earth and sweet guy (OK, he was a jerk when I first saw him, but he didn't know who I was, so his reaction once he saw my nametag made up for it!!)

This is Becky Kean - she used to live in the neighborhood. We did lots of sleep overs (and many nights of sneaking out of her folks house to walk around in the middle of the night).

This last picture was taken while we were on the tour of our newly renovated high school. They hand out Mac Laptops to EVERY student on the first day. This is the inventory that had just been delivered - brand, spankin' new Mac Books -- I don't actually wish I was back in High School, but man o man - how cool would it be to get your own laptop on the first day of school.

Next post will be "Vacation - Part 2 - sightseeing around Mt. Rushmore and their local hospital"

Pretty tight pants there Gordon......

2008-07-22T23:19:00.004-06:00

Not that I cared!!!

That would be Gordon Sumner - aka, Sting.

Scott and I saw the Police and Elvis Costello at Red Rocks tonight. Hands down, the best concert I've EVER seen. Just a GREAT rock-n-roll show. Sting had pretty tight pants on - again, not that I cared.

We sat in the 8th row, just off center - absolutely perfect.

We had a pretty sh*tty vacation the last 2 weeks (I will blog more about that later, but it includes a lost camera, a night in the hospital, and our new mini-van getting hit by a semi), so this was a super GREAT pick-up for both of us!!

I love living in Colorado, I love Red Rocks, I love seeing concerts outside in perfect weather. It makes for a happy Kim.

Presenting "Old Monkey"

2008-07-09T20:44:00.010-06:00

This was Chris' 2nd summer doing a theater camp in Boulder. This year, they did "The Jungle Book" and Chris was "Old Monkey". He had one line on his own, but I wasn't able to get it on video. We purchased a copy of the whole production, but these clips were taken with my "trusty Sony" camera. His biggest accomplishment of the camp though was getting almost everyone's signature on his autograph page of his script (he even got the parent volunteer's doing the make-up tonight to sign his book).

A-dorable!!

Presenting, "Old Monkey"........

With his buddy Zach, who came all the way up from Littleton to see his play

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Lists, Lists, and more Lists

2008-07-08T09:23:00.003-06:00

We're leaving on vacation in a couple of days and I have more lists than ever. A list of errands that have to get done before we leave (only remaining is the grocery store and to gas the van before we leave). A grocery list, an equipment list to take, a clothes list for each of us, a food list of things to take, a list of things not to forget (which will go from that list to an appropriate list when I know where they go). It's crazy.

But, this is how I function best -- I feel in control of the trip, and actually fairly calm.

We'll head to Omaha for Scott's and my 20 year High School reunion this coming weekend -- I'm actually pretty excited to go back for this. We'll spend a day after the reunions seeing both sides of the family and then we'll leave for the "All American" family vacation to Mount Rushmore. We'll do and see everything we can in the Black Hills -- Scott and I have such the same way to vacation -- we have a hotel reservation and a list of things we would like to do/see and we'll head to whatever we want, whenever we want to. After about 4-5 days around Keystone, SD, we'll head across the state to Yankton, SD where we'll meet up with my Mom's side of the family for the big annual Family Reunion. It's been 15-20 years since I've seen some of these people, so that will be a pretty big event. Then the long drive home. Hopefully the kids will do well in the car.

Just remembered that I need to put Libby's cooling vest and extra ice packs on the list (as well as a small cooler and additional ice packs to keep the "extra" ice packs as frozen as possible). This is how my crazy mind works!!!

The new Odyssey will get it's maiden trip voyage -- I'm excited to travel in it -- I'm sure I will be so happy we bought it at the end of our 10 days!!!

More soon!

Little Mr. & Miss Independence

2008-06-27T16:11:00.006-06:00

The summer has been going well for both kiddos. Chris finished Lego camp a few weeks ago, we had last week off to swim and just hang out and this week he started a camp at the Boulder Children's Theater. They are doing The Jungle Book and Chris is VERY excited to do this. We did it last year and it was a huge hit.

On the swimming front, Chris is just a FISH in the water - he went from doggie paddle, to swimming with "big arms" to just going underwater and swimming as fast as he can. Our outdoor pool has been GREAT and has a lot of slides in it (see here) -- I actually got comfortable letting him go by himself to swim and slide and then check back in with me every 10-15 minutes if I'm not in the big pool with Libby.

Not a ton of new tricks with Libby except - we're really pushing the talking right now and I see a lot of changes in her, but nothing yet (I really think she's on the verge of talking a lot, but I guess I'll hear it when she does it).

Scott and my 20 year High School reunion is in 2 weeks -- I now have now bought outfits for both nights, my hair gets done next Monday, so I'll be "good to go". I'm pretty excited to go back and see lots of people that I would love to stay in contact with. I talked to my college roommate Laura (who was also a friend in HS) today and she heard that the guys from 311 will be coming back for some/part of the festivities -- it's pretty cool that a handful of guys from our class headed out to California after graduation and shot the moon and made it REALLY BIG (if you don't know about 311 (it's a very cool band), ask your kids, they probably know).

Here are a few pics from this morning -- Chris being a goofball and my Little Miss Independence (pun intended)

Insurance Crap

2008-06-18T15:31:00.003-06:00

I think I mentioned that Scott had recently fallen in a hotel lobby in Wash DC (due to exhaustion) and had to have 15 stitches in his forehead. This past April, we had moved him from our "normal" insurance plan, to his own HSA plan, since he "never" goes to the doctor or gets hurt - yeah right!!!

We chose a 3k HSA plan as opposed to the 5k plan due to the fact that I didn't want to fund too much this first year. I had all of the paperwork in my "pile o crap" that I have next to my desk, but hadn't read up yet on how to start funding it. I did ask the accountant about whether it was better for our business, Davisworld, to fund it or Scott/Kim -- either way is fine.

Then he had the fall, so I've been scrambling to find out what I need to do -- we got the EOB (Explanation of Benefits for those that don't have Mom's in the insurance world, like me) in the mail and I was SHOCKED.

The total bill for the ER visit was $2041 -- due to our plan, the discounted $1692 , for a total due to Scott Davis of $349. What the hell -- they actually charged the insurance company 6 times what we're going to actually pay out of pocket (if you understand the HSA, it means we will pay 100% of the cost up to the 3k limit, then everything else is covered 100%).

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled with the fact that I only have to pay $349 for the stitches, but Holy Cow - that's highway robbery that the hospital would charge over 2k for the services, but be OK with $349. CRAZY, I say!!

Whomever takes over the white house next January (Go Obama!!), I certainly hope that getting control over the health care in this country is a priority. It's truly shameful!!!

Chris' Lego Camp Project

2008-06-13T12:51:00.003-06:00

Chris attended Lego camp this week in Boulder and we wanted to share his final project. They created this movie as well as worked with Lego Mindstorms and created robots (that we didn't get to take home unfortunately), but now we know what we want to ask Santa for this year....

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Yes we can!

2008-06-07T12:37:00.010-06:00

ObamaBling.com - Glitters, Layouts & more!

I was happy and sad today regarding the democratic nominee for president. I'm sad to see Hillary suspend her campaign as I would have LOVED to see a woman running this country - I think a woman would do wonders right now. I've always said that my Mom would do a great job running the country as she wouldn't let anyone get away with an unbalanced budget (who's Mom would think that would be OK) and would make sure that everyone respected everyone while trying to make the US a better place to live.

The economy sucks now, health care sucks now, housing market sucks now, (I could go on and on) - we need someone to make some changes in this world.

My Dad is 75 years old and has been a republican as long as I can remember -- last year, he was frustrated and registered as an independent. Good for you Dad!!!

I have a really good feeling about Obama - I would love to see Hillary as his running mate, but I don't think that will happen, just my gut. I think he is going to win and will make some great changes in this country. I think the country could use some positive influence and hopefully the Clinton supporters will stand behind Obama with as much drive and conviction as Hillary did in her speech today, then we can have a better country - YES WE CAN!!

I can't wait to see what happens next!!

Yes Ma'am

2008-06-02T20:38:00.006-06:00

OK Gayla - I've cleaned up my sidebar (so it had a button or 2 from the holidays - you should see my house!!!) This update is for YOU!!

A bunch of things have happened in the last few weeks - CRAZY

Scott fell in a hotel lobby in Washington DC and had to have 15 stitches in his forehead -- he wasn't even drunk, he had been burning the candle at both ends and the docs categorized it as exhaustion.

We bought a mini van - a new 2007 Honda Odyssey. I was shocked when I heard the sales guy mention that they still had a 2007, but the cheap skate in me immediately said the word "dibbs" in my mind. I'll take some pics and post them when it's not night time.

Chris has his last day of school tomorrow (Tuesday) - he and Scott are taking a father/son trip to Kansas City on Wed/Thur to see the "Dinosaurs Live" show. Since Scott travels a TON (average of 3 days/week), this is a chance for Chris to travel with Dad and do something special.

Libby's been doing great - we have her IFSP review next week and we will be losing our PT for these last 6 months, but I'm actually pretty comfortable with it as Libby has made HUGE strides in the gross motor side of things. She's doing fairly well with the fine motor - it's just the speech side that's still lacking.

Here are some recent pictures:

Taken by Grumpa - gorgeous shot - she LOVES bubbles!!

In her adorable "hand me down" dress from Mallory

Libby learning to dip her fries in ketchup (a VERY important talent)!!

OK, this looks a little like he's strangling her, but still cute!!!

100th post & a nice warm day

2008-05-18T10:51:00.004-06:00

I can't believe I've actually written 100 blog posts - wowza!! Thanks to everyone who reads and comments!!

This weekend was just beautiful - 70's & 80's and gorgeous. We got out the sand water table and more water, and more water....... These kids just love playing in the water!!!

Siblings at their best - they truly like playing with each other!!

Empty Nest this morning

2008-05-18T10:22:00.003-06:00

Our duck was gone this morning - she was here last night about 9:30 when I last checked on her, but this morning, she's not here and the nest is empty. She's been in/out a lot lately -- I'm just wondering if the eggs were hatching and she was moving them to a safer place as they hatched.

I'm going to assume that they're all safe and happy now -- the nest is very much "in tact" so I don't think it was a predator that attacked at all.

Fly safe Daisy Duck!!

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Weight Watcher Edition)

2008-05-16T10:11:00.005-06:00

I've posted this recipe about a year ago but is, by far, one of my favorite Weight Watcher recipes, EVER. (They're ONLY 3 points a serving -- I would take the leftovers and have 2 servings for lunch the next day - YUM!!). Visit Overwhelmed With Joy to see more recipes.

Au Gratin Potatoes

Ingredients
1 sprays cooking spray
1 Tbsp butter
1 medium onion(s), thinly sliced
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cup fat-free skim milk
2 pound Yukon Gold potato(es), thinly sliced
1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp table salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions
1 -- Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a 2-quart covered baking dish with
cooking spray.
2 -- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook,
stirring occasionally, until onion begins to brown, about 5 minutes.
Stir in flour; add milk slowly, stirring. Add potatoes and stir to mix.
Bring to a boil. Stir in 3/4 cup of cheese, salt and pepper.
3 -- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and level out surface.
Bake for 1 hour, uncovered. Cover and bake until potatoes are
fork-tender, about 20 minutes more.
4 -- Change oven temperature to broil. Sprinkle remaining cheese
over potatoes. Broil 6 inches from the heating element until the
cheese is golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Allow to cool for 5
minutes before slicing into 8 pieces.

Duck Update - Wed, 5/14

2008-05-14T11:36:00.003-06:00

I feel like I have another kiddo to watch after - I've been checking up on our Duck (named Daisy, by Chris) every couple of hours. I was a little nervous yesterday as it was much colder and raining all day, but Daisy did great.

She leaves a couple of times a day - flies off to somewhere, to do something (I'm sure our version of errands). She's got these blue-ish feathers underneath, but most of the time you can't see them, but I did catch a little on film when she was re-adjusting on her nest.

Here is a pic of the nest (you can see one egg under all of the feathers) and of Daisy. I'm trying to document a lot of this as it's exciting, but just in case something happens, I'm trying not to make too big a deal for Chris.

Mother's Day

2008-05-12T10:34:00.006-06:00

First of all, Happy Mother's Day to everyone out there - especially my Mom!!!

I had a perfect day -- I had a wonderful breakfast in bed, and I watched the movie "27 Dresses" (I never get to see current movies so I picked this one up and it was an adorable movie).

I received the most beautiful card from my son:

In our school system, in Kindergarten, they want them to write as much as possible and just spell phonetically. Here's Chris' list of the things he likes about me:

hlareis - hilarious
byootafol - beautiful
gorjis - gorgeous
tan haer - tan hair
grat mommy - great mommy
fun - fun
grat cok - great cook

I couldn't ask for better kiddos!!! Happy Mother's Day to me!!

Our new tenant.....

2008-05-12T10:25:00.005-06:00

We have this area in the front of our house that has just a bunch of bushes. Neighbors who have the same style of house have made a nice little porch out of it and we decided that we wanted to pull the bushes and do the same thing.

While Scott was getting all of these evergreen bushes cut out of there, he saw something move and saw a duck fly out of our bush. Upon looking closer, he saw that there were about a dozen eggs in a nest. He worked around the nest for the next few hours - once we started getting dinner ready, Mama duck came back and sat on her eggs -- she never went far and watched Scott as he worked.

I talked to the Colorado Department of Wildlife and this "active" nest is federally protected, so we could get into A LOT of trouble if we mess with it (are you hearing me, honey???) The gal I talked to said that another wild animal could definitely come by and scare the duck and eat the eggs, which is just part of nature. She thought that they should hatch within the next week or so and then the Mama will get her babies out of there as quickly as possible.

Here are a few pictures of Mama Duck:

I'll try to update on our Duck Saga as thing progress - - I can't wait to hopefully see a nest of baby ducks!!!

MeMeMeMe...it's all about me

2008-05-09T10:26:00.002-06:00

My friend Michelle tagged me for an "About Me Meme". I can't promise how exciting this will be, but here it goes......

What was I doing 10 years ago:
I was in Omaha trying to sell our house while Scott was here in Denver -- I know this because our 20 year high school reunion is in 2 months and we weren't able to make it as we were moving that weekend.

5 thinks on my "To Do" list today:
1. Sweep kitchen
2. Mop kitchen
3. Laundry
4. Figure out how to hook up bike trailer that we got for Libby
5. Buy/plant flowers on the patio so Libby stop playing in the dirt

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
1. Get out of debt (obviously)
2. Buy new cars
3. Take our familys on an extravagant trip
4. Help those that need it.

3 Bad Habits:
1. Crack my knuckles
2. Bite fingernails when I'm nervous
3. I'm a "stuffer" -- my house might look picked up, but don't look in the drawers or closets

5 places I have lived:
1. St Joseph, MO (born there)
2. Omaha, NE
3. Lincoln, NE (college there)
4. Littleton, CO
5. Broomfield, CO (current)

5 jobs that I have had:
1. MOM
2. Grocery Store checker (I LOVED doing that)
3. Patient Escort at Hospital
4. Day Camp counselor
5. Project Manager

5 people I want to know more about:

Christina at Kwisteena's Kwaziness
Gayla at Where Are My Angels?
Michelle at Big Blueberry Eyes
OW at Overwhelmed With Joy
Kelly at Where There's A Will

We're home and all is well!

2008-05-03T07:03:00.002-06:00

Libby and I left for the hospital about 7 a.m. yesterday. I hadn't seen our new Children's Hospital since it opened last September and it's just beautiful (looks like a mall almost). We got checked in, answered the same 6 questions about 4 times and by 9 a.m., we were at the surgery playroom. Libby's surgery was scheduled for 10:15 a.m.

The playroom was empty when we got there, but as the morning progressed, it became more and more crowded. Scott was able to get there around 10 a.m. after walking Chris to school. About 10:45, I asked the status and by 11, our nurse came in and told us that he was running about 2 hours behind schedule, so we should be in by noon. I WAS STARVING!!! How on earth do you get 2 hours behind schedule at 10:15 -- hopefully it was something of an emergency that took priority!!

Libby came thru everything GREAT -- she was pretty cranky coming out of the anesthesia, but that's pretty common. Her new tubes are in, her adenoids are out -- not sure of the results of the echo, but I'm sure I'll hear from my ped about that one. As for the ABR -- my daughter has PERFECT hearing -- pooh on the "old fashioned" behavior hearing test that they try to make her adhere to -- as a 2 year old, she's not going to go along with that!!!

We were discharged at 5 and home with dinner at 6:15 -- all were exhausted, but home and healthy!!!

Here's a pic of her waiting in our room early that morning (I just love when they've got the hospital gowns on!!)

Surgery Tomorrow!

2008-05-01T13:33:00.003-06:00

The day is finally here!!!

Libby will get her 2nd set of tubes put in her ears. She'll get her adenoids taken out. We will also be doing a sedated ABR (hearing test) and a sedated echocardiogram.

Her surgery time is 10:15 a.m. tomorrow morning - we have to be at Children's Hospital at 8:15 and since I'm talking about times, she cannot eat/drink anything after mid-night, but can have clear liquids up until 7:15 a.m. (Breakfast of Champions - Jello and Apple Juice).

I'm all about the nervous since she'll be under anesthesia for about 2-2.5 hours for everything. Will let you know how everything goes!!

Goop

2008-04-27T13:10:00.002-06:00

There is a very cool science guy by the name of Steve Spangler -- he's local here to the Denver area so is usually doing a segment on the morning news. I've recently seen him on the Ellen show doing some pretty cool things.

One experiment he did was with corn starch and water - pretty cool - here's the link to the Ellen show video.

http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2008/02/all_steve_spangler_do_not_try_this.php

Chris and I made it this afternoon and he had a blast playing with it:

Here's the recipe:

Materials

- One box of corn starch (16 oz.)
- Large mixing bowl
- Cookie sheet, square cake pan, or something similar
- Pitcher of water
- Spoon
- Gallon size zipper-lock bag
- Newspaper or a plastic drip cloth to cover the floor
- Water
- Food Coloring

Pour approximately 1/4 of the box of cornstarch into the mixing bowl and slowly add about 1/2 cup of water. Stir. Sometimes it is easier to mix the cornstarch and water with your bare hands-- of course, this only adds to the fun. Continue adding cornstarch and water in small amounts until you get a mixture that has the consistency of honey. It may take a little work to get the consistency just right, but you will eventually end up mixing one box of cornstarch with roughly 1 to 2 cups of water. Notice that the mixture gets thicker or more viscous as you add more cornstarch.
Pour the mixture onto the cookie sheet or cake pan. Notice its unusual consistency when you are pouring it into the pan. Stir it around with your finger, first slowly and then as fast as you can. Skim you finger across the top of the glop. What do you notice? Sink you entire hand into the glop and try to grab the fluid and pull it up. Try to roll the fluid between your palms to make a ball. You can even hold your hand flat over the top of the pan and slap the liquid glop as hard as you can. Most students will run for cover, as you get ready to slap the liquid, fearing that it will splash everywhere. Fear not, all of the glop stays in the pan...hopefully. If your mixture inadvertently splatters everywhere, you will know to add more cornstarch. As your students play with the glop, ask them to speculate why the liquid behaves in this manner. What causes it to feel like something solid when you squeeze it, yet it flows like syrup as it drips off your finger? When you are finished, pour the glop into a large zipper-lock plastic bag for later use.

NOTE:
Ironically, the cornstarch will not stay mixed with the water indefinitely. Over time, the grains of cornstarch will separate from the water and form a solid clump at the bottom of the plastic storage bag. It is for this reason that you must not pour this mixture down the drain. It will clog the pipes and stop up the drain. Pour the mixture into a zipper-lock bag and dispose of it in the garbage.

I think I need to use the back burners now.....

2008-04-27T08:33:00.003-06:00

Here's the problem with having a little girl that is as tall as a "normal" 2.5 year old, but is completely delayed with the understanding of the word "HOT". Yes, that's a boiling pan of water!!!!

How could I be so angry when she's sooo cute??

Mother's Day Photo contest

2008-04-25T18:43:00.006-06:00

What Motherhood means to me.......

I just LOVE this picture - I have it printed out and hanging in my family room. This picture was taken on Sunday, 4/20 at the Denver Zoo. That morning I was frustrated with myself for actually forgetting my camera - I usually don't get very good pictures with my iPhone (until this one).

These 2 kiddos love each other so much - they actually enjoy playing with each other. I was very scared trying to figure out what kind of relationship they would have with Libby having Down syndrome ---- scared no more. Chris will do anything to make Libby laugh - and Libby just thinks that Chris "walks on water".

This picture shows them happy just to be together. I'm hoping I had some kind of influence with that.

This contest is sponsored by 5 minutes for Mom and if lucky enough, I might win $1,000 for my photo!!!

Who's big idea....

2008-04-24T07:40:00.004-06:00

Who's big idea was it to come up with adorable WHITE shorts for a 2 year old. I rarely shop at the Gap, but needed a new pair of leggings for Libby and they're they only ones that have them left with the summer clothes.

I grabbed my pair of black leggings and as I turned around, I found the most adorable bermuda shorts that I could totally see on Libby. She has such wonderful olive skin (from Scott) that the white would just "pop" on her.

What was a thinking.....

Here's the picture from the Gap website...

And, here's what we had after a full day of playing:

I'm sure it will take me a full bottle of "Shout" to get these completely white again.

Prince Vince is having another contest!

2008-04-21T13:22:00.002-06:00

Libby just LOVES shoes and with our new little inserts, I would love to win a pair of these great looking shoes to help her straighten out her cute little feet (see previous post on how much she LOVES these inserts).

Take a look and join in - Prince Vince.

A Day at the Zoo!

2008-04-20T13:09:00.004-06:00

What a perfect day for the zoo - it was about 68 degrees today, so we decided to head to the zoo (Scott is in Seattle, so it would have been more perfect had he been there, but it was still pretty nice getting out).

To know me well, you would know that I absolutely HATE crowds -- they drive me crazy. So, we got there about 8:55 -- they open at 9. We were 2nd in line and it didn't really get crowded until we were leaving about 11 -- excellent timing!!!!

The Denver Zoo is not the largest I've been to (Omaha's is absolutely HUGE) -- but it's the perfect size to see almost everything in a matter of 2 hours.

We always save the carousel and train for the end. Chris has always loved both of them, but this time, Libby was ALL smiles for that carousel.

Again, a perfect day - we all enjoyed ourselves.

We brought the "car", but Libby actually walked quite a bit of the way (hopefully she'll take a good nap this afternoon)

One of my favorite pictures of the kids together (too bad all I brought was my phone to take pictures with).

On the carousel

She just loved it this time (it was tough getting a picture as I had to hold onto her as well!!)

Siblings - what a great relationship they have!!

Dirt Bikes

2008-04-17T21:20:00.004-06:00

Chris has a good friend from school, Jim. Jim's Dad is a motorcycle guy - the kind of motorcycles that do jumps and "stuff" on trails in the dirt.

Chris was able to join Jim and his brother on the last couple of times that they went to our local dirt track (No, I had not one idea that such a thing existed). Chris just learned to ride a 2 wheel bike last fall, but he did GREAT at the track and absolutely loved it -- heck, what 6 year old wouldn't love riding their bike on a dirt track.

My friend, Mary Ann (Jim's Mom), what so great to take pictures of this excursion (he even came home in one piece too). Oh what fun, it is to ride..........

You just "have to" play in the dirt afterwards, don't you?????

Found the coolest thing.....

2008-04-17T21:07:00.002-06:00

Boy, I wish I would have come up with this idea (how many times a week do you say that phrase - I am such an idea person, but NEVER come up with the great ideas).....

http://www.smartmomjewelry.com/ecart/categories.asp?cID=10

I ordered one of these for me and one for my sister-in-law who is expecting this summer -- it looks actually pretty cool on, but is totally "chewable" (yes, I did actually put it in my mouth myself). It even worked with Libby who I gave it to when I put her PJ's on tonight - she loved playing with it and it was OK to put in her mouth.

Good Idea!!!

Emma's Hope

2008-04-12T18:09:00.002-06:00

I've written in the past about my friend Meredith who adopted a child internationally with Down syndrome (OK, so she ended up adopting 2 of 'em).

Beautiful little Emma Hope is going thru a tough time right now as she has heart issues, but as Meredith and her husband Mike are finding out that there are other complications if they proceed with surgery (it looks like the surgeons that are looking at the case are not convinced that it can be done).

Keep Emma in your thoughts and prayers as well as the entire Cornish family as they travel thru this journey! Click on Emma's adorable picture to visit the Cornish blog.

Sigh.....

2008-04-10T09:05:00.002-06:00

It's April and look what we woke up to......

SIGH - I want winter to be OVER!!!
Here are a few pics from the last couple of days......

(Yep, that's a paper towel roll on her hand)

My 2 sweethearts

Watching Signing Times - ya think she's close enough???

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Desserts Edition)

2008-04-04T11:37:00.003-06:00

OK, haven't done these for a bit, but this is one of my favorite topics. Thanks to Overwhelmed for hosting this, be sure to visit her here for more recipies. I haven't tried this one, but saw it in the latest Kraft magazine and definitely want to try it.

Easy Peanut Butter & Chocolate Eclair Dessert

Prep Time: 30 min
Total Time: 8 hr 30 min
Makes: 24 servings, one piece each

1-3/4 cups cold milk
1 pkg. (4-serving size) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding & Pie Filling
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP Whipped Topping, thawed
24 HONEY MAID Honey Grahams
6 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate
3 Tbsp. butter

POUR milk into large bowl. Add dry pudding mix. Beat with wire whisk 2 min. or until well blended. Add peanut butter; mix well. Gently stir in whipped topping. Layer one-third of the grahams and half of the pudding mixture in 13x9-inch dish, breaking grahams as necessary to fit. Repeat layers. Top with remaining grahams.

MICROWAVE chocolate and butter in microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min., stirring after 1 min. Stir until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is well blended. Spread immediately over grahams.

REFRIGERATE at least 8 hours. Store leftovers in refrigerator.

Easter

2008-03-27T21:00:00.006-06:00

We packed up the kiddos after school last Friday and drove the 8 hours from Denver to Omaha. We stopped in Gothenburg, NE for the night and Oh My Gosh - those kids of ours got into the biggest giggle fest I have ever seen. They just pretty much fed off each other (did I mention that it was 11 p.m. at night). Here are a couple of pics of that party....

Here are a few of the kids on Easter morning before they started to eat or play (as you can imagine, both outfits were ready for the wash by the end of the day).

One last one of Libby just walking down the street (at least it's not on a big wheel and in the middle of the street) -- remind me that I need to publish that story soon -- it wasn't very funny when it happened, but now, I have to grin at it.

3/21 - World Down Syndrome Day

2008-03-20T19:08:00.005-06:00

Today, March 21st, is World Down Syndrome Day -- in order to have Down syndrome, you have to have 3 copies of the 21st chromosome, thus 3/21 is the magical day. I stealing the format that I saw on Tara's Blog......

3 things about Libby that you might not know: She LOVES to play outside, She LOVES to brush her teeth and she LOVES to make sure that everyone has shoes on.

2 things that inspire me: She is one of the most determined people that I know, and she means so much to EVERYONE that knows her.

1 thing that I wish everyone knew: How absolutely wonderful it is to have this precious little
girl in our lives.

6 years ago

2008-03-18T11:51:00.004-06:00

6 years ago, our Christopher Scott was born -- it will be a day I will remember forever!!

You love to color, play on the computer and ANYTHING Lego/Starwars. You hate toothpaste, most vegetables, and would rather have your shoes off than on.

We love to see how much you've grown this year - Kindergarten has been GREAT!! You can read and write and with your endless imagination, it has opened up a whole new world.

Happy Birthday Bubba!!!

When you were born......

About 18 months old.....

About 2.5 years old........

About 4 years old......

Today (still a ham)......

Some recent pictures of us.....

2008-03-07T09:38:00.006-07:00

It's been awhile since I posted some pics just for fun -- here ya go.....

Here's a couple of Chris at swimming lessons - you can see in the second picture that he was swimming by himself and he teacher was right there cheering him on.

My Cheetoes loving kids (Libby didn't take a nap that day and literally passed out with it sticking out of her mouth)

Our New T-shirt "Princesses Can Have Down Syndrome Too"

Chris had "Dr. Seuss" week this week at school - On Tuesday, they celebrated the book "Oh The Places You'll Go" by dressing like somewhere you have been or somewhere you would like to go -- Chris wore his Grumpa's Hawaiian shirt, wanting to go to Hawaii!

Our neighbors behind us gave us this WONDERFUL toy -- Chris just LOVES it (obviously - what 5/6 year old wouldn't). Personally, I probably wouldn't have ever got him one since I'm a believer in actually peddling at his age to get around, but he loves driving!! (and Libby loves watching her Bubba)

Trying to take a family picture for a "Flat Stanley" type of project that was sent to us -- Libby wanted nothing to do with it!!!

Mom, I'm hungry.......

2008-03-02T16:10:00.005-07:00

So Libby didn't specifically say that, but as the entire family was lounging in our bed this morning, watching the snow come down, she signed that she was hungry to both myself and Scott. We both smiled and commented how great it is that she is now communicating.

She signed hungry to both of us again.

She then proceeded to get down off the bed and walked out of the bedroom - I thought she was heading to our loft area where we have a lot of our toys.

After a few minutes, I didn't hear her, I looked all over upstairs, then walked down the steps expecting her to be hanging off her high chair. She was no where in sight. I then spied that the door going out to the garage was open a bit.

I opened it and saw her little head on the other side of the car sitting on the floor of the garage. I walked over there and she had found the crackers that we took on our park outing a couple of days ago in her "car" and was sitting on the cold floor eating them.

I guess next time I'll listen to her a little quicker!!!

Here's a pic of her at the park the other day with her "car".

Favorite Ingredient Friday

2008-02-29T07:34:00.004-07:00

I've made this recipe a few times and have just loved it (found it on the internet somewhere a few months ago) - Thanks to Overwhelmed with Joy for hosting this every week!!!

Chicken Fried Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients:
3 Tbsp. flour
1-1/2 tsp. lemon pepper
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 cup cornflake crumbs
3 Tbsp. cornmeal
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 Tbsp. melted butter

Preparation:
Combine flour and lemon pepper seasoning in shallow dish. Place buttermilk in another dish. In third dish, mix cornflake crumbs and cornmeal. Dip boneless, skinless chicken in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally in crumb mixture. Then drizzle with melted butter and bake at 400 degrees F for 18-24 minutes.

Our First Haircut

2008-02-28T14:43:00.004-07:00

It has taken me over 2 years to finally cut Libby's hair -- I had pigtails in my hair almost every day as a little girl, so needless to say, I just love putting Libby's hair in pigtails. She did GREAT - loved every minute of it actually!! Lots of giggles!!! If you have a "Cool Cuts for Kids" in your area, I highly recommend it. They have videos for the little kids and games for the bigger kids. There's a Thomas set in the middle as well as a bunch of legos. I think Chris would have spent the day there if I would have let him!!!

Before the cut

After

With her Bubba (yes, it's a bit out of focus!!)

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Side Dishes Edition)

2008-02-22T10:06:00.004-07:00

This is a basic recipe that I use ALL the time -- my kids LOVE Mac & Cheese and making is homemade makes it sooooo much better.

Be sure to visit Overwhelmed with Joy for more side dish recipes.

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

8oz. box of elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
2 Tablespoons butter
2 Tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar Cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Prepare macaroni by directions on box and drain well.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir to remove lumps. Pour in milk and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Add cheese and stir until melted. Add macaroni and stir.

Pour mixture into 2 qt. casserole dish. Bake for 20 minutes.

You could try substituting some or all of the cheddar cheese with gouda, mozzarella, or swiss cheese.

G Diapers

2008-02-16T11:34:00.002-07:00

I was reading and corresponding via comments with Kelly over at Where There's A Will about Global Warming, recycling and where the heck is Al Gore.

Kelly had a great comment that Al has made "going green" a pretty sexy thing to do -- hopefully he and the next Commander In Chief will make this a priority. I think we have all seen a very cold and very snowy winter this year (except for my very southern friends!!).

A few months ago, Scott showed me an article in Time Magazine about biodegradable diapers. At first, I scrunched my nose at him and thought to myself, why would I want to use the same diapers at Julia Roberts, I'm sure she's not the one to actually do all the steps required to actually dispose of these diapers.

I thought this until I looked at the gDiaper -- WOW -- it's got a cute cotton outside (completely washable) and a plastic liner (completely washable) and the inside that once it's been used, you kind of pull down the sides and let it fall into the toliet -- yep, the whole diaper can go into the toliet. They send you a stick to stir up the toliet and you can see the diaper start to break apart right in front of your eyes.

We unfortunately have a "low flow" flush toliet in every bathroom, so the inside would go down, but the outside would get stuck. So, I'm just basically throwing them away (as I would with any other diaper), BUT instead of taking millions of years to break apart, they break down in 50-150 days.

They cost a bit more than regular diapers, but I think helping to save the world is worth a couple of extra pennies. I started off getting the "starter" kit for only $26.99 -- you can try everything out -- it's great!!! www.gdiaper.com - visit their website - they even have a short video you can watch to see how they work.

Highly recommended!!!

Time to blog again

2008-02-15T16:57:00.006-07:00

It's just WAY too easy to ONLY post a recipe every Friday -- Scott's traveling again this week and gets home tonight - Chris is VERY excited to see his Dad!!! (Watch out Dad, the Wii is queued up and ready to go)

Chris had his Valentines Party yesterday, but with Libby being 2 years old (and EVERY part of 2 that you can imagine), bringing her there with me would not be the best idea, so I passed on helping out with the party. It was a bummer because I'm sure the time when I'm NOT wanted by Chris to help at school is only around the corner (grin).

This was a VERY busy week for us as we had swimming lessons start on Monday/Wednesday, plus this was our last week of skating lessons. Chris had been asking about playing hockey, which scared the daylights out of me, but I wanted to see what we were up against, so we took these lessons. He is certainly not a Joe Sakic, but does OK with it - here's hoping that when soccer starts up in a few months that he leans that way!!! Libby spent the swimming lessons in the babysitting room at the rec center -- she didn't love it, but both Mom and Libby need to learn about separation before this fall comes and she starts pre-school.

Here are a few recent pics -- Chris being a ham and Libby in the $1 ballerina skirt that I found at Target that she LOVES to wear.

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Chocolate Edition)

2008-02-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't LOVE chocolate (OK, so Christina doesn't)???

I made this cake last weekend for some friends of ours and it turned out pretty GREAT - I added about 2 tsp of cinnamon to the mix.

Visit Overwhelmed with Joy for a bunch more Chocolate recipes for Valentines Day coming up.

Darn Good Chocolate Cake (courtesy of the Cake Doctor Cookbook)

one 18.25-oz. pkg. plain devil's food or fudge cake mix
one 3.9-oz. pkg. chocolate instant pudding mix
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1-1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Preparation:
Place rack in center of oven and heat to 350. Lightly mist a 12-cup Bundt pan with vegetable oil spray and dust with flour, shaking out excess.

Place cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, water, oil and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Blend with electric beaters on low speed for one minute. Stop and scrape down bowl. Increase speed to medium and beat for two to three minutes more, scraping down bowl.

Fold in chocolate chips, making sure to distribute them well. Turn batter into the Bundt pan and bake at 350 for 58 to 62 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed and is just starting to pull away from the pan. Place on wire rack to cool for 20 minutes. Run a long, sharp knife around edge of cake and invert onto a rack to cool for 20 more minutes.

You can drizzle icing on it or I just sifted powdered sugar over it - it was perfect!!!

Ears without tubes

2008-02-07T13:08:00.000-07:00

We went to the audiologist on Tuesday morning - I absolutely HATE audiology appointments! I can't understand how they can make an accurate determination as to how well a 2 year old can hear based on their response to different sounds.

They had another person sitting in the room with us to keep her attention in the middle, not looking all around. Libby did very well when her name was called, but when they would do a soft static noise, she didn't look at all - she was much more interested in the flashlight that the other gal had. You know what, I probably wouldn't look if I heard a static noise.

The audiologist did notice that one of her tubes had come out and she couldn't see inside the ear. I took Libby to the doctor this morning, we got the "goo" and tube out and she does have another ear infection - we're starting on a 14 day Omnicef today.

Since her ABR at about 3 months old was perfect, the audiologist wants to do a sedated ABR on Libby to show us for sure what is going on.

I'm currently on hold with our ENT (I have an 11 mintue wait) trying to see when we can get into see him. I'm thinking that since she has just lost her tube and immediately had gotten an infection, that there's a chance that he will want to re-tube her. If I can get an appointment fairly quickly (ha) then hopefully we can get everything coordinated. The pediatrition even mentioned having her Echocardiogram done at the same time as well (even though we're not due until Dec) since she'll already be under.

Why can't these tubes stay in place longer??

Here's a pic from my phone this morning at the doctors office....

Need some help.....

2008-02-01T14:01:00.000-07:00

A good friend of the family lost his 16 year old daughter this past year in a car crash (no booze, no drugs, just a crash late at night).

They are trying to start up a non-profit called CAR (her name was Cady Ann Reynolds) to help promote safe teen driving.

If you have a minute, please click on the link and vote for them -- right now they are on the 3rd page, top row -- you'll see the CAR logo. When you click on it, you can watch the parents explain what they're doing and why and then there's a button just below the TV box to vote for it. If they're one of the top 6, they will get $1,000 to help fund their non-profit.

VOTE HERE

Thanks everyone!

Favorite Ingredient Friday

2008-01-31T18:45:00.000-07:00

My good friend Cecily has never led me wrong with a recipe - this one came from her sister (I believe) and it is the "perfect" side dish for a mexican meal. It's mild enough that my 2-year old loves it, but has enough flavor that Scott likes it as well.

Visit Overwhelmed with Joy for more recipes!

Green Chili-Rice Bake

2 cups raw rice
8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese (2 cups, grated)
1 cup sour cream
1 4 oz. can diced green chilies, drained
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cook rice, and drain if necessary. In a large bowl, combine rice, Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, green chilies, melted butter and salt. Pour into a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake for 30 min. in 350 oven or until bubbly around the edges.
10 servings

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Superbowl Edition)

2008-01-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've posted a recipe - sorry about that OW!!! Thanks to Overwhelmed with Joy for hosting - please visit her site for a TON more recipes.

These are some of my favorites and get eaten up pretty quickly. I got them off of the "Puff Pastry" website - it's GREAT.

Sausage Bites

1/2 pkg. Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry Sheets (1 sheet)
1/2 lb. bulk pork sausage * (I use the Jimmy Dean regular sausage or the maple sausage)

THAW pastry sheet at room temperature 40 min. Preheat oven to 400°F.

UNFOLD pastry on lightly floured surface. Roll into 12" x 10" rectangle. Cut into 3 (3") strips.

DIVIDE sausage into thirds. Roll each into a cylinder the length of the pastry. Place on edge of pastry strip. Starting at the long side, roll up. Press edges to seal.

CUT each roll into 12 (1") slices. Place cut-side down 1 1/2" apart on baking sheet. Bake 15 min. or until golden and sausage is done. Makes 36 appetizers.

TIP: * You can substitute Italian sausage (casing removed) for bulk pork sausage.

To make pastries ahead, cut into slices and place on baking sheet. Freeze. When frozen, store in plastic bag for up to 1 month. To bake, preheat oven to 400°F. Place frozen slices on baking sheet. Bake 20 min. or until golden and sausage is done.

I can't sleep (Here's the Xmas photos)

2008-01-23T03:30:00.001-07:00

It's 3:30 in the morning here - I woke up to my suctioned cup razor falling off the wall of the shower and crashing loudly onto the shower floor. Scared the daylights out of me!!! (Scott's in DC and comes home tomorrow night)

I tossed and turned for about a half an hour, then turned on the light and read for about an hour, now I'm on the computer. I need to turn my brain off!!!!

Anyway - here are a few Xmas photos from last month!!!

Love the Legos!!!!

Chris with his new skateboard

Playing Rockem Sockem Robots

Libby and Nana G

Davis/Patil picture - Scott, Monte, Chris and Garth

Chris and Katie with their scooters

Xmas morning

Xmas morning

Chris being a ham

Libby and Chris

Libby and Chris being sily

Chris and Nana Bebe

At Marty's family's Christmas party - Scott, Monte and Marty

New Shoes

2008-01-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

Libby has been walking VERY well for the past couple of week - she's been "officially" walking for the past couple of months.

Both Scott and I and her PT, Jill, noticed that when Libby was barefoot, that her arches/ankles fell just a bit. Nothing that would keep her from walking, just some muscles that need to develop to hold that part of the foot up.

Well today, Jill brought our new inserts for her shoes -- Libby was soooo excited to see them and knew immediately that they went on her feet. We were lucky in the fact that her cheap Winnie the Pooh tennis shoes have an insole that comes out, so we were able to try them out this morning with Jill here. Libby did GREAT in them.

We walked around for about 30 minutes, then took off her shoes, the inserts, socks to see if they were rubbing anywhere - they were not. Libby pretty much insisted that we put them back on and kept signing "shoes" to us. VERY happy girl now.

Here are some pics of the inserts, the shoes, Libby, and Libby desperately trying to get the inserts on herself.....

Then and Now

2008-01-22T14:32:00.000-07:00

I was "tagged" by Christina to do a Then and Now post of my kids - it was A LOT of fun looking thru the baby pictures of both of them. Man, they grow up fast!!!!

Libby THEN

Libby NOW

Chris THEN

Chris NOW

I'd like to tag Renee at "Life with my special K's" -- she has ADORABLE kids and I can't wait to see their baby pictures!!!

Holy Cow, it's been a month!

2008-01-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

It's been 1 month - 30 days - 720 hours - 43,200 minutes - since I have blogged. HUGE BUMMER!!!

From December 20th, we took off the next day to head to Omaha for the holidays. We were there for about a week and the kids were completely spoiled by Santa and the grandparents! Once we got home, I came down with a head cold that because I didn't really take care of myself, turned into a horrible cough. I mean, it was the worst cough in the world.

Poor me, poor, poor, me (do you hear the violins playing? - grin)!

I held out about a week of trying as many over the counter cough suppressants that I could find. I finally went to the doctor (in which I hadn't been in over a year) and begged for some narcotics to help me sleep at night. I figure, if I could actually get some good sleep, then the cough would get better. The doc actually told me to throw away my Robitussin because it really is not that great and gave me a script for something great. That lasted a couple of days, then the cough was back and I had to call and beg for something stronger (thanks to the pharmacist, I was able to ask for something specific). I used it to sleep for about a week - probably a little longer than I really needed, but it was such GREAT sleep.

Anyway, I'm healthy now, back to the PC and will try to get some of the Xmas pictures posted in the next few days (hopefully).

Scott leaves for his first trip of 2008 tomorrow morning - I hate being a single parent, but I do have to admit that I LOVE having the bed all to myself!!!

If you've made it this far - please keep my friend Meredith in your thoughts as she and her husband just flew to Kiev to adopt a little girl with Down syndrome to add to their family. She had a little guy Kristopher and her little girl Brianna (with DS as well) is VERY close in age to Libby. Here's a link to her blog if you want to follow her story.

I'll be better about this whole blog thing - I promise!!!!!

Florida and more

2007-12-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

OK, I haven't posted in weeks - why, you ask??

Scott and I went to Florida, all by ourselves. My Mom came out and watched the kids for 4 days and we got to enjoy the good life.

Scott does a lot of travelling all year speaking at conferences and such. The wonderful guy, Jay, that runs the conferences, took a lot of the speakers to Hollywood, Florida for an all expense paid retreat.

Here's the view of the pool and the ocean from our room:

The VERY cool thing I got to do while there was meet an online friend. I belong to a fairly exclusive online Down syndrome board - you have to apply and only a few a year are approved to be a part of it. I met Christina online there and when I realized that I was travelling to Florida, we made sure to meet up. She brought her daughter Kallie (absolute doll) and her husband Todd - we had lunch and got to know each other. It was one of my favorite parts of the trip. Here is a picture of myself with Kallie and one with Christina!!

While in Florida, we got to sleep in every morning and I read a TON - a very relaxing 4 days.

We got back late on Tuesday - I have 2 days to get us ALL packed and everything Santa related ready to go to Omaha on Friday morning. Santa (and grandparents), here we come......

Christmas Trees

2007-12-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

We get a "real" Christmas tree every year. Why on earth don't they EVER drink a lot of water for me?? I have tried all of the tricks - we get a fresh cut on the tree right before we leave, I use HOT water, and I've even tried a 2 liter bottle of sprite one year. For me, it will usually take water for 3-4 days, then it just stops - now, I've never actually researched how long they "should" take water, I just always hope that it's a little longer than a few days.

Don't get me wrong - I love this time of year - it's my favorite. I'm just frustrated that I can't keep this darn tree even half alive for a couple of weeks.

Merry Christmas - Bah Humbug

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Casserole Edition)

2007-11-30T07:45:00.001-07:00

Probably one of my favorite editions, so far. This week, Overwhelmed with Joy is hosting her Favorite Ingredient Friday, but with it being a Casserole Edition.

The below recipe I got from my college roommate, Laura. It's one of our family Favorites.

Sloppy Joe Casserole

1 lb ground hamburger
1 package sloppy joe mix
1 can tomato soup
8 oz. grated cheese (I usually use the cheddar/jack combo)
2 packages refrigerated crescent rolls (I usually buy one Pillsbury and one store brand)

Brown hamburger and drain grease. Add soup and sloppy joe mix. Put 1 package of crescent rolls in bottom of 9x13 greased pan (glass works better). Cover with hamburger mixture. Cover with cheese. Top with 2nd package of rolls (I usually put the store brand on the bottom and the Pillsbury one on top - I think the Pillsbury ones are better tasting, but are usually a little greasier).

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

2 Years Ago

2007-11-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

.......we were on our way to the hospital to be induced with the birth of our little sweetheart. Little did we know just how much joy and happiness Libby would bring to our family.

You love Teletubbies, goldfish crackers, hugging your dolls, ANYTHING that has buttons and makes music, being barefoot, and you especially love your big brother, Chris.

You hate eggs, having your sleeves rolled up, when Mommy is on the phone, and when you can't have your own way.

I've had so many people comment about how much like a 2 year old you really are - what a GREAT compliment.

You mean the world to me sweet girl - Happy 2nd Birthday Libby!

So this is Christmas and what have you done?

2007-11-16T08:58:00.000-07:00

My friend, Chelle over at Downbloggers has helped start a mission to get people to donate in her post "So this is Christmas and what have you done?" These are special needs babies and children in other countries that need help - The Today Show did a segment on it this morning. You can watch the video below:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21790870/

Please consider not eating out for one meal, not indulging in something you don't really need so that you can spend $35 to help one of these children get to a home. Take the time to read Chelle's post. She explains how awful the conditions are over there for these children. You can go and donate to Reece's Rainbow, Waiting Christmas Angels. Please be a part of this. I know it can literally change lives.

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Muffin Edition)

2007-11-16T05:36:00.001-07:00

Here it is Friday again - time for Favorite Ingredient Friday (Muffin Edition). The muffins I'm going to share are wonderful and easy! Please visit Overwhelmed with Joy's website for many more recipies.

Easy Applesauce Muffins

6 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cups chunky applesauce

Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with bake cups and set aside.

In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter on high for about 30 to 60 seconds; set aside to cool slightly.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into a large mixing bowl.

In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs and brown sugar. Stir in the applesauce and melted butter until the mixture is smooth. For mess-free muffins, use an ice-cream scoop to spoon the batter into the bake cups.

Pour the apple mixture over the flour mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until combined (it's ready when you can't see any traces of flour).

Fill the bake cups about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 20 minutes or until light brown.

Lots of teeth and a heart!

2007-11-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

Having kids means lots of trips to many different doctors. Having a child with Down syndrome means even more trip to the doctor.

Yesterday morning, both Chris and Libby had their 6 month check ups at the dentist. We have this wonderful Children's dentist that we've gone to for the last couple of years - her practice is in Golden - about 30-60 minutes away depending on traffic. I tried going to a dentist a lot closer and it was the worst experience in my life. She deals with Chris' HUGE gag reflex - yes, he will totally be the vomit kid at school, I'm sure of it! She's also very comfortable with Libby having Down syndrome.

My kids were troopers - Libby sat with me and watched while her Bubba was getting his teeth cleaned. She got to hold her new tooth brush and chew on it while we waited. Chris has done great the last few times - no vomit. This time, they were able to brush his teeth, floss, fluoride, and take Xrays - it was a BANNER day!!

Libby got right up on that seat when Chris was done and let them brush and look at her teeth. Because she's still under 2, they label it as a "Happy" visit and don't do a lot of toothpaste or anything that might make a kiddo sad (they also don't charge for it).

2 kids - 6 months - no cavities!!! Yippie!

Yesterday afternoon, I took Libby to her yearly Cardiology appointment. She doesn't have any huge issues (for those that don't know, a lot of kiddos with Down syndrome have some pretty big heart problems and have to have open heart surgery when they are babies). Based on our discussions with the doctor last year, I was hoping that we'd have an echo cardiogram and get the doctor's sign off that we don't have to go back EVER.

Have I mentioned lately that Libby will be 2 in a couple of weeks -- she's such a 2 year old right now. Yesterday, we had a VERY tough time getting her to sit still for only a minute so they could get a valid EKG -- that was only a minute and it took us about 15-20 minutes to do that.

The doc came in and immediately said Hi. Libby turned around and smiled at him and waved. He was taken with her at that point. She then patted her bare belly with both hands, which means that she was trying to tell him that she was naked. He had to kiss her forehead at that point. He listed to her heart and then asked me how she was doing developmentally - he listened to me as he watched her get in and out of everything in that exam room. He then gently told me that he didn't hear anything at all with her heart anymore (she had mitral valve) and suspects that everything has fixed itself, but looking at her, didn't think she would sit still for the 30 minutes that the need to get a good echo cardiogram. I kind of had to agree with him.

The nicest thing he could say to me is that he thought she was so much like a "normal" 2 year old in behavior that next year when she's 3, we should probably be OK setting her up with a video and being able to get what he needed. I teared up - my daughter acts like a "normal" 2 year old. Yippie!!!

Now, I know she's fairly delayed since she's not quite walking yet (very close though) and doesn't do much talking at all, but it's just nice once in awhile having her seen as "normal".

All in all - a GREAT day for doctors!!! Next one is her 2 year old check up in about 3 weeks!!!

Favorite Ingredient Friday

2007-11-09T05:55:00.000-07:00

Is it Friday already???? Wow, this week went by fast. With the cold approaching, I'm going to post one of my favorite recipes, from the back of the Bisquick box - Chicken and Biscuits. Please visit Overwhelmed with Joy for many more recipes this week.

Country Chicken and Biscuits

6 cups cut-up cooked chicken
1 1/4 cups chopped onions
1 1/4c ups chopped celery stalks
1 bag (1 pound) Green Giant® frozen mixed vegetables
2 cans (14 ounces each) chicken broth
1/3 cup cornstarch
3/4 cup cold water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
3 1/3 cups Original Bisquick® mix
1 cup milk

1. Heat oven to 400F. Heat chicken, onions, celery, mixed vegetables and
chicken broth to boiling in 5-quart Dutch oven. Stir cornstarch into cold
water until dissolved; stir into chicken mixture. Heat to boiling, stirring
constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute; remove from heat. Stir in parsley. Pour
into ungreased rectangular pan, 13x9x2 inches.
2. Stir Bisquick mix and milk until soft dough forms. Drop by 30 teaspoonfuls
onto chicken mixture.
3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.

Prep: 30 min
Start To Finish: 1 hr
Makes 12 servings
High Altitude (3500-6500 ft)
Decrease cold water to 1/3 cup and chicken to 5 cups. Bake about 30 minutes.

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Cookie Edition)

2007-11-02T18:42:00.000-06:00

I've got the "crud" from my kids, but was able to take a little siesta this afternoon, so actually felt good enough to post a recipe. I'm going to follow Michelle's lead and pull one from the brand new Kraft magazine that I received the other day.

Don't forget to visit Overwhelmed With Joy and get in the mood to make some holiday cookies!!!

Mint Thins

1 pkg. (8 squares) Baker's Semi-Sweet Chocolate
1/4 tsp. peppermint extract
1 sleeve Ritz Crackers (35 crackers)
1 peppermint candy cane, crushed

Microwave chocolate in small microwaveable bowl as directed on package. Stir until completely melted. Blend in extract.

Dip cracker in melted chocolate, completely coating crackers with chocolate. Carefully scrape off excess chocolate. Place on wax paper-covered baking sheets; sprinkle with crushed candy.

Refrigerate 30 minutes or until chocolate is firm. Makes 35 or about 12 servings, 3 coated crackers each.

Variation: For a chocolate-peanut butter twist, omit peppermint extract and candy cane. Spread each cracker with a thin layer of peanut butter before dipping into the melted chocolate.

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T16:10:00.000-06:00

From Spiderman & Po (the red Teletubbie)

We miss you Dad!!! Happy Birthday Grumpa!!

I won an award!!!

2007-10-29T11:33:00.000-06:00

Thanks to my special friend Chelle at Down Blogger, I have won the Community Blogger award!!! Chelle has a very special little girl Ciarra - they have both been an inspiration to myself while pregnant with Libby and watching her grow up. Chelle is such a strong woman and mother - I only hope that when Lib's is ready for school, I have the same strength. You can visit Chelle's blog here.

I would like to nominate Kelly at Where There's a Will - Kelly just moved to our area (we've yet to meet in person), but her son's story is amazing and her ability to draw people in with her ideas and writing is incredible (her post on "Dress Code" is one of my favorites). She's currently sponsoring a contest to capture kids with Down syndrome reading - the winner gets a Book gift certificate. What a GREAT idea!! You can visit Kelly here.

Favorite Ingredient Friday

2007-10-26T06:00:00.000-06:00

I was looking thru my recipies that I already have typed up so I wouldn't have to do much work this morning (grin). This recipe is one that I made the last few years as "presents" for my neighbors for the holidays. I wrapped each one up in green cling wrap and tied it with a bow - great gift and being able to make 4 mini loaves at one time, made it pretty simple.

Please visit Overwhelmed with Joy for MANY more recipies!

Triple Chocolate Quick Bread

1/2 cup butter, softened
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
1 1/2 cup applesauce
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/2 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips

Glaze:
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 Tbl. butter
3 Tbl. half-n-half
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
salt

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add eggs and melted
chocolate, mixing well. Set aside. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and
salt; add to creamed mixture, stirring well. Stir in chocolate chips. Spoon batter into
four greased mini loaf pans.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until tests done. Cool in pans for ten
minutes and then remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Glaze:
Melt chocolate chips and butter in a saucepan. Stir in cream. Remove from heat and
stir in sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle over cooled bread.

Makes 4 mini loaves.

Libby Got Caught!!!!

2007-10-19T16:47:00.000-06:00

Kelly at "Where there's a Will" is holding a contest for kids with DS - showing that EVERYONE can read! The prize is a gift certificate to an independent bookstore - those that know me well, know that I can burn thru a good trashy romance novel pretty quickly, but I still like to read books that actually make think :)

Here's a pic of Libby - her favorite books are those that are the touchy/feely kind or ones that you can push a button and it plays a song or says words that go along with the book. She loves to sit on your lap and help turn the pages of a "regular" book as well!

Please go and visit Kelly's site and see all of the kids getting caught reading!!!

Favorite Ingredient Friday (Soup Edition)

2007-10-19T06:27:00.000-06:00

OK, so I missed last Friday -- I'm not even sure what I was doing, just didn't get anything posted. When I realized that today was the soup edition, I just "knew" what I was going to post.

We tried this soup when Scott's folks were out here visiting one time and it was wonderful - I just love mushrooms and the cream sherry is what made it.

Be sure to visit Overwhelmed with Joy for hers and other recipes.

Cream of Mushroom Soup (Courtesy of Gourmet Magazine)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup finely chopped shallots
2 pounds white cultivated mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup cream Sherry (I used Harvy's Bristol Cream)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups low-salt chicken broth, reserving 1/2 cup
1/2 cup milk
Ground nutmeg to taste, about 1/4 teaspoon
1/2 cup sour cream

In a large saucepan melt butter with the olive oil over moderate heat. Add the shallots and cook until tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme leaves, salt and pepper, cooking until all of the liquid rendered from the mushrooms evaporates. Add the Sherry and cook until evaporated. Remove a 1/2 cup of the cooked mushrooms and reserve. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add 3 cups of the chicken broth, bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes. In a blender puree the soup in batches until smooth (I just used my hand blender and it worked great). Return soup to saucepan, bring to a simmer and whisk in the milk. Add reserved chicken broth to achieve desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Lower heat and whisk in 1/4 cup of the sour cream. Keep soup warm but do not simmer or boil. Serve soup garnished with reserved cooked mushrooms and a dollop of the remaining sour cream. (Makes 4 servings)

Sock Monkeys

2007-10-17T16:17:00.001-06:00

Don't 'cha just love Sock Monkeys????

My friend Meredith is in the process of adopting a daughter with Down syndrome (see this post). She is making sock monkeys in order to raise money for their adoption fund and to raise Down syndrome awareness!! Hop on over to Meredith's Blog to see these adorable monkeys - they will make GREAT holiday presents - Plus you can WIN one of these adorable animals!!!

I've got a BIG problem

2007-10-07T13:45:00.001-06:00

.....and it's called eBay!!

I love the fact that you can find just about anything you might even "think" is available somewhere on the internet. More often than not, you can find it on eBay.

Libby just LOVES the teletubbies - Chris did too at this age. To be honest, they kind of drive me crazy as you can't understand them, but I guess if you're not yet 2, then the fact that they're big squishy animal-type things that have a television in their tummies, it might get my attention too.

Libby will be "Po" (the red teletubbie) for Halloween - Chris was this one as well - should be adorable!

Anyway - since Libby's b-day is coming up next month, I was looking for teletubbie toys to see if they even exist. We have all 4 stuffed tubbies, but not really any toys. You guessed it - hello eBay!! I found a great toy where you can put each of the tubbies in a hole in the top and they will come out of a different part of the toy - I believe it makes music as well (VERY important with Libby). I also found a bathtub toy that has all 4 Teletubbies. The only problem with these 2 presents was that I could ONLY find them in the UK -- the prices weren't too bad, but man, that shipping gets you every time.

Oh well - she'll love the presents and I loved finding them!!

A "Chris" on a bike

2007-10-06T08:24:00.001-06:00

One of our favorite books is "A duck on a bike" -- now we have A Chris on a bike. We walked home from school yesterday and decided to take the training wheels off our Spider Man bike. Chris has been balancing VERY well on his scooter lately so I had a feeling that he was more than ready for the bike.

It took very little effort and he was off -- I think Mom jogged behind him about twice, and Chris kept saying, "Mom, let me try myself" -- I did and he was SOOO proud of himself. Smiling and singing the whole time.

Here's a pic and a little video of our super star -- I have a feeling when Scott gets home this afternoon, he might be purchasing a bike of his own to keep up.

Go Chris!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Libby, Libby, Lu - How are you??

2007-10-04T13:43:00.000-06:00

Today, Libby and I were able to go to a wonderful place called Kangaroo Kingdom - it was like a soft and padded McDonald's playplace. The session was sponsored by our provider of services, Imagine - we were the youngest one there, but boy did Libby have fun.

Here are a few pics of her enjoying herself - she just LOVED this little boy who kept playing with her - flirting already!!!

Also, here's a short video of Libby walking with her push toy as well as her adorable wave (and picking her nose).

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

What a GREAT kiddo!!!