This circulated the Down syndrome "community" a while ago, but I'm just getting caught up on things. Next time I'm in the U.S., I'm going to shop at Walgreens!
One of the things that has worried me about Ryan becoming an adult is him finding "real" work. I don't care what kind of work he does, but I want him to find something that he enjoys and where he feels useful and that he is contributing (actually, that's no different than what most parents wish for any of their children, now is it?). People with developmental disabilities have a very difficult time finding jobs - and this isn't always because of their ability (and as an aside, it's not just people with developmental disabilities. People with other disabilities - i.e. physical disabilities, hearing or visual impairments - are underemployed as well). Often it can be because of discrimination. Often it can be that the employer is worried about what the person will or will not do and won't give the individual a chance to prove themselves. Or it may be that the employer is unwilling to make the few accommodations necessary for that individual to hold the job. In any case, I know how hard it is going to be for Ryan to find a job when he becomes an adult. We are fortunate in our case that there is always the family business to fall back on. Tom often remarks about the various jobs that Ryan will do when he grows up. But, as I remark back to Tom, what if he doesn't want to work for you?? So, finally, kudos to Walgreens for employing so many people with disabilities. I hope many employers see this and make a telephone call to the President of Walgreens to see how to do it at their company!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2akb4v2cUQ
Friday, July 27, 2007
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Love for Parker
Parker is an adorable little boy with Down syndrome who has been dealing with a ton of medical issues and has gone through a lot in his short life. He has pulmonary hypertension, heart problems and requires many other special medical devices. Because of his medical issues, he is extremely susceptible to getting sick so he often has to stay home in the "safe room" of his house. If Parker gets even a little bit sick he usually ends up in the hospital. Of course, all these hospital stays and medical supplies he needs cost a lot of money, especially in the U.S. I don't normally post requests for money - just a general policy I keep - but in this case, I think I can make an exception. Melody from Slurping Life has decided to run a little contest to help out with some of Parker's medical expenses. Everyone who donates $2 or more to Parker's fund through Melody's site will be entered into the contest to win some great prizes! Some of the prizes are a digital camera and camera case, an HP compact printer with carrying case, and there will be even more prizes too!
So if you would like to help out our friend Parker and his family, the time to do it is from July 23-27. I know Parker's mom,Tammy, from one of my on-line Down syndrome sites. She is a dedicted, amazing mother - not only to Parker, but to her other children as well. So pop on by http://www.prayingforparker.com/ to get to know sweet Parker a little better and then visit Melody's site: http://slurpinglife.typepad.com/ from July 23-27 to read more information about the contest.
P.S. Here is the latest update on Parker:
Friday, July 20, 2007
Life goes on
It's been an odd week. It's really amazing how much life just goes on - especially with two small children to take care of and to be strong for. I'm trying not to think too much about what's going on - and succeeding to a fairly good extent. Perhaps it's a form of self preservation - my brain giving me the time to process this at my speed (i.e. slowly). Perhaps it's also because we've been busy... or perhaps I've been keeping myself busy so I DON'T have to think about it. In any event, it's amazing how life has been going on fairly normally. We visited friends in Indiana on the weekend...went to African Lion Safari on Tuesday....visited with my sister, her children and my Dad on Wednesday....ran errands on Thursday and went to celebrate my niece's birthday today....
I am also starting too look at the many alternatives available to me.... and there are many. It's a bit overwhelming as there really are a ton of choices! I have received many, many suggestions over the past year and I am thankful to all the people who provided me with that information. My analytical and organizational brain is going to make a list of all my options - together with pros and cons - so I can see it all in one place. Please pray that God will lead me to the right choices.
And I do have my moments, don't get me wrong. I am human, after all. My faith is taking a bit of a beating - it isn't always strong. I feel like I'm taking a bit of beating too. Sometimes it feels like God isn't there or isn't listening. I do remind myself that God is holding me close, even though sometimes I don't feel it - and lately I don't always feel that God is listening. I'm reminded of that poem, "Footprints" in which the poet, throughout his life saw two sets of footprints walking on the sand. At the end of his life, he could see that there were times where there was only one set of footprints - and this was at the lowest times in his life. When he asked God why that was, God replied that those times where when God carried him. So I remind myself that right now, there is only one set of footprints as I'm truly unable to walk by myself. I was also comforted this week by a vist from my pastor. It was wonderful to talk to him about what we're going through, my faith and God's place in this situation.
I'm rambling a bit again as my thoughts are all over the place. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. Pray for wisdom as we work through the various options available to us; pray for comfort and for God's presence; and pray for strength to go about our day-to-day activities.
I am also starting too look at the many alternatives available to me.... and there are many. It's a bit overwhelming as there really are a ton of choices! I have received many, many suggestions over the past year and I am thankful to all the people who provided me with that information. My analytical and organizational brain is going to make a list of all my options - together with pros and cons - so I can see it all in one place. Please pray that God will lead me to the right choices.
And I do have my moments, don't get me wrong. I am human, after all. My faith is taking a bit of a beating - it isn't always strong. I feel like I'm taking a bit of beating too. Sometimes it feels like God isn't there or isn't listening. I do remind myself that God is holding me close, even though sometimes I don't feel it - and lately I don't always feel that God is listening. I'm reminded of that poem, "Footprints" in which the poet, throughout his life saw two sets of footprints walking on the sand. At the end of his life, he could see that there were times where there was only one set of footprints - and this was at the lowest times in his life. When he asked God why that was, God replied that those times where when God carried him. So I remind myself that right now, there is only one set of footprints as I'm truly unable to walk by myself. I was also comforted this week by a vist from my pastor. It was wonderful to talk to him about what we're going through, my faith and God's place in this situation.
I'm rambling a bit again as my thoughts are all over the place. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. Pray for wisdom as we work through the various options available to us; pray for comfort and for God's presence; and pray for strength to go about our day-to-day activities.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Dear Lord,,,
Tom and I met with my doctor yesterday to get results of the latest CT scan.
The results were not good. Not good at all. The scan showed growth that obviously just occurred over the past couple of months so it is painfully apparent that the chemotherapy has stopped working. I've had 9 months of stability and hope - and for that I'm thankful. But I'm devastated that it's ended. Devastated really isn't a strong enough word, but I don't know anything that can really express the despair that went through me.
Thankfully we do have some hope. There is another clinical trial that my doctor wants to try. It should be available in September. In the meantime, we'll continue investigating other options across Canada and the U.S. I'll also be starting the i.v. vitamin C which I wasn't able to do since I was on the clinical trial. I'll be trying anything I can that will help build my immune system - and I'll probably become one of those people who'll try anything if they say it'll help!
And, in a weird way, I'm looking forward to being off chemo for a while. I've been doing chemotherapy for 15 months now with only a few small breaks. So, I'm looking forward to gaining some strength back and to gaining some weight back.
So all I can do now is pray and ask for your prayers. I have been crying a lot, but mostly, right now, I think I'm in denial and in some depression. I am also really unable to talk about it right now and perhaps just need a few days to deal with it.
I was just re-reading the post I wrote the last time we got bad news and the Bible verse I wrote down back then was from Psalm 23: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me." Then, on Monday night, Kurtis and I were reading from a devotional book that he has - it's geared for boys age 6-9. We're not overly diligent about doing it, but that night we read about "God's Awesome Care". The verse was "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want" (Psalm 23:1) with the comment, "I am one of God's sheep". The reading discussed a boy who was worried about his track meet the next day with the Mother replying that God is like a shepherd to us and wants to help us in all we do. The discussion then talked about what worries have and how we can allow God to be our shepherd and how we can allow God to help us when we are afraid or nervous. It's amazing how God speaks to us and gives us what we need, even when we don't overtly ask for it. This verse and this devotional was exactly what I needed to hear to remind me that God is ALWAYS nearby and is taking care of us. And right now, I am going to work on letting God lead me like a sheep who doesn't know where to go.
Dear Lord,
Only You know how terrified we are right now. The future is so scary. I know that, if worst comes to worst, I will be healed in heaven and I will see You face-to-face in your glory...but Lord, I need to be healed here on earth. Lord, you know how often I, along with many others, have prayed for complete physical healing. I pray for that again. God, I ask that you heal me physically, fully and completely. I also ask for peace for me, Tom, my Dad, my sister and my dear friends and family. Help us to trust you wherever you may lead us. I know that, whatever happens, you are using my life to your glory.
Amen
P.S. I also ask that you keep Marissa in your prayers. She is also facing some uncertainty with respect to test results.
The results were not good. Not good at all. The scan showed growth that obviously just occurred over the past couple of months so it is painfully apparent that the chemotherapy has stopped working. I've had 9 months of stability and hope - and for that I'm thankful. But I'm devastated that it's ended. Devastated really isn't a strong enough word, but I don't know anything that can really express the despair that went through me.
Thankfully we do have some hope. There is another clinical trial that my doctor wants to try. It should be available in September. In the meantime, we'll continue investigating other options across Canada and the U.S. I'll also be starting the i.v. vitamin C which I wasn't able to do since I was on the clinical trial. I'll be trying anything I can that will help build my immune system - and I'll probably become one of those people who'll try anything if they say it'll help!
And, in a weird way, I'm looking forward to being off chemo for a while. I've been doing chemotherapy for 15 months now with only a few small breaks. So, I'm looking forward to gaining some strength back and to gaining some weight back.
So all I can do now is pray and ask for your prayers. I have been crying a lot, but mostly, right now, I think I'm in denial and in some depression. I am also really unable to talk about it right now and perhaps just need a few days to deal with it.
I was just re-reading the post I wrote the last time we got bad news and the Bible verse I wrote down back then was from Psalm 23: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me." Then, on Monday night, Kurtis and I were reading from a devotional book that he has - it's geared for boys age 6-9. We're not overly diligent about doing it, but that night we read about "God's Awesome Care". The verse was "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want" (Psalm 23:1) with the comment, "I am one of God's sheep". The reading discussed a boy who was worried about his track meet the next day with the Mother replying that God is like a shepherd to us and wants to help us in all we do. The discussion then talked about what worries have and how we can allow God to be our shepherd and how we can allow God to help us when we are afraid or nervous. It's amazing how God speaks to us and gives us what we need, even when we don't overtly ask for it. This verse and this devotional was exactly what I needed to hear to remind me that God is ALWAYS nearby and is taking care of us. And right now, I am going to work on letting God lead me like a sheep who doesn't know where to go.
Dear Lord,
Only You know how terrified we are right now. The future is so scary. I know that, if worst comes to worst, I will be healed in heaven and I will see You face-to-face in your glory...but Lord, I need to be healed here on earth. Lord, you know how often I, along with many others, have prayed for complete physical healing. I pray for that again. God, I ask that you heal me physically, fully and completely. I also ask for peace for me, Tom, my Dad, my sister and my dear friends and family. Help us to trust you wherever you may lead us. I know that, whatever happens, you are using my life to your glory.
Amen
P.S. I also ask that you keep Marissa in your prayers. She is also facing some uncertainty with respect to test results.
Monday, July 09, 2007
"Chewing the Fat"
"Chewing the Fat" is a blog by David Hingsburger. I heard Dave speak at the first Down syndrome conference I attended - way back in May 2002. What he spoke about was hard to hear - painful even - but it was the truth and he opened up my eyes. He also taught me a great deal in that one hour session.
Dave's blog is amazing. He sees incredible things in the ordinary. He opens my eyes and makes me think. He makes me laugh. I haven't been keeping up to date on my blog reading and missed this entry from July 1. But, I think it's a great piece and so I wanted to share it with you. Read it. And while you're there, take a whirl through his blog and enjoy the read!
I have had many thoughts about what Ryan will or will not do in the future. Most of those thoughts occured shortly after he was born and in the first year of his life. It's funny... but as time goes on, I think less and less about what he will or will not be able to do (although I will never stop teaching him so that he will be ABLE to do what HE wants to do). I have thought about Ryan driving a car but honestly, when I did think about it, it fell into the category of "probably not". Shame on me. Thanks, David, for once again opening my eyes!
Dave's blog is amazing. He sees incredible things in the ordinary. He opens my eyes and makes me think. He makes me laugh. I haven't been keeping up to date on my blog reading and missed this entry from July 1. But, I think it's a great piece and so I wanted to share it with you. Read it. And while you're there, take a whirl through his blog and enjoy the read!
I have had many thoughts about what Ryan will or will not do in the future. Most of those thoughts occured shortly after he was born and in the first year of his life. It's funny... but as time goes on, I think less and less about what he will or will not be able to do (although I will never stop teaching him so that he will be ABLE to do what HE wants to do). I have thought about Ryan driving a car but honestly, when I did think about it, it fell into the category of "probably not". Shame on me. Thanks, David, for once again opening my eyes!
Thursday, July 05, 2007
What's that saying about time flying??
something about having fun I think....
I can't believe my last post was June 19 - over 2 weeks ago! And yes, we have been having fun (other than the 1 week of chemo, but we won't mention that).
The end of the school year always brings its own particular busy-ness.
- There was a talent show to attend. Kurtis, along with 9 other of his classmates, performed The Macarena - finished off with a flourish by a human pyramid. It was so cute to see, and they did a great job, in spite of the music mix-up at the beginning (I'd love to post the video, but I don't think it would be fair to post without asking all the parents' permission). Honestly, though, I was just so proud of Kurtis that he actually DID something. I don't think I would have had the guts to go in front of that many people when I was in grade 2... in fact, I know I wouldn't have!
- We went to a end of year senior kindergarten party hosted by a family of Ryan's classmate (this is not to be confused with the SK graduation ceremony and party that was held the next week).
- Finally, we (as in Tom and I) were invited by Kurtis's teacher to attend the end-of-year assembly. I wasn't sure why, but I had a feeling it was to see Kurtis receive an award. And I was right! We are so proud of Kurtis as he received the 2006-2007 Christian Leadership award for his class. Kurtis got a bit tired of me telling him how proud I was of him.. "enough Mom!!"
And we have been busy enjoying the beautiful weather. Tom hadn't been feeling good for a while, so now that he is feeling better, the boys have been able to go out cycling again. On Monday (Canada Day holiday), we along with my Dad, my sister and her family were able to go out and enjoy our "new to the whole family" boat that my Dad bought for us. Although this boat needs a bit of loving care, it will allow us to do some skiing and tubing (thanks Dad!!). Having grown up at a young age with a boat, I have such great memories of learning to ski, skiing with my friend behind the boat, having fun going on a tube behind the boat, and watching my Dad and his friends slalom ski and do other hot-dog tricks. I really wanted to be able to recreate those memories for my children (and my sister's children). We weren't able to try skiing on Monday, but we were able to put the towable behind the boat and watch the laughter on our kids' faces. We purchased a towable that has seats IN it so the kids are quite safe....not as much fun for the adults, but lots of fun for the kids. We adults will get our fun skiing.
Finally, I'm thrilled to say that Kathy has returned to watch the kids for the summer. Remember Kathy from last year and how happy we were with her and the care she provided for Kurtis and Ryan? Well, she's back for another summer and the kids and I couldn't be happier. She started work late last week and she's already keeping the kids busy - two trips to the library, one trip to the grocery store for cookie ingredients, baking said cookies, many card and board games. Tomorrow is another trip to the library to see a magician's show (they have wonderful summertime activities planned) and then to the splashpad. Tomorrow night is Italian Festival.... another yearly tradition for our family that the kids look forward to excitedly. They love to ride the carnival rides, eat the wonderful pasta and other Italian dishes and enjoy a spaghetti or cannoli eating contest. FUN FUN FUN
I can't believe my last post was June 19 - over 2 weeks ago! And yes, we have been having fun (other than the 1 week of chemo, but we won't mention that).
The end of the school year always brings its own particular busy-ness.
- There was a talent show to attend. Kurtis, along with 9 other of his classmates, performed The Macarena - finished off with a flourish by a human pyramid. It was so cute to see, and they did a great job, in spite of the music mix-up at the beginning (I'd love to post the video, but I don't think it would be fair to post without asking all the parents' permission). Honestly, though, I was just so proud of Kurtis that he actually DID something. I don't think I would have had the guts to go in front of that many people when I was in grade 2... in fact, I know I wouldn't have!
- We went to a end of year senior kindergarten party hosted by a family of Ryan's classmate (this is not to be confused with the SK graduation ceremony and party that was held the next week).
- Finally, we (as in Tom and I) were invited by Kurtis's teacher to attend the end-of-year assembly. I wasn't sure why, but I had a feeling it was to see Kurtis receive an award. And I was right! We are so proud of Kurtis as he received the 2006-2007 Christian Leadership award for his class. Kurtis got a bit tired of me telling him how proud I was of him.. "enough Mom!!"
And we have been busy enjoying the beautiful weather. Tom hadn't been feeling good for a while, so now that he is feeling better, the boys have been able to go out cycling again. On Monday (Canada Day holiday), we along with my Dad, my sister and her family were able to go out and enjoy our "new to the whole family" boat that my Dad bought for us. Although this boat needs a bit of loving care, it will allow us to do some skiing and tubing (thanks Dad!!). Having grown up at a young age with a boat, I have such great memories of learning to ski, skiing with my friend behind the boat, having fun going on a tube behind the boat, and watching my Dad and his friends slalom ski and do other hot-dog tricks. I really wanted to be able to recreate those memories for my children (and my sister's children). We weren't able to try skiing on Monday, but we were able to put the towable behind the boat and watch the laughter on our kids' faces. We purchased a towable that has seats IN it so the kids are quite safe....not as much fun for the adults, but lots of fun for the kids. We adults will get our fun skiing.
Finally, I'm thrilled to say that Kathy has returned to watch the kids for the summer. Remember Kathy from last year and how happy we were with her and the care she provided for Kurtis and Ryan? Well, she's back for another summer and the kids and I couldn't be happier. She started work late last week and she's already keeping the kids busy - two trips to the library, one trip to the grocery store for cookie ingredients, baking said cookies, many card and board games. Tomorrow is another trip to the library to see a magician's show (they have wonderful summertime activities planned) and then to the splashpad. Tomorrow night is Italian Festival.... another yearly tradition for our family that the kids look forward to excitedly. They love to ride the carnival rides, eat the wonderful pasta and other Italian dishes and enjoy a spaghetti or cannoli eating contest. FUN FUN FUN
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
I've discovered something the scientists haven't!!
I have discovered that the gene for hugging is on the 21st chromosome. Actually, I have a feeling I'm not the first to discover it. Probably many parents of children with Down syndrome have discovered this.
Anyone who has met Ryan knows that he LOVES to hug. And, at school the other day, I noticed my friend's little girl, Grace, hugging another parent as well. It seems that the duplication of gene 21 in the Down syndrome chromosomal make-up has also doubled the urge to hug.
Now, personally, I love it. Ryan gives the best hugs ever. And don't ever tell Kurtis this, but he really does give better hugs than other kids. I think it has to do with the low muscle tone that many kids with DS have - their bodies just seem to melt into yours and it is one of the most delicious things in the world.
Ryan loves to hug - me, his Dad, his brother, his grandparents, his cousins, aunts and uncles, his teachers, his classmates, a perfect stranger off the street.... I think you get the picture. Most of the hugging is OK. But we are trying to get him to stop hugging perfect and almost strangers. It is unfortunate, but today's society dictates this need. It would be a wonderful world where it was acceptable for Ryan to hug everyone he saw - I truly believe our world would be much better off if everyone practiced this behaviour. But, unfortunately, we don't live in utopia. We live in a world where there are scary people and people who will take advantage of Ryan's loving nature. So, we have to teach him that it is inappropriate to hug people other than those in his family and his "circle of friends".
The other day, at soccer practice, he ran off the field to a gentleman with a beard and gave him a hug and sat on his lap (he loves beards and loves to run his fingers through the beard). I quickly ran over and pulled Ryan off with a quick word about how we only hug people we know and not strangers. The man's wife was very quick to say it's OK and that they don't mind at all. Most people say that - they don't mind... in fact, I think they rather enjoy having a cute little boy come over and hug them. But when I replied that it is cute now, but it won't be cute in the future when he hugs strangers, the woman was quite quick to agree with me and I think she quickly realized the inherent danger in this behaviour.
So, once again, I am struck by the beauty that people with Down syndrome seem to carry around with them. And I am deeply saddened that I have to teach my son that it is NOT OK to hug that woman with the dog that we met walking on the street. Honestly, she did look so much happier afterwards. But, we will continue to do this for Ryan's safety. And, once again, if I could bottle this affection and love, I'd be a millionaire!
Anyone who has met Ryan knows that he LOVES to hug. And, at school the other day, I noticed my friend's little girl, Grace, hugging another parent as well. It seems that the duplication of gene 21 in the Down syndrome chromosomal make-up has also doubled the urge to hug.
Now, personally, I love it. Ryan gives the best hugs ever. And don't ever tell Kurtis this, but he really does give better hugs than other kids. I think it has to do with the low muscle tone that many kids with DS have - their bodies just seem to melt into yours and it is one of the most delicious things in the world.
Ryan loves to hug - me, his Dad, his brother, his grandparents, his cousins, aunts and uncles, his teachers, his classmates, a perfect stranger off the street.... I think you get the picture. Most of the hugging is OK. But we are trying to get him to stop hugging perfect and almost strangers. It is unfortunate, but today's society dictates this need. It would be a wonderful world where it was acceptable for Ryan to hug everyone he saw - I truly believe our world would be much better off if everyone practiced this behaviour. But, unfortunately, we don't live in utopia. We live in a world where there are scary people and people who will take advantage of Ryan's loving nature. So, we have to teach him that it is inappropriate to hug people other than those in his family and his "circle of friends".
The other day, at soccer practice, he ran off the field to a gentleman with a beard and gave him a hug and sat on his lap (he loves beards and loves to run his fingers through the beard). I quickly ran over and pulled Ryan off with a quick word about how we only hug people we know and not strangers. The man's wife was very quick to say it's OK and that they don't mind at all. Most people say that - they don't mind... in fact, I think they rather enjoy having a cute little boy come over and hug them. But when I replied that it is cute now, but it won't be cute in the future when he hugs strangers, the woman was quite quick to agree with me and I think she quickly realized the inherent danger in this behaviour.
So, once again, I am struck by the beauty that people with Down syndrome seem to carry around with them. And I am deeply saddened that I have to teach my son that it is NOT OK to hug that woman with the dog that we met walking on the street. Honestly, she did look so much happier afterwards. But, we will continue to do this for Ryan's safety. And, once again, if I could bottle this affection and love, I'd be a millionaire!
Dreams
Great video on Youtube. It was produced by the National Down Syndrome Society in the U.S.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_-P4t2jR1g&mode=related&search=
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_-P4t2jR1g&mode=related&search=
Monday, June 11, 2007
What a wonderful day!
One thing about going through chemo... you are VERY grateful for a day that arrives where you are feeling good and energetic, where the weather is just perfect, where you have nothing else on your plate and where your husband has no appointments. That day was Sunday. So I woke up and was determined that our family was going to do something together, outdoors, somewhere.So we ended up at Ontario Place for the day. I must admit I was a bit disappointed with the place at first. Perhaps that comes from spending 7 days at Disney World with all the amazing stuff they have there. And Ontario Place is not really a ride place - and it is generally designed for the younger crowd. But, despite my disappointment when we first arrived, the kids had an AMAZING time! I had to drag them away from the first two "attractions" (the outdoor climbing structure and the indoor ball blaster) by convincing them there were other amazing things waiting for them! So, overall, I was happy with Ontario Place, especially when you consider the price compared to Disney!
We had told the kids we wouldn't have time for the water park and they were OK with that (but mostly, it was a concern about safety issues and Ryan).... but I did take their bathing suits, and after seeing how we could easily keep an eye on Ryan, we surprised them by letting them play in the water park. They had so much fun there and Kurtis was brave enough to go down the waterslides by himself (he just went down the one with 4+ people and merged himself in with other groups - not a shy bone in this kid's body!)
We wrapped the day up with a wonderful dinner at a good restaurant. Needless to say, we were ALL exhausted by the end of the day. (We were all still exhausted the next day too! LOL)
Any recommendations for a camera?
My camera has officially had it. It has this amazing ability to stop working at the most important moments. I have one picture of Ryan's Special Olympics as it would not work. This camera has had two visits to the repair shop already. I am going to bring it in for #3 - if they give me a replacement camera, then I'll take whatever they give me (a salesclerk at the store told me they might give me a replacement camera as this is repair#3 under the same warranty period). BUT... if they don't give me a replacement, I'm buying a new camera - even if they try to fix this one (it obviously hasn't worked before).
So... I'm looking for recommendations for a digital camera. No SLRs here... just want an easy to use digital camera with a fairly large view screen. Right now I have a Canon Powershot A60 and I do like it (in spite of the problems). It's easy to use and the pictures I get from it are clear and bright. But if you're passionate about your camera, let me know.... I'll check it out!
So... I'm looking for recommendations for a digital camera. No SLRs here... just want an easy to use digital camera with a fairly large view screen. Right now I have a Canon Powershot A60 and I do like it (in spite of the problems). It's easy to use and the pictures I get from it are clear and bright. But if you're passionate about your camera, let me know.... I'll check it out!
My goodwill ambassador
Ryan is such a happy boy and he greats everyone he meets with great enthusiasm. It doesn't matter if you're a stranger or not - he loves everyone and greats everyone with an enthusiastic "HI" and a hug. (We're working on not hugging strangers.... cute as it is right now, it's not exactly a safe thing to do, is it....)
Today, as we're driving through town, Ryan had the window down by his seat - and greeting everyone from there! He had to say hi to the woman at the drive-through window as I'm getting my French vanilla capaccino at Tim's. He said hi to the people stopped beside us at a stop light. Then, in the stores, he is all smiles and hellos for the sales staff... it makes it really hard to discipline him as octopus boy is grabbing everything in sight. How do you put him in a time-out when the sales staff is just grinning with him and chatting with him?? But, as usual, I have to smile at the reactions he gets. Everyone says hi and ends up with a great smile on their faces. I'm positive that their days were just a bit brighter after having this little boy come into their lives for a short time.
My goodwill ambassador. Is there anyway to bottle that sunshine that he brings? If so, I'd be a millionaire right now.
Today, as we're driving through town, Ryan had the window down by his seat - and greeting everyone from there! He had to say hi to the woman at the drive-through window as I'm getting my French vanilla capaccino at Tim's. He said hi to the people stopped beside us at a stop light. Then, in the stores, he is all smiles and hellos for the sales staff... it makes it really hard to discipline him as octopus boy is grabbing everything in sight. How do you put him in a time-out when the sales staff is just grinning with him and chatting with him?? But, as usual, I have to smile at the reactions he gets. Everyone says hi and ends up with a great smile on their faces. I'm positive that their days were just a bit brighter after having this little boy come into their lives for a short time.
My goodwill ambassador. Is there anyway to bottle that sunshine that he brings? If so, I'd be a millionaire right now.
Friday, June 08, 2007
What a difference a day makes!
Wow... I am feeling soooo much better than yesterday. It usually happens like this.... overnight, I can feel my body change and then the next day I'm pretty much back to normal (not quite, but close). Thank goodness, too, because today was a busy day. I could have imposed on my mother-in-law, but honestly, I think she's had a busy enough 10 days without adding one more on.
Today was a PD day and consisted of bringing Ryan to swimming lessons, a quick shopping expedition for a 6-year old girl, lunch out with the boys and my Dad (thanks for coming to visit Dad, it was great to see you!!), then taking Ryan to the 6-year old's birthday party at a glow-in-the-dark mini golf. And right now, I'm glad to say I'm not totally exhausted - in fact, I'm still feeling quite good!
Today was a PD day and consisted of bringing Ryan to swimming lessons, a quick shopping expedition for a 6-year old girl, lunch out with the boys and my Dad (thanks for coming to visit Dad, it was great to see you!!), then taking Ryan to the 6-year old's birthday party at a glow-in-the-dark mini golf. And right now, I'm glad to say I'm not totally exhausted - in fact, I'm still feeling quite good!
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
slowly....slowly....slowly...
This round of chemo was another tough one. Not so much in terms of nausea (no anticipatory nausea - YEAH!), but in terms of fatigue. The level of exhaustion has been incredible this time. I slept an easy 15-16 hours at a stretch...getting up (forcing myself up because my back was getting sore from lying down that long) only to fall asleep again in the lazy-boy chair. And my energy seems to be taking a long time to come back. It's day 9 now and I'm still quite fatigued. Although I'm sleeping fairly normal amounts.... I just can't DO anything! As you can guess I'm getting a bit frustrated. I'm trying to go with the flow, knowing that you can't fight it and just have to let nature take its course, but sometimes frustration does seep through.
Thank God for my mother-in-law - I don't know what we would do without her.... picking the kids up after school, feeding them dinner, taking Ryan on off-school days, taking the kids to various appointments, etc. Thank you Oma!
So, I'm off to REST and watch some more TV. I'm watching lots of talk shows (yuck), cooking shows, CSI and other bad TV (Kurtis loves "Smarter than a 5th grader" and "Deal or no deal" - oh well, what are you gonna do?) at night. Most TV really is inane, isn't it? But it keeps me occupied and I don't have to think too much - good things when you're really tired.
Thank you again for your comments, emails and prayers. Keep them coming!
Thank God for my mother-in-law - I don't know what we would do without her.... picking the kids up after school, feeding them dinner, taking Ryan on off-school days, taking the kids to various appointments, etc. Thank you Oma!
So, I'm off to REST and watch some more TV. I'm watching lots of talk shows (yuck), cooking shows, CSI and other bad TV (Kurtis loves "Smarter than a 5th grader" and "Deal or no deal" - oh well, what are you gonna do?) at night. Most TV really is inane, isn't it? But it keeps me occupied and I don't have to think too much - good things when you're really tired.
Thank you again for your comments, emails and prayers. Keep them coming!
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
A wonderful response!
Here is a wonderful response to the article I posted about on May 8 "Doomed from Birth to Death" . It was written by the president of the Nova Scotia Down Syndrome Society and was published as a reply in the Globe and Mail.
http://www.herald.ns.ca/Opinion/837842.html
Down syndrome: rights doomed by the media
By RENATE LINDEMAN
Canada’s signing of the UN convention on the rights of people with disabilities on March 31, 2007, marked another milestone in advancing the rights of people with disabilities. It appears we have come a long way. People with Down syndrome are included in their schools and communities, they get married, enjoy equal-opportunity employment. But beneath all this outward appearance of progress, a different message can be heard.
In Canada, this is not a heartening time to have Down syndrome.
"Doomed from birth to death" was the appalling title of an article published by the Globe and Mail on May 5. "Born with Down syndrome, she is dying slowly from Alzheimer’s disease …" The story then reports sad fact after sad fact, fragments of lives of people with Down syndrome after the onset of Alzheimer’s. What about all the years before Alzheimer’s? What about the thousands of Canadians with Down syndrome leading rich lives, holding meaningful employment and having loving relationships? Finally, what about the people with Down syndrome who never develop Alzheimer’s? Seems to me there is plenty to celebrate between birth and death.
While it is good to educate people on the tragic link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s, this stream of sad, negative information leaves readers in a state of despair. Important, hopeful facts about treatments that slow the progress of Alzheimer’s and make it more manageable are ignored. There is no mention of the promising research conducted right here in Canada by Dr. Weaver at Dalhousie University in Halifax (see article "Anniversary of Hope," http://dalnews.dal.ca/2007/05/03/Weaver.html). Nor does it mention the trial conducted by the Down Syndrome Research Foundation in British Columbia on the effects of vitamin E and prevention/delay of early onset of Alzheimer’s.
Instead, the newspaper seems bent on painting a bleak picture, with a headline that is sure to cause sensation and sell many copies. It is unthinkable any other group in Canada could have been singled out as being "doomed from the womb" without causing a riot.
"… The culprit appears to be the extra chromosome that shaped her brain and body in the womb …"
I question whether, if a person with Down syndrome develops Alzheimer’s at age 40, this should be viewed as inevitably "shaped in the womb," or rather as something that develops throughout the lifespan and can be treated. Evidence suggests the development of certain diseases (like Alzheimer’s) in people with Down syndrome is the result of a changed biochemistry due to the presence of the extra chromosome. "… Most people with Down syndrome have an extra copy (of the 21st chromosome), and it carries the instructions for a protein believed to play an important role in Alzheimer’s …"
Further research into the effects of this protein might mean that one day, it is possible to treat, delay or even prevent the early onset of Alzheimer’s (and/or other diseases).
Important and promising research in this and other fields, aimed at improving lives of people with Down syndrome, is being conducted around the world by a few dedicated scientists (Stanford University, Down Syndrome Research Foundations in Canada and United Kingdom, Nutri-Chem’s Kent MacLeod, etc.). Unfortunately, research has been largely ignored by the medical society. Is this because it is believed that Down syndrome will soon no longer be prevalent? Has the ability to identify Down syndrome in pregnancy, so relatively easy and cheap, shifted the whole focus to prevention (by aborting) rather than treating the complications of this syndrome? Has society really decided that lives with Down syndrome are not worth living or are these opinions forced down our throats by the media?
After singling out this group of people as "doomed" on the front page, the Globe and Mail then provided a public platform (online comments) on their website for some very extreme ideas ( http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070504.walzheimer0505/CommentStory/Entertainment/#comments).
The "value" of people with Down syndrome was being questioned over and over, as they were accused of being unproductive and a drain on resources. "Value" for society was only measured in terms of the ability to make money, and no value was placed on care, respect, acceptance or love. If society views people with Down syndrome as a "burden" in these times of abundance, what will happen if we face an economical recession? We cannot allow people with Down syndrome to be the scapegoat.
Medical research advances at a dazzling speed now that genes can be identified as responsible for certain conditions. The many new ethical and societal dilemmas this creates are not being properly addressed.
Lives and opinions may have changed forever due to this article. Families who fought for decades to achieve inclusion and equal rights for their children now may have to battle negative attitudes once again. Families might face more barriers in getting the supports for their children they need. Prospective parents’ decision may be negatively influenced when faced with a pre-natal screening that is positive for Down syndrome. A woman may have to live the rest of her adult life in a group home, because her brother and sister-in-law are reconsidering their decision to offer their home after reading the article.
We cannot allow this vulnerable group of people, some of whom have no verbal skills, to be condemned in the media. I would like to recommend reading the article published in the New York Times of May 9 ( http://www.nytimes.com/
2007/05/09/us/09down.html?_
r=1&oref=slogin).
Renate Lindeman is the mother of two children with Down syndrome, and president of the Nova Scotia Down Syndrome Society. She can be contacted by phone at 902-434-0234 or by e-mail at mail@novascotiadownsyndromesociety.com .
http://www.herald.ns.ca/Opinion/837842.html
Down syndrome: rights doomed by the media
By RENATE LINDEMAN
Canada’s signing of the UN convention on the rights of people with disabilities on March 31, 2007, marked another milestone in advancing the rights of people with disabilities. It appears we have come a long way. People with Down syndrome are included in their schools and communities, they get married, enjoy equal-opportunity employment. But beneath all this outward appearance of progress, a different message can be heard.
In Canada, this is not a heartening time to have Down syndrome.
"Doomed from birth to death" was the appalling title of an article published by the Globe and Mail on May 5. "Born with Down syndrome, she is dying slowly from Alzheimer’s disease …" The story then reports sad fact after sad fact, fragments of lives of people with Down syndrome after the onset of Alzheimer’s. What about all the years before Alzheimer’s? What about the thousands of Canadians with Down syndrome leading rich lives, holding meaningful employment and having loving relationships? Finally, what about the people with Down syndrome who never develop Alzheimer’s? Seems to me there is plenty to celebrate between birth and death.
While it is good to educate people on the tragic link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s, this stream of sad, negative information leaves readers in a state of despair. Important, hopeful facts about treatments that slow the progress of Alzheimer’s and make it more manageable are ignored. There is no mention of the promising research conducted right here in Canada by Dr. Weaver at Dalhousie University in Halifax (see article "Anniversary of Hope," http://dalnews.dal.ca/2007/05/03/Weaver.html). Nor does it mention the trial conducted by the Down Syndrome Research Foundation in British Columbia on the effects of vitamin E and prevention/delay of early onset of Alzheimer’s.
Instead, the newspaper seems bent on painting a bleak picture, with a headline that is sure to cause sensation and sell many copies. It is unthinkable any other group in Canada could have been singled out as being "doomed from the womb" without causing a riot.
"… The culprit appears to be the extra chromosome that shaped her brain and body in the womb …"
I question whether, if a person with Down syndrome develops Alzheimer’s at age 40, this should be viewed as inevitably "shaped in the womb," or rather as something that develops throughout the lifespan and can be treated. Evidence suggests the development of certain diseases (like Alzheimer’s) in people with Down syndrome is the result of a changed biochemistry due to the presence of the extra chromosome. "… Most people with Down syndrome have an extra copy (of the 21st chromosome), and it carries the instructions for a protein believed to play an important role in Alzheimer’s …"
Further research into the effects of this protein might mean that one day, it is possible to treat, delay or even prevent the early onset of Alzheimer’s (and/or other diseases).
Important and promising research in this and other fields, aimed at improving lives of people with Down syndrome, is being conducted around the world by a few dedicated scientists (Stanford University, Down Syndrome Research Foundations in Canada and United Kingdom, Nutri-Chem’s Kent MacLeod, etc.). Unfortunately, research has been largely ignored by the medical society. Is this because it is believed that Down syndrome will soon no longer be prevalent? Has the ability to identify Down syndrome in pregnancy, so relatively easy and cheap, shifted the whole focus to prevention (by aborting) rather than treating the complications of this syndrome? Has society really decided that lives with Down syndrome are not worth living or are these opinions forced down our throats by the media?
After singling out this group of people as "doomed" on the front page, the Globe and Mail then provided a public platform (online comments) on their website for some very extreme ideas ( http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070504.walzheimer0505/CommentStory/Entertainment/#comments).
The "value" of people with Down syndrome was being questioned over and over, as they were accused of being unproductive and a drain on resources. "Value" for society was only measured in terms of the ability to make money, and no value was placed on care, respect, acceptance or love. If society views people with Down syndrome as a "burden" in these times of abundance, what will happen if we face an economical recession? We cannot allow people with Down syndrome to be the scapegoat.
Medical research advances at a dazzling speed now that genes can be identified as responsible for certain conditions. The many new ethical and societal dilemmas this creates are not being properly addressed.
Lives and opinions may have changed forever due to this article. Families who fought for decades to achieve inclusion and equal rights for their children now may have to battle negative attitudes once again. Families might face more barriers in getting the supports for their children they need. Prospective parents’ decision may be negatively influenced when faced with a pre-natal screening that is positive for Down syndrome. A woman may have to live the rest of her adult life in a group home, because her brother and sister-in-law are reconsidering their decision to offer their home after reading the article.
We cannot allow this vulnerable group of people, some of whom have no verbal skills, to be condemned in the media. I would like to recommend reading the article published in the New York Times of May 9 ( http://www.nytimes.com/
2007/05/09/us/09down.html?_
r=1&oref=slogin).
Renate Lindeman is the mother of two children with Down syndrome, and president of the Nova Scotia Down Syndrome Society. She can be contacted by phone at 902-434-0234 or by e-mail at mail@novascotiadownsyndromesociety.com .
Monday, May 28, 2007
Busy busy busy
Sorry I've been such a bad blogger lately. It seems I'm trying to pack four weeks of "to do's" into two. I've been trying to get a bunch of things off my "to do list" and these past two weeks I've been FINALLY making a dent into it. Of course this means I don't have much time for blogging. On the good side...
- I've organized the children's spring/summer clothes and packed away the winter clothes.
- I've shopped and purchased new spring and summer clothes. As I tell Kurtis, "just stop growing already, would you?" Kurtis in particular always seems to need a new wardrobe every season as very little fits him from the previous year. And Ryan seems to have had a big growth spurt since last summer as he needed a lot of new clothes as well.
- We reorganized Kurtis's room as we bought him new bedroom furniture. Finally the child can sleep in a real bed instead of just on a mattress on the floor!
- I've finally got all my Disney pictures printed and into albums
- I've finally got all my other pictures (up to May) printed, although not yet into albums
- I've FINALLY cleaned out all the boys' clothes that were in boxes in the basement. The basement is looking a little emptier - yeah!
- I've organized all the "keepsakes" I've kept from Kurtis and Ryan over the years and now each child has their own "memory" bin. That took a while as I was going back 8 years and I couldn't help but look at the work they produced and read the journals from the babysitters and schools. I'm a bit of a packrat when it comes to sentimental things and memory joggers. I keep calendars, cards, select pieces of schoolwork, tickets to places we visit.
- I'm very proud of this.... I finally figured out how to use the software and I've produced DVD's of all our home digital videos. It took me a while to work my way through it but it's now all done up to April 2007!
I did also manage to have some fun as well... a few lunches with friends, a few dinners with friends, a night at a B&B with Tom while my sister and brother-in-law watched the kids, taking in Shrek 3 with my boys and eating far too much junk...
About the B&B.... apparently Tom and I are NOT B&B people. I felt awkward being in someone's house... a stranger's house... like I should be quiet and always whisper. And apparently I'm also a TV addict as I really missed my TV. Not that we couldn't go without it - we went to a movie that night after a wonderful dinner - but I do miss winding down for 10 minutes before I go to bed! Yup - we're definitely hotel people!
I'm heading in for chemo again tomorrow. Please pray that this one is easy and that it isn't so energy draining. Also pray that there is no anticipatory nausea - it was horrible last time. I hope to be blogging again in a week or so.
- I've organized the children's spring/summer clothes and packed away the winter clothes.
- I've shopped and purchased new spring and summer clothes. As I tell Kurtis, "just stop growing already, would you?" Kurtis in particular always seems to need a new wardrobe every season as very little fits him from the previous year. And Ryan seems to have had a big growth spurt since last summer as he needed a lot of new clothes as well.
- We reorganized Kurtis's room as we bought him new bedroom furniture. Finally the child can sleep in a real bed instead of just on a mattress on the floor!
- I've finally got all my Disney pictures printed and into albums
- I've finally got all my other pictures (up to May) printed, although not yet into albums
- I've FINALLY cleaned out all the boys' clothes that were in boxes in the basement. The basement is looking a little emptier - yeah!
- I've organized all the "keepsakes" I've kept from Kurtis and Ryan over the years and now each child has their own "memory" bin. That took a while as I was going back 8 years and I couldn't help but look at the work they produced and read the journals from the babysitters and schools. I'm a bit of a packrat when it comes to sentimental things and memory joggers. I keep calendars, cards, select pieces of schoolwork, tickets to places we visit.
- I'm very proud of this.... I finally figured out how to use the software and I've produced DVD's of all our home digital videos. It took me a while to work my way through it but it's now all done up to April 2007!
I did also manage to have some fun as well... a few lunches with friends, a few dinners with friends, a night at a B&B with Tom while my sister and brother-in-law watched the kids, taking in Shrek 3 with my boys and eating far too much junk...
About the B&B.... apparently Tom and I are NOT B&B people. I felt awkward being in someone's house... a stranger's house... like I should be quiet and always whisper. And apparently I'm also a TV addict as I really missed my TV. Not that we couldn't go without it - we went to a movie that night after a wonderful dinner - but I do miss winding down for 10 minutes before I go to bed! Yup - we're definitely hotel people!
I'm heading in for chemo again tomorrow. Please pray that this one is easy and that it isn't so energy draining. Also pray that there is no anticipatory nausea - it was horrible last time. I hope to be blogging again in a week or so.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Special Olympics
Ryan had his first Special Olympics Track & Field day yesterday. What a very special day it was (although a bit overwhelming for Ryan and his Mommy!) It was a beautiful warm day and the field was full of Special Olympians, peer supports, teachers and parents. Ryan competed in the Bean Bag Throw, the 50 m dash and the Obstacle Course. (Children age 5-7 participate in "alternative" events, not regular track & field events.) I'm so proud of my little guy - he got 1st in the 50 m dash, 2nd in the bean bag throw and 3rd in the Obstacle course.
Check out the 50 m dash - sorry the video is a bit wobbly at first, but it gets better
Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos
Check out the 50 m dash - sorry the video is a bit wobbly at first, but it gets better
Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos
Friday, May 11, 2007
Ryan's new bike
Check it out! Ryan LOVES this new bike - so much more freedom!
Now, Ryan can ride a two-wheeler with training wheels. The only problem right now is that he is still lacking in safety awareness - so taking him outside of our deadend street is not a possibility. So now all the boys can go for a bike ride together.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
What a horrible article...
...from the title to the very last punctuation mark.
Doomed from birth to death
Man, this makes my blood boil. I even debated about posting it on my blog as I did not want to give any more publicity to this article, but in the end, I knew I needed to. People need to know what kind of crap individuals with Down syndrome ae subjected to. Would they dare write an article about Canada's aborignal people being doomed because they are more likely to deal with diabetes? And how dare they consider that someone's life is "doomed" just because they have Down syndrome and "may be" more likely to get Alzheimer's? Apparently they've never met anyone with T21 or even spoken to someone on the phone as they would emphatically tell you quite differently.
As people with T21 are in a very real battle for their very existence right now, we don't need articles like this that only serve to encourage this horrible eugenics movement.
And this comes right on top of a friend letting me know that her child, all of 5 years of age, is being slotted into the "life skills" kindergarten by the school district - without anyone having met this child. (Now, just as an aside, I want to clarify that I am NOT against life skills classes for any child. I truly believe that each child should be able to be in the environment that helps her learn best. In this case, an integrated setting is the best environment for this child). Her school teacher, along with other individuals who know her, all say that a typical classroom would be the best environment for this child. My friend, unfortunately, is likely in for a battle with some bureaucracts who seem to have already made up their mind.
And.. while I'm on a rant... this follows closely another very, very dear friend of mine who is in a battle with her child's school, right here in Ontario, to have EA coverage for a full day when her son goes to grade 1 in September. Their suggestion is that she take him home for part of the day instead. This makes me so angry. Is this child not entitled to a full day of school like everyone else? Is he not entitled to learn? How is he going to maximize his potential when already he's being seen as a "lesser" individual?
So many battles to fight. But fight them we will. We owe it to people with T21 to help them live the best life possible. I firmly believe that we must stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves. Every person deserves to live a full, happy life surrounded by people who love him in a community that supports him. And I will continue to fight for that goal for Ryan.
End of rant.
Doomed from birth to death
Man, this makes my blood boil. I even debated about posting it on my blog as I did not want to give any more publicity to this article, but in the end, I knew I needed to. People need to know what kind of crap individuals with Down syndrome ae subjected to. Would they dare write an article about Canada's aborignal people being doomed because they are more likely to deal with diabetes? And how dare they consider that someone's life is "doomed" just because they have Down syndrome and "may be" more likely to get Alzheimer's? Apparently they've never met anyone with T21 or even spoken to someone on the phone as they would emphatically tell you quite differently.
As people with T21 are in a very real battle for their very existence right now, we don't need articles like this that only serve to encourage this horrible eugenics movement.
And this comes right on top of a friend letting me know that her child, all of 5 years of age, is being slotted into the "life skills" kindergarten by the school district - without anyone having met this child. (Now, just as an aside, I want to clarify that I am NOT against life skills classes for any child. I truly believe that each child should be able to be in the environment that helps her learn best. In this case, an integrated setting is the best environment for this child). Her school teacher, along with other individuals who know her, all say that a typical classroom would be the best environment for this child. My friend, unfortunately, is likely in for a battle with some bureaucracts who seem to have already made up their mind.
And.. while I'm on a rant... this follows closely another very, very dear friend of mine who is in a battle with her child's school, right here in Ontario, to have EA coverage for a full day when her son goes to grade 1 in September. Their suggestion is that she take him home for part of the day instead. This makes me so angry. Is this child not entitled to a full day of school like everyone else? Is he not entitled to learn? How is he going to maximize his potential when already he's being seen as a "lesser" individual?
So many battles to fight. But fight them we will. We owe it to people with T21 to help them live the best life possible. I firmly believe that we must stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves. Every person deserves to live a full, happy life surrounded by people who love him in a community that supports him. And I will continue to fight for that goal for Ryan.
End of rant.
...but we worked so hard on it!
So Tom and I just finished our first grade 2 project. I hope we get an A+ on it!
Seriously, I couldn't help but joke as Tom is helping Kurtis finish off his project this morning after breakfast as it was due today. Nothing like last minute work! Apparently my child takes after me in that department.
Kurtis had a project to do on any country in the world. And it really wasn't that hard. The teacher laid out exactly what was supposed to be "discussed" on each page, there was only 12 pages (including the cover) and she supplied the booklet it was to be done in. But, we did find it time consuming! Kurtis picked Austria (for those of you who don't know, Tom's parents come from Austria and all his relatives are still there) as his country. We had to go to the library to learn how to find books on your topic. We had to teach him how to look at the books to find answers to the questions the teacher asked - NOT an easy task for an 8 year old boy with a bike just waiting to be ridden. And... "bibiography" is a HUGE word for an 8 year old.... he still can't pronounce it! Overall, though, I was proud of what Kurtis did. It took a lot of willpower on my part not to interfere and tell him it would be MUCH BETTER if he did this instead of that... or added that instead of this.... or said it this way... or drew this picture. My tongue is still sore from being bitten! :) But honestly, my child is not shy and had definite opinions on how things should be done and was quite willing to tell me so.
So... we'd better get an A+ on our project!
Seriously, I couldn't help but joke as Tom is helping Kurtis finish off his project this morning after breakfast as it was due today. Nothing like last minute work! Apparently my child takes after me in that department.
Kurtis had a project to do on any country in the world. And it really wasn't that hard. The teacher laid out exactly what was supposed to be "discussed" on each page, there was only 12 pages (including the cover) and she supplied the booklet it was to be done in. But, we did find it time consuming! Kurtis picked Austria (for those of you who don't know, Tom's parents come from Austria and all his relatives are still there) as his country. We had to go to the library to learn how to find books on your topic. We had to teach him how to look at the books to find answers to the questions the teacher asked - NOT an easy task for an 8 year old boy with a bike just waiting to be ridden. And... "bibiography" is a HUGE word for an 8 year old.... he still can't pronounce it! Overall, though, I was proud of what Kurtis did. It took a lot of willpower on my part not to interfere and tell him it would be MUCH BETTER if he did this instead of that... or added that instead of this.... or said it this way... or drew this picture. My tongue is still sore from being bitten! :) But honestly, my child is not shy and had definite opinions on how things should be done and was quite willing to tell me so.
So... we'd better get an A+ on our project!
Thursday, May 03, 2007
quick post...
I'm on day 3 of chemo so it's a quick entry. I'm extremely exhausted - I have literally been sleeping around the clock. I've been awake this morning now for about 4 hours so it's time to head to bed but I thought I'd update here. Other than fatigue, everything else is OK. See you all in about a week. We're having wonderful weather here so I hope you are too.
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