Now this is noteworthy for 2 reasons. It is Friday and there is no homework-so no rush to do that. Usually, no matter what-there is a rush by Aj to turn on the tv. Granny is taking a nap and so the tv wasn't on when we arrived home.
Aj immediately went back to our bedroom to locate and read, "The Unofficial to Disneyland 2008". We got to Disneyland in 3 weeks-so he is loving reading about the rides and, of course, looking at the various maps. Ki is again reading a Scooby Doo book.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
my son is going to be able to write as an adult!
We didn't know if this would be the case. He has lots of fine motor and SID issues. He has made HUGE gains this year (third grade). He can now write on regular third grade paper, and I can read it! And he can write a few sentences at a time vs just a few words, as before. His writing will never win an award for beauty, but it will certainly be functional. A good gain for this year.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Pops and I also had not been here since we visited when dating-some 13 or 14 years ago. So, yes, it has changed.
I LOVE IT. Anyone would.
I see why Leelo loves it. Aj was in heaven. For kids in our tribe it is SUPER-DUPER tremendous.
Let's just think about the joys found there from the perspecitve of an ASD, PDD-NOS type of mind.
water-everywhere
RUNNING water in many places
WATER YOU CAN TOUCH
You can stand in a glass enclosed space and have waves pour over your head-and stay dry. Or go to the space outside and the mist from the waves will tickle you.
Sardines. I have a whole new appreciation for those stinky, icky fish that I have no intention of ever eating. They are shiney silver swimming bullets. But get this, they swim in large schools in CIRCLES. There is even one aquarium that is over-head in a dome shape. Let's just get the gang together and we can all lie on our backs under that dome and hve one big stim session. It could be a "stim in", you know like a sit in.
THE JELLY FISH. Wildly amazing jelly fish in tanks with brilliant blue backgrounds. These kick ass over a lava lamp anyday.
I LOVE IT. Anyone would.
I see why Leelo loves it. Aj was in heaven. For kids in our tribe it is SUPER-DUPER tremendous.
Let's just think about the joys found there from the perspecitve of an ASD, PDD-NOS type of mind.
water-everywhere
RUNNING water in many places
WATER YOU CAN TOUCH
You can stand in a glass enclosed space and have waves pour over your head-and stay dry. Or go to the space outside and the mist from the waves will tickle you.
Sardines. I have a whole new appreciation for those stinky, icky fish that I have no intention of ever eating. They are shiney silver swimming bullets. But get this, they swim in large schools in CIRCLES. There is even one aquarium that is over-head in a dome shape. Let's just get the gang together and we can all lie on our backs under that dome and hve one big stim session. It could be a "stim in", you know like a sit in.
THE JELLY FISH. Wildly amazing jelly fish in tanks with brilliant blue backgrounds. These kick ass over a lava lamp anyday.
"What I did over Spring Break" by themama
Day one here at Pajara Dunes
(for those not in the know this is a gated beach community of sorts. there are many condos as well as homes on a private stretch of beach in Watsonville-about 1 hour from my home with no traffic).
Pops took the kids out on the beach in the am and ran them. In the afternoon Pops, kids and I headed over to The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I hadn't been there since I was on a date there with Pops about 13 or 14 years ago. Kind of a nostalgic-hip-tacky-fun place all wrapped up in one. It was VERY quiet as it is not summer yet. Only a few of the rides were open. Aj wanted to go on one of the roller coasters-so he and I did. He said he wasn't scared, but about 2/3 of the way through his "ahh,ooo" screams of joy changed to more of an "AAAAHHHH" quality and I could tell he was scared. Luckilly, the ride ended quickly and he was fine. I asked if he wanted to go again and he said no.
I had Pops take my picture by the cart that sells FRIED TWINKIES. Now I eat a lot of crap, but the thought of that makes me cringe. They weren't open-so I can't pass on any meaningful description of what they look like. I'll leave that up to your little mind.
There is a carasel built in 1911 there. It is beautifully painted and has horses with real horse-hair tails. They also still have the arm that holds rings you can grab as you go by. Grab a ring and then try and throw it into the mouth of a huge clown on the wall.
And then there is the beach. It is wide and the whole image is so "California". I am fairly certain that my temperature-challanged son was the only person in this or any nearby conunty that enjoyed swimming. We had to haul him out of the water before his little fingers start to freeze and snap off in the 50ish degree water.
Aj was SO excited to call jennyalice and tell her all about his day. She kindly listenedand queried about his escapades.
Then back to the dunes and the usual daily bath to cleanse the salty, sandy Aj.
Ki and I then made a cake (cake mix for us). Last time we were here she declared it Tiggers Birthday. So since we are back-it is his birthday again. There is not much regard for time, as I think it has been only 9 months. However, his age marches on appropriatley, last visit he turned 5 and this visit 6. After returning from a dinner of mexican food she frosted the cake. Tigger and his best friend Water, the penguin (not currently in his cop outfit) joined us at the table. They were each propped in their own chairs. Tigger required max assist propping. He is absent of any head or trunk control due to severe low tone as a result of his stuffing shrinking and shifting over time. Using recently discovered toothpicks as pretend candles, Ki spelled out a "T" on the cake. We rounded the table and sang happy birthday while Ki lovingly held Tiggers head up to blow out the candles.
(for those not in the know this is a gated beach community of sorts. there are many condos as well as homes on a private stretch of beach in Watsonville-about 1 hour from my home with no traffic).
Pops took the kids out on the beach in the am and ran them. In the afternoon Pops, kids and I headed over to The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I hadn't been there since I was on a date there with Pops about 13 or 14 years ago. Kind of a nostalgic-hip-tacky-fun place all wrapped up in one. It was VERY quiet as it is not summer yet. Only a few of the rides were open. Aj wanted to go on one of the roller coasters-so he and I did. He said he wasn't scared, but about 2/3 of the way through his "ahh,ooo" screams of joy changed to more of an "AAAAHHHH" quality and I could tell he was scared. Luckilly, the ride ended quickly and he was fine. I asked if he wanted to go again and he said no.
I had Pops take my picture by the cart that sells FRIED TWINKIES. Now I eat a lot of crap, but the thought of that makes me cringe. They weren't open-so I can't pass on any meaningful description of what they look like. I'll leave that up to your little mind.
There is a carasel built in 1911 there. It is beautifully painted and has horses with real horse-hair tails. They also still have the arm that holds rings you can grab as you go by. Grab a ring and then try and throw it into the mouth of a huge clown on the wall.
And then there is the beach. It is wide and the whole image is so "California". I am fairly certain that my temperature-challanged son was the only person in this or any nearby conunty that enjoyed swimming. We had to haul him out of the water before his little fingers start to freeze and snap off in the 50ish degree water.
Aj was SO excited to call jennyalice and tell her all about his day. She kindly listenedand queried about his escapades.
Then back to the dunes and the usual daily bath to cleanse the salty, sandy Aj.
Ki and I then made a cake (cake mix for us). Last time we were here she declared it Tiggers Birthday. So since we are back-it is his birthday again. There is not much regard for time, as I think it has been only 9 months. However, his age marches on appropriatley, last visit he turned 5 and this visit 6. After returning from a dinner of mexican food she frosted the cake. Tigger and his best friend Water, the penguin (not currently in his cop outfit) joined us at the table. They were each propped in their own chairs. Tigger required max assist propping. He is absent of any head or trunk control due to severe low tone as a result of his stuffing shrinking and shifting over time. Using recently discovered toothpicks as pretend candles, Ki spelled out a "T" on the cake. We rounded the table and sang happy birthday while Ki lovingly held Tiggers head up to blow out the candles.
Beach Play
Down here at Pajaro Dunes on night number four.
Today very-thoughtful Pops took kids and Granny home so I could have an evening and portion of a day to myself without the brood and the broohaha that goes with. I thnk Granny was a bit miffed that I sent her off with Pops and the kids. She and Pops have an amicable relationship at best. Here on the second floor I have a full view of the ocean, the Watsonville river and crop fields banking it. For you Hot Mama's out there this is the place some of yo have been to before. The best part is I am cuddled on the couch with a wireless laptop and need to move to see the view. My playdate will be arriving with in the next hour or so. Artie, the hot mama who does all the art. We'll have dinner out, a comfy evening, good coffee inthe morning and head on home. aahhh
I have got to get the hot mamas down here again! This place just kicks butt.
Today very-thoughtful Pops took kids and Granny home so I could have an evening and portion of a day to myself without the brood and the broohaha that goes with. I thnk Granny was a bit miffed that I sent her off with Pops and the kids. She and Pops have an amicable relationship at best. Here on the second floor I have a full view of the ocean, the Watsonville river and crop fields banking it. For you Hot Mama's out there this is the place some of yo have been to before. The best part is I am cuddled on the couch with a wireless laptop and need to move to see the view. My playdate will be arriving with in the next hour or so. Artie, the hot mama who does all the art. We'll have dinner out, a comfy evening, good coffee inthe morning and head on home. aahhh
I have got to get the hot mamas down here again! This place just kicks butt.
Monday, March 17, 2008
My Sweet Guinea Pig Buddy
Buddy the guinea pig has been a mainstay in my office for over a couple of years. He is a beautiful tri-color, long haired pig. Sad news here, I looks like he will die in the next few days. He has had a cough, but as I checked his water before we left town yesterday it was apparent that he is severely ill. It is hard to know how much money to spend on a pet... I held him for a bit and pet him. I feel sad and a bit guilty. At this point I hope he dies quickly so he is not in pain. I am glad I am not at home or I would be obsessed with both going in to and avaoiding the office. I don't want to have to find him dead and deal with that. Another reason why I hope he dies while we are gone. Fortunately, the kids do not seem too attached to him.
Poor jennyalice agreed to feed, walk and water the zoo. Nice of me to leave her a dying pet. She really doesn't care for the rat-footed piggies, so I guess that is good. No sadness for her.
I am not sure what to do with his body. Should I bury it in the back yard? Frankly, there isn't really a good spot that isn't lawn or root bound. But I don't know that I feel comfortable putting him the trash-even if he is wrapped up nicely. Thoughts? I'll talk to Pops also.
Many of my past and current speech clients are in love with Buddy. Kids who no longer see me still ask their Mom's about Buddy. He is fed many times a day by his adoring fans. He has patiently tolerated many a dump of hay on his head, turning up-side down of his house and the flinging of food pellets. As well, he has allowed my 2labs to stick their tongues in between the squares on the cage or to push the cage around so that they could eat little morsels from his cage.
I need to let the parents of the kids I see know that Buddy will be gone when they return after spring break. I may contact my teacher friend at the preschool mentioned below on how she is handling the demise of Wilbur with her preschoolers. It will be interesting to see the reaction of the kids who have been fond of him.
I do have Sammy the guinea pig. He lives in the family room. He was supposed to be a companion for Buddy-but he seemed more interested in trying to kill Buddy-hence his home in the famly room. I could move him in-but it is not a straight trade out as Sammy has funky long hair, is mostly white and unfortunately has pink colored eyes. But he is very sweet, likes to be pet and eats like a horse. Oh-and my husband would love to get rid of the pig in the family room. But it would be fun to get a baby piggie to raise. I could have a contest with clients and family to name him/her.
Updates to follow.
Poor jennyalice agreed to feed, walk and water the zoo. Nice of me to leave her a dying pet. She really doesn't care for the rat-footed piggies, so I guess that is good. No sadness for her.
I am not sure what to do with his body. Should I bury it in the back yard? Frankly, there isn't really a good spot that isn't lawn or root bound. But I don't know that I feel comfortable putting him the trash-even if he is wrapped up nicely. Thoughts? I'll talk to Pops also.
Many of my past and current speech clients are in love with Buddy. Kids who no longer see me still ask their Mom's about Buddy. He is fed many times a day by his adoring fans. He has patiently tolerated many a dump of hay on his head, turning up-side down of his house and the flinging of food pellets. As well, he has allowed my 2labs to stick their tongues in between the squares on the cage or to push the cage around so that they could eat little morsels from his cage.
I need to let the parents of the kids I see know that Buddy will be gone when they return after spring break. I may contact my teacher friend at the preschool mentioned below on how she is handling the demise of Wilbur with her preschoolers. It will be interesting to see the reaction of the kids who have been fond of him.
I do have Sammy the guinea pig. He lives in the family room. He was supposed to be a companion for Buddy-but he seemed more interested in trying to kill Buddy-hence his home in the famly room. I could move him in-but it is not a straight trade out as Sammy has funky long hair, is mostly white and unfortunately has pink colored eyes. But he is very sweet, likes to be pet and eats like a horse. Oh-and my husband would love to get rid of the pig in the family room. But it would be fun to get a baby piggie to raise. I could have a contest with clients and family to name him/her.
Updates to follow.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Wilbur the Guinea Pig
When Ki was younger we had her in a co-op preschool. The school rents space inside of a church. My job our last year was as the official "pet care taker". I cared for Bo the white rat. Then mid year he uh, kicked off. But I have to say prior to that he had a great time over winter break at my house. He became obsessed with escaping from his cage and roaming our home. This once included traversing from my office all the way into the kitchen and adorning my mother's foot while she did the dishes. Luckily, she is unfazed by animals and rats.
Following Bo's demise and subsequent burial in a Cheerios box in the trash can, it was my mission to replace the preschool fuzzy pet. I lobbied to get a guinea pig, as they are not as offensive to many a Mommy as a rat. Also, they are fairly hardy asthe weigh 1 1/2 to 3 pounds. Better in my opinion, then say, a hamster whose little legs can snap off too easilly.
So I became obsessed with adopting an adult guinea pig. I found one on Craig's List. A handsome guy whose pet-loving family held him often. So Wilbur, the sweet and tubby guinea pig, became a member of the preschool. Our time overlapped at the preschool for 6 months and then Ki moved on to kindergarten. Overtime I occasionally inquired about Wilbur.
Last week Squid was kind enough to call and let me know that Wilbur had passed on. I think he had a good life. How many piggies get little kids sliding fresh veggies into their cages all day?
A few days later I got the following e-mail from a friend who is still at the school:
I popped by the school yesterday to grab my daughter's jacket that she'd left on her hook. As I was going in the outside door, there was an elderly church volunteer reading the sign that the teacher had put up on the outside door about Wilbur's death and to not tell any of the other students yet. He was shaking his head very sadly and then looked at me, realized that I was from the school, and said "this is SO tragic!". And I said, "I know, he was about the cutest one we'd ever had". And then the man looked even sadder and said well, "what happened to the little boy?! Then I realized that he thought Wilbur was one of the children at the school!! So I straightened that out for him that he was our school pet.
Maybe the next one can be called Fluffy or something.
( :
Following Bo's demise and subsequent burial in a Cheerios box in the trash can, it was my mission to replace the preschool fuzzy pet. I lobbied to get a guinea pig, as they are not as offensive to many a Mommy as a rat. Also, they are fairly hardy asthe weigh 1 1/2 to 3 pounds. Better in my opinion, then say, a hamster whose little legs can snap off too easilly.
So I became obsessed with adopting an adult guinea pig. I found one on Craig's List. A handsome guy whose pet-loving family held him often. So Wilbur, the sweet and tubby guinea pig, became a member of the preschool. Our time overlapped at the preschool for 6 months and then Ki moved on to kindergarten. Overtime I occasionally inquired about Wilbur.
Last week Squid was kind enough to call and let me know that Wilbur had passed on. I think he had a good life. How many piggies get little kids sliding fresh veggies into their cages all day?
A few days later I got the following e-mail from a friend who is still at the school:
I popped by the school yesterday to grab my daughter's jacket that she'd left on her hook. As I was going in the outside door, there was an elderly church volunteer reading the sign that the teacher had put up on the outside door about Wilbur's death and to not tell any of the other students yet. He was shaking his head very sadly and then looked at me, realized that I was from the school, and said "this is SO tragic!". And I said, "I know, he was about the cutest one we'd ever had". And then the man looked even sadder and said well, "what happened to the little boy?! Then I realized that he thought Wilbur was one of the children at the school!! So I straightened that out for him that he was our school pet.
Maybe the next one can be called Fluffy or something.
( :
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Ki lost her second tooth
Dear tooth Firey
I am sorry but I lostt My tooth yesterday
I lost my tooth at Roy Clown scool When I was walk to the hafis. when I got ther it was gond.
from
Ki.
P.S. Plese give me monny
I am sorry but I lostt My tooth yesterday
I lost my tooth at Roy Clown scool When I was walk to the hafis. when I got ther it was gond.
from
Ki.
P.S. Plese give me monny
Monday, March 10, 2008
I, the sandwich
I remember when Granny first moved in my friend Bea pointed out that I was living the sandwich generation. You know-taking care of your kids and parents at the same time.
I told her the good news was that the 2 pieces of bread really got along great.
Fast forward nearly 2 years. Aj has gotten more volatile and Granny has lost her skills at modulating her responses to the kids. Two weeks ago I had an evening meeting to go to and Pops was due home 45 minutes after I left. I put sandwiches ready to be grilled and a hunk of ham on the counter. Evidently, Alex wanted some ham and either was or wasn't using a knife to cut the ham. He and Granny got into a disagreement. Then Aj kicked Granny in the shin. Now if this isn't bad enough, Granny has the old-lady skin that splits and bleeds if you snort at it. The result was a BIG gash on her leg. This was just 2 inches from another slow-healing sore on her leg that was from her walking into a toy in the family room.
Last week her leg began to look infected and I took her to the doctor.
The role of her poor memory meant that on the way to the doctor she asked 10 times (I counted) why we were going. Also, when the doctor said, "So, how did you do this?". She said she didn't remember.
So in the sandwich life, I am working to hold it all together and not leave the bread without the filling.
I don't want to find out what it means when Child Protective Services and Adult Protective Services go to battle with me in the middle.
I told her the good news was that the 2 pieces of bread really got along great.
Fast forward nearly 2 years. Aj has gotten more volatile and Granny has lost her skills at modulating her responses to the kids. Two weeks ago I had an evening meeting to go to and Pops was due home 45 minutes after I left. I put sandwiches ready to be grilled and a hunk of ham on the counter. Evidently, Alex wanted some ham and either was or wasn't using a knife to cut the ham. He and Granny got into a disagreement. Then Aj kicked Granny in the shin. Now if this isn't bad enough, Granny has the old-lady skin that splits and bleeds if you snort at it. The result was a BIG gash on her leg. This was just 2 inches from another slow-healing sore on her leg that was from her walking into a toy in the family room.
Last week her leg began to look infected and I took her to the doctor.
The role of her poor memory meant that on the way to the doctor she asked 10 times (I counted) why we were going. Also, when the doctor said, "So, how did you do this?". She said she didn't remember.
So in the sandwich life, I am working to hold it all together and not leave the bread without the filling.
I don't want to find out what it means when Child Protective Services and Adult Protective Services go to battle with me in the middle.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Ninja's
Today Ki said.
"Okay, you be the Momma Ninja. Granny you be Old Ninja. And I am going to go outside and do what Ninja's do best."
"Okay, you be the Momma Ninja. Granny you be Old Ninja. And I am going to go outside and do what Ninja's do best."
A name is important
Can we really have a president with the name "Huckabee"?
That name makes me giggle.
Of course "Mitt" was a name no go, too.
Obama is different, but it doesn't make me giggle.
That name makes me giggle.
Of course "Mitt" was a name no go, too.
Obama is different, but it doesn't make me giggle.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
I am the responsible adult
Well someone thinks so.
I am hanging out at doubletrouble's house acting as the "responsible adult" that must be present while the boys, A and B, receive ABA.
I greeted the bus and brought the boys inside. The boys and I toileted, snacked and we chatted and now they are off with their tutors in the other room. I got to spend a half hour total with A and B, which was nice. I could really see where they are at right now (both have autism). Having known them for 6 years now (yikes!) I can really appreciate how far they have come.
A. is really tremendous. He follows directions, answers yes and no questions, tells me his name when I ask, makes super eye contact, smiles and is engaging. And SO much talking. Lots of reciprical responses and attempts to verbalize.
Brother B is more engaging as well. He is also quite busy. I mean BUSY. I mean check on what he is up to every 2 to 3 min. He is doing so nicely at using the bathroom and going thru ther whole routine. He is SO much more present.
I remember when both guys ate only chips and rice/noodles or pureed soup. Now they eat so many diferent things it is incredible. So many nice changes. This is the beauty of the tribe of families. We are moving along in time here-we can really appreciate each others kids and the wonderful changes they have made.
Back to the moment - At the moment I am ALONE in a room (how often does that happen!) drinking a freshly brewed cup of coffee, blogging and listening to a Norah JOnes CD that I borrowed off the shelf and downloaded onto my computer. Nice gig, eh? When people find out how good a deal this is they will be lining up at the door!
I am hanging out at doubletrouble's house acting as the "responsible adult" that must be present while the boys, A and B, receive ABA.
I greeted the bus and brought the boys inside. The boys and I toileted, snacked and we chatted and now they are off with their tutors in the other room. I got to spend a half hour total with A and B, which was nice. I could really see where they are at right now (both have autism). Having known them for 6 years now (yikes!) I can really appreciate how far they have come.
A. is really tremendous. He follows directions, answers yes and no questions, tells me his name when I ask, makes super eye contact, smiles and is engaging. And SO much talking. Lots of reciprical responses and attempts to verbalize.
Brother B is more engaging as well. He is also quite busy. I mean BUSY. I mean check on what he is up to every 2 to 3 min. He is doing so nicely at using the bathroom and going thru ther whole routine. He is SO much more present.
I remember when both guys ate only chips and rice/noodles or pureed soup. Now they eat so many diferent things it is incredible. So many nice changes. This is the beauty of the tribe of families. We are moving along in time here-we can really appreciate each others kids and the wonderful changes they have made.
Back to the moment - At the moment I am ALONE in a room (how often does that happen!) drinking a freshly brewed cup of coffee, blogging and listening to a Norah JOnes CD that I borrowed off the shelf and downloaded onto my computer. Nice gig, eh? When people find out how good a deal this is they will be lining up at the door!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Psyche Ward
This morning I felt like I was working on a psyche ward. Aj UNHINGED when I turned off the tv. Rule is supposed to be we turn it off at 7:30 am to get ready for school. I turned off his sports show where he, in hindsight, was waiting to watch for the score of a "very important" basketball game. He raged for 20 minutes. Of course Granny emerged from the bedroom asking him what was wrong and further added to the fun. My poor, sweet, Ki was appropriately distressed by all of this. Even when I touch base every so often and say "Ki, I am fine. Mommy is fine."
She was late for school and very distressed.
When I finally take them to school we are like 25 minutes late. In the office with us are of course the 2 volunteer do-gooders (honestly) of the school. The PTA president and the 8 months pregnanat brownie leader. Both of whom I have let down and flaked on in terms of following-up on so many things that I can't even begin to list them here. I left school tearful and feeling like crap. Cancelled my 2 am clients and am now hibernating at jennyalice's house. I just need to get out of the pit of my house and away from my Mom. Jennyalice is out shopping and knows I am here. The dogs don't even bark when I come over anymore. I finished the coffee, have started in on a container of small biscotti and 3 pieces of candy. I brought work over and just finished some email follow up -so I feel good about that.
Life sucks sometimes.
She was late for school and very distressed.
When I finally take them to school we are like 25 minutes late. In the office with us are of course the 2 volunteer do-gooders (honestly) of the school. The PTA president and the 8 months pregnanat brownie leader. Both of whom I have let down and flaked on in terms of following-up on so many things that I can't even begin to list them here. I left school tearful and feeling like crap. Cancelled my 2 am clients and am now hibernating at jennyalice's house. I just need to get out of the pit of my house and away from my Mom. Jennyalice is out shopping and knows I am here. The dogs don't even bark when I come over anymore. I finished the coffee, have started in on a container of small biscotti and 3 pieces of candy. I brought work over and just finished some email follow up -so I feel good about that.
Life sucks sometimes.
Friday, February 15, 2008
My Girl, talkin' 'bout my little girl
Ki was invited to 4 birthday parties in 4 days. Yeah! Although, she still pretty much plays on her own
One of the parties was held at Build A Beare. If you haven't been into one of these mall-based shops you need to check it out for entertainment.
The children choose from a variety of animals. Mostly there are bears. And many are cute pink, purple and otherwise girly type animals.
After choosing and stuffing the animal you can't get out of the store without purusing thru the bazillion outfits designed for the animals. They have it all, shoes, socks, and yes, even Hello Kitty underwear for the stuffed animlas to wear. I have to say I was impressed to see a wheelchair and perscription-type glasses. I give kudos for that.
Back to the party. I told Ki I would pay the extra fee for her to get any animal she wanted. Her favorite animal is the penguin, and we'd just seen the move Surf's Up. So she chose the penguin. No surprise there. On the provided birth certificate she named him, Water.
When the stuffing was done and the party over-I told her she could pick out an outfit for him. Well, a majority of the outfits are princess like or dresses. Lots of Valentine type outfits. I walked around with her and pointed out all outfits not containing a skirt or the heinous color of pink. That left us with: sports, military professional uniforms, fisherman, movie characters and a hiker among others.
So as the other girls packed home a new bear dressed in it's feminine finest,
my girl left hugging a penguin dressed as a...cop.
One of the parties was held at Build A Beare. If you haven't been into one of these mall-based shops you need to check it out for entertainment.
The children choose from a variety of animals. Mostly there are bears. And many are cute pink, purple and otherwise girly type animals.
After choosing and stuffing the animal you can't get out of the store without purusing thru the bazillion outfits designed for the animals. They have it all, shoes, socks, and yes, even Hello Kitty underwear for the stuffed animlas to wear. I have to say I was impressed to see a wheelchair and perscription-type glasses. I give kudos for that.
Back to the party. I told Ki I would pay the extra fee for her to get any animal she wanted. Her favorite animal is the penguin, and we'd just seen the move Surf's Up. So she chose the penguin. No surprise there. On the provided birth certificate she named him, Water.
When the stuffing was done and the party over-I told her she could pick out an outfit for him. Well, a majority of the outfits are princess like or dresses. Lots of Valentine type outfits. I walked around with her and pointed out all outfits not containing a skirt or the heinous color of pink. That left us with: sports, military professional uniforms, fisherman, movie characters and a hiker among others.
So as the other girls packed home a new bear dressed in it's feminine finest,
my girl left hugging a penguin dressed as a...cop.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Yes, Yes, Yes- I'll do that
I have heard there are personalities that are "starters" and there are others that are "doers or finishers". I am a starter. I get a high from planning, organizing and creating. BUT, I then have trouble following thru with my grand plans and over commitments. Then I add to the fun by creating my own chaos and discontent in any way possible. I am swimming in this today. The amount of undone, dropped and discontinued obligations, projects and relationships is making me gasp for air. The thing that is so annoying, and really makes me feel like folding in, is that I did this myself. I have a history of doing this, of being flakey and cutting myself off at the knees. It is not so much that i say "yes" too often it is these wacky behaviors I engage in. Always saying "sorry" is a cop out.
Face book
I am on facebook. Someone invited me. And she is cool and smart and I admire her so I joined or opened an account or whatever.
I am here to admit that I really have no idea how it works or what to do with it.
People email and ask if I want to be their friend. Well, of course that sounds great to the child ego in me. I just don't know what you do after I accet their invitation of friendship.
I saw that you could "poke" someone. It sounds a bit intimate to me. But I went ahead and did it anyway. Turns out that friend was a newby too. She emailed me and said she wasn't sure what it meant to be "poked". I said I wasn't ether.
In general, I guess my lack of knowledge and gneral interest kinda shows my age and my going challanges with the technical world.
I am here to admit that I really have no idea how it works or what to do with it.
People email and ask if I want to be their friend. Well, of course that sounds great to the child ego in me. I just don't know what you do after I accet their invitation of friendship.
I saw that you could "poke" someone. It sounds a bit intimate to me. But I went ahead and did it anyway. Turns out that friend was a newby too. She emailed me and said she wasn't sure what it meant to be "poked". I said I wasn't ether.
In general, I guess my lack of knowledge and gneral interest kinda shows my age and my going challanges with the technical world.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
A new blog
I am starting an additional blog.
Check it out over time as I get it going.
www.speechmama.blogspot.com
Check it out over time as I get it going.
www.speechmama.blogspot.com
Thursday, January 31, 2008
A First in History
So very likley that the Democratic nominee in our country will be either a black man or a woman. I did not think I would see either if these in my lifetime. I feel hopeful about the people of our country.
FDA Warns Epilepsy Drugs May Raise Suicide Risk
Interesting study sumary below. I also understand depression is more common in individuls with epilepsy than the general population. It is true for me.Oh I guess I never put that in the "about me" section of the blog.
I still can't tell from the various articles if the control group also had epilepsy-I would assume so to make this a remotely valid study. Yes, my medication is listed... I have felt really low before-but I don't think ever suicidal.
FDA Warns Epilepsy Drugs May Raise Suicide Risk
01.31.08, 12:00 AM ET
THURSDAY, Jan. 31 (HealthDay News) -- Commonly used antiepileptic drugs may boost the risk of suicide among patients who use them, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Thursday.
A review of 199 studies comparing 11 of these drugs to placebos found that patients taking the drugs had about twice the risk of suicidal behavior compared with patients taking a placebo. In fact, of the almost 44,000 patients in the studies, four people taking antiepileptic drugs committed suicide while none of the patients receiving a placebo did.
"We have been looking at these drugs since 2005," said FDA spokeswoman Sandy Walsh. "We have just come to the conclusion that it's time to alert heath-care providers."
Currently, some of drug labels do list suicide or suicidal behavior as a side effect, but others don't, Walsh noted.
The drugs included in the warning are: Carbamazepine (marketed as Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol XR), Felbamate (marketed as Felbatol), Gabapentin (marketed as Neurontin), Lamotrigine (marketed as Lamictal), Levetiracetam (marketed as Keppra), Oxcarbazepine (marketed as Trileptal), Pregabalin (marketed as Lyrica), Tiagabine (marketed as Gabitril), Topiramate (marketed as Topamax), Valproate (marketed as Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakene, Depacon) and Zonisamide (marketed as Zonegran). Some of these drugs are also available as generics.
According to the FDA, antiepileptic drugs are used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, migraine headaches and other conditions.
Over the next several months, the agency intends to work with drug companies to change the labels of the drugs to reflect this risk, Walsh said. "We will be working with the companies to make sure the latest data is reflected in their prescribing information and labeling," she said. In addition, the agency will hold an advisory committee meeting on the issue.
The 11 drugs listed above were included in the studies the FDA analyzed. However, the agency expects that the increased risk of suicidality is present in all antiepileptic drugs and so the labeling changes will be applied to all drugs in the class.
As of now, the FDA is advising patients not to make any changes in their medication without talking to their doctor, Walsh said. "Caregivers should pay close attention to changes in mood, behavior and actions," she said. "They should be aware of the development of these symptoms."
One expert supported the FDA's move to require drug makers to have a warning about the possibility of suicidal behavior on the product label.
"This is not new, it's something that has been known for a long time," said Epilepsy Foundation Vice President John Schneider.
Schneider noted that some people with epilepsy may be clinically depressed, so it's hard to tell whether it's the medication or the condition that is causing the suicidal behavior.
"Patients need to know their medications," Schneider said. "The goal should be no seizures and no side effects."
Another expert finds the association between antiepileptic medicines and suicide surprising.
"We do know that the incidence of comorbid affective [emotional] disorders and risk of suicide is higher in patients with epilepsy compared with the general population, and therefore it is not surprising to see higher incidence of suicide in the FDA report," said Dr. Gholam Motamedi, director of the Epilepsy Service at Georgetown University Hospital, in Washington, D.C.
However, the data showing a raised risk of suicide with medication use is surprising, Motamedi said.
"It's also surprising to attribute suicide to the antiepileptic drugs, per se, because a good number of these drugs are used in psychiatry for their positive effects on mood and depression," Motamedi said. "Nevertheless, this emphasizes the importance of screening for signs and symptoms of depression and suicidal tendencies in the epilepsy clinics."
I still can't tell from the various articles if the control group also had epilepsy-I would assume so to make this a remotely valid study. Yes, my medication is listed... I have felt really low before-but I don't think ever suicidal.
FDA Warns Epilepsy Drugs May Raise Suicide Risk
01.31.08, 12:00 AM ET
THURSDAY, Jan. 31 (HealthDay News) -- Commonly used antiepileptic drugs may boost the risk of suicide among patients who use them, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Thursday.
A review of 199 studies comparing 11 of these drugs to placebos found that patients taking the drugs had about twice the risk of suicidal behavior compared with patients taking a placebo. In fact, of the almost 44,000 patients in the studies, four people taking antiepileptic drugs committed suicide while none of the patients receiving a placebo did.
"We have been looking at these drugs since 2005," said FDA spokeswoman Sandy Walsh. "We have just come to the conclusion that it's time to alert heath-care providers."
Currently, some of drug labels do list suicide or suicidal behavior as a side effect, but others don't, Walsh noted.
The drugs included in the warning are: Carbamazepine (marketed as Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol XR), Felbamate (marketed as Felbatol), Gabapentin (marketed as Neurontin), Lamotrigine (marketed as Lamictal), Levetiracetam (marketed as Keppra), Oxcarbazepine (marketed as Trileptal), Pregabalin (marketed as Lyrica), Tiagabine (marketed as Gabitril), Topiramate (marketed as Topamax), Valproate (marketed as Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakene, Depacon) and Zonisamide (marketed as Zonegran). Some of these drugs are also available as generics.
According to the FDA, antiepileptic drugs are used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, migraine headaches and other conditions.
Over the next several months, the agency intends to work with drug companies to change the labels of the drugs to reflect this risk, Walsh said. "We will be working with the companies to make sure the latest data is reflected in their prescribing information and labeling," she said. In addition, the agency will hold an advisory committee meeting on the issue.
The 11 drugs listed above were included in the studies the FDA analyzed. However, the agency expects that the increased risk of suicidality is present in all antiepileptic drugs and so the labeling changes will be applied to all drugs in the class.
As of now, the FDA is advising patients not to make any changes in their medication without talking to their doctor, Walsh said. "Caregivers should pay close attention to changes in mood, behavior and actions," she said. "They should be aware of the development of these symptoms."
One expert supported the FDA's move to require drug makers to have a warning about the possibility of suicidal behavior on the product label.
"This is not new, it's something that has been known for a long time," said Epilepsy Foundation Vice President John Schneider.
Schneider noted that some people with epilepsy may be clinically depressed, so it's hard to tell whether it's the medication or the condition that is causing the suicidal behavior.
"Patients need to know their medications," Schneider said. "The goal should be no seizures and no side effects."
Another expert finds the association between antiepileptic medicines and suicide surprising.
"We do know that the incidence of comorbid affective [emotional] disorders and risk of suicide is higher in patients with epilepsy compared with the general population, and therefore it is not surprising to see higher incidence of suicide in the FDA report," said Dr. Gholam Motamedi, director of the Epilepsy Service at Georgetown University Hospital, in Washington, D.C.
However, the data showing a raised risk of suicide with medication use is surprising, Motamedi said.
"It's also surprising to attribute suicide to the antiepileptic drugs, per se, because a good number of these drugs are used in psychiatry for their positive effects on mood and depression," Motamedi said. "Nevertheless, this emphasizes the importance of screening for signs and symptoms of depression and suicidal tendencies in the epilepsy clinics."
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