tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56695424808862089542012-01-28T22:43:37.516-06:00Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.comBlogger2511100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-60992039050299545292012-01-28T22:00:00.000-06:002012-01-28T22:22:58.601-06:00

Here is my perfectly imperfect.... I had these photos in a folder to blog about -- in 2010.So instead of feeling inadequate and remorseful about not blogging then... (okay, so I felt that way for a few minutes) I flipped the switch. Now, I'm celebrating the flashback -- remembering with such warmth and love the memories of Carter as a 2-and-a-half (ish) year old!* * * * *Oh, there's just

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-55344683732792499792012-01-19T23:31:00.002-06:002012-01-19T23:34:50.513-06:00

I became a Mom 11 years ago. Well, sort of a Mom. Maybe a "Mom-like" figure. Maybe a "parental-sort-of-friend." (We didn't use the term "stepmom," and to this day, I only use that term when I get a puzzled look from someone who I can see calculating in their head how old I must have been when I gave birth to Jordyn.)Anyway, it doesn't really matter what we called it. When I met Jeremy,

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-56650897917566459432012-01-11T00:00:00.001-06:002012-01-11T00:00:04.196-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-24356173357687678602011-12-24T20:50:00.003-06:002011-12-24T20:58:11.372-06:00

Christmas 2009We fell in love with his photo...and, if you asked the kids, we "sent him money so he could buy a Mom and Dad."We hung the ornament we received on our tree -- the ornament represented a little boy who needed a home. And so we talked about him, and thought about him a lot.I didn't stop thinking about him.In fact, to be honest, there were many moments when I wondered if he should be

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-77096765878996576482011-12-18T22:03:00.002-06:002011-12-18T22:03:56.395-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-47309198800166900952011-12-14T17:12:00.001-06:002011-12-14T18:18:28.733-06:00

I feel most inspired to write when I can't. Or I shouldn't be.Like right now.Right now I have two kids, watching a show on the couch, periodically requesting more grapes. Right now I have 3 cupboard doors open in my kitchen and a dishwasher hanging wide open, half-emptied. (Or half-full, I guess... depends on your mood.) Right now I have a dog shuffling her food and water dish around the

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-23242622894787978752011-11-29T16:44:00.002-06:002011-11-29T16:46:51.372-06:00

This is where we wear our skirts... so why wouldn't the tree?

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-55249140064610481102011-11-21T20:30:00.001-06:002011-11-21T20:36:49.900-06:00

First time walking to the Metrodome for his very first Vikings gameFirst time posing in the cold weather just outside the domeFirst time watching the players come in from the parking lot(spotted Adrian Peterson, Jared Allen and Kevin Williams)First time at the official "Vikings Locker Room" purchasing his first game souvenierFirst time seeing the fieldFirst time finding his seatFirst time

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-79648154144514609242011-11-05T23:41:00.009-05:002011-11-06T00:04:26.352-05:00

Cards have been written (and adequately covered in stickers),(Adding his name was an afterthought... so he squeezed it in where it fit!)smoothie cups have been decorated and labeled,and the cake has been frosted and bowls of cake batter have been licked clean ,(Any guesses on the cake?!)all in preparation to celebrate THIS DAY!(Thursday, November 6, 2003 at 9:12 am • 6 lbs 2 oz • 19" • 4 weeks

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-15875702869371183612011-10-28T22:46:00.010-05:002011-10-29T17:16:34.144-05:00

Blogging is always on my mind -- every time I take pictures I already have thoughts on what I'd write about -- but somehow I've let "my blogging time" be swallowed up by everything else in life.I don't feel quite complete when I'm not blogging consistently. It's strange. And when it's been awhile since I last blogged, the words don't come as easily as when I'm blogging more frequently.There are

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-21277204929676584652011-09-24T20:46:00.002-05:002011-09-29T21:03:23.312-05:00

When Rylee was in Kindergarten and 1st Grade, I wrote a "Letter from Rylee" to send home with her classmates, written to their parents (you can read that letter here.)This year, as Rylee began 2nd Grade, I knew it had to be different. I am often approached by other parents as to how they can appropriately and positively talk to their children about disabilities. We all want to raise children

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-59029838425659227922011-08-24T22:28:00.007-05:002011-08-24T23:02:01.486-05:00

Tonight was the first time he laced up his cleats... joined others on the field... dribbled the ball and fought the temptation to pick up the ball when it got away from him and gave soccer a try! Carter enjoyed his first soccer practice... and as for me? I don't know if I was more excited to watch him play, or to find out that the ball we bought him matched the team shirt they

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-21588794384439136462011-08-23T21:19:00.010-05:002011-08-23T22:10:49.022-05:00

... spunky. ... delightful. ... strong-willed. First Days of Kindergarten (2009), 1st Grade (2010) and 2nd Grade (2011) with Dad She is kind-hearted. ... thoughtful. ... silly. First Days of Kindergarten (2009), 1st Grade (2010) and 2nd Grade (2011) with Mom She is growing up. (More on Rylee's start to 2nd grade to come...)

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-66295103076444793862011-07-04T22:41:00.010-05:002011-07-04T23:17:18.915-05:00

We spent today at the lake...swimming,sweating,eating snacks,trying to avoid the rowdy group of young adults using inappropriate words and indulging heavily in adult beverages,taking walks hand in hand,and stopping along the way for smilesand funny faces, applying sunscreen every 47 seconds because of sunburn paranoia, fishing,and enjoying the beautiful day!The holiday is a tough one to explain

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-2615269898985411512011-07-03T23:08:00.001-05:002011-07-03T23:09:46.952-05:00

I am not big on competition. I am usually the one that feels more bad for the team who loses than happy for the team who wins.(I do know that conversations, car rides and overnight stays with Jordyn following softball games are much more pleasant when her team has won.)But, what I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing is Jordyn grow as a player over the years.I remember when I first met her at six

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-70700397169856330862011-06-29T00:00:00.001-05:002011-06-29T00:00:04.341-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-41804573077310870312011-06-27T21:17:00.007-05:002011-06-27T21:48:27.713-05:00

Antonio (I mean Carter)... continues to be on our minds and in our hearts. Though he is not home yet, his parents are wading through the adoption process to get him home as soon as possible! I have loved getting to know his family through their blog, and feel as though his mom and I are becoming friends (through our blog comments and emails and such!)I was very surprised when I visited their

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-67811752707097149862011-06-22T00:00:00.000-05:002011-06-22T00:00:04.265-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-7346639761208942462011-06-20T22:10:00.003-05:002011-06-20T22:13:38.186-05:00

and his bike.A match made in heaven at the campground.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-36326402534903363252011-06-17T00:04:00.008-05:002011-06-17T00:22:33.121-05:00

#74. Don't look at something for what it is... look at it for what it could be.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-55674785933592679432011-06-08T21:43:00.015-05:002011-06-10T13:05:27.147-05:00

What would I tell her if I could?I would tell her that marriage is hard work.I would tell her that there will be days when love is really easy, and other days when it will be challenging.I would tell her that he's never going to want to fold towels. She will not be able to change that. Ever. The fact that he loves her will not change anything. He might love her a lot, but he will still hate

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-50164723771416701462011-05-31T22:59:00.004-05:002011-05-31T23:10:57.485-05:00

Sunflower seeds.Blankets.Baseball hats.Ball field dust under the fingernails.Sunscreen.Collapsible chairs and the skinny bags they make way too small so you can never get the chairs back into them. Late evenings.Snacks in little plastic baggies.Sunglasses.Bug spray. The iPad to keep a little someone who really loves her sister but gets bored at the games occupied. All to see this.It has

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-64631312329822431422011-05-27T23:59:00.000-05:002011-05-28T00:35:49.256-05:00

June 2004 (Rylee 7 months old)

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-87184821212543909952011-05-25T22:46:00.004-05:002011-05-25T22:51:36.911-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-68873885271075723442011-05-22T23:00:00.002-05:002011-05-22T23:02:12.212-05:00

When I ordered this, I was excited.I was thinking about how much the kids would enjoy it -- how amazing it would be for them to watch the transformation of a caterpillar to a butterfly... the circle of life.What I didn't realize was how amazed I would be.So, we got our jar of caterpillars.Okay, so they didn't look exactly like this. But I didn't take a picture of our jar of caterpillars, so

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-43320358460642151412011-04-27T00:00:00.001-05:002011-04-27T00:00:00.843-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-65702252550015666762011-04-24T22:10:00.010-05:002011-04-24T22:25:48.088-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-9921585492627244592011-04-24T01:10:00.002-05:002011-04-25T20:33:15.924-05:00

20045 months old- a feeding tube- sneaky little fingers that always seemed to find that one little space between the tape on the cheek and the nose where tape wouldn't stick to keep the feeding tube in place... and the handful of trips to the ER to have it put back in until we learned how to re-insert it ourselves (and really not liking the re-insertion part)- adorable bunny slippers20045

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-92036150700833465202011-04-21T13:29:00.005-05:002011-04-21T13:37:19.889-05:00

I'm not sure who's more amazed at watching our caterpillars spin silk to create a chrysalis...the kids or me!Want to be amazed, too? Start your own Live Butterfly Garden here!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-15102567102116730432011-04-16T23:02:00.000-05:002011-04-16T23:02:51.208-05:00

"So Carter, how old are you now?""Before the party begins, let's get a picture of you with your sisters!""Carter, just a few more pictures, okay? Can I get one with you? You know, so someday you'll know I existed... and of course one with Dad, too!""Alright, you've been waiting VERY patiently to open presents... so GO FOR IT!""Um... hon? Slow down a little. Did you even see what that present

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-17558767898303973752011-04-13T23:59:00.000-05:002011-04-14T00:27:08.281-05:00

About 5 hours (and 4 years) ago, I became the mommy of a little boy.April 13, 20077:13 pm8 pounds 12 ounces21 inches longAbout 5 hours (and 4 years) ago, she became a big sister.About 5 hours (and 4 years) ago, she became a big sister (again.)About 5 hours (and 4 years) ago, I looked down at this extraordinary little being...and felt proud he chose me to be his Mommy.Happy 4th Birthday Carter...

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-76328531198318151282011-04-12T22:55:00.008-05:002011-04-12T23:25:22.441-05:00

Three-and-a-half year old Rylee always wanted to join in on my monthly "belly pictures."(Very often, a baby doll got in on the fun, too.)We were waiting for Carter, who we had already named, to make his arrival.He was due to arrive on April 25.But, 4 years ago tonight, I went into labor.Our little boy was on his way!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-69763210582840259912011-04-08T18:00:00.003-05:002011-04-08T18:04:16.864-05:00

Antonio's picture.It's still on the Reece's Rainbow website.Which means he's still overseas, in an orphanage... waiting for a Mom and Dad.But, his picture is on a different page on the website."My Family Found Me."That's the page.The Gibson family of OshKosh, WI is working on bringing Antonio home.Home.And do you want to know what's ironic about the story of this little boy?This little boy that's

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-43550024404864271872011-04-04T22:38:00.000-05:002011-04-04T22:38:00.404-05:00

learning how to be a good sport.Not easy when you're 3.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-91313462033095747212011-04-01T22:21:00.000-05:002011-04-01T22:22:00.978-05:00

Thanks to the Special Olympics Facebook announcement, I learned this week that Tim Shriver, the Chairman and CEO of the Special Olympics, would be a guest on the Colbert Report. I was interested, especially after hearing he was going to tackle the use of the "R" word.I've never watched the show.... even would have pronounced "Colbert" wrong until I heard it said. (So, thanks to the Special

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-6340530729218504762011-03-21T00:00:00.000-05:002011-03-21T00:00:03.672-05:00

Today is World Down Syndrome Day.Last year, on this day, I wrote about Reece's Rainbow, an International Down Syndrome Orphan Ministry, and shared our family's experience with donating to the adoption fund of a little boy named Antonio*.(* If you read my blog post last year, you will see that I call him Alexander. There was a little mix-up at first at Reece's Rainbow as to the little boy's name..

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-28770408084944430912011-03-09T08:47:00.003-06:002011-03-09T08:51:02.683-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-7271079982284550332011-03-07T20:53:00.001-06:002011-03-07T22:23:04.838-06:00

After posting about Rylee's love of babies, I got to thinking about everything Rylee has done for her babies.She's taught babies how to go potty on the toilet...February 2008and shared kisses and cuddles.February 2009She's smiled and posed for photos with them...May 2008April 2009and made sure they were smiling and posing right along side her.March 2010August 2009She's played with them,April

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-59217222000687161352011-03-02T00:00:00.001-06:002011-03-02T00:00:09.529-06:00

It's time again. Time to remind ourselves that our words have incredible power.The words I wrote last year to celebrate this day still ring true today.But before I take us back, I want to say thank you.If you are someone who used to use the "R" word, but now stop yourself... thank you.If you are someone who used to stay quiet when someone around you used the "R" word, but now have found the

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-75197477149965855252011-02-26T22:04:00.000-06:002011-02-26T22:16:19.802-06:00

(Just catching up on some posts I've had sitting in my "drafts" folder. I often find myself starting a post way too late at night, and shortly into it realize that I'm simply too tired to finish it... or to make it clever or funny or remotely interesting for people to read! Suddenly, 3 months have passed and it's still staring at me from "drafts." I'm determined to hit "post" on this one

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-91346737411739135472011-02-16T00:00:00.000-06:002011-02-16T00:00:09.025-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-62042785476236159102011-02-14T00:00:00.001-06:002011-02-14T00:00:07.355-06:00

I love it when we're playing Hide-and-Seek, and he counts, "One... two... three... four... five... six... seven... eight... nine... ten... eleventeen... twelveteen... thirteen....."I love it when we're in the car and I spontaneously hear, "Mom? I love you."I love when I pull up to school to drop her off, she has several friends who spot our car and run up to the sidewalk, saying "Rylee! Rylee!"

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-2101243664087087352011-02-12T17:04:00.001-06:002011-02-12T17:06:31.573-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-78454278182854448382011-02-08T20:50:00.001-06:002011-02-08T20:58:02.380-06:00

They've always been "babies."Rylee loves them.It's quite often the first thing she plays with, especially after school. Coat off. Shoes off. Backpack hung.Down the hall. Into her room.Door shuts.Alone time. We all need it.But she's not really alone. Her babies welcome her home."Need a bottle, baby?""Awwww... it's okay sweetie." It's so sweet listening to her talk to them. I often wish I

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-22026477634073319202011-02-03T21:40:00.003-06:002011-02-03T21:46:34.093-06:00

It's where we've been lately.No one really wants to hear any more about the weather. We've got snow. It's more-than-freezing cold.Enough said.Instead, I'll share with you what we've been doing on our "school-less" days!* * * * *Reading to babies in pajamas.Playing detective in a winter mystery."Hiding" under upside-down laundry baskets.Racing Lightning McQueen on train tracks.Holding photo

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-53467806214037477862011-01-23T01:14:00.008-06:002011-01-23T01:31:22.014-06:00

Lots of teenagers. Lots of dancing. Were we nuts? Possibly.... but....Lots of laughs and lots of fun!Jeremy and I have a week to recover before Jordyn's birthday party with family... somehow, I think that one won't be quite so overwhelming!(A big thank you to all of our friends who helped chaperone... definitely couldn't have done it without you!)Happy Birthday Jordyn! Hope this was a birthday

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-15844115173544692362011-01-22T10:06:00.004-06:002011-01-22T10:17:43.240-06:00

Tonight, we celebrate.And we're gonna celebrate BIG!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-83861858422455977912011-01-18T22:26:00.001-06:002011-01-18T22:33:14.368-06:00

I was about 20 weeks pregnant. We'd had a "Triple Screen" done, simply because it was just one of several other routine screenings and tests my OB did with her patients. I don't even recall thinking anything of it when we had it done. (I guess I was more concerned with figuring out how to put an end to my 24-hour "morning" sickness.) Jeremy and I didn't talk about any "what if's"... we

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-8899351573881376252011-01-16T13:55:00.001-06:002011-01-16T13:56:23.770-06:00

The results of this snow day project finally dried, and turned out really cute! The kids loved the "magic" of cutting on the line I drew, opening up the folded paper only to find it was a HEART! (Don't tell them everyone on earth knows that's how you make a paper heart... they think I'm a genius.)Rylee isn't a big "arts and crafts" girl. Usually it takes me longer to get everything ready to

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-84236740480511008122011-01-11T23:21:00.007-06:002011-01-11T23:37:36.445-06:00

Snow Days mean colorful ink pads and heart stamps...scraps of lace and lots of glitter.Snow days mean glue bottles and paper hearts...heart-shaped sponges and paint-covered hands.Snow days mean red Bingo Dabbers,more glitter,and more paint.Snow days mean fun for the kids, and even a little fun for Mom.The result? You'll have to wait. The projects won't be dry for six two days.(Just noticed

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-26235333286103936912011-01-09T23:18:00.003-06:002011-01-09T23:23:35.403-06:00

Did you know the dishwasher can be a very educational tool?"is" and "big" were two of her spelling words last week... anyone figure out what the other 3 words were?

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-87551028512017525932011-01-06T23:05:00.000-06:002011-01-06T23:05:06.843-06:00

A new year.A new beginning.The time when you can start all over.You start making your bed each day.You begin writing more neatly in your brand new day planner.You make each meal with thought, and if you had a chart of the 5 food groups on your wall, you could proudly check off each group every single meal.You vow to show more patience, and when it takes your 3-year-old 15 minutes to put on his (

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-42902147410819836402010-12-27T17:30:00.000-06:002010-12-27T18:26:26.931-06:00

(We're taking a break from all the fun holiday festivities to catch up on some blogging! So, mentally take down your Christmas tree, melt some snow, and rewind to September for me!)*****Preschool.How it was going to go (for him and for me) was definitely uncertain.In the months leading up to this big day, the mood looked grim.Many "preschool preparation conversations" ended something like, "No

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-24430459127183183132010-12-22T23:56:00.001-06:002010-12-22T23:57:21.872-06:00

We've had holiday decorations unpacked,and outstretched arms.Balancing acts on chairs,and delicate ornament placement.We've had fun with photos,and tree admiration.Cookie-baking,(don't be too impressed... it was the pre-made cookie dough, and the pre-portioned cookie dough at that)and book-reading.We've had obsessions with Scotch tape,(you know wrapping presents is much easier with the end of

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-72097744742392182962010-12-22T10:25:00.004-06:002010-12-22T10:33:56.665-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-17786555922352570792010-12-19T11:49:00.004-06:002010-12-19T12:00:06.417-06:00

we would live in Florida.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-81880652066866507992010-12-14T22:27:00.013-06:002010-12-14T23:25:49.193-06:00

Oh, the Elementary School Music Christmas Program....the parents, rushing from home after throwing together a quick supper for the kids... one parent with a video camera bag tossed over one shoulder and the camera bag tossed over the other... the other parent towing the tripod and clinging to the hand of the younger sibling who already has to go to the bathroom, despite having gone 6 minutes ago.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-63674311738537786842010-12-08T01:42:00.003-06:002010-12-08T01:45:30.755-06:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-62647046767568165802010-11-26T17:44:00.003-06:002010-11-26T17:49:52.631-06:00

on!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-60667224724382967782010-11-26T00:00:00.000-06:002010-11-26T00:00:00.474-06:00

Two years ago on Thanksgiving, we all gathered on the couch for a quick snapshot with our new family member. Zoe, our Puggle (beagle/pug mix) had just joined our family.A sweet little puppy, almost 9 weeks old, sat contently in Jordyn's hand.Thanksgiving 2008Jordyn (13) Rylee (5) Carter (1) Zoe (8 weeks)As photos were taken, there were "Awww, she's so cute!" and "Look at how she just cuddles

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-22552594908025702602010-11-24T22:52:00.010-06:002010-11-24T23:06:51.450-06:00

2 large pieces of paper+ 8 brand new washable markers+ 2 creative kids= 2 works of art showing appreciation for "Rylee, Carter, Jordyn, Mom, Dad and Zoe" (and apparently more of those cookies she draws so well)and "me, my family, Woody, a rocket, and toys."Oh, and don't forget to add one very proud, thankful Mom.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-17742313619280065562010-11-19T12:33:00.004-06:002010-11-19T17:36:00.308-06:00

The good news...The clinic that we are getting Rylee's medical records from (for our 2nd opinion on her spine) called to say that they were ready for me to pick up (a few days sooner than they had originally told me.)The bad news...There are very important parts missing... you know, like the radiology report from the initial x-ray done.The good news...The CD of x-rays and MRI scans was included,

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-529114446730025042010-11-19T00:11:00.009-06:002010-11-19T00:38:54.891-06:00

What do you think?It's a work in progress. (I promise you won't have to see the same 2 slides of photos at the top over and over... and over and over for very long! I mean, seriously... I took 789 photos in October. I think I can find a few more to add!) I didn't plan on a new blog look until the end of the year. You know, I'm the type of person who would wait until January 1, 2011 to show

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-19906571798316574512010-11-11T20:44:00.002-06:002010-11-11T20:47:44.316-06:00

Earlier this year, I shared Rylee's journey to name-writing.Now, it's someone else's turn.******Carter started out loving crayons like most kids do... February 200810 months oldHe was actually more of a painting kind of guy...July 20081 year 3 monthsand no matter what (or where) he paintedJune 20092 years 2 monthshe enjoyed it!June 20103 years 2 monthsHe did like showing his creativity in other

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-56749238576473133322010-11-11T09:42:00.016-06:002010-11-11T12:46:48.454-06:00

After our appointment with the local pediatric orthopedic surgeon, we made the decision to seek a 2nd opinion on Rylee's neck/spine. Thanks to a friend from Tennessee who's daughter underwent AAI/AOI spine fusion surgery several years ago, she made a recommendation. She (along with others I'd talked with) said that the Shriner's Hospital in Philadelphia was the place to go for this. The

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-58487558791880732312010-11-09T09:11:00.011-06:002010-11-09T09:48:24.362-06:00

We met this morning with Rylee's Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon to go over the results of her MRI. I think it's safe to say we're "cautiously optimistic yet perplexed." The surgeon said that on the MRI, he sees "no radical instability." He read us the report from the neuroradiologist, who also looked over the MRI, and his notes do, in fact, rule out AAI. However, there was nothing in the notes

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-75847526791589424032010-11-05T12:33:00.007-05:002010-11-05T12:39:52.758-05:00

when you're at the hospital, waiting for the doctor to take "pictures of your neck?"Well, when you're six,you dig your mom's little camera out of her purseand take pictures of yourself.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-65428401706240401282010-11-04T14:46:00.007-05:002010-11-04T15:09:45.593-05:00

Just wanted to update everyone on Rylee's MRI this morning... First of all, thank you to EVERYONE who called, sent emails, texts, and left Facebook messages with your thoughts! We definitely felt them and feel so fortunate to have such love surrounding us!Everything went pretty well... it's always hard to see your child go under anesthesia, but you just keep reminding yourself it's SO much

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-55846361425291267322010-11-03T18:18:00.013-05:002010-11-03T19:42:04.926-05:00

A few weeks ago, I was busy.Well, let me be a bit more specific, as I am actually busy quite often.On the particular day I'm referring to, I was busy with this...Now, we've got someone on the phone, announcing her upcoming big day...And of course, we've got another countdown going... actually, THREE of them!Look who's turning SEVEN!!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-40080670833131466692010-11-03T00:00:00.002-05:002010-11-03T00:00:03.955-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-47786034491670190652010-10-31T00:22:00.004-05:002010-10-31T00:33:26.872-05:00

I have always liked sayings... sayings about love, attitude, dreams & success, and life in general. Years ago, I started jotting down sayings I came across that I liked, and every now and then -- especially times like this -- I open up my notebook and read a few."I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it." Charles SwindollI agree. I really do. And most of the

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-69285078033100469462010-10-28T22:00:00.011-05:002010-10-28T22:58:57.550-05:00

It's that time again. When the leaves blow around and gather in the far corner of the deck, hiding behind the grill. (You know, the grill which has yet to be put away because by putting it away we are surrendering to winter.) The time when we have to allow for 3 and a half more minutes in the morning for coat-zipping and mitten-searching. The time when our dog's potty breaks outside reduce

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-48811582012268147192010-10-27T08:00:00.001-05:002010-10-27T08:00:00.797-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-21395104832184920742010-10-23T23:25:00.003-05:002010-10-23T23:32:16.705-05:00

I still have writer's block.But for now,Carter's facesaysitall.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-18842567968650680872010-10-18T18:55:00.005-05:002010-10-23T02:04:56.969-05:00

Ever since I took my several-months-long "blog hiatus," my "to-blog-about" list has grown. This blog serves as sort of a diary for our family, and each time we experience an event or milestone, I want to capture it here.But I'm at a loss for words. I have about 4 posts saved as drafts... some of them with pictures, none of them complete. I type a few words, then hit "delete" about 18 times.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-60826456987439604422010-10-16T14:25:00.003-05:002010-10-16T14:31:40.324-05:00

I have lots of fun things to catch up on here... we've had a busy few months! Starting preschool, picking pumpkins, studying for our very 1st spelling tests, playing in the leaves...but I can't write today.Because I'm busy.I'll leave you with a little peek in on what I'm doing today.Any specific guesses?Hope you're enjoying your Saturday! Be back soon with more fall fun from our house!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-41924260263751553442010-09-25T21:18:00.025-05:002010-09-25T22:40:39.232-05:00

Did you guess what the kids were looking at?It was a... Toad.Summer 2010 will also be known as the "Summer of the Toads."I do not have vast knowledge about toads and their habitats. Maybe we always have lots of toads around here but it wasn't until this year the kids took an interest in them. Or maybe, for some scientific reason, there were more toads around here than normal. (You know, like

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-56326080368945298962010-09-22T00:00:00.001-05:002010-09-22T00:00:02.902-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-27737573375296947582010-09-21T14:00:00.002-05:002010-09-21T14:04:00.368-05:00

(Alternately Titled: It's My Party and I'll Post Pictures When I Want To.)I have lots to catch up on around here... because a lot of the reason I write this blog is for our family, I don't want to miss out on capturing some big events or important milestones for us! (You know, I'm sure the kids will someday read this blog and think, "Geesh, Mom... you didn't even POST about me finding that toad

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-8298059494140149632010-08-31T11:25:00.002-05:002010-08-31T11:29:42.595-05:00

just keep on comin'!Wasn't this picture just taken a few weeks ago?Carter • 4 months oldThey grow up so fast.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-48123530950701936842010-08-28T21:30:00.001-05:002010-08-28T21:32:49.692-05:00

Another "Letter from Rylee!" (She's such a busy girl these days!) This letter went home with all of her 1st grade classmates (for their parents) after a few days of school. (We did this in Kindergarten as well, but somehow I didn't get it posted here.) Rylee is very lucky to have some wonderful friends with amazingly supportive parents -- parents that I now consider to be great friends of

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-75953150767781914852010-08-27T00:00:00.000-05:002010-08-27T00:00:04.784-05:00

Every night, just before tucking Rylee and Carter into their beds, we ask them to do or say something kind to each other. Sometimes they choose a "Goodnight" or a hug... (sometimes a high-five on days when they aren't quite feelin' the love.) Other times it's an "I love you," which of course melts my heart.And on the best of days... a kiss.Tonight when the kids chose to share a kiss, I flashed

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-83423084116890264292010-08-23T08:54:00.003-05:002010-08-23T08:54:00.083-05:00

Look who's the new face of Cover Girl the Buddy Walk!

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-4614624652932560472010-08-21T21:10:00.000-05:002010-08-21T21:48:01.955-05:00

New situations tend to cause a little anxiety. New things like... a new school year. A new classroom. A new teacher. New friends. A new schedule that involved a FULL day of school (instead of 1/2 day like Kindergarten.) A new morning routine. New things to learn. New, new, new...Because of all the new things happening, it probably wouldn't surprise you if I told you that someone had a

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-41605422350439689832010-08-18T22:15:00.000-05:002010-08-18T22:15:01.264-05:00

As a Kindergartner, she walked in to Open House with a little hesitation and unsureness in her step.As a 1st Grader, she walked in with confidence and certainty.As a Kindergartner, she opened the big heavy door with slight difficulty.As a 1st Grader, she flung that door open with ease.As a Kindergartner, she stood by her classroom door, posing with a smile as if to say, "Mom, I'm not quite sure

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-66398085777724864352010-08-16T08:45:00.003-05:002010-08-16T08:49:13.194-05:00

Remember our countdowns?Well, this is our current countdown... as of today.I don't know if she's I'm ready.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-27185499630484877112010-08-11T22:53:00.011-05:002010-08-11T23:41:57.951-05:00

I've found myself.But then again, I look back on the last few months and wonder if I am any more "found" than I was before I took a little "blogging break."Seems like each day I am learning how to navigate through this life... ... how to balance laundry with writing thank-you cards with spending time with my husband with reading books about preschool to our excited three-year-old with calling

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-42400112468614168922010-06-02T00:20:00.002-05:002010-06-02T00:23:37.673-05:00

Balance.It's such a tough thing.In life, that is.(Although, it is, indeed, also difficult to stand on one foot for a long period of time.)My life is a bit off balance these days.When I began my blog over a year ago, I wrote a short description: "Come along and learn with me -- about parenting, photography, Down syndrome, step-parenting, home improvement, volunteering, child development, blogging,

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-36535605898071402442010-06-02T00:00:00.000-05:002010-06-02T00:00:07.350-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-25180623023237840102010-05-26T00:00:00.001-05:002010-05-26T00:00:02.370-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-26835576316335212802010-05-15T14:04:00.002-05:002010-05-15T14:53:46.740-05:00

Right from the beginning.When neither Daddy nor I could soothe you, it was there.It helped you fall asleep; comforted you when you were hurt. Just like an old friend.When you began to talk, you realized that we could understand you much better without its' presence. So you'd pull it out, hold it close by, and pop it back in place when you were done talking.As you've grown up, you've needed it's

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-30596515557671497722010-05-12T00:00:00.000-05:002010-05-12T00:00:03.977-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-172330044449755712010-05-10T23:30:00.010-05:002010-05-10T23:48:34.783-05:00

"What are you two doing out here?""Dad piled that wood up by the fire pit. Would you please leave it there?""That one might be too heavy for you...""Be careful you don't drop the logs on your feet.""What are you doing with it anyway?""You're making a what?""Oh yes... I can totally tell.""A house for birds.""Well done, you two."

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-45114679455971230102010-04-29T01:15:00.002-05:002010-04-29T01:19:24.072-05:00

You've all had lots of questions."What have you been up to?""Why haven't you been blogging much lately?""Was there really an Easter egg hidden among all of those logs?""Did you really even have a birthday party for Carter?"Did Rylee ever blow bubbles for you to capture on camera?Are your kids climbing in with the cows?(Okay, so no one's really asked any of these questions.)We've had a very fun,

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-1926235587799562282010-04-19T23:41:00.001-05:002010-04-19T23:41:00.303-05:00

with this.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-83251603006291445172010-04-18T22:32:00.004-05:002010-04-18T22:32:35.230-05:00

Remember Kelle?Recently, on her blog, she posted this:"I've been thinking a lot about "Life in a Home" and how there are certain corners, nooks, rooms where life seems to evolve a little more beautifully in every home. As I mentioned the hustle and bustle of the kitchen on a holiday, there are others. The magic that awakens in a bathroom when littles are bathed at night, the hum of supper

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-26317210760296483932010-04-14T23:00:00.001-05:002010-04-14T23:07:58.830-05:00

When you're little, the concept of time is a difficult one. Heck, it's difficult when you're 30, too."Today is Thursday? I swear it was Thursday yesterday?""Didn't I just buy groceries yesterday? Oh, it was last Monday? Sure felt like yesterday."Anyway, it's hard for kids to understand what a "day" really is... and a "week?" Forget it. Impossible to really grasp. When they know something

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-1545441967579815332010-04-13T01:29:00.003-05:002010-04-13T01:35:19.924-05:00

Three years ago today...this little guy stole my heart.And he still hasn't given it back.

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-67253779745532615172010-04-08T13:13:00.000-05:002010-04-08T13:13:00.198-05:00

"Please don't lick the mirror.""Why is there cereal in Zoe's dog dish?""Please put that back. Lipstick is for Mommies to wear on their lips -- it's not for your cheeks.""We don't eat cotton balls.... well, then go brush your teeth.""Is that mascara on your lips?""Please get Buzz Lightyear out of the floor vent.""Dogs don't need lotion. Did you try to put some on her through the kennel door?"

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5669542480886208954.post-14000094728486227732010-04-07T00:00:00.002-05:002010-04-07T00:00:02.221-05:00

Carinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13805298204904611543noreply@blogger.com1