Time To Give Thanks

So much to give thanks for but most of all, I give thanks for:

Him (the one under the pile of kids). He is the best husband and father anyone could ask for. (Heck, he puts up with me. He's bordering on Saint.)
And Him. The one who asks questions like: "Can anyone stop global warming? Who?"
And Her. Who lately says she only loves Daddy, not Mommy. (She lives to frustrate her momma)And Him. Who loves unconditionally and lives life to the fullest.And Him. Who amazes us everyday with his ability to love and laugh and delight. (And Her. Who gave us the opportunity to love Him through her unselfish love and whose eyes I see every time I look at Him.)

Sucker!!!!

That's me. There's one born every second....

Today was Judson's basketball meeting for the parents. Before I left, Randy predicted I'd come back as a coach. For the record, he was wrong. I'm not a coach. AND I'm not in charge of snacks. That was THE one job I did NOT want. So, what may you ask am I. I am an assistant director. Pretty impressive title, huh? Ahhh...but what does an Assistant Director of 5 and 6 year olds do? I get to order people around. Now, you see why I'm perfect for the job. (Albeit, 5 and 6 year old people and I suspect if they are like my 6 year old, they'll ignore me. )

It was funny, no one signed up for that job. No one. So they were asking if anyone would take it. I said, I'm not against taking it but I don't want to lead prayer. You see, it's an interfaith/church league. I don't do public prayer. No problem. As Asst Dir, you get to ask someone else to do that. Cool. I'm the woMAN for the job!

I'm not alone. Two other parents agreed to do it too. So, we three are all suckers. But I bet we have fun. Plus, the man in charge was like, "you have 3 more kids coming up? Cool. I'll get you for the next 8 years"

Stay tuned as we try to coordinate Daddy's work schedule(Including a week of travel in Dec), Daddy and Judson's karate schedule, Mom's helping with basketball, all of Sawyer's school/therapies, and all the Christmas schedule. I have a feeling my New Year's Resolution/Request/Plea is going to be a week in solitary confinement.

Fun Pics

The kids love love love playing dress up. They hop in the trunk and pretend it is a boat or a car or a train or a flying carpet or whatever it happens to be. Turner absolutely loves hats of all shapes and sizes. (even faux coonskin Davy Crockett hats) As a side note, one of the things I used to hate was seeing kids with snotty noses and dirty faces. I couldn't understand why their mom couldn't get them clean. (Have I told you that already?) Note the snotty nose of Turner and the toothpaste residue of Judson. You pick your battles. Clean faces is one I can't win, so I just don't even try.PS. I haven't taken one of Ansley today. If I did, you'd see a child with 4 (yes, four) short sleeved tshirts on. Now the day started off cool, with the temps in the upper 30's. It's now in the low 60's. So, layering isn't out of the question but really, 4???? All short sleeved??? The other morning, I asked her to remove her pj's to get ready. I told her to take the pj shirt off before putting on her 'day clothes'. (Knowing we'd have too many layers if we didn't) She takes off the shirt and to my surprise, she has another shirt on underneath. She asks if she can wear that shirt. I say "NO" take it off too. THEN, to my surprise, she has on yet ANOTHER shirt. Yes, I made her take that off too. She had worn it for at least 2 days.

Ethiopia

Serenity Now!!!

After reading Meredith's blog (Emma's Hope), I thought I'd share what my house looks like today.

The blue bin in the den that holds books (the kids are very good with their books and they love to take them out read several times a day) spewed books today. Why? Because Sawyer wanted to play 'train'. He hopped in and said "All aboard". Of course, then a fight ensued because EVERYONE wanted to ride in the train.
The 'tea party room' (aka Ansley's bedroom) had a spewing problem today too. Apparently, you must dump out the whole drawer in order to find just the right items for play. I found Sawyer putting his notebook with his 'list' in his tinkerbell purse(apparently hiding in one of the dumped drawers) and heading out to run errands.
At night, we have 'clean up' time and all is well with the house until the morning when it starts all over again.

At the Breakfast Table

Judson: I think we should name Ansley, "Princess of the House von Pout Pout"

Ansley: "That's right, Judson. I am a princess."

Don't Forget

The Reece's Rainbow Angel Tree. Every child deserves a family. Every family deserves a child. Now, I don't believe every person needs to have children. That's something only you can decide. I will say these kids have been through a lot. In many of the Eastern European countries, the kids age out of the baby houses (orphanages) and are placed in mental institutions. Many will not be allowed out of their beds. Many, Many will die within their first year of being placed in the institution.

So many folks are working to change that scenario but until that happens, these kids will suffer. To be perfectly honest, while the US is light years ahead of Eastern Europe, it hasn't been that long since children with disabilities were 'hidden away'. Now, there is a waiting list of people who would adopt a child born with Down Syndrome here in the US. Those same people might just adopt a child internationally if they could afford the cost. Your donation may just sway their decision.

These are tough economic times, so I would not want anyone to donate who is on a tight budget. But there are many who have the means. I want to make a pitch for these little ones. They are all so beautiful and in need. Check out their pictures. You just may find a little one who touches your heart. A couple of families have already found their child in the faces of these kids. Spread the word too. You never know who might want to donate or even adopt one of these sweet children. Check out Miss Liza with a "Z" at the bottom or Mr. Harry with the tux on. Let me tell you about Samson. He's high functioning. (Not sure if he's been moved to the institution or not) You can tell from many of the photos, he is a pistol! All are precious!

Don't You Believe It

I've heard it a million times, "Oh you home school? Are you worried your kids won't be 'socialized' enough?" I usually just laugh. I think about the years I spent in public school. P.E. and lunch time were the only time I was NOT sitting in a chair listening to lectures. My most social time was either at family gatherings with all my cousins or after school playing with the neighbors' kids. Sadly, this day and age do not lend themselves to allowing your child carte blanche to go play with the kids down the road. Things need to be more 'arranged'. All is not lost though. There are tons of things to do that cost little or no money.

Take Ansley and her 'Dumplings'. What an awesome experience and it cost nothing. She loves hanging out with the older girls, especially if Daddy takes her. (Mom, eh, not so much. Let's just say she has Dad wrapped around her little finger) There are also some dance and gymnastic classes we hope to get her into in the near future. Not to mention swim classes.

Judson and his Dad take karate classes together twice a week. Very cheap because it's through a church but very nice for he and his dad to do it together. This is one time Mom wishes she could do it too. I LOVE LOVE LOVE martial arts. However, my back and knees say NO NO NO. It is our hope the the other kids will join in as they get older. "The family that kicks together sticks together" In addition, Judson is playing basketball this year too. (Stay tuned for pics. Sure to be fun.) On top of that, living in an urban area makes it even more easy to access things. Like yesterday, Judson took a cooking class with his friend Luyushu. They had a good time. (notice the home made oreo cookie crumbs and kool aid on their mouths)


Not to mention, everywhere I go, they go too. Doctor's appointments, grocery, shopping, visiting, even voting. You name it, they do it. It's not like you can schedule appointments while they are in school. They are learning how to act not only with their same age peers but with people older and younger than they are. Let's face it when they grow up, they won't be interacting ONLY with people born their same year but people of all ages. In addition, my kids have great insight into interacting with people of differing abilities. They come with us to appointments where Sawyer is evaluated. They are exposed to medical facilities and treatments that are out of the norm. To them, it's just another day.

So don't believe that kids who are home schooled are not socialized. Parents I know who home school go out of their way to make sure their kids have ample opportunity to socialize with their peer group.

Keeping It Real

So you say to yourself, how does she manage? How does she handle 4 children ages 6 and under? She's amazing! She's wonder woman! You never said that? Hmmm.....Okay, you weaseled it out of me. I admit it. I'm a fruad. I employ tricks such as this one with Judson. "Yes, Judson you can fly your kite in the backyard. You just have to run fast enough and the kite will fly despite the fact there is no wind." Cruel? Dishonest? Maybe. Either way, he ran and ran until he finally said the words no 6 year old likes to say, "Can we stop. I'm tired." (This is the kite we made at the Asian festival so many years ago. Judson and I read the story The Kite Fighter, so flying kites has new meaning.) Or perhaps you have to let somethings go. Such as the laundry piled up in the hall way. Or the books you have to step over or puzzle pieces. Perhaps you even have to dress your 4 year old SON in pink footy pj's belonging to his sister because you have no clean pjs for him. (Maybe they were in the pile of laundry) BTW, Ansley was reading the 'babies' a story because she's a Happy Helper!

An Adoption Story

So, I cannot get this video to upload. (shhh, don't tell anyone I was once a computer programmer in a former life) Ineptitude aside, click on the highlighted button and view this video. It's a good story and worth watching. (Thanks Shelley for reminding me of the story)

Click Here

Do Something/Something to Do

Ok. My cyber friend Lucia is one of the best bloggers. I love reading her stories. She can weave the most interesting story out of everyday things.

She has something that everyone can do. (Hats for newborns made out of tshirts) Go over and read and see if it is something you might be interested in.

Check it out here.

Who's Jesus?

So, my 6 year old asked his Pop-Pop, who Jesus was. Pop's answer was very age appropriate. He said Jesus was God's son. Then last night, Judson asked his Dad, what/who are Christians? His answer, People who follow Christ. The retort to that was, "you can't follow Christ, he is not here!"

His dad responded by saying, Christians follow Christ's teachings: Don't hurt people, Treat people nicely, don't lie, etc. Judson pondered this and decided he was about 50% christian because he fought with his sister. Of course, his sister is only 48% Christian because she fights AND she lies!

Only from the mouth of a child.

This is a child who is rooting for Obama. (not because of who his parents are voting for because we have made it a point of not talking politics in our house) He's seen the commercials for both candidates and sees the polls. He doesn't see color or gender or age. Mostly he roots for Obama because the polls say Obama is going to win and he always sides with the 'winner'. (If the polls said McCain was going to win, then his allegence would likely change) There are several candidates we are not allowed to vote for because of their negative campaigning. Their commercials almost make him cry because of the negativity. He will always say "Why do they say that about this person. That's not nice" His innocence lets him see past the things that stop adults. I love that about him. I hope he never sees through the eyes of hatred and fear. I hope he can always see past the lies. I love the world he sees!

National Adoption Month

November is National Adoption Month. Adoption has touched my life since I was a little girl. It's something that I always knew I wanted to do. I was lucky to get to grow up in a family with a loving mom and dad and brothers and sister and cousins and aunts and uncles and grandparents. Not everyone has that opportunity. It's not fair. Plain and Simple. Sure life is not fair. That doesn't make it right for a child to go to bed (if they are lucky enough to have a bed) without someone to tuck them in and kiss them good night. It's not right that they have no one to hold them and rock them when they are sick and scared. It's not fair that they have no one to share the happy times with either.

That's why I tell you about Reece's Rainbow. That's why I tell you our story. And that's why I share with you this story/observation. That's why I point out posts like this one, too. Nothing extraordinary. Just what goes on in the world around us.

Reece's Rainbow Angel Tree

From Andrea at Reece's Rainbow:

Our Angel Tree is the perfect gift opportunity for your friends and family, and the GIFT OF A FAMILY for an orphaned child with Down syndrome this Christmas. From today until December 31, you have a very special opportunity to view all of our waiting children and offer them gifts in the form of adoption grants, so families can afford the high cost of rescuing them!

With your sponsorship gift of $35 or more, you will recieve a beautiful porcelain ornament with your child's photo on the back. This is a very meaningful and personal gift, and life-saving at the same time! We have almost (100) children on our Angel Tree this year, all waiting for families and eligible for grant donations.

OK. So my heart is rooting for Francesca from China. And that is where our donation will go this year. Check out the pictures. (Click on one of the highlighted phrases and it'll take you to the site) I'm sure one (or more) kids will tug at your heart strings. If you'd like to read more, click on Emma's button to the right and read what Meredith has to say.

Trick or Treat

The kids have looked forward to this day for a week. The neighborhood party and trick or treating were all they'd talk about. This morning they woke up ready to put on their costumes. I took Sawyer to school, only to be called to come back and get him. He was sick. He came home and took a nap along with Ansley and Turner. When it came time to get ready he refused to dress up. You could tell he felt miserable. I dosed him up with Motrin to see if that would help. He was going as Phil Fulmer (I mean, The Great Pumpkin). He began to feel a bit better but still refused to put on the costume. So the best I could do with him, was to get half of a cow costume on. Once he got to the party, he perked up and had a good time. All the kids did! Then Ansley and Judson went to a few houses on the way home and trick or treated. They were ready to come home. Alas, Dad was not ready. So he took them to several more houses while I brought Turner and Sawyer home. They still are not home at the writing of this post.


After
before



**Special note on the Cat and The Hat**
Judson was scared when we went to get him a costume. He, literally, would not go down the aisle. So I asked what he'd like to be and I'd make him a costume. He said he wanted to be a bunny. I told Randy and his response was, "Absolutely not! Haven't you ever seen The Christmas Story". So Judson and I got online and looked around and finally decided we liked the Cat and The Hat. I think he's quite the handsome Cat with his Hat.

Post-Placement Stuffs

Just our luck. There's a new law (about 1 year old but just recently being implemented and randomly, at best) on the books stating that before our adoption can be finalized, we have to be fingerprinted and have another background check. Let's see, for Turner's adoption alone, we were fingerprinted at the local police station and those fingerprints were run through the FBI system. While at the local police station, we had a background check run via their system. Then, we had to be electronically fingerprinted with Homeland Security and have them run a security check on us prior to being given permission to bring a child into this country. Now, we have to have our fingerprints re-done and run one more time. So, that's what we did, as we didn't have another choice.

Today, Randy took off half a day from work. We had our 3 month post-placement visit. Come to find out, our home study agency(different from our adoption agency) is going out of business so this is the only visit our social worker will be doing. They are transitioning our case to another agency and someone new will do our next visit at 6 months. If you were following our last adoption, the adoption agency went out of business during the adoption process. They did finish all open cases though. I'm not saying we're the kiss of death to agencies but it would seem we tend to bring bad luck to the agencies we work with. Hopefully, our adoption agency can withstand the threat of having us as clients.

After the post-placement visit, we headed to the court house to get finger print cards. Then over to the police station of more prints. WITH ALL 4 KIDS! Exciting, no. Then, back to the court house to drop off the cards to be forwarded to the proper agency for evaluation.

After that, we thought, hey let's check and see if there is anyone at the local polling place so we can vote early. Just a few someones. A line out the building, into the parking lot and winding its way amongst the cars. Needless to say, we didn't get to vote today. Hopefully, it won't be that long on election day. I have to say, it's quite exciting that this many people are getting out to vote. I think that's wonderful!

So, long story short, we think we've jumped through the last hoops in order to finalize Turner's adoption. Time will tell.

All Craftsy-like

The kids made boxes out of old Christmas cards. I thought they turned out great!

Love this Post

My grandmother grew up in a large family of 11 kids. (7 brothers, 4 sisters) It was a norm when she was born in the early 1900's. You had a large family and they helped work the land and raise the animals, etc. No one thought is unusual. I have never seen a stronger bond between siblings than I have with my grandmother and her siblings.

These days, we raise eyebrows with our 4. Mostly by the look. In fact, on our way home on Sunday we stopped for a potty break. A lady asked me if we were a foster family. That is in fact what we appear to be to most people. However, even our 'largish small'/'mediumish' family draws comments by the fact that there are 4 kids. How can you afford it? Where do they all sleep? How do you have time for each of them? You must be tired a lot? Blah blah blah.

So, that's why I love THIS blog post. I think people tend to make judgments about others based on how they'd feel if they were in the situation. Just because it isn't right for you doesn't mean it isn't right for someone else.

Be On the Safe Side **EDITED**

I have a cyber friend whose son was adopted from Taiwan around the same time we adopted our daughter. She received an email from a friend about the melamine situation and what you should do if you adopted a child in 2005 or after and are concerned they may have been exposed to melamine. Even though her son was from Taiwan, she had him tested. His urinalysis showed some abnormalities. Her next step is to have a renal ultrasound to see if there is damage.

This is an excerpt from the email: "urinalysis and BUN/Creat on
all children adopted from China from 2005 onward and if abnormal, get
a renal ultrasound"

So, I called my pediatrician and asked if he thought we should test Ansley. He suggested calling poison control. Their answer to me was, yes run the BUN/Creat. If the numbers are abnormal, treat it symptomatically. (in other words, treat it as you would anytime your BUN/Creat numbers came back abnormal.) I asked if there was anything known about what happens to the melamine in the body. Will the body get rid of it? Her answer, "we don't know" They have a team of doctors going to China to study this very question in November.

So for those of you who've adopted from China/Taiwan 2005-2008, you might want to check with your pediatrician and see what they say.

** As of 10/28/09 ** After speaking with my pediatrician, we're going to do a urinalysis. If all comes back within normal limits, we won't do anymore testing. There is no test (as of today) to test for melamine exposure. In the children who died or got sick, it affected their kidneys. If there is a problem with the kidneys, hopefully it will show up in a urinalysis. I'll let you know how that turns out.

Weekend Trip

Just got back from a weekend trip. We had a wonderful time. Randy got to attend his class reunion festivities. The kids got to spend time with Nana and Pop. Only down side: Mom has a nice little rash from using dryer sheets that apparently she's allergic to. OUCH!

Class Reunion

Randy's class is one of the more unusual classes I've seen. They actually were close going through school and have remained that way after graduation. They get together and seem to have a wonderful time, even if they haven't seen each other since the last reunion. They were a small class of about 40 people. They went to the same school k-12. The school itself is amazing. In this day of cutting cost and combining schools, this school is still there serving the community. These are some pictures from Saturday night when the 'families' got together. Randy and I win the contest for most kids!!!!!

Time with Nana and Pop

Practicing our Lady Killing Moves
Just a practice run. He still doesn't keep the glasses on very long.


Fishing with Pop

Celebrating Sawyer's Birthday


Feeding the Horses

Dancing. (sorry..don't know how to rotate the video)

Update on Glasses

Sawyer will now wear his glasses 10-15 minutes at a time without balking. We are now trying to find the right accessory to help keep them on his head. Andrea (Reece's Mom, from Reece's Rainbow) gave me a suggestion of what works for Reece. As soon as I can get back to the mall, I'll pick one up and see how it works for Sawyer. I've also ordered something else to see if it works.

No pictures right now as I've packed the camera for a trip and haven't been able to get a pic yet. Soon.

It Ain't Pretty

So, Sawyer has needed something to help his eyes for almost a year. Finally, they determined glasses were the ticket. This is what happens when an almost 4 year old gets new glasses. I did manage to get him to keep them on for about 10 minutes. Fingers crossed we can get him to keep them on more with practice.

A video


After the video, he agreed to let me put them on for the picture and then he yanked them back off.

Picture It! Sicily 2008

Ok. It wasn't Sicily.(That's for my old friend Jeff who loved the Golden Girls) Even so, the day was pretty good.

First, Judson went with Randy to work.
Then, I dropped Sawyer off at school.
So it was Mom, with only 2 babies. What is a mom to do with all this 'freedom'? I scooted around town like a free woman. I dropped papers off at the doctors office. I picked up meds from the vets office. Then I headed to the mall for some 'important' shopping.

On the way over, Ansley informed me she had the ba-hiccups. She said she needed Tylenol to help get rid of them. I informed her that would not help. Later, she said the ba-hiccups were gone. I told her I was glad. She said, if they came back, she'd ba-hiccup again. My reply, "yes, I guess you will".

So at the mall:
Picture it, Me (old caucasian woman) being followed by a very talkative Asian girl pushing an equally vocal African boy in a stroller. Oh yeah. First stop, food court for biscuits. I saunter up to the register to place my order. Out of Ansley's mouth, "Hi. I'm Ansley. This is my brother, Turner Mesfin. Isn't that right, Mom?" Alas, all questions running through everyone's head were answered. (Typically, when I'm out with all 4, I'm pegged as running a daycare)

Then we head off looking for open stores. (not many as we were there early) I mistakenly head up stairs bumping Turner in his stroller behind me, thinking I can get outside and into the lone open store. Alas, there was no outside door. BUT, as I was going up a gentleman asked if he could help by carrying the other end of the stroller. I tell him Yes, Thank you. Ansley informs him her name is Ansley and that he's my brother. Again, I see a relief in the man's face. As if to say, "Ahhhh, that explains it".

Before anyone thinks Ansley is overly friendly to strangers, let me clear that one up. She is very quiet around strangers unless Mom (or Dad) is talking to them. That seems to make it okay.

So that was my day. Fun, Fun, Fun. Oh, and for my sister whose daughter used to have to hit the bathroom everytime we'd go somewhere, Ansley is now familiar with 3 bathrooms in the mall.

Too Funny

We had our friends Evie and Doug over for lunch today. So good to visit and catch up with the haps in their lives. So, I made this bean dip to eat with lunch. Nothing special, just 'okay'. Sawyer and Turner DEMANDED that I give them some right after I made it. They didn't want it with chips, just wanted to eat it with a spoon. Sawyer went on and on about it being 'licious'. SO much so, that Ansley and Judson decided they'd try it. So, I gave them a microscopic bite. They both gagged it up. It was hilarious. T and S ate seconds. A and J will never understand why.

Poor kids. Don't have any furniture to sit on. They have to sit on cases of cokes.

Meet Connor Gifford The Author

From his BIO: CONNOR GIFFORD lives a full life in Nantucket where he works and volunteers for many organizations. He is a Board member of STAR, an innovative provider of services to children with special needs. He loves going to films and the theatre, collecting videos, and reading history. Right now,I am living on the island of Nantucket. My parents are Julie and Chuck Gifford. I have two brothers: Cameron who is 23 and Hunter who is 22. I am 26, the oldest, and I love my life!

During my growing up years, we lived in Perrysburg, Ohio where I graduated from high school in 2002. Some subjects I did poorly in, like math and science. But, I succeeded in English, and my favorite of all, history.

He has written a book: America according to Connor Gifford

Go read his blog here. Go see pictures of him here. Make sure you click on the "Excerpts" button and read from the book. Extremely interesting.

'Splain Me This

Why is it, my daughter chooses THIS 3-piece fleece ensemble to wear on this 85 degree day.

Yet tonight, she chooses to sleep in this when she doesn't sleep with any covers.

Wordless Wednesday

How Can I Help?

This time of year, many people start looking for ways to help those who need it. This year, especially, there will be no shortage of areas to help. SO, I thought I'd mention a couple here. First, is the Reece's Rainbow Angel Project. It will kick off in November. You will have the opportunity to sponsor a child for adoption. It's a worthy cause so keep it in the back of your mind. You can find out more, starting in November by going to www.reecesrainbow.com.

Another worthy cause has an immediate need. You may or may not have heard about Tom Davis and his Red Letter Campaign. It's a pretty awesome initiative. Even if you are not 'religious' per se, you cannot deny his life is a testament to his faith. The specific cause I am referring to is to sponsor an orphanage in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He is looking for a church or even a civic organization (or maybe several) that will step up and sponsor the Kechene orphanage in Addis Ababa. I know of one little girl who has been adopted from that orphanage. Oh my, what a sprite she is. Full of life and love and happy and smart, a true blessing to her family. The reality is, that most of the kids in this orphanage will not be adopted. In fact, Tom Davis is directly addressing the kids who will not be adopted, which is the majority of kids in this orphanage or any orphanage. There is nothing wrong with these kids. They've been dealt a lousy hand but they've done nothing wrong. The harsh reality of adoption is, once you are over the age of 2, you're not likely to be adopted. If you get on most any adoption group, you'll find the vast majority of people adopting are looking for Infant Girls. (as young as possible and as healthy as possible)

So I hope you will look at his blog HERE. You can click on his Red Letter Button and see more in depth information. Read about his hopes and dreams for this particular orphanage. Maybe you know of a group that would be willing to help. Maybe you can just say a silent prayer for the kids who live there. In any case, maybe you'll learn a little more about the lives of these kids.

AND IF YOU WANT PICS OF MY KIDS, scroll down. I've been trying to post daily about Down Syndrome as part of the Down Syndrome Awareness month of October. So there are more posts than normal.

I Have Become My Grandmother

Remember as kids, you would laugh at your grandmother for not being able to call the correct name of the person to whom she was speaking. We laughed at my grandmother many times for wanting to talk/yell at one of us but she went through many names (cousins,kids,aunts,uncles,etc) before she'd get to our name.

Well, I am that person. I didn't do it frequently with 3 children. Now, with 4, I do it ALL OF THE TIME. I call through all the kids names, even the cat or dogs names sometimes. Then finally, I either give up or say something like "Child of Mine" stop doing this or go do that.

Is it senility? My grandmother died at the age of 95. Her mind was quite sharp for her age. Plus, she was doing it way before she was 95.

I even did it to my friend's child. They came to visit and I was going to thank the child for coming over. Couldn't remember her name. Went through all the names in my head...alas, it would not come to mind.

You have to laugh but it does get frustrating at times. I guess I'll start a new rule. If I'm looking at you, you better do what I say because likely, it's you to whom I'm speaking.

Just wait til Christmas. Oh my, the cousins' names I'll have to go through just to get to the right child.

A few pictures of the kids. I'd label them but for the life of me, I cannot remember their names.

What happens when you come home from a long day at school.


Happy Kids!


A boy who is secure in his masculinity.


What's up with those goofy smiles?

Melissa Riggio

As published on the National Geographic Site.

When I first started to work on this story, I thought maybe I shouldn’t do it. I thought you might see that I have Down syndrome, and that you wouldn’t like me.

My mom thinks that’s silly. “Have you ever met anyone who didn’t like you because you have Down syndrome?” she asks me. She’s right, of course. (She usually is!)

When people ask me what Down syndrome is, I tell them it’s an extra chromosome. A doctor would tell you the extra chromosome causes an intellectual disability that makes it harder for me to learn things. (For instance, some of my classes are in a “resource room,” where kids with many kinds of learning disabilities are taught at a different pace.)

When my mom first told me I had Down syndrome, I worried that people might think I wasn’t as smart as they were, or that I talked or looked different.

I just want to be like everyone else, so sometimes I wish I could give back the extra chromosome. But having Down syndrome is what makes me “me.” And I’m proud of who I am. I’m a hard worker, a good person, and I care about my friends.

A Lot Like You

Even though I have Down syndrome, my life is a lot like yours. I read books and watch TV. I listen to music with my friends. I’m on the swim team and in chorus at school. I think about the future, like who I’ll marry. And I get along with my sisters—except when they take my CDs without asking!

Some of my classes are with typical kids, and some are with kids with learning disabilities. I have an aide who goes with me to my harder classes, like math and biology. She helps me take notes and gives me tips on how I should study for tests. It really helps, but I also challenge myself to do well. For instance, my goal was to be in a typical English class by 12th grade. That’s exactly what happened this year!

But sometimes it’s hard being with typical kids. For instance, I don’t drive, but a lot of kids in my school do. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to, and that’s hard to accept.

Dream Job: Singer

I try not to let things like that upset me and just think of all the good things in my life. Like that I’ve published two songs. One of my favorite things to do is write poetry, and this singer my dad knows recorded some of my poems as singles.

Right now someone else is singing my songs, but someday, I want to be the one singing. I know it’s going to happen, because I’ve seen it. One day I looked in the mirror, and I saw someone in my head, a famous person or someone who was somebody, and I just knew: I will be a singer.

It’s true that I don’t learn some things as fast as other people. But that won’t stop me from trying. I just know that if I work really hard and be myself, I can do almost anything.

See Me

But I still have to remind myself all the time that it really is OK to just be myself. Sometimes all I see—all I think other people see—is the outside of me, not the inside. And I really want people to go in there and see what I’m all about.

Maybe that’s why I write poetry—so people can find out who I really am. My poems are all about my feelings: when I hope, when I hurt. I’m not sure where the ideas come from—I just look them up in my head. It’s like I have this gut feeling that comes out of me and onto the paper.

I can’t change that I have Down syndrome, but one thing I would change is how people think of me. I’d tell them: Judge me as a whole person, not just the person you see. Treat me with respect, and accept me for who I am. Most important, just be my friend.

After all, I would do the same for you.

Adoption Update

We're coming up on 2 months since we took placement of Turner. We're getting ready to schedule our 3 month post-placement report and I just thought I'd give you some idea of how things are going.

We cannot be more pleased and pleasantly surprised. The comparison between Ansley's adoption and Turner's adoption are like night and day. To say the honeymoon is still going is an understatement. It fills very natural and really no stress. I have to say, the stress level 2 months after bringing Ansley home was very high. Are we seasoned veterans? Nah. Just differences in personalities and experiences, I'd say. Ansley tends to be moody. Turner is just a happy-go-lucky kind of guy.

The kids are doing great together. Lots of sibling rivalry as well as camaraderie. Turner just jumps right in and joins the fun. He annoys his older siblings every chance he gets.

His English is great for the amount of time he's been here. He has too many words to mention. He also uses signs and has quite a few signs. He goes around singing "where is thumbkin" and "I love you, You Love Me". He loves music. He loves Sawyer. He loves food. (Not necessarily in that order)

Health-wise, not much going on. We've still not discovered the origin of his poopy distress. It does seem to be slowly getting better.

Are we tired? YES. We were tired with #1. We were tired with #2. We were tired with #3. So, YES, we are tired with #4. Are we happy? YES Ditto w/#1,2,3, and 4. Would we recommend adoption? YES Would we recommend adoption from Ethiopia? YES Would we do it again? In theory, YES. The reality is, 4 kids is a lot-finacially, physically, emotionally, timewise, you name it. We won't shut the door to #5 but I can say it's not on the horizon. Check back in 2 years. We seem to get the 'we need another child' bug every 2 years. If we make it past 2010 without another child, I'd say we're set.

Jacob Halpin

From his website:

Jacob may be the only high school varsity athlete with Down syndrome to have earned All-State honors. In Alabama all 402 high schools are included in one classification to compete for the State Swimming and Diving Championship. Jacob was the first handicapped swimmer to qualify for the championship finals at the 1999-2000 state meet. Personal best finishes at a state meet for Jacob are - 7th as a member of the 400 yard freestyle relay team, 26th in the 500 yard freestyle and 30th in the 100 yard butterfly.

In 2003 Jacob was a co-captain on the Gulf Shores High School swim team and received the Alabama High School Sports Magazine's Humanitarian Award.

Jacob F. Halpin, Class of 2003
Gulf Shores High School, Gulf Shores, Alabama

High School Swimming:
4 high school varsity letters in swimming
All-State honors
All-County honors
Featured in Alabama High School Sports Magazine (AHSSM)
Received AHSSM Humanitarian Award
Co-Captain GSHS Swim Team in senior year
Participated in 4 High School State Championship Swim Meets
State Meet personal best finishes (402 school classification)
400 yd. freestyle relay - 7th
100 yd. butterfly - 30th
500 yd. freestyle - 26th

Selected for inclusion in:
24th Annual Edition of Who's Who in High School Sports
25th Annual Edition of Who's Who in High School Sports
2003 Who's Who Among American High School Students

USS Swimming:
1,650 yd. Freestyle - 2nd at 2002 USS Southeastern Regional, District South

State Games of Alabama (State Games of America):
100 yd. Butterfly - Alabama State Silver Medalist

Special Olympics Alabama State Swim Meet:
2002 - 3 Gold Medals
2003 - 3 Gold Medals
Instrumental in founding Snook Family YMCA Special Olympics Swim Team

Attended Auburn Tiger Swim Camp at Auburn University - 3 years
City of Gulf Shores USS swim team assistant coach

Down Syndrome International Swimming Organization (DSISO):
First swimmer from United States to hold DSISO world records
2005 1,500 meter freestyle world record
2005 800 meter freestyle world record

PRETTY IMPRESSIVE STATS!

John Mark Stallings

Excerpts from this article.

You can go to the finest schools and get any advanced degree they offer. Or you can read all of the business and self-improvement books you want. But for a Ph.D in true wisdom, take a look at the life of Johnny Stallings.

You may have never heard of Johnny. He had Down Syndrome. When he was born, 46 years ago in Alabama, the doctors said he wouldn’t live even a year or two because of a severe heart defect. Other well-meaning doctors advised his parents to put him in an institution. “In a year,” they said, “you’ll forget you ever had him.”

But fortunately for all of us, Gene and Ruth Ann Stallings didn’t take their advice. They chose to treat Johnny as a vital part of their family.

....

But perhaps the most important thing that Johnny Stallings accomplished is this: he taught us that it doesn’t matter what awards you win, or what worldly accomplishments you achieve, it is how you live your life that matters most.

....

Gene Stallings, a star football player, champion ship coach and tough enough to be one of Bear Bryant’s legendary Junction Boys, probably used to dream of a son who would be an impact player, who would change the world, make a difference and someday maybe — just maybe — wear a National Championship ring.

“I prayed to God that He would change Johnny, but He changed me,” Coach Stallings once said in a speech. He added that if God offered him the choice of going back and having a “perfect” son without a disability or having Johnny, “I’d take Johnny every time.”

Read the whole article HERE.

Bernadette Resha

From her bio:

Born in Nashville TN with Down Syndrome, Bernadette has become well known in the art community worldwide.

Her exposure to the art world and culture started as a child attending as many art galleries, museums, concert halls and plays as her time would allow.
From an early age she was encouraged to draw and color in her own style as a form of expression and therapy. This has resulted in a body of work which documents an artist developing a unique style entirely her own.
With an artist grandmother and a mother fully committed to allowing her to use this medium of self expression for as far as she would care to take it, Bernadette now exhibits in numerous art galleries, art and craft shows throughout south east and attends many conventions throughout the United States showing and selling her work.

Check out her work HERE. Check out her wedding photos HERE.

Notice a similarity amongst all the folks I'm telling you about. (Besides Down Syndrome) Notice the artistic talent and creative outlets they were given as children.

Michael Johnson-Famous Artist

From Michael's Website, here: Michael Jurogue Johnson loves to paint every day. He uses watercolors, acrylics, and oil paints in a cheerful, naive style. His subjects are often flowers painted with bright colors and playful animals with expressive faces. Even Michael's night scenes are filled with energy, light and color. Michael has been painting fulltime for nine years. This gifted artist was born with Down syndrome, but he was also born with an inherited artistic talent. His family tree is filled with artists, engineers, and classical musicians.

Check out Michael's art work on his website:
http://users.psln.com/sharing/Michael/mainMichael.html

They are very interesting and many are for sale!

Buddy Walk 2008

The Buddy Walk is history. We all had a great time. We want to thank everyone who donated in Sawyer's name. We really appreciate it. Here are some pictures from the day. (Just a side note. Remember the 'worst haircut' I got right before Randy came home? I finally went and had all my hair cut off and am starting all over. It was that bad!) The only complaint I heard all day was while we were actually doing the walk, Miss Scarlett could be heard saying things like: "Get that sun out of my eyes", "I can't walk anymore, I'm tired", and "I'm hot". To which I (being the ever so sympathetic mom that I am) said: "Okay, sit here, we'll come get you in a little while". Consequently, she went to walk by Daddy. He's much more sympathetic than I.

Remember to click on the pics to enlarge them.

We jumped on the jumpy things!


We hula-hooped!


We rode the train!



We chilled (because this orphanage was bigger and louder than what we were used to, so we just watched from the sidelines this time)


A great time was had by all!!!!

Bit on Ethiopia

If you have a moment, take a look at this video. The man in the video, Belay, is one of the in-country staff with Gladney, the agency we used. Belay is an interesting man with an interesting history. The video is only about 5 minutes long but it gives an overview of the work Gladney is doing in Ethiopia.

Sujeet Desai

From his Website here: Hi, My name is Sujeet Desai. Suj is my nickname. I am 26 years old. On June 22, 2001 I graduated from Fayetteville-Manlius High school in Syracuse, New York with (4.3 GPA) honor roll. In May 2003 I graduated from the Berkshire Hills Music Academy in South Hadley, Massachusetts after two-year residential Post-secondary study in Music and Human services. After returning from the academy I moved to Rome, NY to start a job as a musician . In july 2006 I got married to Carrie Bergeron. Now we both live in an appartment in Rome, NY and enjoy our independent life together
Oh! I forgot to tell you that I was born with Down syndrome!

Be sure to read his brothers essay by clicking HERE.

Win A laptop

Just check out this blog and see.

Jane Cameron

As copied from her biography Here: Born in High River, Alberta, in 1949, Jane Cameron had an exemplary life. She travelled the globe, met dignitaries and stars, filled her room with medals and trophies commemorating her feats, and earned the esteem of countless individuals who praise her art and her grace.

When she was diagnosed with Down syndrome at four months old, Jane's parents were told their daughter was "retarded" and that they should: "Put her in an institution and forget about her." They were shocked and, despite knowing little to nothing about Down syndrome they decided that what their child needed was as much love, care and education as they could possibly give her.

Her biography goes on to tell about her enrolling in a school in Massachusetts. It tells of her artistic ability and her designing tapestries that now hang all over the world. It tells of her winning swimming medals in international Special Olympics competition. It shows many of her art pieces. So click on the word Here highlighted at the top and read more about her. She's an interesting and talented person who happens to have 47 chromosomes.

Down Syndrome Awareness

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month. So I thought I'd post about famous people with Down Syndrome. People who are doing 'everyday' things and making headlines. People who happen to have 47 chromosomes.

Ever heard of Chris Burke? Sure you have. He played the brother in the TV series "Life Goes On" many years ago. He also is part of a musical group. He and brothers Joe and John deMasi have a folksy kind of sound. They played last year at our Buddy Walk. One thing I remember from them is they told a story of Chris' parents. At the time Chris was school age, the school system where he was would not allow him to attend. His parents had to put him in a private school. Another story, several people with the show "Life Goes On" were hesitant to hire him. They feared he'd slow production down from sickness or not knowing his lines, etc. Chris was the only actor who showed up EVERY day and always knew his lines. Never called in sick. Did NOT slow down production. You can see more of his story here.

More later.....