All 4 My Gals

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T13:18:00.001-05:00

In order to save some green and be more green, this year I'm going to post our Christmas letter on our blog instead of sending via snail mail.

This year has been a year of hardship in many ways but as always has had us pulling closer together and leaning on the Lord.

We found out in May that my Dad's prostate cancer has metastasized to his bones. This summer he spent a week in the hospital dealing with a blood clotting issue. Colette was able to come to KY and work from here so she could help with his care. We are thrilled to report that 8 months later he is still enjoying life and we are enjoying him! His pain does continue to increase and he has started radiation treatments to help with it. Dad's positive attitude and love for those around him keeps him living his life to the fullest. He could use your continued prayers!

Me ~ As many of our friends and family have faced economic challenges this year, we were no different. When Emery started 1st grade full time in the fall, we decided it was time for me to return to work. I started working full time at the Jessamine Early Learning Village, where all of the girls went to Kindergarten & Tarenne attended 2 years of preschool. It was a great opportunity for me to keep the girls' hours and make enough money to help us make ends meet. I am a Special Education Instructional Assistant. It's been enlightening to be on the other end of the system. I have learned a lot! It was a big plus that I knew many of the staff members and have counted several of them close friends for years. I have enjoyed it for the most part but trying to fit everything into one day remains a challenge!

Joe is still working for Synthes Spine. He is a sales senator and is in their management training program. He works so hard for all of us and still finds time to be the best Dad and husband around! For our 14th Anniversary he took me to stay overnight in the famous "Castle". http://www.thecastlepost.com/ We had a great time going to Keeneland that day and being kid free. Joe also had his 25th high school reunion this year as well, and we had a blast! But mainly his days are spent working for his girls and his evenings are spent helping with homework, giving baths, and even catching snakes with them.

(The girls pictures below are slideshows so be sure and hit play!)

Darrah has grown up so much this year. She is now in 7th grade and enjoys the social aspect of middle school immensely. She continues to do well academically and has decided after researching that she wants to be a radiologist. "Why?", you might ask. It seems they are on the high end of the pay scale and don't have to work late hours. That's our girl! She turned 12 in May and finally (in her mind) got a cell phone. She spent the previous year trying to convince her Daddy that she needed one, even preparing a power point with her reasons. Her confidence is amazing for a kid her age. She will call tech support on her own and fix electronics around the house. She even made an appointment for me at the Apple Genius bar after the telephone support center couldn't fix my webcam. :-) She still plays soccer and would take acting, singing, and guitar lessons if we didn't have the 1 activity per child rule for our family. She was actually contacted this year by a producer from the Rachel Ray show to be featured on a segment about children's web shows. They found her on You Tube. They nixed the segment, much to our disappointment, but that shows you how talented she truly is. She loves taking pictures of her tiny model Emery, who will let her do makeovers and dress her up for the occasion. But I am the most proud of Darrah's big heart. She asks constantly to go over and see my Dad, knowing that her time with him is precious. We have rarely been in Lexington without stopping by over the last 10 years but now it is definitely our #1 priority and Darrah appreciates that time as much as I do.

Tarenne turned TEN this year! She started the year out with outpatient surgery to remove her tonsils & adenoids. Her tonsils were HUGE and so it was a necessary procedure. She of course did great, no complaining and her body healed quickly. We redid her room for her birthday and now has a "big girl" room! If you ask her if she is allowed to do something she replies with assurance, "YES, I'M TEN!". She is in 4th grade now and continues to do well in a typical classroom with supports. She still takes dance lessons and moved from 1 to 2 classes a week this semester. She is enjoying hip hop as well as classical dance. She makes friends where ever we go but is really drawn to teenagers. I think because her speech is sometimes still hard to understand and they are more patient at listening to her stories, because our girl IS hilarious! Her cadence is quite typical, but with that speed and inflection comes some mispronunciations. We are blessed that she is very patient with us! She keeps us all laughing and is a true entertainer when she is comfortable. In fact at my niece's wedding a few weeks ago she organized a dance off with some fraternity brother's of the groom and was the star of the dance floor! They conceded to her superior dance moves, of course.

Marley is still our joyful girl. She started the year off by FINALLY losing her first tooth. She is now 8 years old. Her September birthday was to be a family affair. We joined cousins, Pepere, and Aunts to go the big dog show at the Horse Park. THAT is Marley's idea of heaven! Her love for dogs continues and she either wants to talk about dogs, play with her stuffed dogs or pretend that she is one. She shared her day with Pepere and Ashtyn, as they have summer birthdays too, and in her usual fashion was unfazed and didn't mind sharing at all! She is a natural athlete and spent her extra curricular time this year taking hip hop dance and then switching to gymnastics at the end of the year. She is a loyal kid with a heart of gold. The highlight of her year (in her eyes) is that fact that she is finally back in the same classroom with her friend Presley. They have been "BFFs" since Kindy, and Marley would truly move in with her family if we let her. Marley's laid back personality has carried over into the classroom until this year. She has been blessed with a wonderful teacher who knows how to motivate her and build her confidence and she is now trying her best in the class room with great enthusiasm. She told me she falls asleep practicing her math facts! She wants to be a veterinarian or a principal. She made me laugh when she told me she wasn't sure because she didn't want to spend that much time in school to be a doctor, and she didn't want to be a teacher first to become a principal. ha ha ha. That's our Marley!

And Emery, oh our Emery! She is a bundle of beautiful energy on our good days and a loud, bossy mess when we're grumpy. But every day, she makes us laugh! It's hard to discipline her because as soon as she knows she's in trouble, she regales you with how "beautiful, funny, nice and sweet" you are! Yep, she knows how to work it and unfortunately for us and fortunately for her, it works! She started 1st grade this year and is doing really well. She's had to get over her shy feelings regarding her diabetes a bit because she is dealing with it all day without my care. Fortunately we have an incredible nurse at school who Emery has fallen in love with! All is good now. She is Darrah's little model, as you can tell from her pictures, MOST of which were taken by Darrah. She loves to be dressed up and enjoys fashion as much as Darrah does. She is a bit old for her age, the result of having all of her big sisters. Emery LOVES babies still and will not walk by one in public without stopping to gaze at them. She asked me this year, "Mom, why can't you just adopt one, and I'll take care of it?!". She received a "reborn" baby from Santa last year. They look lifelike and she has LOVED when people out and about think it's real. In fact we had a lady approach us mad at Sam's Club because she thought we had a preemie laying in the wire basket without padding. LOL With Em's love for humor and desire to have a baby that kind of thing just makes her day! She truly makes ours EVERY day!

We are praying that your New Year brings you the joy, peace and confidence that only our Lord Jesus Christ provides!

From Our Family to Yours ~ Merry Christmas!

Pictures of Jenny's Wedding

2010-10-26T21:34:00.001-04:00

2 More Emery Critiques

2010-10-24T14:48:00.000-04:00

Last week Joe fixed the girls salmon patties and brussel sprouts for dinner. I know! What WAS he thinking? Anyhow Emery told him, "I do NOT like Sprockle Brouts!"

Just now she tried a mini cherry cheesecake and she quipped, "Emery hates it! It tastes like alcohol!" I asked her how she knows what alcohol tastes like and why she is talking about herself in the third person and she said, "Well I just use my imagination, and we are at home so I can be a weirdo." LOL She is WAY too funny for her own good!

Emery the food critic

2010-10-19T19:45:00.000-04:00

"Mom, I'm done. These beans taste... well, expired."

And she was right. I might have to quit running up to Save A Lot. haha

(note, NO that is not the said bean in the photograph, lol)

The Castle

2010-10-17T23:18:00.001-04:00

Joe treated me to a night at THE Castle for our 14th wedding anniversary!

I love you honey!!! We are so very blessed!!

Picking Tomatoes

2010-09-30T19:01:00.000-04:00

Marley proudly brought in a few little late tomatoes off of our plant this evening. She confidently said, "There are a few more that are almost ready.

They just need some sunshine, and a little water and they will just be terrific!".

I love this kid!

Jesus Answers Prayers

2010-08-23T10:02:00.000-04:00

We are struggling financially right now as Joe's pay continue to be cut. Darrah and I were stopping at the end of the drive last week to pick up the mail. I said, "You know I hate getting the mail anymore because it's always just bills." Then I added, "You know Darrah let's pray for a check. Let's pray for a thousand dollars". She grinned and said, "OK!". So we sat in the car, joined hands and prayed for God's provision.

2 days later Joe received a check for $450. Then a day after that we received an extra state tax return for ...... YES $550!!!!!!! When I showed Darrah at the end of her school day she was so amazed and excited! She said, "Mom my stomach is in knots, I have NEVER had a prayer answered like that!"

We talked about God's provision and how sometimes He does work miracles in our lives to renew our faith and to let us know that He is steadfast and is there, even when He seems silent. I really needed that reminder then because I have been stagnant in my relationship with the Lord and have not put Him first in my daily living. Though we know we can't pray for the house to be paid off or for it to rain down money, his answer was a calling for renewal for our family and for a 12 year old girl to be shown that indeed He is very present in our lives when we go to Him and allow Him to be!

Father God, thank you for your provision,

for your presence and for your love!

Tarenne's Web Show

2010-08-04T10:07:00.003-04:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Hi, my name is Tarenne Aubrey ********, I have Down syndrome and I am on Mom's computer. My Mom is not playing on her computer anymore.... because.... SHE'S COMING RIGHT NOW! (gasp)Everybody's nice to our house, I can eat here. This is my house, this is my family. I'm so excited, now I'm done and I'm going to eat my hot pocket. I'm so excited to watch you guys on my web show. You say your names dot com. Happy I love it! BYE

Bieber Fever

2010-07-05T15:33:00.000-04:00

Misty and I took Darrah and Breanna to see Justin in Cincinnati for their birthday presents. These best buddies were born on the same day! May 8th is their big day but the concert was not until June 26th. We had a BIG time! These are pics of the girls before we left for the big show.

All of my black friends will LOVE this!

2010-06-14T10:20:00.000-04:00

I bought some conditioner on clearance at Kroger... all natural, 99 cents... sure I'll try it. I was in the bath last night and started reading the directions, it didn't say anything about rinsing it out. I decided to rinse it anyway.. then I notice on the bottom of the label an African queen drawing & "100% black owned". I started cracking up and woke up this morning with some pretty oily hair. LMAO

My Favorite Summer Things

2010-06-09T12:18:00.001-04:00

Darrah reading in her room until 11:00 every morning. She is already on her 2nd book!

Tarenne spontaneously proclaiming, "I LOVE MY FAMILY". Most likely the most beautiful words I'll ever hear.

Marley doing cartwheels everywhere she goes and emphatically insisting that they are front handsprings.

Emery sitting beside me while I read, reading books aloud to herself. She can read!

Marley's Time with Pepere

2010-06-04T14:17:00.000-04:00

Marley had the perfect night with Pepere because he had a stray dog for her to play with. We found the owner the next day though. :-)

My Brave, Brave Girl

2010-06-03T16:39:00.000-04:00

was not about to let her team down. Right before you hear my LOUD laugh, you can see her spirited jump into the grass where they were supposed to touch it before they run back. She is way too precious for words and I am one lucky Momma!

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

"It smells Brew Nan"

2010-06-01T22:29:00.000-04:00

Emery told me this morning in the van that she loves her new bathing suit because it smells brew nan. I didn't know what she meant so she said, "You know new, it smells brew nan!" OH.. do you mean BRAND NEW? She got so tickled and said, "Oh Mom I got confused, my brain wasn't working right".

How cute is she? I will hate when this age is totally gone for me. I love little kids!

Joe is BALD!

2010-05-30T23:00:00.000-04:00

Or at least that is what I thought I would be posting tonight. Joe told me he wanted to shave his head in support of my Dad shaving his. We got the trimmers ready, took a chair outside and called the girls out for the surprise. We were going to let them each have a swipe at his head.

When Joe pulled the trimmers out and they realized what was going on, they started SCREAMING! Emery ran in the house and started throwing stuff across the room and yelling, "THIS IS THE MOST HORRIBLE IDEA YOU ALL HAVE EVER HAD!" Marley just sobbed. Tarenne said, "Dad, Pepere has cancer and a black mold on his head"... yes she meant mole. lmao! And Darrah well she just said with tears in her eyes, "He is going to look so stupid!" Unfortunately I could not find my camera and only got the aftermath on video.

So in the end Joe decided he didn't want to traumatize his girls and we left his hair intact. After we laughed about it all day!

So THIS is why they need a Daddy?

2010-05-27T16:32:00.000-04:00

Daddy Defeats Hair Loss

2010-05-27T15:25:00.000-04:00

Yesterday Daddy and I went with Tarenne on a field trip to Gatti Town. Once Dad got there I noticed that his shirt was COVERED with hair. I asked him if he had gotten and hair cut and he said no. I pulled on his hair and a tuft came out in my hand. Then we pulled on his beard and more came out. We found out today that it's usually day 14 after chemo that your hair starts to fall out.

Daddy decided he wanted to go ahead and shave his head. So today Michelle, Emery and I went with him to have it done. He looks cute doesn't he? After the picture where she had taken two swipes with the trimmer, he said, "STOP, I changed my mind!" He is ALWAYS the kidder!

Such a Good Daddy!

2010-05-27T08:56:00.000-04:00

He is watching Michael Jackson videos online with them!

She lost a tooth!

2010-05-23T21:14:00.001-04:00

Emery and I spent the night at my Dad's on Friday night. We were hanging out in the back yard with him on his glider. I was laying down with my head on Dad's lap, and Emery was sitting on my stomach. She had a piece of tooth floss around her tooth wiggling it..... and pop, and plop, something fell on my chest. "What was that?" She stuck her little finger in her mouth and screamed, "IT WAS MY TOOTH!". So cute!

There is nothing like family!

2010-05-23T16:37:00.001-04:00

"What Would You Do?"

2010-05-19T22:27:00.002-04:00

http://abcnews.go.com/WhatWouldYouDo/syndrome-grocery-clerk-scenario/story?id=10648284

This TV story obviously had my blood boiling. While it taught a good lesson, it made me sick to think that more than 1/2 of the people who witnessed this abuse did nothing to stop it. What will my Tarenne have to face when she is working with the public? Will you please promise me that YOU would not tolerate this?

And honestly it starts with getting rid of the socially acceptable term retard and retarded. You may think it doesn't affect my child because you aren't talking about her... think again!

My Little Dancers

2010-05-19T14:17:00.002-04:00

Marley took hip hop and Emery took tap and ballet this semester. Tarenne sat out since she had her tonsils removed and would have missed 3 weeks of classes The recital was great and both girls were adorable of course. :-)

A Surprise for Daddy

2010-05-19T13:50:00.001-04:00

I received this email from one of Dad's old Little League players:

Hi Nicole,

This email is from Steve R and I played for your dad on the Redlegs back in the 70's. Maybe you even remember me, who knows.

I found out from Paul V about your dad's cancer and I just wanted to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and coach. I have many, many fond memories of Little League baseball because your dad took a chance on me. He's a special person that helped shape me into the man I am and for that I am eternally grateful.

If you think it's ok maybe I could reach out to him with a phone call. If so, just let me know his number and when best to call.

Thank you and please know that many people deeply care about your father and are keeping you both in our thoughts and prayers.

As you can imagine when I read it to Daddy this morning he got choked up. He even tried to make me go into the kitchen so I wouldn't see him cry. He is so funny!

I only got to stay for about an hour but got some basic housekeeping chores done. I reminded him of the time when I moved into my apartment on Maxwell Street and he came and washed all my windows for me, telling me that he wanted my new home to be as bright as possible. It's in reminding him how he has always cared for me that he accepts my help with grace. He has always made me sit down when I am with him because "you work too hard at home to work when you are here too".

He started feeling better yesterday and was debating the benefits of the chemo treatments. He asked me my opinion and I told him that we would support him no matter what he decided. While his long term memory is sharp, he does have short term memory loss. He asked me to review the benefits again and I told him that it could help alleviate pain in the bones and also hopefully give him 3 or 4 extra months of quality living. He said, "You mean 3 or 4 YEARS." It broke my heart. I told him no it was months, and he asked what his life expectancy was. I assured him that no one knows that for sure but the Lord, and reminded him that he had agreed he would not want to know that information. It seems as if he is battling knowing the truth from day to day. I think whatever his mind needs to do to keep him in an emotionally healthy place is fine. He is still funny, and caring, walking and caring for himself and for that I am exceedingly grateful.

Chemo Day 4

2010-05-17T14:21:00.003-04:00

was harder for Daddy. Of course the fall in the hanging chair makes it a bit hard to assess what is causing what. He was doing great on Friday, as I shared in an earlier post. He was up on a ladder and feeling great. Then Saturday afternoon my sister Michelle took him to dinner and he felt so bad she ended up spending the night with him. He had flu like symptoms and was having more pain moving about. Unfortunately last week I ended up having a scratchy throat and some coughing so I'm not sure if he picked up something from me as well.

On Sunday after Darrah's soccer game I relieved Michelle. When I got there he wanted to walk up and down the street, it seems to help some with the pain. I was there from 12:30 until after 8. I had to get groceries into my home for the girls. I felt like he was able to get up and down okay, although with some pain. I went by this morning to take him a loaf of Great Harvest bread and to make his coffee since I was in town for Darrah's wellness check. Darrah cried as we left because Daddy's deterioration is so obvious to her. She adores her Pepere.

He told Michelle that if he was going to feel like this he didn't think he could live alone much longer. However when she asked him to go stay with her for the weekend at her house, he refused. We'll have to take that one day at a time and let him remain in his own home for as long as we can. We have the Alert1 system in place and he is wearing the panic button 24/7.

He finally called his siblings in Canada to let them know of his condition. I know it was a hard call for him to make and he kept putting it off. Last summer when he visited the 5 remaining siblings of the 11 were together and Daddy said that would probably be the last time. He keeps talking about how his baby brother Maurice died of bone cancer and I remind him that Mo died in his early 40s and that he is 82. He is so thankful for the quality of life he has enjoyed and so am I. But it doesn't really make his suffering easier to bear for any of us.

The prevailing thought is that if the chemo makes him miserable and does not help alleviate pain as was the hope, then he will not receive another treatment. I just wish we could know what is causing what, it would make the decision easier and easier to live with.

As for me... I am through the miserable stage of crying 24/7. I then had 2 days of being extremely angry and am feeling a bit more calm about it all now. Funny that the text book stages of grief are so right on. I just want to be with Daddy every minute I can and enjoy his company. He is such a great friend!

And so is our Lord. He is so faithful when we allow him to speak to us. Michelle had purchased a copy of "The Message" for Daddy. As Dad napped I felt alone and scared. I picked up the message and flipped it open to Isaiah 40:

28.
Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening? God doesn't come and go. God lasts. He's Creator of all you can see or imagine. He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath. And he knows everything, inside and out.

29.
He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts.

30.
For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall.

31.
But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind.

Marley shares a secret with her Pepere at Christmas time.

My Little Woman

2010-05-14T22:14:00.001-04:00

Darrah is truly an amazing kid and during this hard time with my Dad she once again has shown me how blessed I am.

Last Sunday on Mother's Day she was supposed to do a speaking part at her Sunday School end of semester showcase. She knew I was exhausted and been crying for pretty much 2 days solid after Dad's oncology appointment that Friday. Church starts at 10:45. When I had not woken back up at 10, she phoned the church to leave a message for her teacher and then emailed her too, explaining the situation and asking for forgiveness for missing the event. What 12 year old knows to do that? What 12 year old puts their Mother's mental health and rest before their own desire to participate in something they had practiced for? Darrah... that's who, and I am blessed to call her my daughter! I don't know what I did to deserve such a loving and compassionate person to share this life with.

My niece babysat the girls last night as I had to go with Joe for a work engagement. When my niece asked me what Tarenne would eat, and what about Em's diabetes I was able to tell her, "Darrah has it all under control!" Haley's reply, "bless her!" I do hope the Lord blesses her life as richly as she blesses ours!

He Man at 82!

2010-05-14T22:00:00.002-04:00

I was teasing my sister today because when I walked in to see her and Dad she was passed out on the couch and Daddy was sitting in his chair laughing. I asked her if they had accidentally given her the chemo instead.

Dad was sad yesterday when Michelle picked him up for the appointment and then cried again when Colette called from California to check on him. But other than that his spirits were great! Michelle said he joked around all day. He then finally mustered up the emotional strength to call his siblings in Canada and let them know what is going on.

Dad's new pride and joy is a hanging papasan chair that he purchased at Pier 1. He hung it from his carport so that he can be king of the street. He loves sitting in his front yard to watch the neighbors. You know how nosey he is! Today after I got there Emery and I were walking the neighbor's dog around the corner and while we were gone the hook fell from the carport and Dad and the chair fell to the ground. It wasn't a far fall but of course it still worried me, while Dad brushed it off. Then I caught him on a rickety ladder trying to rehang the hook. He put 2 hooks in to distribute the weight a bit better and finally allowed me to do the climbing and twisting. Although while on the ladder he brought a hatchet to try to drive the screwdriver in to start the hole. The pointy part facing my face. LOL He's a mess, and yes I stopped him! Tonight he is complaining of tail bone pain. Or as he keeps saying, "My coccyx hurts!" He thinks that is pretty humorous. He's still a bit of a perv even through this. :-)

His Alert1 system and his medical dog tag came in today. He didn't hesitate putting them on and was thankful for them both. He medical alert system works all the way into his backyard and at his mailbox too. That will make us all feel better knowing that if he does fall and break something he can still manage to call for help. If you know Dad then you know what a major step this is for him. He jokingly told me that I was treating him like an octogenarian. It's really hard to believe he is that old or this sick. He truly is remarkable in his spunk and his zest for life.

I left him at around 3 to go pick Darrah up from school and made him promise to call me if he felt funny. I told him I would come spend the night if he needed me too. He quipped that he just might feel funny so he could enjoy my company for the evening. He told Joe that he wishes he had turned 82 years ago because he is loving all of our attention.

Please keep praying for our precious Daddy. He has given us so much love through our lives and we truly adore and treasure him!

So far so good!

2010-05-13T22:02:00.003-04:00

So far Daddy is feeling pretty good. Michelle stayed with him all day and will spend the night. I'll go over tomorrow for the afternoon, but if he is not feeling well we are going to have to make him come to one of our homes, and he will not like that! Thanks for all of your prayers, keep them coming and I'll keep updating.

1st day of chemo

2010-05-13T08:24:00.001-04:00

Please pray for my Daddy's body to handle the chemo well. Although we know it can not cure his cancer at this point, it can provide relief of pain as well as give us a few more quality months with our precious Dad. Thank you!

Papere

2010-05-12T15:15:00.004-04:00

My Dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer 8 years ago. It has now come back and is metastasized in his bones. We could really use your prayers. He is 82 years old and the best Daddy that any one could ask for. I adore him and he is my best friend.

Me and my Daddy, and Marley too! This is just after his treatment for prostate cancer the summer before.

Darrah is 12!

2010-05-07T23:01:00.002-04:00

Emery is SIX!

2010-04-21T17:14:00.000-04:00

Yes it happened way back on March 27th, but life is crazy here and I just had a short minute to myself and thought I should share some of my "baby's" pictures from her day. We do friend parties every other year and this year was a family party. But when several of family couldn't make it we invited some of our friends who are like family to come by to help celebrate.

My Soccer Star

2010-04-20T19:50:00.000-04:00

I love watching Darrah play soccer because she almost always gives it 110%. I am so proud of who this little girl is. She truly amazes me with her compassion, wisdom beyond her years and zest for life.

Appreciating Each Other

2010-04-20T19:42:00.000-04:00

This was taken by a friend at our Down syndrome Appreciation Lunch. I love my girl and she loves me! I thank God for the blessing of Tarenne.

Witness for the Lord's Power & Effexor Withdrawal

2010-03-26T08:42:00.000-04:00

I love when God talks to me so directly that I can not deny His presence in my life and His love for me. ME! The one who sins every day, and keeps begging for redemption. He keeps taking me back and loving me!

I recently went off of Effexor, a drug for anxiety and stress induced depression. I went on it when Emery was little and my sister sweetly told me that I needed some help to deal with the stress of our life. It was at THIS life stage when I finally conceded. Watch and laugh: http://all4gals.blogspot.com/2006/03/funny-video.html

And you may remember when Emery accidentally ingested some a few years ago. http://all4gals.blogspot.com/2006/11/emery-emergency.html

Anyhow, I wanted to go off of it last year and then Emery was diagnosed with Diabetes. So this year I knew that was a goal for 2010. I SLOWLY weaned myself off. As I lowered my dosage I didn't have any side affects. But the week when the drug was stopped my body reacted in a big way. Depression set in and I cried more that week or two than I have in the past several years combined!

I have been vigilant about eating clean and exercising and doing my Bible Study, because these are all things that I know will help my brain heal and get me to feel the best that I can naturally. It was a very hard decision for me to make to even start taking the drug in the first place. I am one of those who won't take Tylenol until pain incapacitates me.

I am going to try to blog my way through all of this in hopes that maybe it will help someone else going through the same thing.

This post though is simply to sing the praises of God and His power!

He has led me almost daily to scripture that has helped me immensely through the dark. And then today after having conversations this week about the healthcare reform (both good and bad) He spoke directly to confirm my feelings about the issue.

Mark 5 talks about the demon possessed man who Jesus cures by sending the demons into a herd of pigs. The townspeople were not happy because the pigs were dinner and sustenance! My devotional talked about how things that are important to us are never more important than people. It asked if you were willing to give up a Latte for a human being to LIVE another month? Are you willing to serve Him with your time instead of going to the big game that excites you? I think as a society that we place materialism before the Lord's teachings again and again. We cry foul anytime it takes a bit more of our money to make the world a better place. Healthcare should not be a luxury for our citizens. Children especially should not have to suffer health crises because they can not afford care. And my very own children should not be denied coverage because they have Down syndrome and Type 1 Diabetes. I prayed about the reform and then I prayed for it. I think it takes many different views and voices to get the Lord's love and power out into the universe.

I trust that the Lord will supply our needs. He has never let my family down, even through no income and major hardships. I trust Him implicitly!

And it takes only His voice to make my day! Won't you pick up your Bible today and see what it is He wants to chat with YOU about? He is there and waiting for you!

Tarenne's Big Girl Room

2010-03-21T23:00:00.001-04:00

We redid T's room for her 10th birthday. She wanted orange and purple walls and I wasn't sure how I was going to pull that off. My friend Penny suggested etsy for wall decals and voila~ everyone is happy! This first picture is not posed, this is how she was sitting when I came in. SO CUTE!

Emery & Mommy Time

2010-03-21T22:34:00.001-04:00

In less than a week my Emery will be 6 years old. She will no longer be a baby and will start school full time next year when she enters 1st grade. I will so miss the time that we share alone together while the other girls are in school. She once told Joe, "Mommy is NEVER in a bad mood when it's just the two of us!" She's my little buddy and I adore this kid!

Our coloring time last week:

I miss Gracie!

2010-03-10T14:36:00.001-05:00

This is one of Tarenne's best friends from last year's class. I LOVE this little girl and miss seeing her so much!

Emery and Lysee

2010-03-05T17:08:00.001-05:00

Tarenne is TEN!

2010-02-28T21:00:00.000-05:00

For My Precious Husband

2010-02-14T10:43:00.001-05:00

The first picture is from our first vacation, we were 26 years old...
the next one is our vacation in January....18 years later.

Life isn't always a vacation....

But we sure are meant to be! I love you Joe!!!!

Incredible Post

2010-02-11T08:54:00.002-05:00

if you have ever wondered what all the fuss is about regarding the "R" word, then please go read this blog entry. It is truly one of the best that I have read. Thanks!
"It Wasn't Meant That Way"

Christmas Letter 2009

2009-12-11T15:30:00.002-05:00

Dearest Friends and Family,

We hope this letter finds you well and enjoying this blessed holiday season. The girls are counting down the days until Christmas! Despite our efforts to keep the holiday focused on our Lord’s birth, I have to admit they are the most excited about presents and a reprieve from school. ☺

Emery

From Captiva Island Sunset Photos

Ironically, shortly after I mailed last year’s Christmas letter about 2008 being a year of calm for our family, we had life changing news regarding our 5 year old, Emery. On December 29 she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. You may know it as Juvenile diabetes. However we did catch it before she became sick. We figured it out after her appetite increased to adult proportions and she began losing weight. That along with frequent urination and an unquenchable thirst led us to take her to the doctor where we received this lifelong diagnosis.

Her personality has always been very dichotomous and we knew she would either accept her new regimen with grace or she would fight us at every step. God blessed us all when Emery rapidly learned to take things in stride. She was undergoing multiple injections per day along with finger sticks every 2 hours to make sure her blood sugar was in control. She quickly decided she wanted to be the one to prick her finger and just before her 5th birthday started doing this on her own.

I ended up quitting my part time job and pulling Emery out of preschool as the needs were overwhelming at first. In March she started using the Omnipod, which is a tubeless pump, and it has afforded her convenience and better control without the daily shots. She only once has mourned her fate. She came to me crying and said, “Mom I just realized I will never know what it feels like to NOT have something stuck on my back!” It was a hard moment for us both, but we are thankful that she can live a long, happy, healthy life if we are vigilant in her care.

Emery is now in half day Kindergarten, doing really well. She is a silly little girl, and her intelligence weaves itself into her humor. I will miss my buddy next year when she is in school full time. She loves beyond measure and her friends and family are given tight hugs and multiple compliments when they are in her presence. She still adores babies and recently asked me if we could please adopt, “because you know I would take care of the baby all of the time!”. She’s getting a lifelike doll for Christmas!

Marley

From Captiva Island Sunset Photos

How can I even begin to describe our precious 7 year old girl who still carries the nickname Joyful? She has already stuffed our stockings with a special gift that she made for each of us. This happened within hours of the stockings being hung!

She is extremely loyal and in 2nd grade still has her best friend from Kindergarten, even though they are no longer in the same class. She forwent her birthday party this year because she was afraid that her best friend, who is shy, would not be comfortable in a large group of people. So I took the two girls and we did whatever they wanted for the day. She had a blast and probably made out better than having a party, but how many 7 year olds do you know who would put the needs of their friend first? We are so proud of who Marley is! I think that is a great way to describe her actually, she knows JUST who she is and is comfortable and happy being Marley!

She took gymnastics in the spring and started playing soccer too. Marley is still obsessed with dogs and has recently started calling herself the dog whisperer and bought bones at the store to train our dog. She is still tiny and many people think that she and Emery are twins. This never bothers Marley, another testament to her confidence and love of her life. She is a blessing beyond measure to all of us.

Tarenne

From Captiva Island Sunset Photos

Tarenne continues to blossom and her shyness is all but gone. She will perform in her 10th dance recital this weekend. She switched from classical dance to hip hop this semester and has LOVED it!
She was taking riding lessons with a friend until we found out that she has atlantoaxial instability. This is a neck condition that is more common in people who have Down syndrome. It can mean a fall will cause paralysis and so riding is out for our girl. We will stick with dancing and swimming as her extracurricular activities.

This instability came as a surprise as previous x-rays had not shown its presence. We were visiting Shriner’s hospital to treat T’s scoliosis when it was discovered. Yep, that’s right, our girl is now dealing with scoliosis on top of her developmental delays and celiac disease. She is being treated with a pink night brace which she has named Bunny and has had everyone in her life sign. She tried to leave it in the examination room when the doctor told her it was hers to keep. She quipped, “NO, I don’t want it…. REALLY!” She has just had it 10 days and is not quite used to it, but doesn’t complain as much as most of us would if we had to sleep curved encompassed in a rigid plastic contraption. Her disposition, strength, and determination continue to teach our family daily. If only every family had the gift of Down syndrome in their lives!

She loves school this year and has made several good friends. She reads beautifully, has trouble with math, adores her teachers and most mornings runs into school. She has become quite a flirt and will bat her eyes at cute men who cross her path, while placing her hands over her heart. Occasionally she will even get down on her knees and propose to them. Mostly though she wants to marry Kevin Jonas. She has private concerts in her room, talks to her “boys” whose posters adorn her walls, and makes web shows like I-Carly (a TV show) and her sister Darrah.

Darrah

From Captiva Island Sunset Photos

Darrah started making web shows on You Tube with various friends and has quite a following of people who watch her videos. Not to worry, I monitor all of her fan mail and comments first! She is honestly quite talented with video editing and that is her current passion. If you search for The Thursday Webshow you will be able to watch her in action. That was my major in college and I guess should be no surprise that perhaps my mini me just might fulfill my unrealized dream! ☺

She even made a video trying to persuade Joe to allow her to have a cell phone. While he was unequivocally impressed he remains unswayed, and much to her dismay maintains his position that she is too young. This is the bane of her existence and she would welcome any harassment you would like to provide on her behalf. Ha ha!

We made her choose one activity to focus on this semester as we tried to cut back on the girls’ schedules and so she chose to drop guitar lessons. She still plays select soccer and travels around the state to play. We love to watch her and really enjoy being with the families on her team.

She started middle school this year and while it’s hard for us to accept that she is growing up, we can’t deny it as we look at our little girl who is quickly becoming a beautiful teenager. She is still as sweet as ever, and is my right hand girl around our home. She continues to be placed in honors classes and does well maintaining a balance in her life. God has blessed her with so many talents and we are thankful that she is so down to earth and realizes that all good things are from Him.

Us

From Captiva Island Sunset Photos

Joe and I continue to try to take things in stride and have even managed to start going out alone on occasion. (Okay so we have bribed my nieces into 5 babysitting sessions in exchange for our old couch) We are thankful that we have each other to lean on when trying times come and for us they seem to come in waves. So while this year hasn’t been calm and boring it has once again allowed us to thank God for His strength and shelter! Without Him we certainly could not maintain our home with hope and happiness.

In Him, Nicole

Buddy Walk '09

2009-10-05T19:01:00.002-04:00

Buddy Walk FUN!

2009-10-04T10:07:00.007-04:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing
Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

The Jonas Brothers Concert!

2009-08-24T12:56:00.002-04:00

Aunt Kelly Came to Visit!

2009-08-22T19:10:00.000-04:00

The Start of School for Emery

2009-08-22T09:41:00.003-04:00

2009-08-21T22:24:00.000-04:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Lysee Lu's 2nd Birthday

2009-08-21T22:10:00.002-04:00

Our baby turned TWO! Lysee is one of our best little friends. She is like family and the girls ADORE her! Oh... so do I!!!!

The Buddy Ride

2009-08-14T20:52:00.001-04:00

Emery's Portrait Session with Mom

2009-08-12T18:53:00.001-04:00

The First Day of School '09

2009-08-12T09:52:00.002-04:00

Sunset Family Photos

2009-07-28T10:21:00.001-04:00

Captiva Island ~ Summer '09

2009-07-22T19:59:00.001-04:00

The Making of the Thursday Webshow

2009-07-08T10:12:00.001-04:00

July 4th Parade

2009-07-08T09:44:00.002-04:00

to promote the Buddy Walk

My Darrah is making a web show...

2009-06-16T19:19:00.001-04:00

and this is a tribute video she did for her and Sydney, her bff and costar. Check out her other videos too. They are pretty funny!

Tarenne and "Nicki"

2009-06-12T17:43:00.002-04:00

As many of you know Darrah has started her own web show. T has done a few episodes on her own, and has been wanting to do one with her best friend. However this week we weren't able to get Gracie over here. So I agreed to do a show with her today. :-)
Yes I am one goofy girl! And yes, she was laughing so hard she p'eed her pants!

2009-06-10T07:45:00.001-04:00

The value of marriage is not that adults produce children but that children produce adults.

- Peter de Vries, novelist and editor

Our Little Lou

2009-06-06T10:02:00.001-04:00

Our little angel came to visit us this week. We love our Lysee.

Emery had been crying for her when a sad song came on the radio she would say, "This song makes me miss Lysee!" And then she would tell random people, "I have a friend Lysee...she's a toddler. She doesn't know when to fall down when we play ring around the rosie, and she runs with us while we hold her hands." She had obsessively been missing our baby, so I am so thankful that Katie brought her for a visit!

Notice how she is holding her mouth. She did this the whole visit. :-) SO PRECIOUS!

She was trying to climb in the doll's pack and play.

I love these little feet!

Marley wanted to see if this slipper would fit Lou.

Beautiful Jewelry made by Beautiful People

2009-06-04T08:52:00.002-04:00

True Meaning Jewelry

'98 Storm Vs Parents 2009

2009-06-04T07:01:00.002-04:00

We Love Our School!

2009-06-02T23:13:00.001-04:00

Anyone who knows T knows that she is normally not a huggy kid. This is genuine care!

Tyrone

2009-05-31T12:09:00.003-04:00

T "meets" her Heros

2009-05-31T12:00:00.001-04:00

Darrah made this for her. :-)

I love my Marley!

2009-05-30T12:25:00.001-04:00

Darrah's Birthday

2009-05-30T00:24:00.001-04:00

Hollywood style!

Gymnasts in the Making

2009-05-29T14:54:00.001-04:00

Sisters in love!

2009-05-29T14:50:00.001-04:00

Emery Does Time Out

2009-05-29T14:44:00.001-04:00

with a smile!

2009-05-29T07:55:00.000-04:00

Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow.

It empties today of its strength.

- Corrie Ten Boom, author and human rights activist

Marley SCORES!

2009-05-18T22:54:00.000-04:00

Tarenne's First Horse Show

2009-05-18T22:47:00.001-04:00

I wanted to share this email from a friend.....

2009-05-13T22:11:00.001-04:00

To clarify this email is WRITTEN by my friend, not me. Thanks guys!

Many of you know that I was recently diagnosed with melanoma, underwent surgery and sentinal node biopsy and , as of today, the final pathology reports are clear!!!! The last 2 1/2 weeks have been a whirlwind filled with worry and lots and lots of prayer. ( Big thanks to all of you who lifted me up in prayer) Now all I have left is a big, beautiful scar on my leg, and a feeling of urgency to share information with you.

Ironically, May is skin cancer awareness month.
Every hour, someone dies from melanoma.
Check out these websites:
www.melanoma.com
www.cancer.org

I was fully aware of the "ABCD's" of melanoma. The spot on my leg did not fit any of these signs/symptoms. It was symmetrical, perfectly round, flesh-colored and smaller than a pencil eraser. It was only by the grace of God that I went to have it removed. It looked nothing like the photos of melanoma that you see posted . Please keep that in mind as you do your skin checks and visit the dermatologist. If you THINK it is weird, make them biopsy it.

Please pay attention to this and forward to anyone you know who has skin!!

Marley is Playing Soccer!

2009-04-20T22:51:00.002-04:00

and we are loving it! It's so fun and funny. She's really hustling and having fun.

Tarenne's Riding Lessons

2009-04-18T08:36:00.000-04:00

- Martin Luther King Jr.

2009-04-17T09:41:00.000-04:00

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

2009-04-15T21:50:00.003-04:00

Today Em asked me, "Mom when we get big, if we see a prince do we have to say, may I have this dance please?"
"Well Emery, I guess if you ever run into a prince you could say that, but you would not have to if you didn't want to dance with him."
"Well I am going to say it because I am going to find a dark skinned prince so I can have a baby with curly hair and dark skin."

How precious is my girl? She was combining some KET cartoon with "The Baby Story" she saw today. I love it!

Emery's Birthday Party at Chuck E Cheese

2009-04-15T21:38:00.000-04:00

Girls Gift Exchange

2009-04-13T22:50:00.002-04:00

We have a tradition of allowing the girls to buy each other gifts at the Dollar Store, or Target's dollar aisle for Christmas. Unfortunately this Christmas our timing was off and only Darrah got her shopping done. Finally I was able to get some alone time with each girl and they exchanged "I love you" gifts a couple of weeks ago. The best part... they were so sweet to each other and so proud of themselves for really thinking of each other when they made their purchases.

Emery Has a New Hair Style

2009-04-13T08:38:00.003-04:00

She wanted her hair cut short! I always let them make their own decisions when it comes to their hair. I tried to talk her out of it because I loved her long hair. Admittedly this style looks adorable on her!

My Little Old Lady

2009-04-12T22:31:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T08:49:00.001-04:00

Luke 24
1. On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb.
2. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb,
3. but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

Thank you God for allowing Your Son to do what no other has done. It assures us that indeed He was from You and of You. I praise and worship You!

Decorating Easter Cookies

2009-04-10T22:53:00.001-04:00

The Princess Club

2009-04-05T22:17:00.001-04:00

We missed Kate today!

Awesome article!

2009-04-03T11:13:00.001-04:00

Down syndrome no barrier to teen politician

Eating Vegetarian for Just One Day

2009-04-03T10:10:00.002-04:00

By Kathy Freston, Huffington Post. Posted April 2, 2009.

I've written extensively on the consequences of eating meat -- on our health, our sense of "right living", and on the environment. It is one of those daily practices that has such a broad and deep effect that I think it merits looking at over and over again, from all the different perspectives. Sometimes, solutions to the world's biggest problems are right in front of us. The following statistics are eye-opening, to say the least.

If everyone went vegetarian just for one day, the U.S. would save:

● 100 billion gallons of water, enough to supply all the homes in New England for almost 4 months;

● 1.5 billion pounds of crops otherwise fed to livestock, enough to feed the state of New Mexico for more than a year;

● 70 million gallons of gas -- enough to fuel all the cars of Canada and Mexico combined with plenty to spare;

● 3 million acres of land, an area more than twice the size of Delaware;

● 33 tons of antibiotics.

If everyone went vegetarian just for one day, the U.S. would prevent:

● Greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 1.2 million tons of CO2, as much as produced by all of France;

● 3 million tons of soil erosion and $70 million in resulting economic damages;

● 4.5 million tons of animal excrement;

● Almost 7 tons of ammonia emissions, a major air pollutant.

My favorite statistic is this: According to Environmental Defense, if every American skipped one meal of chicken per week and substituted vegetarian foods instead, the carbon dioxide savings would be the same as taking more than half a million cars off of U.S. roads. See how easy it is to make an impact?

Family Friends

2009-04-02T10:04:00.001-04:00

Obama's Gaffe

2009-03-20T10:09:00.001-04:00

Last night on the Tonight Show my heart broke as I heard President Obama liken his bowling skills to the Special Olympics. This is a comment I left after a news article about the incident:

I have a daughter who has Down syndrome and was very saddened last night by our president's comment. However admittedly it took the birth of my daughter for me to realize not only the callousness of such remarks, but also to realize that our society's acceptance of such remarks leads ultimately to the abuse of the disabled, because it plays into the thought processes of those who see them as "less than". It is time that we as a people realize that there is no humor in this type of prejudice just as most of us have realized that racial slurs are more than insensitive but also dangerous.

I hope our President reacts with the same values he has thus far shown us and stands up and turns this mistake into a learning opportunity for our country. It is time that we evolve into a people who realize that marginalizing any group is immoral.

The Princess Club

2009-03-19T16:32:00.001-04:00

Disney on Ice

2009-03-15T22:54:00.000-04:00

John McGinley speaks out against the "R" Word

2009-03-13T09:40:00.002-04:00

Joey's Birthday

2009-03-12T22:54:00.005-04:00

was nice, but nothing extraordinary. My boy has taught me to be frugal, so this is his recycled cake. :) It was originally Tarenne's DQ ice cream cake. LOL

His best gift was a nap with snuggly Emery. I love my boy!

Emma Sage is HOME!

2009-03-12T21:37:00.001-04:00

Thank you God! Thanks to those who praised and asked for His healing power for this precious child. Keep praying for her please until she is completely better!

You can read Tara Marie's update here:

Emma Sage

Tarenne is Definitely Gaining Confidence

2009-03-11T22:50:00.004-04:00

She is trying out for the talent show tomorrow. I honestly did not think she would stick with her decision so I did not work with her much. I did try to get her to dance or do a cheer. But she insisted on singing and practiced in her room every night. Of course she sings in her room every day anyway... BUT she will try out tomorrow. I asked her if she wanted to practice today and we went to her room. She said, "Oh Mom wait! I forgot!" She ran down to her backpack where she had carefully placed her cd and her microphone along with the lyrics.

As you watch this, don't focus on the fact that she doesn't have a great singing voice, or that you can't understand her words. Think about a little girl who usually covers her face when in front of crowds, who has grown so much in confidence this year that SHE decided to try out and to do it alone. And then pray that I am able to explain to her when she doesn't make it. There are about 200 kids trying out they said. Trying out will be her accomplishment! Then next year... who knows, but I can guarantee we will be preparing months in advance... together!

My Crazy Littlest Girl

2009-03-11T22:29:00.006-04:00

Emery is hysterical, day in and day out! She told me a few weeks ago that I should marry her bum. I told her that 1) you can't marry bums and that 2) I'm already married to her Daddy. She then retorted, "but you think mine is so cute and we could even give it eyes and pokey hair!" They say that Joe has pokey hair. I about died laughing. So on Joe's birthday to make him laugh Emery and I came up with this idea... okay so it was my idea, but she thought it would be really funny and agreed to it.

We were at a party at a gym a few weekends ago and she told me, "Mom I almost hurt my lip doing a cotton ball into the foam pit." (translation ~ cannon ball)

And lastly to make you laugh.... We babysat a friend's baby and Emery really wanted to go get some REAL baby accessories. We headed to the Dollar store and loaded up a baby gift bag for her to use as a diaper bag. She is SERIOUS about playing Mommy and has even told me, "I just want to be pregnant!". YIKES. She started sucking on her pacifier one day and was asking what the rules are for her best friend who occasionally still uses a paci. She then asked me if it was okay if she sucked on hers during the day. (Rachel can only have hers in bed). I replied, "It's okay Em, you're almost 5, I don't think you are going to get addicted to it." About 20 minutes later she came flying into the bathroom where I was getting ready and said, "Mom, we have a problem, I think I'm a dick!". WHAT? I asked her to repeat herself, "I think I'm a dick I really LOVE this paci!" And that my friends is the kind of entertainment that this little blonde girl gives me throughout my day!

PLEASE PRAY

2009-03-09T22:25:00.003-04:00

for our little friend Emma Sage. She is in the hospital having tests run. She's been sick for about a week and they are trying to rule out leukemia and find the cause... so please, please PRAY!

Joe IS a jewel

2009-03-08T23:16:00.003-04:00

and in case any of you ever wondered if I exaggerated his greatness, listen to this.

Today he had the girls at McDonald's after church as Darrah and I went shopping with her friend. After many irritating trials he settled in to finally eat his lunch. 2 of the girls played on the playground equipment and Tarenne played on the computer game inside. Joe went back and forth between them to be sure they were okay. He made small talk with a lady who was there by herself and noticeably observing Joe with the girls.

She walked up to him and told him that she usually didn't this type of thing, but handed Joe a piece of paper and told him that she was really moved watching him with the girls.

The paper read:

a father with his child

maybe seven or eight

bright with life

despite her droppy eyes

slow to spell her own name

he pulled what she knows

with gentle words

from her mind

they smile and laugh

at her victory

now on to the game

she longs to play

he guides her hand

to show her the way

he is with her

and together

she knows victory and it is "AWESOME"

what tender love

pours from his heart

as he strokes her hair

and enjoys her

and her joy

2 Weeks Ago

2009-03-07T22:39:00.002-05:00

I was in Colorado with Joe's sister. We visited a hot springs in the mountains in February. Isn't that hard to believe? Thanks Kelly!

Beautiful Girl

2009-03-07T13:35:00.000-05:00