tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24707494706892982312024-03-18T23:30:21.361-05:00Life's Lemonade There is a song by Chris Rice Lemonade which really resonates with me. This is our story, our journey to adoption. Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-11537708552319643202014-07-22T18:49:00.001-05:002014-07-22T18:49:32.670-05:00Our adoption<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/dJEym9iWl9w" width="459"></iframe><br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-63000436940769246222014-07-21T16:33:00.003-05:002014-07-21T16:33:24.420-05:00Keep On Trucking Its the middle of July and we are still fundraising for our adoption. We have been doing this a couple different ways. <br />
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Annie has a couple open Thirty One Gifts Parties that anyone can order from. <br />
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We have our Adoption Fundraising Site Set up at To donate to our adoption (<a href="http://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-baby-owens-home/181884">http://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-baby-owens-home/181884</a>)<br />
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We are in the midst of planning for a fundraising event that will include a silent auction. <br />
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We've started to save change as well. Anytime we have change it gets put into a container and then once we fill it up (its a pretty big container) its going to the bank. <br />
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Greg is looking at extra hours at his current place of employment, and I am looking for a second job as well. <br />
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We've opened an account at our Credit Union specifically for adoption where all this money and donations gets put in to. <br />
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The above are all small changes, that eventually will lead where we want it to go. We just need to believe and pray on it. We ask that you pray with us, for God to grant us our wish of expanding our family. That we can gather all the resources we need to expand it. <br />
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I've recently posted a "fundraising" video on Youtube, it has our story, and our why. Why we chose adoption. Feel free to share with your friends and family. <br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJEym9iWl9w&feature=youtube_gdata">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJEym9iWl9w&feature=youtube_gdata</a><br />
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As always you can help in a number of ways. <br />
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Share our story with friends, family, an co workers. Ask them to keep us in their prayers as we fundraise, as we walk this journey. Share with them the link to Annie's Thirty-One site. If you know of a part time or even temporary job for either Greg or Annie, let us know. If you have ideas for fundraising share them, if you or someone you know would like to help out with our silent auction please let us know. Again prayers are what is needed the most. Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-772630851683715562014-05-31T23:26:00.001-05:002014-06-01T07:18:42.559-05:00How Can We help? <br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Adoption Update<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfUOf9HXCAYPCYk7qspd2xnl7dtXvC9t1hvC8EmlLiAqJf7I7OU96d16lGtitzxjlA0qbsfWghFkl-oKUcNP1gfDQC9BJTIzu55mtcxKLox26fPbQcTEFP6WVxC1Kpbo8hwsNuMdVyNE/s1600/421188_10152842764530162_972561308_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfUOf9HXCAYPCYk7qspd2xnl7dtXvC9t1hvC8EmlLiAqJf7I7OU96d16lGtitzxjlA0qbsfWghFkl-oKUcNP1gfDQC9BJTIzu55mtcxKLox26fPbQcTEFP6WVxC1Kpbo8hwsNuMdVyNE/s1600/421188_10152842764530162_972561308_n.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today Greg and I set up a fund or an account through our
credit union specifically for our adoption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When people donate on our adoption site on youcaring.com (<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; mso-ansi-language: EN;"><a href="http://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-baby-owens-home/181884" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3b5998;">http://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-baby-owens-home/181884</span></a>)
it will be deposited into this account. Whenever we get any money for the
adoption, it will go into this specific account earmarked just for adoption
expenses. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXn6RMZM0whm3yz7v24GQs3JGkaVABBe8THsfjOM7EM9P7NSCaUwVEFwqFWU_6tE5V86CeyMw5sarkTkhQBxmluTFh_7tDTfAwGr1vDyCe-2exb5HgYWXfVRWEdz9xtofsQtdbs-s9QD8/s1600/10267765_10101875987448118_6739145632931980488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXn6RMZM0whm3yz7v24GQs3JGkaVABBe8THsfjOM7EM9P7NSCaUwVEFwqFWU_6tE5V86CeyMw5sarkTkhQBxmluTFh_7tDTfAwGr1vDyCe-2exb5HgYWXfVRWEdz9xtofsQtdbs-s9QD8/s1600/10267765_10101875987448118_6739145632931980488_n.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Large Utility Tote: Month of June Special!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tomorrow June 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>, we kick off our first official
fundraiser for the adoption. Shopt2Adopt with Thirty One gifts. I am pretty
excited for this fundraiser because while we are raising money for our adoption
we will also be able to pay it forward as well. See we will get 25% of all
sales for the adoption. Any hostesses gifts or incentive earned will be donated
to Lifetime Adoption, for the birth moms. Every birth mom gets a hospital bag
that they stock with toiletries, and the hostess incentives earned on this
fundraiser will be donated to that. You can order from this Fundraiser from
June 1-15<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>, by going to </span><a href="http://www.mythirtyone.com/annieowens"><span style="color: #3b5998; font-family: Calibri;">www.mythirtyone.com/annieowens</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
then clicking on my parties and then Shop2Adopt. There is a great sale on our
Large Utility Totes going on in the month of June including the deluxe utility
tote. Get a Large Utility tote for $10 when you spend $35, get the deluxe for $25.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">June 22<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> we will be having a bake sale at our
church Celebration after both church services. We are looking for donations of
baked goods such as cookies, bars, cupcakes, pretzels, and other goodies. You
can email us at </span><a href="mailto:owensclan2@gmail.com"><span style="color: #3b5998; font-family: Calibri;">owensclan02@gmail.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
if you would like to donate to this, message Annie or Greg on Facebook, or text
us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are also in the works of planning a benefit with silent
auction as well. The date for this will be announced. Again if you would like
to donate an item or basket for this please email us, message, or text us. Perhaps
you have a craft you are good at that we can auction off, or have a service to
offer. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We may also incorporate vendors
such as Lia Sophia, Thirty One, and others for booths. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lastly we are in the process of going through everything we
own and getting a rummage sale ready. The proceeds from this will again go
towards the adoption. If you have anything you would like to get rid of and
wouldn’t mind donating it to us so we can sell let us know! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Our goal for these fundraisers is to raise $12,000. This
would pay for our down payment for adoption fees $7500 of $19,500, our home
study fees of $3000. And have $1500 towards legal fees. This will help get the
ball rolling. In addition to that once our home study is approved we can start
applying for adoption grants, and there are several we will be applying for.
Including one directly through Lifetime Adoption. In addition to the $12,000 we
will need at least another $17000. The remaining 12,000 in fees, another 3500
in legal fees, and we are budgeting about 2000 for travel fees. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To get all that money together, besides the fundraisers we
are planning, we are hoping to get at least two or three substantial grants,
Greg is looking for a part time job to earn some extra money, Annie is looking
at starting a store on Etsy to sell some crafts. We are consistently looking
for ways to reduce our spending and increase our income, so if you have ideas
in regard to this, please let us know. We don’t have cable which is a huge
savings, we have basic phone and internet packages, and we are starting to
coupon. I really need lessons on this extreme couponing I keep hearing
about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course Annie still has her
thirty one, photography, and graphic design. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Soph is in on this as well, today she said she is going to
sell her Barbie’s to pay for her brother AND sister. (we are adopting ONE baby)
We told her that was very nice, and sweet, but she can keep her Barbies! She
also volunteered Aunt Emily to help her make bracelets to sell. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In case you haven’t seen, we made a specific Facebook group
for “Bringing Baby Owens Home” We post updates, fundraising ideas, etc on this
group. <em>To be included you need to request it.</em> Either by messaging Greg or I, or
asking on Facebook. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you so much for the ones who have donated so far. I
can not tell you how much we appreciate it. No words could express the
gratitude. To the ones that have been praying for us, have offered other sorts
of help thank you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know everyone wants to help, but some are unsure how they
can help, time, distance, or money seems to be prohibiting them from doing so.
Other ways you can help: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pray. I really can’t stress this enough. We need
this adoption to be lifted up in prayers. I know we have said before we need
prayers for funding, prayers for a successful match, prayers for us, for the
birth mom, for the baby. I mean it. Prayers prayers prayers! I am trying to put
together a list of prayers for adoptions, and encouraging scripture for this as
well. If there<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is a favorite versus, or
scripture please share with us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Do you craft? Have an amazing Photography eye?
Can tell short stories? Get your crafts together, take pictures of them, and do
your own online auction. Start Auction prices out so they include the cost of
the material and a five dollar shipping cost add in. Photography buff, take
some of your favorite prints and mount them real nice, sell prints of them.
(Annie is considering doing this with some photos from Door County and Mackinac
Island.) Again setting up an online store, or auction would work nice. Make
sure to explain money raise will be going to benefit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Have a service you can offer? Donate the
service. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Coupon for us. We will start stock piling baby
items, especially diapers, if you see a coupon for diapers let us know about it
so we can get in on the deal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Have old baby things such as clothes, burp rags,
blankets? Consider donating them to the baby for when the baby comes home. We
will need lots of this stuff. While we did foster three babies, all our baby
items have either went home with the child, given to nieces or nephews,
dontated, or sold. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Have I mentioned pray for the adoption? Pray for
us? Pray. Prayer is powerful. I am hoping to set sometimes up when we can hold
prayer sessions, where everyone stops what they are doing and says a quick
prayers on our behalf. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Be encouraging. Some days are really rough, keep
that in mind. Sometimes we may want to talk a lot about it, where other times
we just want to stay mum. Be understanding with it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">8.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Be a researcher- Annie has this amazing group of
“cysters” women who are also affected by PCOS. We’ve been buddies along time,
and we are pretty supportive of each other. As soon as we announced our intent
to adopt, they had several grants and the information websites, they had
adoption resources. It was a great way to show support with out spending a
dime, and it was helpful. Share your ideas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Share, Share, Share. Share our adoption page,
share our blog posts, share our fundraising information. Share our story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will be posting signs and flyers for
fundraisers, share them. Print them out and post in church, grocery stores, gas
stations. From Wisconsin to Texas, Virginia to Alaska, anyone can order
thirty-one. Once our craft store is up and running, any one will be able to
order from there. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">10.)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lastly, Pray! What? I mentioned it twice before?
Yes I did. Its that important! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFPljcWnHQFq_E2TJH2rQGfTXzDQs2AdLZRSLnq4AxJdIIdHBZ32uZdCRsZ0JAhTrHuSU7QQaczKDQJAxDvxIFN-Qo_bE_QDhMG5XobpdRWq9-3q1DflNMa2oELWTetFuLlHzvIuzelc/s1600/thankyou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFPljcWnHQFq_E2TJH2rQGfTXzDQs2AdLZRSLnq4AxJdIIdHBZ32uZdCRsZ0JAhTrHuSU7QQaczKDQJAxDvxIFN-Qo_bE_QDhMG5XobpdRWq9-3q1DflNMa2oELWTetFuLlHzvIuzelc/s1600/thankyou.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></div>
Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-31974990688548161192014-05-26T22:52:00.003-05:002014-05-26T22:52:59.961-05:00Memorial Day
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Memorial Day. It’s one of my favorite holidays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the unofficial kick off to summer. My
husband and I will at times head to my favorite gas tank getaway- Mackinaw
Island. I love the Island, as soon as you arrive on the ferry the smell envelops
you, a rich aroma mix of salty lake water, sweet fudge, grills from the many dockside
restaurants, and of course the ever present smell of the local “smog” horse
manure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love this combination of
smells, it immediately takes my stress away. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The island is rich inland is rich in history and does an excellent
job celebrating that history. Memorial Day is special. They have reenactments,
and a special tribute to all our soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to
our county. So that you and I, our families can have the freedoms we love. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sometimes like this year we have a special event and can’t
make that trip up to the island. Michaela, my sister and Goddaughter graduated
high school this weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We needed to
celebrate that victory with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since we were home Saturday we packed up Soph and went down
to the local festival here in DePere. It always is a good time, with plenty of
food, drinks, and entertainment to go around. They cap it off with the
Fireworks Sunday night followed by-this year- the Nitty Gritty Dirt band. But
in the mist of this celebration they pay homage to the veterans. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Monday is parade day and bright and early the streets in
DePere are packed, lined either side with children, parents, the occasional dog.
The smell of sunscreen is thick in the air as mom’s and dad’s slather their
children in it. The rustle of grocery bags is heard as excited kids jump up and
down to see if the parade is starting, if the candy train is on the way yet.
Here in DePere, in Middle America, The United States is still respected, we may
not agree with government decisions, but the flag is respected, the soldier is
respected. Today as the flag turn the corner every person along that street was
standing, the applause was loud, dotted throughout the crowd there were
servicemen and women standing ramrod straight at attention and executing a
perfect solute. This thundering applause continued for a near ten minutes while
various veterans from the most recent war, to a few World War II Vets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This to me was an amazing site, so many
times on Facebook you see pictures of parades with the flag passing and people
sitting down, or on their phones or disinterested.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That disinterest that lack of respect is
going to get this country further into trouble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the parade we sat next to a couple with a little boy
about four years old. Sapphira being Sapphira wasn’t really getting the whole
concept of the candy being tossed, and this couple and this little boy made
sure Sapphira got equal candy, and shared. When someone would pass her up but
dump a huge amount into his bag, the little boy immediately gave some to
Sapphira. When the little boy was afraid of a mascot Sapphira said “let’s give
him high five together” and they did. There was a sense of compassion, and
justice in this couple, and they were instilling it into their son. I applaud
that. I don’t know this couple name, and I probably will never see them again,
but they were so kind and friendly to Sapphira. And when the flag came by the
father said “Stand up Son and show the flag the respect it deserves.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The country needs more people like this. The
country needs more kindness, more respect, more love and compassion in it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this was the perfect example of that.
There was no judgment or censorship, but only kindness, compassion, and friendliness.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a perfect morning. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I know I am not the only one who loves Memorial Day, people
get a day off, an extra day to spend with family and friends, doing things they
enjoy. Celebrating Summer is around the corner. But it is important, that in
the mist of celebrating all that, that we stop and remember the reason for this
day. We have this day as a remembrance for those who lost their lives so we can
enjoy ours. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the people that even
right now are protecting us in ways that you and I can only imagine. To those
men and women, Thank YOU from the bottom of my heart. To their families, thank
you as well, for the love and support you give them. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On Friday at work I received an email reminder to fly the
flag at half staff till noon today. I didn’t exactly know why, but I forwarded
it on to my boss. Today I found out why, and I find it beautiful in a
heartbreaking way. And entirely appropriate way to close this entry: </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">"In traditional observance of Memorial Day, the
American flag is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly
lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is
then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The half-staff
position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives
in service of their country. At noon, their memory is raised by the living, who
resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead
and continue the fight for liberty and justice for all."</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>-
www.usmemorialday.org</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy Memorial Day everyone, I hope it was a safe and fun
holiday for all. More important thank you to all the service men and women. God
Bless and Keep you Safe. </span></div>
Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-21536959662159430802014-05-23T17:37:00.003-05:002014-05-23T17:38:31.924-05:00Adopting!!!!As I am sure you know, Greg and I have been struggling with fertility or should I say infertility for twelve years. It has been a heartbreaking journey, fertility cycles that have failed, a failed international adoption, two failed foster-adopt situations, and the general heart ache and break of foster care. In November we were extremely blessed to add to our family being granted guardianship for Soph. We absolutely love her and find such joy and delight in her. We however would love to add to our forever family and are looking at adopting a child through Lifetime Adoption. <br />
<br />
<br />
The adoption really depends on a couple of factors. Funding of course, adoption is extremely expensive- it will be between 25,000 and 30,000 dollars. Finding a birth mom that is a match, and then having a successful placement. Our adoption coordinator Jen feels we would probably have a match within 12-18 months, with placement being as soon as baby is born. We are extremely excited about this. But we need help... <br />
<br />
<br />
How can you help? Several ways! <br />
<br />
<br />
First off, like I said this is contingent upon funding. We are applying for grants like crazy- as we can. Some grants you can apply to immediately- in fact Lifetime has such a grant that we have applied for. Other grants you need to have a home study completed- a cost of $3000 in itself, and others still you need to have a match. Whatever grants we can at this time we are applying for- including match grants where people donate to us and then the company matches donations up to a certain amount. Right now the match grants we have found you do need to have an active home study-which we are working on currently. Once we have that we will have match grant information on here and in Facebook. <br />
<br />
<br />
We currently have a website set up for donations that you can send directly to us if it is on your heart to help us that way. <a href="http://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-baby-owens-home/181884" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.youcaring.com/adoption-fundraiser/bringing-baby-owens-home/181884</a> Even if you can't help monetarily, if you could do two favors for us 1.) share this site with friends and family. The more people we have in it the better our chances are to get the funding we need. Currently it is set at $7500, but in total we will need about $25000. 2.) Pray over this, pray over the adoption in general! <br />
<br />
<br />
In addition to the above June 1-15th I will be doing a “Shop To Adopt” Thirty-One Event. Friends, Family, anyone can order through this event, and 25% of all sales will go towards our adoption. The hostess rewards I will use to donate bags, totes, etc to Lifetime Adoption for their Lifetime Adoption Foundation-which helps birth moms get through pregnancy, as well as provides them schooling or training to help in the future. Each birth mom is given a hospital bag that Lifetime fills with things like soap, shampoo, lotion, socks, pads, etc. Many of them do not have anything thing. So this is a really great thing for them to do, and I would love to donate as many bags as possible to them. How do you come into play? You can invite friends to the Facebook event I have set up by sharing this link or share the events link <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/eventhome.aspx?eventId=E4570965&from=MYEVENTS" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/eventhome.aspx?eventId=E4570965&from=MYEVENTS</a> <br />
with friends, coworkers, neighbors. If everyone shared with 10 people and those 10 people each brought one bag and one special we would have a significant amount of money. <br />
<br />
We are trying to put together a benefit either June 22 or June 29th. Again inviting all your friends, family, anyone you know, to that as well as attending would be a great help. We are looking for a restaurant or bar to donate food/drinks, and then businesses and individuals to donate for a silent auction/raffle, prizes, perhaps someone to donate music. If you know anyone or would like to donate or have your company donate please let me know. I will also need help planning and organizing this. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you have other ideas, or know of other resources to help us with the ADOPTION - that we can use please let us know! <br />
<br />
<br />
Secondly we need your support. We need positive support, we have enough negativity in our lives, we don’t need more. We will also need to travel, and it maybe in the middle of the night on a Tuesday, and we may be gone for 7-10 days. If that happens we will need someone to watch Sapphira while we are gone. We will probably need a shoulder to cry on, or positive reinforcement when we are discouraged. I am only going to say the following once, this is not to hurt feelings, or sound ungrateful, but commenting on how expensive adoption is -not supportive. Telling me its not fair we have to pay so much when their are druggies and "bad" people popping out kids- not supportive- especially if one of them is yourself. Asking if we have tried a,b, &c- not supportive. I guarantee you- we've tried a,b,c,d,e,f,g,h,i,j,k,l,m,n,o,p,q,r,s,t,u,v,w,x,y,z... Saying "oh but don't you want your own baby" Is absolutely not supportive. 1.) this baby and any baby/child we are blessed with whether they are born from my loins or born from my heart- is <strong>OUR</strong> baby. <strong>OUR</strong> child. They are not second rate, second class, or second choice. They are <strong>OUR </strong>choice. They are a BLESSING from GOD. And as such will be treated as a blessing by us and everyone in their lives. If you can not understand that, then perhaps you should not come around. <br />
<br />
We may need a place to stay. We will have to travel to the birth most likely and can not leave the state for 7-10 days after. Since we are working with Lifetime and they do adoptions all over the states, then we could potentially have a birth in HI or Alaska. So we may need a place to stay, or suggestions on a place to stay. And Greg would like suggestions on places to eat as well. <br />
<br />
<br />
We need your prayers. <strong>This is most important</strong>. We need prayers we find the funding needed, prayers for a great birth mom match and a smooth adoption. Prayers for our sanity, and patience. Prayers for the birth mom, who is making such a sacrifice and gifting us with our greatest wish. Prayers for the entire birth family. Prayers for the adoption facilitators (Lifetime Adoption) prayers for our legal team. Prayers all around. <br />
<br />
<br />
Lastly we just need you to be who you are, and be there for us. Whether it is a phone call and a listening ear, someone to make us laugh, someone to hold our hands, someone to pray with us. Someone to help organize various fundraisers, or help massage our hands after we do all this paperwork. Knowing you are in the background there for us if we need you to be, routing for us, is extremely helpful. We both love you all very much and appreciate everything you do for us. <br />
<br />
<br />
Note: I know some have commented they can not help out for whatever reason. We aren't looking for a 1000 dollar donation. That would be incredible, and very appreciated. But a dollar adds up, five dollars adds up. I have roughly 200 people on my Facebook Friends list, and Greg has about 100 more that are not on mine. So about 300 people. If each of those people donated $5 dollars we would have 1500 dollars- half of our home study fee. or a portion of our travel costs (depending where we adopt from) If those 300 people each shared with their friends list, and each had an additional 5 people donate 5 dollars, that would be 7500 the cost of our down payment. What I am saying is it only takes a small amount to make a big difference. We also need prayers, or maybe you do crafts and have something you can donate that we can auction off. But every single one of you can help in a huge huge way! Hit share on our donation page. Pin it on your Pinterest. Email our story to friends, families, colleagues. <br />
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<br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-11054855934008463412013-08-07T09:59:00.001-05:002013-08-07T09:59:35.936-05:00Flying<span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1375881102569_3255" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As a mom of a beautiful daughter who happens to have Autism, I
know planning and preparation is key to success. The more we prepare Sapphira,
the better she seems to do. So when we got the idea to take our little princess
to see the REAL princesses in Disney, we knew we were going to have to really
research, have a plan and prepare her. We knew it would totally be worth doing
so! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We started planning Labor Day 2012. Our original thought was do it
for seven days. My parents and my sisters were coming with, and were were going
to make a two week vacation out of it. Sight seeing on the way back. We wanted
to avoid Atlanta at all cost. Traffic with any child is difficult, traffic with
a child on the spectrum who doesn't understand the world doesn't work
(unfortunately) on their needs, and with a disgruntled grandpa is to be avoided
at all cost. So we decided we would make our first stop Metropolis, IL, for my
own Super hero, to meet his Super hero- Superman. Greg was totally into this
idea. From there we would drive on to Montgomery,Alabama. Take in some history,
and travel on to one of the many small towns dotting the gulf cost line in
Florida where my dad was going to go deep sea fishing, while we soaked up sun.
From there to Disney for seven days of magical fun. On the way home we
were going to stop in Savannah, Georgia and Nashville TN, and Louisville to
catch a race or two. One trip to Oshkosh, WI a mire hour a way, in the
same suburban we were going to be traveling to Florida in was a huge wake up
call. Traveling such a distance as we were planning to Disney was not going to
work. As much as I would have loved doing this- I would love to travel the US-
personalities would not mesh. While family is a good thing, there is such a
thing as to much of a good thing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In the meantime I had been discussing with her teacher who
recommended it may be beneficial if this year we could do a test run before we
go for seven full days.. We started to look for flights. There is not many
options we wanted to try. Traveling with Soph we wanted nonstop, which meant
either a two hour drive to Milwaukee or four hour drive to Chicago. Then costs
for an over night stay, parking, and transfers. Disney was getting expensive! To
fly out of Green Bay, there was at least one if not two connections. And the
airlines REFUSED to guarantee that someone would be sitting with Soph unless we
paid a special fee- $80 per leg, per person. it was $640 to guarantee that
someone in our party would be sitting with our six year old daughter who has
autism, on her first flight. Uh yeah! Not happening, not to mention the
baggage fees. It was more expenses to fly then to stay at Disney. It was
looking like our Disney trip was not going to happen or we would have to
postpone it at least two years and save for it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">My mom saw an ad for MetJet. A brand new public charter offering
Non-stop services out of Green Bay to Orlando. We called and got a price quote.
For a nonstop flight out of Green Bay to Orlando, with no luggage fees, a meal,
and they guaranteed that Soph and I could sit together, we were sold! But in
addition to that, they had a buy 1 ticket get 2 tickets free for future use. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The fact that they guaranteed that one of us would be with Soph
was huge to us. There was no fees associated with this, they do advanced
seating. Not only was I able to sit with her, the entire party sat together.
They have a three by three configuration, and so only my mom was not in our
little cluster, but across the aisle. Being able to sit next to Soph with Greg
was a godsend. This was her first flight and we weren’t sure how she was going
to react, she did amazing, better then myself or Greg. But her ears hurt on the
descent and having that extra set of hands to comfort her was amazing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The fact that MetJet had such a great deal with Buy 1 Get 2
promotion means that in June of 2014 when we go with a much larger group to
Disney that we are going to save money because of their promotions. People who
normally wouldn’t be able to afford to go are coming with us, and that is
amazing. It’s the first time we are doing a big family vacation with extended
family, and we are all looking forward to it. The past couple years we’ve been
put through the proverbial ringer and this week spent in Florida is going to be
a much needed get away for all of us. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I could stop here, but honestly MetJet did so much more for that.
Concerned about her reactions, and knowing the more we prepare Sapphira the
more successful she is, we wanted to put together a social story. I went online
and got pictures of Austin Straubel Airport, Orlando Airport, the tram in the
airport, Disney’s Magical Express, and our hotel. I emailed customer service
and asked if they had pictures of the plane, gate, and such. They forward me
some that they had, but then offered to have their represented at the
airport-Lynn, take some more. Lynn went above and beyond and got tons of
pictures we included in Soph’s social story. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lynn asked if there was anything else they could do to help Soph.
I thought it was a long shot but asked if we could visit the airport before our
flight to help Soph. I had in mind we would check out the check in counter,
maybe walk upstairs, see the baggage claim. Lynn had so much more. When you
meet Lynn and chances are anyone who flies MetJet will meet Lynn, she is a
presence in the room. She is one of those larger than life people, and is
extremely nice, and a sweet heart. She immediately made Soph feel at ease and
was extremely welcoming. She practiced checking in with us, and then took us
upstairs. When Soph balked because there was an elevator, escalator, and
stairs, Lynn took it in a stride. Sapphira is really afraid of elevators and escalators,
Lynn just smiled and said well “lets get our exercise in and use the stairs.”
Soph agreed and we trooped up the stairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Lynn got us gate passes and brought us through security on a practice run,
and up to the gate. While there she got her one of the lunches we would be
served on the plane. Soph was so excited about this!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything Lynn did helped so much with Soph,
I know that our actual flight wouldn’t have been as successful with out Lynn’s
help. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On the day of the flight Lynn met us at the door. We had lots
going on. We were traveling with my 10 year old cousin Kayley, who because a
parent wasn’t traveling with us, was considered an unaccompanied minor. So my
aunt also got a gate pass to sit with Kayley while we waited for the plane. My
grandma was traveling with us, she is older, and really should have had a wheel
chair, but stubbornly refused to do so! And Soph. Lynn took it all in a stride
and did amazing. Lynn told her she would be waiting for Soph to get back so she
could hear all about Disney. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Soph and I were preloaded so Soph could look around. We went to
our seats, and to the bathroom, and Soph went into the cockpit. I freaked out!
I imagined the air marshel coming out of no where and tackling my six year old
who weighed maybe 40 pounds to the ground. I hissed “Soph! Get out of there!”
But the pilots both turned around and said it was ok. I got a couple pictures,
and they wanted her to sit on their lap and “fly” the plane but Soph didn’t
want to. We made our way back to our seats, and people started to board. Soon
we were off, Soph clutched my hand and asked about 100 times when could she
have her cookie (From Great Harvest Bread who provides this yummy lunch for the
flights) we told her when we were in the air. We started to taxi and Soph
yelled “Grandpapa! No rocking the plane…” Poor grandpapa was in the parking lot
with moist eyes… We were ten feet off the ground, and she let go of my hand,
and asked for her cookie. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Verdana; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did amazing. </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlukMPzMESWL7UQ28GAu_fWXYI1C0c06FmM3zmWg95gKcTQu7GkK4ifHCb02_CK_53JehYLil95ZBLx67PQtkBrR-ReaL4bytLSTE_x9SP368WO9zmYuwgJvpUx9iOi732vPrwOOkqhk/s1600/9407_10152842688170162_465988966_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlukMPzMESWL7UQ28GAu_fWXYI1C0c06FmM3zmWg95gKcTQu7GkK4ifHCb02_CK_53JehYLil95ZBLx67PQtkBrR-ReaL4bytLSTE_x9SP368WO9zmYuwgJvpUx9iOi732vPrwOOkqhk/s320/9407_10152842688170162_465988966_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Our trip was… awesome. I can not tell you all the amazing things
we saw. Disney is truly a magical place. (look at all those 31 Bags! :)) The Magic starts from the moment you get on to the Disney's Magical express, and continues on. Our first morning we visited Epcot, and the excitement of the crowd at rope drop was tremendous! </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigsEt78lAJYWRSMQjz7HP6xJECMeW1XwfmkrkAVHFfvKN6uwKA2FGHllcsdQHHNnMQB3kt_uCubvhrP32FLYrORsoihMNYo6KtAGUKuZXZj4LnloWigrd3CBpN1zqmA5_GM5jaWLwBTSQ/s1600/935756_10152815781575162_1846386412_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigsEt78lAJYWRSMQjz7HP6xJECMeW1XwfmkrkAVHFfvKN6uwKA2FGHllcsdQHHNnMQB3kt_uCubvhrP32FLYrORsoihMNYo6KtAGUKuZXZj4LnloWigrd3CBpN1zqmA5_GM5jaWLwBTSQ/s320/935756_10152815781575162_1846386412_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We ate with the Princesses and watched
Sapphira in awe of them. Even Kayley and Emily were a little star struck. We
met Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy, and Soph was beside herself with excitement. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We ate at the Hoop Dee Doo Review, the kids
let go of their “coolness’ and tromped around the venue clanging on wash boards
in a parade big goofy smiles on their faces. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARkaqfNDwNEiZItuSJ5ud1xFxqvLWpXSBy0LRvFiWvwCxx1aajc-9uoRa2DcEtx3HlFDBy_Djjf143RixaBSy4N1XAIzy5EVg499APUSrFkn_A17JG8qI8EYXk7outqcRmH4ADrReqlw/s1600/375723_10152842698290162_316021475_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARkaqfNDwNEiZItuSJ5ud1xFxqvLWpXSBy0LRvFiWvwCxx1aajc-9uoRa2DcEtx3HlFDBy_Djjf143RixaBSy4N1XAIzy5EVg499APUSrFkn_A17JG8qI8EYXk7outqcRmH4ADrReqlw/s320/375723_10152842698290162_316021475_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We did moonlight swims at our
resort, and ate breakfast with Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Nothing felt better after a long day of walking than to go swim and soak in the refreshing pool. It was open 24 hours a day and we took full use of it! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I walked around in permanent state of near
tears, watching my daughter run, laugh, and interact with characters, with her
aunt and her cousin, with no stymming, and only one melt down. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9-9Qu_SxTrpVQv2M4D5rQaClMFYrjJUmImhLwsZenowjrTi7-xAvKrLuWyaEDrnLXWviLosH_IgvEDqg9y8ilmdrKOdCbdaLkNTz65pxacklaSwZ93AH59ttTDIuDkiGhmVqGPuw_7M/s1600/485481_10152842692330162_801987694_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9-9Qu_SxTrpVQv2M4D5rQaClMFYrjJUmImhLwsZenowjrTi7-xAvKrLuWyaEDrnLXWviLosH_IgvEDqg9y8ilmdrKOdCbdaLkNTz65pxacklaSwZ93AH59ttTDIuDkiGhmVqGPuw_7M/s320/485481_10152842692330162_801987694_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I watched the three of them skip and dance without a care in the world. Soph got to meet her idol, her favorite Princess. Princess Tiana. She has
always been a huge fan of the Princess and The Frog. Watching her interact with
both Prince Navine and Princess Tiana, was worth every last penny, every last
hardship later that night when we were stuck on main street. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigvJlwWsf3ti1XWWrdeMh1izQvhj5t8fCddF1IBGEjNiRsA4NcHgkpw-5C_n2Nphrx8MhReNWxujHcj4olMEhKtcABSbNsVbmvnRwdXTxy11c1fzpZTfKnKcjr9WtWks56YfKFzACMUaA/s1600/580649_10152842699650162_2016846850_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigvJlwWsf3ti1XWWrdeMh1izQvhj5t8fCddF1IBGEjNiRsA4NcHgkpw-5C_n2Nphrx8MhReNWxujHcj4olMEhKtcABSbNsVbmvnRwdXTxy11c1fzpZTfKnKcjr9WtWks56YfKFzACMUaA/s320/580649_10152842699650162_2016846850_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It was fun for all ages that were with us. Even if certain people look at their watch wrong! </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Its true, Disney is addicting, and I can barely wait to go back
next year! We never would have gotten to experience this vacation if it had not
been for MetJet. They were amazing through it all, and I can’t wait to fly them
again! I cannot say enough good about this company, and how they treat their
customers. They truly get customer service, and they go out of their way, above
and beyond to help them. By the end of this year they will be flying to
Orlando, Fort Meyers, Cancun, and Minneapolis. I highly recommend them for
anyone traveling to those places. Yes they maybe a little more expensive than
your big box airlines, but let me tell you the convenience is worth it, and if
that is not a concern of yours, the customer service that they offer is above
and beyond anything I’ve ever seen. It is worth it! I firmly believe it is the
best out of Green Bay, and you and your family should fly the best, the
memories you will make, the smiles you will see… it’s all worth it! </span></div>
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Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-15938073428799732442013-05-10T14:58:00.004-05:002013-05-10T14:58:52.727-05:00May is Foster Care MonthMay is Foster Care Month. In this month we are suppose to bring awareness to foster care, and to celebrate the foster parents that make a difference in young children's lives.<br />
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I am a foster parent. I have been a licensed foster parent since October of 2009. Our first placement was June of 2010. We still have her, and hope that her case moves forward with a permanent goal of adoption. At this point it really is the only option that would benefit her. "S" has autism and will need help the remainder of her life. her bm (birth mom) is MIA and her bd(birth dad) is on an extended vacation until "S" is fourteen. At this point really she only knows Greg and I.That is one thing they don't tell you, these cases can drag on and on forever. Frustrating even the most patient person.<br />
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We have had the pleasure of fostering seven kids. The youngest three weeks old, the oldest being "S" at six now. Even with that limited experience, we've seen a range of things. From birth families taking an active stance and trying to get their kids back, to birth families taking no stance and basically abandoning their children. Its heart breaking in any case, but the ones that are really frustrating, are the birth families who do the bare minimum. Contact is sporadic, visits even less, and the commitment is shaking. The kids social worker is also the parent's social worker, so when it comes down to it, the social worker is fighting for the parents. That's another thing they don't tell you in training, 9 times out of 10 the social worker doesn't really care what happens to the kids, just that the parent's get their rights back. Another file off the overworked over piled desk of the tired and weary social worker. Another thing they don't tell you is that the kids' rights are never guaranteed. Parents have all the rights in Wisconsin- where as the kids- the very people CHILD Protective Services (CPS) is supposed to PROTECT- have very little rights. They have the right to safety- and the threshold Wisconsin uses is abysmally small- were there any bones broken? There is no requirement for food shelter or other safety measures other than broken bones. That's another thing they don't tell you, the laws that CPS follows- do not make sense to ANY one. What would seem like common sense, is actually exactly opposite of what required. Kids are reunified with parents on a daily basis simply for the fact that they showed up to court. They may have missed that last six court hearings. They might have not seen the child for months, maybe even years, but they show up, automatic reunification. The birth parents may not have a job, or any means to support their selves, let alone the child(ren), may not have a roof over their head, or a car to transport them. But they will be reunified, then brought to the front of the line for things like welfare, food stamps, housing, and other programs that were designed to help for a short term period. But these families have no training, and no way to get out, so its just a cycle over and over again. And they feel like they are ENTITLED to these benefits.<br />
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When you decide to become a foster parent, there is extensive training you undergo. There is background checks, and financial checks, and a host of other information. You receive a four inch binder and a six inch binder full of rules that as a foster parent you need to follow. Such as you can not smoke in your house, your car, your yard, or around the foster children. You need to maintain a safe and healthy environment, that has smoke alarms on every level, in every bedroom, and carbon monoxide alarms on every level. A fire extinguisher. One bed for each child, and no more then two children-who must be same sex siblings, can share a room. You can't cut the child's hair with out permission from the parent's or social worker. There are several more. They don't tell you that these rules apply only to the foster parents. The birth parents can do as they please, and social workers make excuses for them.<br />
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Things change day to day with placements. You maybe told the placement is permanent with adoption in six months, and the next day the kids go back to their birth parents. Or Family steps up and wants the kids. Family is key in Wisconsin courts. If family steps up and asks for the kids they maybe one step away from jail, never met the kids, but the judge will place them with family. Or remove them from a Foster Home into a familiy's home. Sharing the same blood doesn't make you "Family". But in the eyes of Wisconsin Law family is and only can be blood.<br />
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The system is broken, and everyone admits it but no one is willing to do anything about it. Some of the most awful things I have experienced have come from this broken messed up system. I don't understand 98% of the things that happen. Common sense says one thing, the law says another. Its a tough road, but someone has to travel it for these kids. Unfortunately- social workers, birth parents, and most involved are not very good at expressing their appreciation for foster parents. So it is a thankless job in that regard. But that child's smile, their laugh. The fact that you provide them with a safe home, stability, love, and warmth.. that is what we do it for. <br />
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The one thing they do tell you in training is that your heart will be broken. You think its because you get attached to these kiddos, but in reality its the fact that you have to send these kiddos back into less than ideal, sometimes straight up awful places, and there is not one thing you can do to change it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnoEm4ZItz-pQrLOTQ5WKS1Z-FLpwWskYReuo2koSm6D9jkuo8ndEuNMNF9wyU8sDLNbBI8UAjA7iBg5bWZc_KYbWeCiq0jmBKR7FPNmyKCn-zla8izXmS0hVZhuY-wcbTOB-rJUtYnc/s1600/foster-care-month-ribbon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnoEm4ZItz-pQrLOTQ5WKS1Z-FLpwWskYReuo2koSm6D9jkuo8ndEuNMNF9wyU8sDLNbBI8UAjA7iBg5bWZc_KYbWeCiq0jmBKR7FPNmyKCn-zla8izXmS0hVZhuY-wcbTOB-rJUtYnc/s1600/foster-care-month-ribbon.png" /></a>I was recently asked my a birth mom if I get attached to kids, and how do I send them back. I hate the later comment, its not a choice I have. Its something I HAVE to do. It breaks my heart a little more each time. There is also the comment of "well you knew from the start this was temporary" These are the people I would love to choke, no matter how well meaning they mean to be. Temporary or not, you still get attached. Its hard not to. Its like telling the mom of the infant who died from Sids- well you were only with them a short time... Or the cancer patients family "well at least you know when they will die." Its awful, not helpful, and it is plain mean. Whether it sets out as a two week placement, or a placement that leads to adoption, when they leave, its hard. You become attached, you love these kids, they are now a part of you. And I love and care and treat these kids as MY OWN. <br />
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As for being attached.. the answer is yes. Some a little more then others. But there is a bond, and you do get attached. I wish the best for my kiddos when they leave. I make them a life book full of pictures, stories of their time with us, and letters from myself, husband, and my family. Its a heart wrenching process- but it gives them a piece of their history. After the kids leave, I have a good cry, or twenty. And we try to move a head, a little bit broken. But those kids stay in my heart for ever, and I always keep them in my thoughts and in my prayers. Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-32007549126392817402013-05-06T21:23:00.002-05:002013-05-06T21:24:05.909-05:00Projects! Projects! Projects!As some of you know I am currently achieving my Bachelor's Degree from Globe University. Yes, currently. That means besides the babysitting, the therapy hours, taking care of the kids and my handsome husband, I am also doing three on line classes. Internet Marketing, Marketing Research, and World Music.<br />
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I really enjoy these three classes, and I am learning a plethora of information on each specific subject. Each class also has one major project. A project that is worth hundreds of points. All three projects have specfic time lines, requirements, and due dates. All three projects have the exact same due dates! My first is fast approaching. It is Sunday. While for two of the projects this is a like the pre test of due dates, one is not. That project is on its second leg. The other two are just getting off the ground, and research is starting.<br />
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The first for my Marketing Research, and also the one I happen to be the furthest in. We have to conduct market research on our own on a subject, and then present the findings to our class. I chose "Coke Versus Pepsi". I am a Pepsi girl in a Coke family, and this rivalry is a big one! To me Coke taste like acid, and gives me heart burn. But why do others prefer that sickly acidy taste? Diet Coke- my mother's drink of choice- to me, in my humble opinion tastes like what I imagine embalming fluids to taste like. Appropriate because according to the Doctor I went to a couple years ago it has Aspartame in it. According to Dr. "C" Aspartame when drank rises to the body's temperature, and turns into formaldehyde. Which, guess what is used in embalming fluids. Gross! I am not sure if this is true, but I do know when I cut out all things with aspartame, my headaches went a way.<br />
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Anyway enough of my tangent, I am not in biology-I passed that class back in December!Enough of my soap box! My market research is why an individual chose one soft drink over the other. Why does Coke have such a large portion of the market? I finished writing my survey for that today. So one project deadline down! Two more to go!<br />
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My next class is World Music. For this one I am also interviewing
parents. Parents of neurotypical children, and parents of children with
Autism as well. I want to study to see if music has a calming affect on
the children with Autism more so then a neurotypical child. I will be
doing interviews for that also in the upcoming weeks and putting
together a Music Ethnography. I am currently writing the proposal for this. <br />
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Lastly is Internet Marketing. For this class I had to start a new blog. Which I did, its connected to this one I believe. I named it the "Mass"ked Marketer. In the next couple days I will be posting my first entry on that blog. It is going to focus on Building Your Personal Brand through Social Media. If you have anything you want to add to this, tips, suggestions, constructive feed back, please let me know! My grade is based on the amount of traffic that is generated to the blog, and how many comments are there.<br />
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In a couple of days you can check here http://masskedmarketer.blogspot.com/ and see my post on how to build your personal brand.<br />
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If you want to participate in any of the other projects, please contact me to do so! I could absolutely use any and all help I can get! <br />
<br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-9707577180260384602013-04-04T11:54:00.001-05:002013-04-04T11:55:51.047-05:00AutismSapphira came to us three years ago- well almost three years ago. June 7th 2010 to be exact. She came with one pair of shorts, a shirt, two pajamas, and a sun dress that was three sizes to big for her-> this is what she wore home that day. She was energnic, but yet would slip into these periods were she would stare at the wall for several minutes- as long as we would allow. Or she would stare at the television-on or off- and rock. She was not verbal at all, she made noises but nothing you could understand. Even while singing. She was not potty trained at all, was not keen on any type of affection, a hug, kiss, even a small pat on the cheek.<br />
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Going to the store or out in public was a night mare. She would get in the cart and then scream as loud as she could, than laugh hysterically. If she wet her diaper, and we didn't catch it right away she would take it off and put it on her head til it covered her entire face.<br />
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She hated- absolutely hated- bath time, especially washing her hair. She was literally terrified of it. She would shake scream cry and try to escape. I would feel horrible, and often end up crying right along with her.<br />
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It was a huge adjustment for Greg and myself. We had been trying to have a baby for eight years. Infertility made it damn near impossible, and after trying adoption and fertility treatments, we decided to try foster care. We were licensed in October of 2009- actually on my birthday. Sapphira was our first placement. I remember the night we found out about her. We had just attended my sister Michaela's 8th grade choir concert, got a bite to eat, and then headed home. It was a bitter sweet night- a great concert but my Grandma Betty was in the nursing home and was not expected to make it much longer. Moving to that nursing home killed her spirit I believe, it also extinguished her will to live. But that is another story for another time. I checked my email before heading upstairs, while Greg was in the bathroom. My folder "fostercare" was lit up. My heart tumbled over in my chest. Maybe? No probably just another offering for a class. I stopped breathing when I read the subject "Potential Child" I quickly read the email and screamed "Greg we got a kid! A little girl!" I read the email, stopping when it said potential Autism... I wasn't really sure what Autism was, only knew what I saw with the movie "Rain Man." We started to pray, and the next morning at 8:30am I called the foster care coordinator. She really stressed the Autism, and I said we would meet her. I set up a meeting with her, the following Sunday after church. Through Church I couldn't concentrate, my stomach was in knots. I wanted this to work out so badly, but was afraid as well. Since reading the email, I had read countless pages of information on the internet, I checked out books from the library. I do so much research I had figures and facts pouring from my ears. We went and instantly fell in love. A week later we brought her home.<br />
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Bringing a child home is a huge change, we were used to being spontaneous. Going on weekend trips the spur of the moment. Making a "Walmart Run" at 3:00 am. A child changes that. A child with Autism absolutely changes that. Spontaneous is not in their vocabulary on most days. The first three months were definetily baptism by fire. They hand you this little child, and a bag of clothes, and that is it. We had to quickly adjust. Learning day by day how things affect her, she hated those gestures of affection, but every day I would give her a light hug. I worked tirelessly teaching her sign language. Using the sign and saying the word. I started potty training her. I made an appointment right away to confirm the diagnoses.She was already three and half at this point, and I knew that early detection/diagnoses and early intervention is crucial with Autism.<br />
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We got the diagnoses in August, and then were put on a wait list for therapy. We were told first nine months, which turned into a year, then eighteen months, and then another year. She started therapy on June 8 2012. In all of this waiting, we really weren't sure what to do. Or how to approach it. My aunt's friend gave us countless tips, and advice to keep us from pulling out our hair ( Thank You Tricia.) She was in school, and that helped some,. But things like washing her hair still set her off, and made me dread it. There were so many things we did wrong... we didn't know any better.<br />
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Tricia tried to help us when she could, but living four hours away she did the best she could.<br />
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I saw the light attending a conference put on by the Autism Society of Wisconsin. We attended in April of 2011. It was so informative, and really opened our eyes. We truly weren't alone.<br />
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The Autism Society of Wisconsin is a great resource for families. They are "dedicated to improving the
lives of all affected by autism in Wisconsin by providing information
and referral, family support, advocacy, professional development,
resource development, and by raising awareness and acceptance. " (http://www.asw4autism.org/) Through out the year they offer events like the convention, the Green Bay Gamblers Hockey Night, and classes, work shops and seminars through out the year.<br />
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They have helped our family so much, I wanted to give back. So as a Consultant for 31 gifts I am doing a fundraiser from now until April13th where you can shop on line, or order from me directly, and all the proceeds go to the Autism Society of Wisconsin. You can shop now at <a href="https://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E3070543&from=DIRECTLINK" target="_blank">http://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/catalog.aspx?eventId=E3070543&from=DIRECTLINK</a>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-91483110357249942192013-04-02T11:07:00.000-05:002013-04-02T11:09:52.542-05:00Autism Awareness MonthAs you may or may not know, I am a foster mom to a beautiful little girl Sapphira. She is six years old, has brown hair, big brown eyes, she has a huge spirit and a loving attitude. She has this smile that lights up the room, and makes you fall instantly in love with her. She also has Autism.<br />
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We've had Sapphira for almost three years. To us we are her parents, and to her she is our daughter. We hope some day we can adopt her. But that is a long time coming, and a struggle for another day. Today- well everyday, we struggle over mundain things, don't bite yourself, I am sorry we are running two minutes behind schedule, be nice to the therapist. These are every day things in her world. Things such as sensory breaks, weighted blankets, daily therapy, and IEPs.<br />
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Autism is a bunch of things all rolled into one, Awareness should be everywhere. But its not. We still get the looks, the stares, the rude, nasty, and sometimes downright hurtful comments. It shocks me that people think a good smack on the butt will cure behavior problems, or that staring at us with a sour puss will stop a melt down. It doesn't- it won't. But Autism is one of those things you can't see from the outside. Unlike someone in a wheel chair, Autism its not fully recognizable to the general public.<br />
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Awareness and Education are a must.<br />
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April happens to be Autism Awareness month. Locally we have tons of activities and events. The Green Bay Gamblers' Hockey Team will Host Autism Awareness Night on Friday April 12th. And the Autism Society of Wisconsin has their convention at the Kalahari April 18th, 19, and 20th. Tonight -April 2nd- is light it up Blue, where people all over the world are lighting things up in a blue shade to bring awareness. <br />
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As a mom I want to help as much as possible. I want to educate everyone I meet, hand out cards on Autism. But its just possible or feasible. But what can I do to help? Like a dutiful parent I have the sticker on the back of my car, you know the ribbon with all the puzzle pieces. I have my profile picture on Facebook the official Light It Up Blue Icon. I report status updates on Autism, but does this really change anything? Does it bring education, or awareness?<br />
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Back in January I started as an independent consultant with a direct sales company. We sell things like purses, organizers, thermals, and other items. I absolutely love this company and they encourage us to give back.<br />
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In spirit of giving back, and of bringing Awareness to Autism, I have decided to do a fundraiser through my direct sales company, all of the proceeds will be donated then to the Autism Society of Wisconsin. Its running from today April 2nd to April 13th. You can contact me via email at camrannie@yahoo.com for more details, or you can visit my Facebook page for event details and links to shop https://www.facebook.com/groups/449321628466940/Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-29963051037339246032013-03-11T11:12:00.001-05:002013-04-02T11:08:24.689-05:0030 Random FactsA couple years ago my sister in law, Leann, tagged me in a Facebook game. The idea was to get to know people better, and the rules were : Once you
have been tagged, you're suppose to write 30 facts, habits, or goals
about you. At the end choose 30 people to be tagged. You have to tag the
person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it’s because I want to know
more about you.<br />
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I found this old posting and wondered how much I changed or what my 30 facts would be today. I see a lot that would stay the same.<br />
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<b>1.) No matter what people may think Family is my everything</b><br />
This is still true for me. Family is my everything. We may be loud dysfunctional, fight occasionally, get on each others' nerves. But that's okay, because in the end we are always there for each other. And our love is deep!<br />
<br />
<b>2.)
Drama really ticks me off especially when its perpetuated over and
over by the same person, even more so if its family doing it</b><br />
This still ticks me off, I think it always will. I think what's worst is when there is one who creates it, others feed off of it, and just give it the steam it needs to perpetuate. Leave it alone, ignore it, bite your tongue and move on. <br />
<b>3.) I believe 99% in forgiveness but somethings you just can't forgive</b><br />
I am a huge believe in Forgiveness. Jesus taught his disipiles a prayer- The Lords' Prayer, or The Our Father. In it it clearly states "Forgive us our sins as <i>WE FORGIVE</i> those who tresspass against us." This is the whole Golden Rule concept. I am 99% of the way to forgiveness, and I am working hard to get that last way. Despite what others' may think, I believe forgiveness is an essential part of getting into heaven.<br />
<b>4.) I am sure Leann will finish my blanket... sometime</b><br />
She is crocheting me a blanket. She is also a mom to three, and very busy. So I know it will be done when she can finish it! <br />
<b>5.) Greg is my Godsend. The answer to my prayers for my husband</b><br />
Greg is my Godsend, is a rock-my rock, in this tubulation we call life. He is there for me whatever the need may be. Now this doesn't mean at times I don't get annoyed, frustrated, or downright angry with him. I think its impossible to live with someone, and not get annoyed by them. But love is sticking through that annoyance, and see his flaws, and loving him for those flaws. <br />
<b>6.) I love going to Celebration Church</b><br />
I do love Attending Celebration. We need to do so more often, and on a regular basis. <b> </b><br />
<b>7.) I pray every day, talk to God all the time, and talk to Grandma Betty Grandpa Jim and Papa daily. I miss them so much</b><br />
This has not changed, I still pray, and talk to my love ones in Heaven. I've added a couple sadly<b>. </b><br />
<b>8.) Being a foster parent is so much harder then I thought, but a million times more rewarding!</b><br />
I would move this up to maybe number one or two. Its a gazillion times harder then I ever thought/expected. Its hard to have these kiddos in your life. You want the best for them, and Wisconsin is completely for protecting the parent's rights, not the children's rights. Its really hard to watch kiddos go back to ill prepared parents, or kiddos who will be in the system for years due to parent's circumstances. <br />
<b>9.) I fight for what I believe in</b><br />
<b> </b>Absolutely! Especially when it comes to my kiddos. <b> </b><br />
<b>10.)
I couldn't be prouder of my goddaughters Michaela and Kayley. I hope
they learn from me to stand for what's right</b><br />
What is right, doesn't neccessairy mean what you think is right... <b> </b><br />
<b>11.) Even though I am so
excited for Shadowfever, I know I am going to cry</b><br />
<b> </b>This was an amazing *ending* to a Great book! Its continued in the Iced series. But I am not starting that until there are more books of it out! <b> </b><br />
<b>12.) I wish we could see our family in va more often, I wish I could show them everything we love about Wisconsin</b><br />
This says it all! I miss them... <br />
<u><b>13.)I would do pretty much anything for a Sheetz hotdog, a cherry 7-up slushie, and salsa doritoes</b></u><br />
<u><b> </b></u><b> </b> This is bold and underlined, because it is true! I crave this meal!<u> <b> </b></u><br />
<b>14.)I
hate when Greg has the tv turned up and I have to talk louder on the
phone and he says your so loud on that thing. nss! you have the tv
blaring.</b><br />
Usually when he says this now he talking to Sapphira! :)<b><br /></b><br />
<b>15.) Some day I hope to experience pregnancy myself</b><br />
At least once. <b> </b><br />
<b>16.) my husband thinks I am stubborn</b><br />
I think this is still true. <b> </b><br />
<b>17.) When I graduate my goal is to go to Scotland for the summer and intern</b><br />
That would have been an amazing opportunity! But when I graduated, Sapphira started therapy right after. It would have been irresponsible of me to take her, and I couldn't leave her! <b> </b><br />
<b>18.) when I come home from Scotland I want to start my own business focusing on graphics and photography</b><br />
Instead of going to Scotland, I went to Vegas for four days. And started back on school immediately for my bachelors degree. Hopefully when I graduate in Dec 2013, sometime shortly after we can make it to Scotland. <b> </b><br />
<b>19) I also want to build our own house then</b><br />
With loans the way they are, unless something changes, I think we will have to purchase a house. But I would love love love to build my dream house! <b><br /></b><br />
<b>20.) I would love to renew our vows on Mackinac Island with those closest to us</b><br />
<b> </b>Mackinac Island, or maybe Gretna Green in Scotland. I still want to do this, but I want to wait until we adopt Sapphira. <b> </b><br />
<b>21.)
I am 9 years and nine months apart from my Aunt Meme, I am also 9 years
and nine months apart from Delie my sister, Kayley is also 9 yrs about
from her, For the tradition to continue I need to get pregnant in Aug
2011</b>.<br />
This didn't happen but that is okay.... <br />
<b>22.) I absolutely love going to school at Globe... most days</b><br />
<b> </b> Now that I am working on my Bachelor's Degree, through Globe, I attend school on line. Which really works for me. <b> </b><br />
<b>23.) I love my Puggle Pugsley, and cant wait to add to my fur babies, a newfie and a maltipoo</b><br />
<b> </b>Where to start? I do love Pugsley, but he is becoming more and more high strung. I sometimes think maybe our family isn't the best for him. Sapphira is rough and tumble, and he is not. He gets stressed by her antics. I'd love a maltipoo, but I think for our family we need something sturdy, like a Newfie, Golden, or a Lab. <b> </b><br />
<b>24.) I love my sisters and my Cysters</b><br />
<b>25.) I have a huge crush on Gerard Butler</b><br />
<b> </b>Oh Aye! I do! mmm he is scrumdiliumpious! <br />
<b>26.) it bugs me when people dont turn their blinker on before turning or they forget to turn it off</b><br />
<b> </b>I absolutely hate that! <b> </b><br />
<b>27.) it bothers me that people treat children so callously</b><br />
<b> </b>This still shocks me, the way people treat their kids. And especially how they use their child for their own gains. As a foster parent I see this a lot sadly. Some social workers are in tune with it and adjust accordingly. While others, are oblivious. And the worst is the ones that know it, tell you about it and still let the parents get a way with it. For social workers like this... I hope there is a special place in hell for them. <br />
<b>28.) I cant wait for Summer 2011.. well really just summer</b><br />
<b> </b>Summer is my favorite time of the year! And Summer 2013 we are kicking off with a trip to Disney World. One of the many reasons I am trying to shape up! :) <b> </b><br />
<b>29.) I could really go for some pizza soup from Springhill Tavern</b><br />
I love their pizza soup, and their mozzerella sticks. MMM both are so yummy. But right now I am focused on my goals of losing weight, becoming more active, and healthier. I want to run the Color Run this year, and Bike around Mackinac Island, and next year I want to run the Princess Half Marathon at Disney. <b> </b><br />
<b>30.) I hope to one day visit every 50 states</b><br />
I still would love to do this, I think that would be amazing. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-45335458615481169382013-03-08T10:11:00.001-06:002013-03-08T10:11:52.391-06:00Here I am AgainHere I am again. Starting or restarting a weight loss journey once more. I know, I know, I know, I've been at this place several times before. but really this time I need to do it, I can't have any excuses any more. I have to hold MYSELF accountable and not depend on anyone else.<br />
<br />
I saw something on Pinterest that really inspired me, something about how a misstep in your diet is just like going the wrong direction, make a Uie and get back on track.. I really liked that.<br />
<br />
So why now? Why this time?<br />
<br />
A lot of reasons, Greg played me a video he did of me sleeping at night, and I stopped breathing several times, sometimes up to thirty seconds before I started again. Sleep apnea scares me, I don't want to wear the mask, I have issues with things touching my face. But I also don't want Sapphira to wake up one day and I am gone. This just made me realize I need to get serious about my weight, because not only is it sleep apnea, and PCOS it could be diabetes, Heart Disease, etc. <br />
<br />
I am tired of feeling sick and tired every day. I don't think this is the way to live my life, I think right now I am letting it pass me by. I have so many things I want to accomplish, do and experience. But I do not feel comfortable at the weight I am to do so. I am tired of watching life from the side lines, or sitting back. I want to be a participant in life.<br />
<br />
So I made up fitness work sheets that I am going to "journal" on every day. And I made up a big goal sheet, a mini goal sheet and rewards.<br />
<br />
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Major Goals: </div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Lose 165 pounds </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Go down 8 dress sizes </div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>WORK OUT EACH DAY</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>BLOG</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>WALK 16700 STEPS daily increasing each month</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Complete Color Run</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Autism Walk</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Easter<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>March 31</b></div>
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</span></span></span>-20 pounds</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Fit into Purple Shirt</div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
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loss 35</sup></b></div>
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</span></span></span>Work on arms</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Walk 17000 Daily </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">May 22<sup>nd</sup>
-50</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>-15 pounds</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Fit into Goal Outfits </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work out daily</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Walk 17500 Steps daily </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">June 30<sup>th</sup>
70</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>-20 pounds</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work out daily</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Start training for 5k </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Pick out Goal outfit for Delie bday! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">July 30<sup>th</sup>
90</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>-20 pounds</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work out Daily</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Bike around Mackinaw Island</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Continue 5k training </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Aug 30<sup>th</sup>
105 </b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>-15 pounds</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Complete Color Run</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo6; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work out Daily </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sept 30<sup>th</sup>
120</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>-15 pounds </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work out Daily </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo7; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Pick out Goal Item For Birthday</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Oct 30<sup>th</sup>
135</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>–15 pounds</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work Out Daily</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo8; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Autism Walk </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Nov 30 150 </b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo9; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>-15 pounds</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo9; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Work out Daily</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo9; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Pick Out Goal Outfit for Christmas</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dec 30- 165</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">GOALS COMPLETE</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BUILD New GOALS</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">CELEBRATE In Vegas
for NYE! </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">REWARDS</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">MARCH-WEAR PURPLE TO EASTER, GET MANI TO
MATCH</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">APRIL- BE IN SHAPE FOR DISNEY, GET NEW SHOES
GOWALK SKETCHERS </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">MAY-FIT INTO GOAL ITEMS, GET MANI FOR DISNEY</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">JUNE-BUY OUTFIT FOR DELIE’S BIRTHDAY, </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">JULY-BUY CUTE WHITE SHORTS/HEAD BAND/SHIRT
FOR COLOR RUN </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">AUGUST- SIGN UP FOR DANCE CLASSES , START
PLANNING VEGAS</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">SEPT- PICK OUT GOAL ITEM TO WEAR ON BIRTHDAY
FOR DANCING </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">OCTOBER-GET PINK EXTENSIONS IN,</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">NOV- PURCHASE GOAL OUTFIT FOR CHRISTMAS </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">DEC-PACK FOR VEGAS, WITH ALL NEW CLOTHES. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So you may have noticed I have listed Goal Outfits for March and May. Thats what the pictures are of. Including one of myself now. yuck!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidP__SxcF5BM7b4y8-_Eo6NuohYeRQcZaj5MUBVz8j_q9YpTmV5odTl5dAu1kpr-N4gql4hPHZpSfANaWNvdvMMMrjKgmuHUhpXqQnKQTHG_ZyZqMDOkr_aTXMMds3XVaZ6wSpRbRO81Y/s1600/goal1easter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidP__SxcF5BM7b4y8-_Eo6NuohYeRQcZaj5MUBVz8j_q9YpTmV5odTl5dAu1kpr-N4gql4hPHZpSfANaWNvdvMMMrjKgmuHUhpXqQnKQTHG_ZyZqMDOkr_aTXMMds3XVaZ6wSpRbRO81Y/s200/goal1easter.jpg" width="148" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3l792xQzLRPeFkNKrsUEPDTSnD_riGTfyXYvQtZ6SBrWJcI5LPlY7mK0jBU_JKs9fD1m0vG8m9J7x8514oTUUOhmSI6Z_hsNXnA2c3DtXUQ5IIAlR042OLuJt6HKzLWDSe6wWW18cQs/s1600/goalwd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3l792xQzLRPeFkNKrsUEPDTSnD_riGTfyXYvQtZ6SBrWJcI5LPlY7mK0jBU_JKs9fD1m0vG8m9J7x8514oTUUOhmSI6Z_hsNXnA2c3DtXUQ5IIAlR042OLuJt6HKzLWDSe6wWW18cQs/s200/goalwd3.jpg" width="148" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I really have to do something about this, even if its just to save on buying another airline ticket. Or so I can ride the rides at Disney with Sapphira with out worrying am I to big. So I don't pass out from the oppressive heat in Florida. </span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
So this Purple Top I want to wear for Easter Meal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxWHvRFAdetyINofMJV4x0wuxjENnz-JjP1mmOo61Gu39pczOGuUxiNfslJqvn7TXPvet3cMn416xBE8UEsdDJHyBjEpivcPWuPVNd7K6DZokr1gnos93B80n1J0kUo8rkrPQVhiOamA/s1600/goalwd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdxWHvRFAdetyINofMJV4x0wuxjENnz-JjP1mmOo61Gu39pczOGuUxiNfslJqvn7TXPvet3cMn416xBE8UEsdDJHyBjEpivcPWuPVNd7K6DZokr1gnos93B80n1J0kUo8rkrPQVhiOamA/s200/goalwd1.jpg" width="148" /></a></div>
These are goal outfits for while at Disney. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwrsfyQg-_JYk_OOQP8EniNWszRA2B7UGCC-_jomUxFlKe_kwKXlrfNvkOQ_7CP9BDTbSTfF8q4Z4bpi-cdqObTj4C2Yz5c38oOLEo4Hm4kK0uKsmGrQKo6ntemn1Wgb5NwZJAoasR8s/s1600/goalwd2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNwrsfyQg-_JYk_OOQP8EniNWszRA2B7UGCC-_jomUxFlKe_kwKXlrfNvkOQ_7CP9BDTbSTfF8q4Z4bpi-cdqObTj4C2Yz5c38oOLEo4Hm4kK0uKsmGrQKo6ntemn1Wgb5NwZJAoasR8s/s200/goalwd2.jpg" width="148" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGhzYDyEaE9wemO9pwBAitPQZCPqHVRHHdm6kc0vKs6rZcjjnyjM08BgsaAWQskW0Uwl9hSXpZF1u5A0H8FWof-oNM2cahAr8c5MaiD17ONbJbtHawQzHKQfWrG9Z0f1R8kkyW3deYV4/s1600/IMG_0765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGhzYDyEaE9wemO9pwBAitPQZCPqHVRHHdm6kc0vKs6rZcjjnyjM08BgsaAWQskW0Uwl9hSXpZF1u5A0H8FWof-oNM2cahAr8c5MaiD17ONbJbtHawQzHKQfWrG9Z0f1R8kkyW3deYV4/s320/IMG_0765.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
Greg and I with a Heart Shaped Chip... he ate it after this... Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-54810119321866887992012-05-29T11:00:00.001-05:002012-05-29T11:00:58.927-05:00Our Summer Bucket ListEvery year I try to cram as much as I can in to those few short months known as summer. It never happens, so this year I made a list, checked it twice...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> </span>
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">My Summer Bucket
List</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Take a Paddle Boat
ride</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Fly Kites</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Run through a
sprinkler</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Play a board game</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Lay in the grass and
watch the clouds float by</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Make fresh homemade
lemonade</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Have a water balloon
fight</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Watch fireflies</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Make koolaid pops</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Build a sand castle</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Read a book under a
tree</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go fishing</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Make a dated family
hand print piece of art</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go on a nature hike</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Draw outside with
sidewalk chalk</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Lay on a blanket and
watch the stars</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Dance under the moon</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go Strawberry
picking</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go to the drive in
movie</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Campout in the
backyard</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Make something tye
died</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Keep my toes painted
all summer</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go Tubing</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Sit on the beach
with a good book </span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Sit on the beach
with good company</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Eat ice cream at the
marina</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go camping</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Have a Party</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Have a media free
day: no computers, cell phones, tvs, or tablets. (camera’s & music are ok) </span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Hold my own parade</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go for a bike ride</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Decorate my flip
flops</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Take one photo a day</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go on a romantic
date with greg</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Visit the Zoo</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Visit the splash
pads! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go on a Treasure
Hunt</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Visit a State Park</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Make a Music Video</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go to a Fair</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Take Sapphira to Six
Flags </span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go Mini Golfing</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Play baseball with
friends and family</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Make A windchime</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Go on a picnic</span></div>
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<span style="color: #604a7b; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Get with my sisters, and girl cousins, and watch Spice World, and pretend we are the Spice Girls once more. Introduce this to the new generation of kids (ie michaela, emily, kayley, sapphira...) </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-85268607409819075512011-08-01T19:59:00.002-05:002012-10-02T11:12:37.973-05:00"You can't deny laughter, when it comes it plops down in your favorite chair and stays as long as it wants." Stephan King, "Hearts in Atlantis"<br />
<br />
I love this quote, because for me it is so true. I can't tell you the times I have tried, in vain, not to laugh. Trying to contain my laughter, is like trying to stop water bubbling over the top of a waterfall in these situations. And most often ends up completely backfiring, and the situation much worst then if I just let out a little giggle instead of fighting it. Ususally when I fight it, I end up snorting, then laughing like a ninny because I snorted, and then the whole thing goes to hell in a hand basket. This has happened to me at church, at school, and other opportune moments. <br />
<br />
Its much worst when I have family near me. For instance, last year after my grandmother's funeral, my aunt, my cousin and I stayed up talking. Taking comfort in one another, sharing our grief. Eventually we started laughing and giggling over stories about my grandmother, little things that may not seem humorous to others but to us little inside jokes, gifts from my grandmother to help us smile in a time of utmost sadness. How she taught us to kick off our underwear and catch it - a trick that is sure to delight your future husband one day. How instead of mashing her strawberries, she blended them instead. How she drove away from a gas station with the air hose still attached to the tire, and a week later at the same gas station she drove away with the gas pump still in the gas tank.<br />
It was late- well past midnight, our respective significant others asleep long ago. We sat on the couch next to one another, or in my aunt's case sprawled across my cousin and I. My aunt commented, in a way only close girlfriends might to one another, that she had an itchy "clam" I, slightly drunk off laughter, made up a song about itchy clams. This sent all three of us into a fit of giggles and uproarious laughter, the kind that takes the breath from you, where your belly hurts, and tears roll down your face. My aunt has a nifty trick she does, well not really a trick, but at times her foot will spasm, and her middle toe will stick straight up, it looks like its flipping you off. I'd find it offensive, if it wasn't so damn funny.<br />
<br />
Well me singing the itchy clam song again for the third time to her laughter, she stretched out her legs on top of me and my cousin, and had that foot spasm. Which just made my cousin and I laugh harder. In great gasping breaths I tried to roll her off of me and make a dash for the bathroom, but I couldn't, my aunt was gasping for her doing her "potty dance" stance laying across me, when my cousin jumps up starts hollering "get up Meme's going to pee.." well that did it for me, and I couldn't hold it any more. I wet my pants, my aunts new couch, finally rolling her off the couch, I collapsed to the floor, laughing harder then I was before, trying to explain it was me. I went and changed, and we moved to a different area of the living room, continuing our talk. I don't think we made to bed much before six the next morning.<br />
<br />
But six short hours later, I sat in an overcrowded over heated high school gym as my little brother graduated from high school. During a tearfully, beautiful "You raise me Up" sung by these high school seniors, I started to think on the last nights events. Soon tears were rolling down my face, my body shaking, as I struggled to contain my laughter. My uncle thinking to console me, rubbed my back, as I laughter great guffaws into my husband's underarm. To this day, if I think about the couch incident, I laugh. no matter where I am or what time it is, or who I am with. <br />
<br />
Laughter, for me truly is the best medicine, it makes things seem so much better. A lot of times, especially recently if I hadn't laughed I would of cried. Laughter is so much more cleansing. It truly settles into the soul, and takes root there, making the moment infinitely brighter, infinitely more positive.<br />
<br />
If your wondering, I did buy upholstery cleaner and cleaned my aunt's couch, I think that was the most embarrassing moment I have with in my family. Lord knows I have had many.<br />
<br />
The point of this long rambling post? I think we need a little more laughter. Some good old fashion, laughter, the kind you most likely experienced last as a kid. Where tears roll down your face, your belly hurts from the strain, your breathless, and yes maybe you pee a little. To many of us as adults take everything so seriously. I am proud to say that I have a good belly laugh as my grandmother would say, at least once a day. Sometimes over something only I find funny. sometimes over a past joke, or remark. Sometimes, just because if I don't laugh, I will cry.Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-35765328860982255962010-12-14T08:43:00.002-06:002010-12-14T08:49:45.899-06:00My Christmas List1.) For us to be able to Keep Sapphira<br />2.) Family all together on Christmas Day<br />3.) To gain will power and strength in the new year to lose wieght<br />4.) A Baby. natural, adopted, foster any of the above<br /><br />5.) Bare Minerals Make Up<br />6.) New Winter Tires<br />7.) Adobe PhotoShop CS5<br />8.) MacBook<br />9.) Any Lens for my Nikon Camera<br />10.) A Shoe Flash<br />11.) A Nikon D90<br />12.) A ring<br />13.) A GetAway Trip<br />14.) I wish I could afford to get my husbands family here for Christmas/visit<br />15.) I wish I could afford to get my husbands camp family here for Christmas/visit<br />16.) An A in all my classesSophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2470749470689298231.post-29205829364657594922010-09-29T15:40:00.003-05:002010-09-29T17:10:48.666-05:00"Be Miserable or Motivate yourself. Whatever has to be done, its ALWAYS your choice"I love that quote. Its so easy to be lazy and blame everything on everything else but who needs to take responsibilty.. ME! And I do I am absolutely so tired of being miserable in my body! No more excuses!<br /><br />I have all these wants and desires but I don't fight for them. I just let life go by me, one moment melting into the next, never really participating never really enjoying it. THAT has got to stop today! I am tired of letting my shape hold me back. I will change that shape and become active and healthy. I will do it for my family, my friends, my future, and most importantly me.<br /><br />My goals For october are:<br />1.) walk at least ten minutes a day<br />2.) Soda on weekends only<br />3.) Yoga and Zumba at least 3 times a week<br />4.) Swim at least 2 times aweek<br />5.) Have at least 2 date nights<br />6.) Blog at least once a week<br />7.) Look for the positive and enjoy it without worry<br /><br />My Goals from Now til December<br />1.) Stay Active<br />2.) By New Years Eve Lose 4 dress sizes<br />3.)Grow Spiritually<br />4.) Take time out to enjoy my blessings<br />5.) Thank God for Each Moment<br /><br />My Life time goals:<br />Build Dream Home<br />Intern in Scotland<br />Photograph the Northern and Southern lights<br />See Ireland<br />Visit Each of the 50 States<br />Learn Italian<br />Adopt<br />See Italy<br />See Greece<br />Be a positive influence on a child<br />Graduate By June 2012<br />Never stop reading<br />Dance in the Rain<br />Kiss in the Rain<br />Meet my CystersSophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18131979825442421019noreply@blogger.com0