Two Monkeys

** Update..Meeting with Director of Special Education in our School District..IT's Happening!

2012-02-02T00:12:00.002-08:00

Together,NCLB and IDEA hold schools accountable for making sure students with disabilities achieve high standards. In the words of Secretary Spellings, "The days when we looked past the underachievement of these students are over. No Child Left Behind and the IDEA 2004 have not only removed the final barrier separating special education from general education, they also have put the needs of students with disabilities front and center. Special education is no longer a peripheral issue. It's central to the success of any school."

It feels like I go in long spans of Blogging silence, and then a huge explosion of events. This short 5 months of Kaids 3rd Grade have been some of the most difficult for our family. I guess I do a fairly decent job ( hate that kudos on your back business.) of not seeing sometimes that things are not going well. If you are familiar with IEP's you know that they are very extensive, goals, details,time lines..etc. We have been with the school on So many occasions, Behavior..this..that.. and 2 weeks ago we came in for a re-evaluation of his earlier IEP, only to have his teacher say that Kaid had NOT, i repeat NOT been receiving Special services that was listed in his IEP. I am not going to go in details.. but.. this has been a tough 2 weeks, and longer if you know just how much I have been fighting for his rights, advocating the BEST we can, as Any parent would. From laughing to Crying, to screaming, to down right Pissed off, This is a Good place. What I have learned through this process is #1, you do What EVER you can for your kids, ( honestly) #2. I have always thought being the "nice"guy will pay off... Sorry, that is not the case. At least, it's what i have been experiencing.. I am a UPSET momma, and I have the LAW on my side, I feel like an outlaw or something, going in to meet the Sheriff, it sounds weird, that I would say OUTlaw, but.. Please.. what " they" the school,& district, have been able to do, is completely WRONG. I am praying for change, I am hoping for my nerves to be calm. I know that I am an advocate for the Many MANY mom's that I have talked with that are/have experienced similar situations with their School District, not following IEP's or The Law. I am Ready for this, I know I am on the right side, and only want the best.

I am taking 14credit In college, Kent is taking 15, Work Full-time.. Busy 3 year old.. However this is on my mind all the time.. Giving the school the Benefit of the Doubt, has been for 6+ years.. I think that Is VERY generous don't you? Friday, you can not come soon enough!

He will not give us more than we can handle?

2011-11-14T23:09:00.001-08:00

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me." ~Erma Bombeck

I am really not sure why I have to be pushed for so long, at such maxed out levels. I do have faith that I am needing to learn, grow from these experiences. I am really at the end of the rope with feeling like a complete failure with our sweet, yet extremely challenging kaid. With that out in the universe now, our life is also dedicated to a wonderful, lovable 3 year old as well that wants just as much of our attention then his older brother.

Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it you can. ~Danny Kaye

I have been wanting to write a post for a long time, however I have been without words as to how this will come across. This is me, this is how I feel and I need to just explode!!

Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity- Martin Luther King

I would love LOVE to wake up with peace and calmness, just once..

I would love to not be kicked,punched,and slapped..by my 8year old everyday.

I would love to understand what my child wants/needs

I would love to not see my 3 year old scream in fear of his brother

I would love to not have to hide in my room with karson, in fear of getting hit from kaid.

I would love for people to not stare at me when I have to go to the store, and kaid is uncontrollable.

I would love for others to remember some kids do not fit in the "cookie cutter mold"

I would love for kaid to wake up and be happy 24/7

I would love for people to educate themselves with what disabilities are. they have ABILITIES!

I would love for people to not be so ignorant.

I would love for kaid to feel calm

I would love peace

I would love for all his challenges to go away

I wish he would have friends to play with

I wish people would want to play with him

I wish other would know just a sliver of what I deal with DAILY

I hope I might always listen to the promptings to guide my children

I hope this passes soon.

I am barley here, T- for Timeout !

2011-08-12T23:57:00.000-07:00

Finial are next week.. the End of summer term is almost over. I will NOT ever EVER.. EVER take summer term again. Hardest 8weeks, my little dudes have been really patient with me, for that I would LOVE to take them to Greece. Last week when we were cleaning, our photo albums came out, and I was able to show them all Greece when I lived there for a short time, How awesome it would be to be back.

This poor little blog.. Man I have lost interest.. My once, love for writing in here, has turned into a pretty pitiful blog,( admitting it's the first step right..lol. ) So, now that that's out of the way.. I am going to Work on it. I still have no clue how other's have time to blog, tell me how, and I will..Teach me the ways oh masters of blog land.. ( little sarcasm.)

Some things that I Would just Love.. and some things are just meant to come again later. I have heard this stage in our life, the --" Phase" will pass. Contrary to this we have been scratching out heads.. wondering when, when will the......... throwing food, peeing on the floor, locking the bathroom door while dumping out sweet little ol' " Mr. Bubbles " out & water all over the floor, squeezing bugs, scraped knees, soggy goldfish crackers will pass.. When?? I am Truly putting in my time here.. but People this momma is Really tired. It's from Sun up. 6am, until 1030pm. screaming constantly..This is my vent. I Do not wish this on anyone, I love being a mom, however that's hardly what I feel like. Kent and I, have had to really lean on one another. What does not Break us will make us stronger right... Bring it!

1. A Camera..Our camera has taken a turn for the worse, and it is not going to survive..complexity in having a camera I cant figure out anyways..

2. ORDER!! wouldn't that be Awesome! I would just LOVE Love.. Oh man LoVe to sleep in my cozy bed without KIDS, or our office space put together, papers all tucked away in their little cubbies, pencils all sharpened, soft music playing, Yeah that will be only in my dreams I know.. but these pictures will have to do for now.

1. Clean living room=dreamy

2. Sleep in my own bed, W/zero kids!
3.Living room w/out crayon marks on furniture=heaven
4. Organization Main "hub"= Ye ah!
5. Tucked away Tv & Toys= no tripping and stubbing toes..

6. Do I need to say anything?? I think not.. Priceless
A clean office..

This is Dreamy... I would Love... Someday.. Someday..

Get it out Girl!

2011-06-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight I have Hit a wall. At times I wish this was literal..( kidding..) Really, I am just extremely frustrated. I feel as a mom I do so much to just make the boys happy, then the hubs, do the school work, finish CNA, hurry up to finish school.. and then there's the lack of time to just breathe. I feel even bad just writing this out. I am too tired to lift a pen, and writing on my laptop seems WAY easier. Tonight, my Camera died..well.. I am not sure what happened to it..It just does not seem to work like It use to.( It's fuzzy..haaa) THIS is where I am FRUSTRATED!! I have Zero clue how to use this Gadget my Lovely hubby bought me several years back. For Professional photog's (not an amateur like me) nonetheless.. I was grateful and started snapping pictures right away. And now it's broken, It's just "Stuff". Though this would be such an easy fix before, either fix it, or replace it. Though this transition in our family ( School, unemployment..) is a difficult one for me. I am loving all I have learned, yet.. still feel clueless on life, Really? I m seeing the bigger hand, though, the day to day mindless junk that gets infiltrated just gets to much to deal with. Just when the storm calms down for a bit, there is one soon approaching. I feel just beat down, I wish sometimes people would just know what was going on with each other, read there minds ( that could be bad though) I have always been a person that wears my heart on my sleeve, though lately, I have been quite calloused. I see this about me, and It makes me sad. At times I just get sad to how much fun I " use to" have, just with my friends, and having time for them. I cant believe that I am actually writing this. It's just really killing me.. Has anyone just wanted to say something to someone but if you did the person would most likely get so offended resulting to never speak to you again?? I just wish there was not such a huge brick wall up for so many people that are in my life. I just wish that when you say something to other's they would really know that you meant it, and were honest about it. Almost Ten years together and it's like sometimes the things he Say's comes out of the woodwork.. to be SO random.. yet leaves me mad that he got our " Conversation" wrong.. lol

Growing up my parents taught me the golden rule, and I have lived by this, OR have TRULY tried.. " Do unto others as you would have done unto you." I do this..... but what happens when you get the life sucked right out of you.. and you have zero, Nada, a FAT Nothing left to give??? Oh.. I know.. YOU KEEP GIVING!!! Do it until... That's Right.. ( Sarcasm tonight..)

Well.. on a side note.. the Boys are Awesome! and Kent is Getting straight A's!

****** Warning LOTS of Pictures ************* I just decided to do a major pic post as well.

Uncle Kory loves the boys

Surgery day May 2011
Key fell asleep at Breakfast
Pretty much sums Karr up... Ball's Balls Balls!
Oh, and Mixing.. he's my little Scientist..
The BEST Sensory New Toy! Better then Play Doh.

Seriously..They got in my Snowboarding gear
Watching me do Yoga in the Am.
Wiggly.. Wiggly..Boy that I love!

Our Destination Vacation.. Great Wolf.. Kid Camp Room

I miss this little guy..He's growing too fast..

Our Good Friends the Hatch's/Family
Mid-singing..
Amy & Lance Hatch
Key
Dozer Days 5/2011

Family Hike, at Lacamas Lake
All on his own. Posed for the camera.

Really Neglected..

2011-05-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time I had all the time in the world, I so wish for this time again. I have been looking at so many blogs lately, and feel a sense of major NEGLECT! There is So much that has happened from March.. it's So hard for me to scoop up all the events that have transpired and lump them in to one post.. I WILL TRY though! So. with in the next Week ... Hopefully If I can still walk after my Soccer game tomorrow..

Feels Good to be me..

2011-03-07T13:13:00.001-08:00

Really have so much to post about.. I am soaking this all in right now.. Kent has been on a long journey.. We all have, all I can say is Thank you Kid Rock for coming on the Radio the other day, so I could here this song.. It feels Good to be me, Granted I still do not have EVERYTHING figured out.. but most.. This is an Awesome place to be and I love it!

Be Mine Valentine

2011-02-14T22:18:00.000-08:00

Seriously so proud of myself actually posting, right after I imported my photos. Today was So fun.. I LOVE LOVE all holidays, anytime to decorate the house and bake.. However Valentines day is especially Sweet- this year. In the Shannon Fam, we love traditions.. Though with things a wee bit different lately, I decided to change it up.. This year was our first, but not the last...

RAINBOW Pancakes. There is something about coloring your food bright and vibrant colors to my my boys ultra happy! What ever I can do for that I will!!I Have been really good lately by watching what I eat, ie.. no pancakes, sugary foods.. though today Rainbow Day I totally blew that. I am really Tired, So.. it's not going to be really detailed.. I will describe on pictures.. Hope everyone had a Wonderful Lovely day! I m actually sad to see the pink sparkles...slowly fade away from the decorations I have here.. Next Year will be even Brighter!

I love my Awesome Boys who Truly were My valentines this year! They were great sports, not minding me getting all cheesy with their valentines gifts..

----- Be Advised.. Many Pictures lol.. ------

Canyon Beach 2wks ago, love running on the beach.
Totally went to town.. well.. threw most off and ate what he wanted.
Of course..#1 for Kaid. He is Easy to please with food coloring..

I would have done things differently.. when making these.. but not bad for 1st time.
ok, don't judge, this is Why I cant eat pancakes.. I only eat them with

peanut-butter and tons of syrup. I am ok now until next year.

K.. these are a little out of order.. Kar was in the sink, as he was throwing up

from his cough.. only to realize he was eating these sweet morsels.
Strawberry marshmellows.. I had to Stack up for sure.. guilty pleasure around here..

The sickie in the sink..
Oh my.. I could not live with out.
The beginning of a great tradition! Rainbow night.

Kaid made all by himself..( with help of course..) for his class party.
Happy?

Little did I know that most of the frosting was being devoured by this sweet culprit.

To infinity and Beyond..

2011-02-08T22:39:00.000-08:00

Seriously.. this title is what I would LOVE to just do right about now go to infinity and BEYOND>> Lovley Buz.. is the Latestest BUZZ in our house.. EVERYTHING is Buzz this, Buzz that..lol. Nah, I just would love to rest.. ( In time Iam sure that will come.) I had an amazing interview today, and for the first time I really think it went Awesome! I am trying to not get too excited, as so many have been disappointments. What I know, is I am Perfect for this job, I would be a Great asset to this amazing company... I KNOW who I am. All these "little" phrases you would really not catch me saying sometime ago, I just did not have the confidence. Feb 17th, is when the Hiring panel said they would be letting everyone know about employment.. I am praying with everything I have!

I had a little " mini" surgery on my scalp yesterday, of which I realized I could not wash my hair.. for the big day today.. I was so worried about looking like a hot mess with the crusty iodine & blood mixture.( ok.. i cleaned it up.. it's not that bad...) I just feel like this is ONE break that I REALLY.. REALLY>>> need.. I mean, don't get me wrong, I would Love.

L--- O--V---E-- the break of S LEEP, or SHOWERING alone w/out screaming kids in the bathroom, or Dinner that is not just standing and shoveling it in..ok... that's all the complaints today..

Here is to what's to come, what is left to discover, and what I still need to learn..

Ps... Kent Is doing Better.. It's hard not seeing him for so long, and not getting him home for such a long long time.. But this is going to be WORTH it.. I just know it.. Positive in.. Negative Out..

Looking forward to my Hike on Friday.. Please No Rain....

D Day..

2011-01-27T02:14:00.000-08:00

As I was looking for a new picture to change my header, This Yummo drink was screaming out to me. What a fun time we had in the Bahama's, you totally can not go wrong with Virgin Strawberry daiquiris! Day 1 today.. or.. who the crap knows if I am suppose to be counting this. It is what it is.. I know that what is happening is really great, but really sad as well.. I am a ball of emotions..

Keep moving forward.... I have 2 upcoming interviews, this is what is AWESOME!! You truly can never change what you do not admit, today I have admitted so SO much to myself, and was shown a little sweet lesson. I love what sweet comfort my savior brings me, knowing how tough things are, I am NEVER alone. Music has always been very instrumental in my life, now more than ever I find a peace each musical note brings me. Tonight skimming the hymn book, I flipped right to, BE STILL MY SOUL, as the tears rolled down my cheeks, I felt the warmest feeling, as though I was wrapped with a thousand warm blankets, I know he lives and loves me to the end.

1. Be still, my soul: The Lord is on thy side;

With patience bear thy cross of grief or pain.

Leave to thy God to order and provide;

In ev'ry change he faithful will remain.

Be still, my soul: Thy best, thy heav'nly Friend

Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

2. Be still, my soul: Thy God doth undertake

To guide the future as he has the past.

Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;

All now mysterious shall be bright at last.

Be still, my soul: The waves and winds still know

His voice who ruled them while he dwelt below.

3. Be still, my soul: The hour is hast'ning on

When we shall be forever with the Lord,

When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,

Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.

Be still, my soul: When change and tears are past,

All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

Nine

2011-01-19T21:33:00.000-08:00

As I sit here tonight, I am fully of emotions. I have been writing in my journals, for years however this new world of online technology is easier lately..

#1- 9 years ago today I married my best friend. Blue it's been a ride.. that's for sure :)

#2. Kent, is on the Mend.. it's just...

And this is where I have been... for a week, Kent is on the Mend.. it's just I am not sure how

to deal with the "news" his Dr's. told him. In his operation, they removed 2.5 feet of his intestine, and part of his colon, after removing a large fist-size mass in his intestine. I remember when his surgeon came out and talked to me, he kept saying he was not expecting to find what he found. At the time, I was in a daze, just excited the surgery went smoothly, Way longer though then it was originally told, ( 3.5 hrs.) I remember when I asked what he found, e just said they are sending the mass off for a biopsy. Two weeks later in Kent's follow up apt, the Lovely C word.. Cancer. His Doctor told him, that they are extremely confidant they removed the cancer, not having to have treatments, or even a follow up. How can this be??

What is going though my mind, is I am just so grateful this was caught early, though what if some of the cancer spread some other place?

I am the TOTALLY worry wort now.. Kent said, after his countless MRI's, and CT scans'/blood work, they did not find anymore. Kent has been really tired lately, and still not able to do much ( to be expected..) It's just, I just do not know how to deal with all this... with the news's that what they removed was cancer, I think about " what if" What if, he never went in.. and just kept ignoring his symptoms. What if, it has spread and just not found it..

OK, you get what I am saying. I have truly never been here, but then again.. lately my life and they experience we have gone though have been intense. I truly know and believe this is preparing me,us for greater things to come. By staying optimistic, positive and up beat this is what helps my BOYS, all of them. I PRAY with everything I have, that can. When I am not able to be the positive upbeat mom, I go to the gym..( So often lately..)

Still no luck with landing a job. I am praying like no tomorrow, and have faith that I will it's just a matter of time, stressful here for that reason.

Then, I start to feel sad that I am leaving karson with daycare while I go to work classes, ( prep to find job.) Can you tell I am all over the place. Yesterday when I was dropping karson off at the babysitter, he looks at me.." mommy, me go, work" I about died.. My heart was just breaking.. I cried the whole way to the employment center.

I keep telling myself, heavenly father does not give us more then we can handle.. it's just I am having a bit of a question with this. I am not going to even say just how far I'm pushed, as I wish for no more, These lesson's that I have learned, I Totally HAVE, CHECK, CHECK.. I really want the EASY street.. Please..

Again.. Zero pictures.. Sorry.. I am just Lame about taking pictures, taking my kids to the park, making crafty games or activities for them.. oh.. I am just not having a Awesome mom blog anymore..... ( That's about all the Debbie Downer I will give ya.. ) ah.. that felt good..

Me and my Lone Ranger

2010-12-31T22:16:00.000-08:00

Got home from visiting kent in the hospital. His surgery was successful today..{ as of right now.. things are going smoothly} His surgery was a little over 3 hours, and took 2.5 hours in the recovery area trying to get his pain down. I feel so sad for him, I have truly never seen him in so much pain, and just being un comfortable, however we both know this is what he needed.. His doctor's and nurses advised him/me that this is going to be a long road as the type of operation, and estimating him to stay in the hospital from 5-10 more days.From talking with his surgeon, the block was so severe that it was only a matter of time before things were quite different. I am truly grateful for his nurses, they are truly amazing. It's never easy seeing your loved one's in pain, blessed that this will be the beginning to better health for him, securing his longer future! Happy new years everyone! So, as I bring in the new year grateful for kent's health and me and the Boy's as well.. Kaid is passed out, it's just me and my lone ranger Karsey.. I am crossing my finger he stays up.. lol.. He's been eating candy.. Is it selfish I just want a toast for New Years?

Man.. I think it's just going to me and my " Pretend" friend.. AIR......

Goodnight Boys.. Happy New Years.. Good Night Kent.. We sure Love you Bunches!!

I love you Blue Eyes

2010-12-29T20:52:00.000-08:00

Over the past several weeks.. kent has been feeling really ill. Emergency room's, medications, then.. it seems he feels "slightly" better. Four days ago, I took him to the ER again, with severe pain in lower abdomen, 3 hours later..MRI/CT/xray.. they did find Blockage in his intestines. Man... Cant they just give him like oil or something? { totally kidding..}. So, the discharge paper's advised to meet with our surgeon the next day at 8am. This Monday came, within the first ten min of meeting with the surgeon, and pressing on his stomach, { painful for Kent} he said he was admitting him. { Whoa, whoa... Wait.. this is not happening, I mean... Kent is needing to go to work, to take care of us..} This is what I am thinking... How life can change in just days..

Fast forward to today..

He is still in Sw Medical hospital, and Surgery is scheduled for Friday. I am so scared, and grateful at the same time, is this even possible? Scared that the support /provider is going to be " out of commission" for quite sometime. Scared that.. Momma needs to find a JOB ASAP! Scared to not let the boys see my stress level escalate, and see me cry unable to stop. Scared, that something will be discovered while in surgery. As of now, it's 18" of his intestines, and colon that need to be cut out, and re-attached. I am sure.. I will be learning so much more. The Doctor did advise kent that they will be doing a biopsy to check for cancer in the colon, THAT IS WHAT just terrifies me. I have been prepped for for quite some time for this..lovely trial, Granted, I truly thought I had a little more time to prepare. I still need to finish my schooling for my degree, I am So close, yet.... with my lovely trial that have taught me... Schooling has been slightly challenging to finish, { IT WILL BE DONE} This is My 2011 GOAL!

I truly have So much to be Grateful for, So much to thank Heavenly Father for. I am not going to say I love my trials... However I love how much more in tune to my savior I become, directing me to the right path. I have had some amazing spiritual events that have happened in the last several days to testify to me just how much my Heavenly Father loves me and my family. I know with every fiber in my body that we are So not alone in our trials, We are So not alone~ I love you all, and the posts' in the future might be.. just about what is going on with kent.. For my therapy.. to just release all what Is happening...

xo- Dre

( blue is kent's nickname.. as you can tell why..)

I miss my Blue eyes staring back at me.. I love you Kent.. We will all get though this

together and know you have love and support waiting for you! XO

Reflection

2010-12-12T22:20:00.000-08:00

These last few weeks have been ones of deep reflection. Last year was much more difficult for me. I try hard not to think back, as it's all about " moving forward" . Heavenly Father, Friends/family, Music, Disney movies, are the things I clung on to with everything I had. I am deeply moved by others around me that have taught me what strength is, and pushing forward to endure to the end. There are little special moments that are unsaid, that just touch your life from others actions. I am truly grateful for what my lesson's, - granted I truly wish I could have skipped some of them, I know I gained so much knowledge. I love what this time of year bring, Christ is the Reason for the Season. life could have been far different for us, if we did not have him. I journaled a lot last year, one of the things I did was write quotes down I heard or were sent to me. Tonight as I was organizing I found where I placed them. I slowly pealed the pages back, I still have a hard time reading all of them, having the feelings flood back. ( I am sorry if this is so Vague..those that know what was going on last year.. this is it..)

Reflection is good and bad for me, good to know where I was and what I never { with in my power.} want to go through again, Bad in the fact.. it brings back the emotions and old feelings that bring me to tears.

There are special happenings that are going on all around us, there are angels everywhere.. only now when I can " See" I can not begin to say how HF/just knows me. I am moved by the people that I have meet in our new ward and past.

Friends... lastly.. In our new ward, there is a Sweet family that has a Very Sick little boy that is in the hospital. Truly heartbreaking. Please If you can/have time.. Read this. Prayers.. Even if you do not know him/or his family.. I truly know all the prayers will be felt, for his speedy recovery. Thank you :)

Here is one of my quotes I have in my journal.

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us."

Albert Schweitzer

Iam posting these pictures, from last year as this was right before.. I just smile.

These boys are my ray of light.

The last few months have been a blur.. here's a little..

2010-12-09T00:10:00.000-08:00

OK... I have been really really dreading this post. I have been so good for so long, however I have been quite behind. To be quite honest, I have been feeling a little lame on my postings.. after looking at so many of your blogs, and the beautifully crafted words, how most post sounds likea poem.. I have been feeling a little inadequate. So, after that is out in the open.. here is what has kept me very busy.. I will hope that 2011 will be better for me. This is my resolution~

Dec 1st. the official Play school Nativity set.

{aka, the I totally do not mind them playing, as long as they leave the tree along}

I was really trying to take some random pictures of Kar, he's a tough little cookie.
So, Dad was Awesome of breaking this Binky habit when I was gone on the

cruise, then.. I came home and look what karson has again.. the Blue Evil { bebe}

Thanks Giving

kar, Bren,Kaid.. Thanksgiving day at mom's
My Red Velvet cupcakes, Yeah.. they were So Yummy!

FHE Wii Night.

oh, my I could not stop laughing. Kar did this 100% on his own, I was just starting

the beloved dishwasher, and came into this beautiful guitarist.
And then Kaid had to show his brother who was the jammer..

Seriously.. a moment in time. If you know kaid, you will know that 2 things he

has not quite done a lot, 1- sit still for 5 min. 2. sit by his brother w/o hitting him.

Trick Or Treat

Our cute little elephant.. he was toasty warm..
Man.. with the look, you would really think he was going to do some crime fighting!

way to go batman!
Ding dong.. both brothers took turns ringing the door.. 1/2 of them answered as we took

them out at 5pm! I was a little weird this year with being early, to get them in bed. {school night.}

Happy 2nd Birthday Karson!

Man, I uploaded the wrong pic.{ should have been karson the 1st.}
It's a great one of my mom.. Jury is still out on my picture.
Kent made this, karson was totally loving all Mickey mouse!
His' #1 favorite toy he got, " Stinky" { I try to hide it.. it's quite obnoxious w/farting noises.}
kaid just got finishing singing happy birthday to kar. I could NOT get kar to take a picture..

I need to get someone in here that' can take his pic.

Girls Caribbean Vacation

What was in our hands pretty often, virgin strawberry daiquiris.. Yummo!!
Me and my sister..Miami right before we boarded the boat.
Last sunset in the Caribbean, such a magical place.
What greeted us every night, a new little friend, this was the cutest!
Royal Caribbean pool deck! Pool party
Formal night on the cruise, Miss the food, Oh how tasty.. and the Rolls.. Oh.. man..
Me and mom, in lovely LONG Beach airport.

Blogger Heading.. Please Help..

2010-11-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone.. I am really having a difficult time with changing my blog header. If anyone can help me with trouble shooting I would really appreciate it. I have downloaded so many different one's but..time and time again when I go to upload to the photo place.. its not working. Any help would be great, even if you are just looking at my blog, please post.. if you can help me!

Thanks So much....

Im still here..

2010-11-21T14:17:00.000-08:00

I have been Really bad about my blog lately.. I have updated my music though. The songs in the play list are the kids Fav's.. Dynamite, Kaid knows all the words, and Usher as well.. I don't even listen to them.. So.. Even though I have not updated my photos yet.. you can hear what I listen to 10x a day.. with the boys grabbing any object to use as a microphone.

and I feel rightfully so... Things have been Non-stop..

I will be updating tonight..{ hopefully, } if not.. I wish everyone a very Safe & warm thanksgiving!

here come the holidays!!

xo- Andrea

Happy Birthday Sweet little Karson!

2010-10-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

I cant believe 2 years has past. I remember just like it was yesterday going in to the hospital, anticipating his sweet arrival. I have been So busy these last few months, resulting in me LAGGING on blogging. I will update more about his cute little party that he had today. Six little boys came over, and played and giggled. Karson was so excited.. { making picture taking nearly impossible} It was truly so sweet to watch him interact with his friends. Several times I had to remind karson not to keep picking up slugs, him and his friend though that was the funniest. His highlight was his New BFF, " Stinky" Aka.. his new Matchbox garbage truck. Needles to say, I think it's quite annoying, though it keeps him entertained for hours. I am So beat right now, it's 11pm, which is bizarre.. given my 3am & 4am bedtime routines, I think its all catching up with me.

{Below are on Monday for FHE, we made halloween sugar cookies, granted I think karson just ate all the frosting.}

Birthday Relaxation

2010-09-28T14:48:00.001-07:00

I usually Love LOVE birthdays, however mine is a little different. I was actually feeling a little old when I woke up on Sunday, ( Sep 26Th ) After all, I am now in my Official early 30's, I wish that I could say that I was still in my 20's, though I do have to admit 30's are Way Fun! I woke up to the boys singing happy birthday, 2 sweet lovely cards and balloon. I told Kent all I wanted for my birthday was a Day of Relaxation, doing ZERO, Nada, nothing! It was very nice to be pampered and and loved not touching a dish. Kent made The BEST, cake ever! I am not even kidding.. I have truly never had a better tasting cake.. I think I gained a few lbs just looking at it, then the tasting.. Oh, so creamy and just melted in my mouth. Dinner was Corn Beef Brisket, Yummy salad & fruit W/rolls. I have to admit.. I have not eaten red meat for quite a long time, just for health reasons, However.. I broke this for Kent's dinner. OH man.. I really did pay for it afterwards though... ( My stomach hurt for hours..) only from a little bit too. My parents came over, and I got such Beautiful cast-iron oven dishes. Candy Apple Red, Navy blue, and Lemon Yellow. B*E*A*U*T*I*F*U*L I loved everything! One year for sure older, though I do feel a little wiser, believe it or not.. I have quite a bit of life lessons under my belt, cant wait to see what another year will prepare me for. Thanks for all your Birthday wishes!!

Karson Of course dove in the cake..
Kaids Plate { eats only filling and frosting..}

Buddy walk 2010

2010-09-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was NWDSA Annual Buddy Walk, and by far this year was the best! Each year we notice the crowd bigger, and organization better, this year was fabulous. We enjoyed dancing, watching hula hoop contest, ( karson tried.. ) There was a noticeably prominent different color shirt though when we walked in. Bright Yellow shirts were on I would say 1/3 of the crowd, after asking I was even more happy that we did not miss the walk. On the shirt was a boy named

Nathan, I recognized one of the women wearing the shirts, and only after she took the stage, and begun to talk the tears started to flow. I copied this from a news article.

"Nathan Vredevelt was sixteen, and had Down Syndrome, and his friends and family loved him very much. Sunday, he went to see the Trail Blazers play, and got to watch the game from a luxury box, where he’d watched the game many times. Nathan’s parents stayed home, and instead his sister and caregiver took their place. Nathan asked to use the bathroom, and when he found the door locked, he exited the sky box. His caregiver was near the entire time, but thought that Nathan was in the bathroom. He was missing less than five minutes when the call went out on the radio.

No one knows why he left the Rose Garden that night, or why he wandered into I-5, where he was struck by multiple vehicles traveling at freeway speed. Less than twenty minutes had gone by from the time he went missing to the time he was hit.

Nathan suffered severe head trauma, fractures, and internal injuries.

Nathan was hospitalized, and his family never wandered very far from him. Nathan’s mother publicly forgave the drivers of the vehicles and the people he was with at the game.

Nathan Vredevelt passed away peacefully today, Thursday, March 05, 2009, surrounded by family. He never regained consciousness from his injuries, and was removed from life support. He did not feel any pain. Nathan was a sophomore at Gresham High School." - Examiner.com

The Reason why, I am saying this, When we found out Kaid had Down Syndrome I received a Book, Still to this day I am not to sure who gave it to me. It was " Angel Behind The Rocking Chair" and Pam ( Nathans mother) was the Author. For Years now, I have wanted to write her, and tell her how much this helped me, and at times We experienced our own, Angels that were in the room. I was Just So moved that she was the Guest speaker, and the tribute was for Nathan, and to show all the love the community everyone had for him.

The Walk was Amazing.. Thank you to the Love and support you all give to me, and kaid! We love you all!

Nathan

kaid and me, about to Walk

Ariel, Kent, Me, kaid Karson- Great to see Ariel!

Connie, Kaids Respite Provider- She's The BEST!

My Dad Sporting Thumbs up for the walk!

Tired Kaid, after the walk.. just finished his Hotdog.

karson was Beat!

Iam So excited.. And I just Cant Hide it!!!!!

2010-09-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

I am really REALLY looking forward to my Relaxing Getaway in 12 DAYS!! I can not believe it's just right around the corner!! Sun, please stay bight the whole time. I am looking forward to; Zero wake up time, no one pulling my hair at 3am to get him juice, Zero laundry,dishes,diaper duty,therapy appointments,driving around doing errands,grocery shopping.. MAN The list really can go ON... and ON.. I AM So excited.. And I JUST cant HIDE it!!

This is Nassau Below.. The water is Really this Heavenly Too... Ahhhhhhhhhh

Clonidine -- I know it's LONG. If ANYTHING PLS READ!!!

2010-09-13T20:53:00.000-07:00

My typical morning consists of, waking up around 6am, the breakfast selection from boys, helping kaid pick out what to make for lunch, showers, then out for the bus at 8:50am. Shortly after kaid's departure, Karson and I cuddle on the couch and watch sesame street for a half hour until his nap, then the House work begins. However this Am, was So Different. Sorry for the long intro.. it's important, really :) So As karson and I sat down, and nuzzled in our cozy seat, i turned the Tv on. I was FROZEN as the TV was ON. The night prior, I remembered I was watching a court case ( I cant remember exactly.. CNN show.. ) Anyways.. So as I read the Article across the screen I began to just become sick to my stomach. I was watching Court TV, In session here is the Exact program (Click here ) Blasted on the Tv, Said, 4YEAR OLD little Girl Murdered by her parents, Over Medicating her on CLONIDINE!!

Backing up a bit, Kent and I, have been really having a difficult in past months with the medications that kaid has been on. After seeing specialists, and various doctors, changing some medications and adding to some, that he is currently taking we feel ( FELT ) comfortable with, Truly seeing a change in doing so, only to be punched in the stomach, when the medication that was being focused on was the medication that kaid has been on for over a year.

Kaid is on Clonidine, for a few weeks now, he has been experiencing cramping in his hands, blurred vision, ( thought it was his eyes.. as he now has glasses.) Extreme cotton mouth, spasms in his legs and hands, and has been coughing so hard at night.

Now continuing watching this morning's show, this sweet little girl was experiencing these symptoms as well..(( Much Much more severe of course, )) though she passed away. After watching this program, ( I just finished, Had to record 4 hours long.) She was OVER Medicated BIG time!!! I rushed over to kaids clonidine prescription, and read his Mg/ is 0.1mg/ The reason why I am blogging this tonight, I have never been so worried about what we were giving kaid, though found myself double checking, triple checking.. knowing with certainty we were not giving him too much, more wondering if the side effects he was experiencing were related just to clonidine. I quickly called his pediatrician, and told him everything I watched, ( brief of course) as well as kaid symptoms. After hearing the times that I was scheduled to give him his medications, the doctor advised me to limit one dose. I was, sad, Hurt, and Confused as to WHY this was not caught from the Doctor! I trusted that the doctors know how much to medicate, and what to prescribe. I called several times, reporting the issues we saw with kaid, his hands froze up, or his feet, and legs.. etc, the nurses told me from the other medications he was on it most certainly could be from possible lack of water... ( WHAT?? )) I chucked this up.. though.. and more time went by... I was WAY on the fence with this medication, being the for the use of High blood pressure, ( as well others..)

I Urge all that are reading this, to Read this trial, To become aware that medications to have side effects that might not be known to even the doctor ( if child is on other medications.)

In no was shape or form are we giving kaid more then he needed, though the side effects that were presented to kaid from this medication on a normal dose was shocking. ALWAYS READ UP on MEDICATIONS... I have Done for all a of Kaids, This is our job as parents, to really make sure we know what the side effects and symptoms are. The side effects that Kaid was experiencing, from the Nurse On call, that the Hand twitching, and spasms' in his hand was from lack of water... This was So not the case.. I have never felt so Sad, This is OUR child! So.. I guess, I just wanted to post for other to just read up on this Sad disturbing case. I do apologize, if it's too much for you to handle, I truly can not believe that there are parents in this world like them. I am not Judging-- I am simply speaking out as a parent making a statement.

Ta Da! New Glasses

2010-09-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have just loved this poem, and thought it fit. Hope you enjoy. I love it.

My face may be different , But my feelings the same, I laugh and I cry. And I take pride in my gains

I was sent here among you To teach you to love As god in heavens Looks down from above

To him I’m no different’ His love knows no bounds It’s those here among you In cities and towns That judge me by standards

That man has imparted But this family I’ve chosen Will help me get started For I’m one of the children So special and few

That came here to learn The same lessons as you That love is acceptance It must come from the heart

We all have the same purpose Though not the same start The Lord gave me life To live and embrace

And I’ll do as you do But at my own pace. -- Kayla Pearson.

Short Sweet post Kaid is loving his new 2Nd grade and his BIG bus. No more " small" bus

I was nervous seeing his reaction to getting on with the big kids, but he did Great!

Kaid is just a complete Joy. Though honestly he does have his days, and

sometimes there are many of them that run together, I/We would NOT trade these

sweet tender moments for ANYTHING. His teacher called me today, just to ask if there

was something they could do as a trick to calm kaid down, if he needs a break.

I thought to myself, " Yes, Yes there is, If you sing " Teach me to walk in the light."

With the Sign language as well, however I decided.. maybe I would leave that little

trick for home. Kaid loves Every primary song. We watched " The Work And The Glory"

this weekend, kaid was watching with such intent, when movie was talking about

Joesph Smith he came right to the TV, and would not move. I know what he is learning from us at home, and church is truly making him understand .

Sorry to go off track..

Scroll down to see the New Stylish kaid!

Day before school

First Day of school. ( Security tag still on sweatshirt.. yeah, )

He totally HAD to wear it, even though.. the store forgot to take it off.. LOL

Pre-glasses... On our Way..

Hes not too sure, but he knows he looks Awesome!!

Chowing down, first day Breakfast..

2nd Grade & !st Pair of Glasses ~~~

2010-08-31T23:30:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the BIG day... I think I am more excited.. LOL.. I am really not going to know what to do with my time. The bus picks up kaid right in front of our house at 8:45, and then drops him back off at 4:15pm. REALLY?? uh.... WOW! I mean, snuggle time with karson, elmo and book time with Kar, just so much more bonding time that was a little difficult this summer. I am super glad we have had some fun times this summer, all of which I am Super late on posting... The biggest thing was today.. I drove kaid to pick up his First Pair of Glasses. So this is a MAJOR note to self: When inside picking out the glasses previous, I asked him this, (me) " Honey, pick out any pair you like." I was in an area where the "kids" glasses were. Well, what do you know, kaid walked over to the glasses that reminded him of daddy. (Kaid) "Dad," he was dead set on having a pair just like daddy. UHHH... not that it's bad to match dad, but.. I was hoping for some Cute, Blue, Red... Stylish ones. Well, I am not going to say the ones he picked were not stylish, They Totally FIT kaid to a T. I love them, and Hopefully kaid will love them too. He's only wearing them about 35-40 min, then takes them off, gently places them in his Cool case, and Carry's them about. I will for sure upload pictures tomorrow. I think that I am going to drive behind the bus tomorrow and take pictures when he gets off the bus at school. He Always gets so embarrassed when I take pictures when he gets on the bus, But.. COME on.. I have TO.

Am hoping that I m not the only mom out there that does this.. the whole take Tons of pictures the first day of school.( KRIS you totally do not count.. I know your answer... lol..)

Lastly, I posted this on my Face book today that happened. As kaid and I walked out of the eye glass store, kaid had a MAJOR melted down. I am talking a full on.. episode, laying on the ground, and screaming. If you have been around me, or kaid when he does this, the best thing is just make sure he is safe, and give him time. Of course if he's hurting me or himself it would be different. Kaid just was not ready to leave. Sometimes no matter how many " warnings" advising him of our departure time, or..giving him the

" First this, THEN this". Even after all the techniques, we still have challenges. OK.. so, there was this guy that was outside the building, watching us walk out, First I did not pay 2 cents, but as his eyes were beating down on me with almost a look of disgust, I was SO MAD. Ok, I was having a full on meltdown, kaid is a thick Solid little 7 year old, and Carrying him after my back surgery is just NOT an option, so only thing I could do was walk and then wait.. so on. The man, just could not stop starring at us, even to a point that he full on turned around watching me struggle to get across the street to put kaid in the car. ( there was a HUGE mirrored glass window that I could see, and watch.) Normally i pay ZERO attention to people that are ignorant, this guy totally just hit my hot button. After placing kaid in the car, I noticed that I dropped my jacket, in the middle of the parking lot. THE guy was STILL staring.. First, I thought, is this guy from this Country? OR PLANET? then I thought maybe he might have something mentally wrong, and for that, I would feel terrible for. However, walking up retrieving my jacket I glanced up as He was Still there. He had this look like, " Man lady, You are the worst mom out there." I am SO not kidding. I, LOST it. I asked him " Is there something I can do for you?" His reply, " Nope." Ok, NOPE? what?? That was just what sent me over.. he could have said, " Oh, Sorry.. no.. no.." however his simple reply of NOPE , was just plan RUDE. I totally crossed over the Mom line, of doing the Momma Bear, Defending her CUB Confrontation. I said some things that I did NOT regret, ( OK, maybe one too many swear words.. Yeah, Bad moment... ) But he started to MOck me.. I was really thinking that I was in the Twilight zone, I felt so alone, and Sad that there really had to be this MOMENT in my life, when I let a perfect stranger get to me this bad.

I know we all have moments, this was not a proud one for me, ( temporally FOR sure! ) but tonight, I just can not stop thinking about the things I said.. Hoping that this might " HELP" him or maybe his heart might be softened. I tried to enlighten him on what my life was like, with a child with Down Syndrome,.. Maybe I went off, but I wish more people could stop and walk in others shoes. We are NOT the judges here, I learned a major lesson today as well. I am truly grateful that Kaid was not with me, and not in ear shot of hearing me " talk" with this Completely Ignorant man. Sad thing was, was he was Maybe in his early 40's. Saying, Maybe he has kids of his own.. the things he said back to me lead me to believe he did.. Just want this Day OVER.

A little Room to Breathe

2010-08-25T15:57:00.000-07:00

The article says it all. Our Sweet kaid was asked by Innovative Services of the NW, to do a leading article about our experience with their services. So blessed to truly have " A little Room to Breathe". Innovative services has been a saving grace for us. Kaid has a sweet respite provider, one that we could only dream of..SO grateful!!

Click here to read the Article.

Andrea's Favorite Things..

2010-08-10T01:42:00.000-07:00

It's So SO late, I can not sleep... I truly though that my insomnia was over and done, however I am once again wide awake. I have been compiling a list of " Andrea's favorite things" I give it to the fact that I am leaving October 2 for the most Amazing vacation ever.( well.. it would be awesome with my hubs and kids.....) but this is a VACATION.. Relaxing !!! So I do not feel bad.. Right before the trip, is my birthday, So Kent has been asking me what I might want for my day ( more like Week. ) I am a birthday nut, any way to have an excuse to celebrate... I am all for it! So here are some of my favorite things I have and just LOVE, and others that.. maybe I would like someday.. ( Like My birthday KENT.. hint HINT..) OK.. a girl has to give lists every once and awhile right??

Funny that the top of my list is for my boys.. lol. I got these for the boys' room and will never get storage containers anywhere else. The Land of Nod.com is the place!

Ok.. this is on my top list. I have been wanting this, but thought it was a little dumb. However, my boys love books more than anything, and I am tired of them all over the floor. My girlfriend had the cutest room for her boys, with these in their room. She got the room I think straight out of the catalog, with the bunkbeds, and the little lights with the shelves in each bunk. If my boys were behaved better I would let them share a room.. but.. Yeah right not Now!

MAAJI swimwear- Maritimum Grey suit here.. I love Love this suit, not so much the price, but Truly excited to try it on. I have been working out like crazy, though I am not 100% comfortable with my middle area, I defiantly feel comfortable wearing this.. The whole line is very cute and girly.

I LOVE amazing grace. I have so many different fragrances, though keep coming back to the baby soft sweet smell of this.. LOve Love it.

Smashbox Eye brightener, Love this.. It truly works people! Good for dark circles, and all over tired sleepy eyes, when you need a good photo choose this product!

Hands Down my Favorite powder! Smashbox HALO Hydrating perfecting Powder. Leaves your face fresh, moist and hydrated. When I worked at Nordstrom, I would be at this counter every AM.. along with most of the girls that I worked with, all of us working other cosmetic companies.. Need I say more ladies? Try this.. you will not regret. Little spendy, I think I paid

$ 58- you will not regret it, one less worry about finding the " perfect powder".

On your Mark.. Set.. KARSON!! Almost 2 count down.

2010-08-03T22:46:00.000-07:00

This is the book I have been reading to my boys.. Karson is especially fond of it, I have to post it, it truly made me cry when I first read it to both of them, as in the very end, they both smiled looked at me and gave me a bug hug. These are FOR sure the moments I live for!!

" No Matter What" - By Emma Dodd.

Sometimes you're HAPPY.

Sometimes you're SAD.

Sometimes you're GOOD.

Sometimes you're BAD.

Sometimes your SCARED.

Sometimes you don't know how to BEHAVE.

Sometimes you're DIRTY.

Sometimes you're CLEAN.

Sometimes you're KIND.

Sometimes you're MEAN.

But no matter WHAT you say or do, it makes no difference...

I LOVE YOU.

It's sweet, Simple, and Say's it all.. Still not too sure why I cried..

(Little out of order Man.. I want my little Little Guy again..)

I wanted to recapture karson from birth to now. I can not believe that he will be 2 soon..:

(October.) The time is so super sweet with him, his sweet laugh, his curious questions, his all over adorable nature ( when not sleepy.. as with any toddler. ) Here is a pile of pictures of my little bugs, squeezable, huggable Karson.

My sister was in town to take these of karson, he was 2 months old.

Jumping quickly.. you will see a common theme here.. " Bee bee.." Personally I cant stand it!

but he loves it.. still

I was asking karson where his grandpa was.. and he was in mid-sentence telling me, when I just

snapped.. hoping that I would get his smile. He has shone to be a little more tough to get his

adorable smile head on.. it's all good though.

Cousins 2010

2010-08-03T01:07:00.000-07:00

My sister was here this past weekend with her family, it was So nice to have all the cousins together for fun in the sun, running in the " land mine fields" playing on hay bales, oh the sweet joys of the children.. Except for My sweet karson.... He was a HOT mess!! Kaid would be in the pictures, leaving karson screaming not wanting to take them, and then visa versa. So nice that they were willing to stand still for 2 sec ALL of them, even if they were spaced a little apart.. that is what makes it cute..

Thanks kris.. The outfits really all worked well too!

Hatch Wave

2010-08-02T00:44:00.000-07:00

I feel I have Way too much to post.. Where to begin. I guess, starting off by.. We are in a cute house living in Vancouver. Kaid started summer school July 6th, and his last day was this past Friday July 30th. I am happy he was able to continue learning in the school setting he is familiar with. He had a little bestie these few weeks he attended school, her name was Ester. She was a sweet little girl, kaid was delighted to know she was on the bus each morning. I will be looking forward sleeping in until.. Oh, 7:30am now instead of waking up at 6am, to get kaid ready for school. Kent was up each morning cooking kaid breakfast & getting his bag ready for school, and told me to sleep in, though , seeing kaids excitement as he waved goodbye from the bus doing the traditional " Hatch Chin wave" totally made each one of my mornings! I would not miss that for the world. For those that do not know, my maiden name is Hatch, in our family ( my parents I believe started the traditional wave ) we make a goodbye wave under our chin, mostly with the children. It is truly a stable "goodbye wave" in our family.. and believe me it's Very cute to watch my boys wave goodbye. I am yet to capture this on film though.. they are a little too quick for me. Karson.. I can not get enough of this little cutie pie! Ok, I am very partial. Given the current challenges that pose on his brother, Karson is a tough little cookie. We were worried that he would be a " wimpy kid" I say that with good intentions. Kaid has been quite rough on him, though we are right there sometimes we are not fast enough. I am amazed with karson each and everyday, to watch him just truly Love kaid, no mater what kaid does ( too some degree)

I truly know that Karson know's there is a little difference with kaid, and actually is more patient with him. I love my time that I can spend just alone with kar, his warmth and curiosity in bugs,books,bee bee's ( aka. Binky ) he is so adorable, and I can not believe will be 2 in two MONTHS!! Summer is wrapping up soon.. which I am happy for and sad. More to come on our fun summer adventures :)

Passport Monday!!

2010-07-26T23:41:00.000-07:00

I have SO much to catch up on.. pictures to post, stories to write, however the best news came today in my nice little mailbox! My passport! This completely solidifies that I am in fact leaving soon for my beach getaway! I am bummed a little that I could not keep my old passport, that was awesomely stamped up from all my overseas travels. This truly made my day.. And Believe me... I really REALLY needed a pick-me up!! Leaving for Tacoma Hospital for more testing for kaid.

Not So much

2010-07-02T00:26:00.000-07:00

Today was a " Not so much" day. I use to say this when Kent would ask how my day went.. Have no clue as to why... does not make since to me, though just has stuck with me over time. I am not going to get into details..Today was just a day that I needed to hit the Re-Do button. So needless to say, No park day today, not much but yummo oatmeal cookies, and homemade chicken nuggets, ( that I hope tasted good...) I have been meat-free now for almost 3 months. I know that choice is not for everyone, however.. I truly feel much better, healthier, not so sluggish. 25 lbs lost, I cant think that this was a bad idea. With this new way of life, I also cut out much more as well.. white four,soda,sweets. I do cheat, on my sweets and carbs...just limited, nothing should be off limits, just with in moderation.

Lucia Falls Park

2010-07-01T01:44:00.000-07:00

So, My goal this summer is to visit at least 1/2 of the Parks Vancouver and surround area's have to offer. On Wed, we went here, Lucia Falls is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! the boys loved it.. I need to keep them both very active, and outside.. One bummer is, right when we got to the opening of the park the boys stopped to pose, and what was that.. My LAME disposable camera was DONE.. Urgh.. and my sweet little blackberry camera phone, was out as my sweet karson loves to use it as his pacifier. Lucia falls, was breathtaking, we walked along side, and kaid even followed a little trail that went down to the water. We looked for alligators, and saw lots of fish. ( they are totally in to Alligators these days.) So... I am not too sure what park will be tomorrow.. but it will be fun!

Ps.. Eclipse was Tonight.. II thumbs up!!

Great Wolf Getaway.. Relax.. Ahoooooo

2010-06-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

Fathers day weekend for the shannon's was such a blast! Sunday through tuesday was a nice slow relaxing-less ( just from how busy our boys are.. it's all good though..) The coolest thing the boys loved was after breakfest there was story time in the lobby - clocktower, and again at nighttime before bed. There was a little scene including a moose, dancing trees, funny racoon, and little boy that pop's up and down from a tree stump, ( because he's scared of the wolf sounds..) and then the sweet lady that comes out and sings, all in animation. The boys got down and danced with the trees, and then ran back when they heard the wolf sounds. At Great wolf, they do the call, when you go, " Stomp.. Stomp.. Clap.. Clap.. Ahoooo" to this day the boys have to do this each Am, and evening! We really had a blast, kids... kids.. and then MORE kids. I love kids, though I found it only a little hard when some kids were a little bratty to mine in the water park, Pushing and hitting when in line at the kiddo slide. I say it's just kids being kids, no harm no fowl. Our room was super cute, we stayed in the Kid Camp room, the boys loved their own room, including their own bunk bed & TV, though short-lived when they again came into our bed in the middle of the night. Fun times, We are hoping to go back before school starts. I am in need of a camera, So.. If you have any suggestions, These are all with my phone, and I am bummed that I did not have a better one, capturing this fun time. It's OK, I have plenty of little movies of it.. Fun Times..

KidCamp room, Looking from living room

Seriously Karson has ZERO fear, Loved it!

Kaid Had to have a photo posing.. Just was in Heaven.

School Out, Respite.. And Great Wolf LODGE!!!

2010-06-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

So much has been going on.. I am actually sitting in our hotel room, waiting to go into the water park... So much to update, and upload, I am a little bummed as I can not find our Camera charger.. so It's up to our lame cell phones.. uggg.. Anyways.. Great Wolf lodge is Amazing!! The kids love their own little room with Bunk beds, and cute wall theme's... I am loving that We are not getting kicked at night by them.. Fun Fun... Will upload pic soon!!!

Awesomely Awesome!!

2010-06-01T12:15:00.000-07:00

Lately, this is all I have been saying.. I LOVE my new place. Pictures to come for sure. This move, I was So excited that I hired a moving company to do it all. 9am, movers were at the old house, loaded everything with 2 hours, then drove over to Vancouver, unloading the 26ft truck in only 45min!! With recent back issues again, lifting, pushing.. anything with force.. was OUT of the question , orders from my surgeon. Move was on Tuesday, Wed Am seamed like a fog, though waking up in new surrounding was nice. Thursday, I have a high impact fitness class, in which

(I believe now) caused my recent back issues. I am not a spring chicken anymore, though I like to think I am, when in our Yoga segment, I heard my back make a awful sound, failing down immediately in pain. Friday Am, was my lovely MRI at the hospital, with lovely Blue dye in my arm. ugg.. I am too freaking young to have bone disease I thought, though I am glad this is my only illness. It's Tuesday afternoon and I am on needles waiting to my doctor to deliver the details of my MRI. I truly Do not want Surgery again, though.. I can not keep up with my boys in the amount of pain that I am in. I was a little annoyed when leaving the clinic, they wanted to send me home with a butt load of drugs, ( this will not HELP!!) I need the bones to be fixed people, not to feel loopy.

This post is pretty much a Vent post.. I am Positive, and Happy with my new experience ahead of me, I am grateful for what I have and the wonderful boys that bless me with warm hearts everyday. Thank you friends to send me emails of encouragements, and wonderful thoughts.

This Truly will be my LAST move until I build/or buy again. Moving is So So hard on kids, especially kaid.... I have a awesome treat in store for him next week.. I have re-decorated his room , ordering a wonderful Blue bunk bed! ( Hard to find..) This time I really will upload pictures, I love the space, it's a little hard to compare every house to the house in Gresham, Though this house is for sure our new special home, and we are So So blessed. Thank you to my parents, putting up with the loud, annoying US, for 5+ months.. ( wow... long..)

We live out in the country.. Well, sort of... We walk to get farm fresh eggs, the boys LOVE this!!

Also, with in walking distance is a cute dance studio, I am thinking about getting back in to dance.. I remember how great I use to feel. Life is really going great!

Difficult, Sad Day.

2010-05-06T23:32:00.000-07:00

Kaid stayed home from school today with a nasty little bug. I wish there was a magic pill kaid could take to not make him sick, as for many other functions to help with him. The difficult trial's I face on a daily basis with kaid, hit a wall today. Sure feeling horrible for the way in which I acted to kaid. I just truly hope someday he will look at me and tell me it was OK, he forgives me. This is what happened.

We were at the Pdx house packing our things for the move, at about 4:30 , I was preparing to make them dinner. All of a sudden kaid was off. I stoped and asked him what he needed, nothing.. all he would do was grunt. About 3 min later, I asked him if he would like to help me make dinner..( he Loves to cook) He refused and yelled. OK, Something Major is wrong.

I knew that from him not being in school, he was going to have a tough day. With kaid we need to prepare him for what is to come, this was just out of his schedule, plus with his added cold.

Then, with in a min or two, kaid picked up can's of soup and started throwing them at his little brother. As I ran over ( 2 feet away.) I scooped up karson, that was screaming wondering why his older brother was attacking him, assuring him he was OK. When kaid hits himself or yells & grunts it would not bother me, however today was just one of those days I was really bothered. I could not handle it. I have gotten annoyed before, though I knew why, and he was able to tell me. For one of the first times, I raised my voice and yelled at him to " KNOCK IT OFF KAID.. ... PLEASE" ( The please was very delayed on my part.) 2 sec later, again.. But even louder. I know that he wants to get my attention, I have heard all this before. I have gone to classes about how

to deal with children like kaid, however today it was weird, I felt as though all the things I learned went out the window. This yelling and grunting went on for a long time, Time outs and being down to his eye level was not working. As I was down on his eye level, he all of a sudden smacked me so hard across my face, and burred his face in his hands. Kaid was melting down quickly, and I was seeing that for some reason, I was just allowing this spiral, ( I normally soothe him with talking, singing, reading, or rocking him with movement.) These are the triggers that work for him. Why didn't I do any of these. I think because I was focused on kaid with/out his disabilities. I have been focused on trying to have kaid live in our world, if you will.. when, I need to learn to live in his world, and try to adapt to him. Hope that makes since.

Moving on...

As I was placing karson in his highchair for dinner, I told kaid it was dinner. Kaid walked in the kitchen and grabbed the dinner plates full of the dinner, and slammed them on the floor. Man, CAN I GET A BREAK dude????? Really... I was so thinking all about Me, and Myself.. I did not even think about what he was going though, and what was going on with him. Being non-verbal, I totally saw the signs for his boiling point, though I ignored them... I am not too sure why. After he thew all of the dinner on the kitchen floor, I began to cry. I quickly go over to the sink, to not have them see me loose it. I come back 1sec later, and tell kaid to come to the stairs for time-out. I was different with him today, I normally keep my cool, and not react when he " freaks out" that's a normal thing, ( at least in our family ) Then five minuets later, kaid began to completely get worse. Having a hard time calming down, very very upset. As we talked, he was ready to come back to the dinner table and help clean up the food that he thew on the floor. When we were walking back in the kitchen, kaid just had a different idea, he was not going to help, he was going to attack his brother. Innocent little karson just standing my my leg, when kaid comes up and plumest him down. " That's it!!! GO to your ROOM!!!!" I would normally take him by the hand quietly and walk him to his room,( normally its the stairs but.. we are moving.. so.. everything was confusing today. ) however I needed to take care of my sweet screaming karson. We were all in the kitchen, ( seeing kaid did not march himself in time out. ) As I just looked up at kaid, and again told him, " Get in your room kaid, this is So not right today!! " Nothing.. " Kaid.. I am getting really mad, go to your room NOW." Just then, he took his head and bashed it in the glass door, breaking the glass window pane kitchen door. Man, so this has for sure gotten progressively worse, ( I thought. ) I first looked to make sure Kaid was OK, and not hurt, after seeing he was ok, I picked up walked him to his room. For what seemed like 45 min of putting him back in, shutting the door, over and over again. Why would I be so sad? I am so sad about, how kaid really was trying to tell me what he wanted, and I ignored him. I had realized this about 5 hours after, still I figured it out. We do know with kaids spectrum, things in a schedule are prepared, if not, I need to for sure prepare him in advance. Today was Anything but normal for him. I realized with him grunting, and hitting his head, over and over, he was uncomfortable. Right before he hit his head, he looked at me grunted, and came over to me hitting his head. If you are reading this. I hope you are not lost, I m being really honest . What I am so ashamed for, is the fact I did not recognize anything. It's 12:15am on Friday now, and the tears have finally dried salt streaks down my cheeks. This is one lesson that I will never forget. I feel sometimes I take for granted my own ability to verbally communicate. I have to keep telling myself I am not perfect, however kaid is the only one that he truly trusts and counts on, ( me and his dad. ) just really feel I let him down today. I yelled too, with asking " Why do you do this" " Why do you do that.." I just needed to put myself in timeout. I am grateful for kaid, Yes.. He is Very unique, and special in every way, Our way, a way I would NEVER change. I truly have the Best little guys, totally 360 degrees different, but So great. We are all here to learn from our mistakes, to hopefully not repeat them. This is one mistake I will hopefully learn, Master, and Be way Better at.

I just finished a paper for my class last night, and I just love this quote from angel fire.com If all the parents could raise kids like my sister. Her and her husband truly make me so proud. I see the same parents in Church as well, parents who teach their children about differences, how we are all the same.

" Teach your kids to accept the odd kid out. Teach your kids not to judge based upon superficial criteria. Kids can be taught to be open to all sorts of people. However, by making everyone wear the same types of clothes, I believe you are just sending the message that since you can't accept each other when you are different, we're going to make you all the same. How will your child ever cope in the adult world when they actually do encounter someone who is different then themselves."

Pure Talent-- I just had to....

2010-05-02T00:26:00.000-07:00

OK, First off..Kris, I am sorry for taking your pictures off your blog, but I just had to..

Many of you know my sister is an Amazing Photographer.. She just recently took these of her

cute kids, my niece and nephew, as well as if you remember the infant one's of karson, those as well. Sadly, she has been living in Utah, however they are moving BACK!

So excited! So happy they will all be close, as well as hopefully I can learn a few things about

how to get my kids to smile for the camera. I know many of you asked when she was moving back, so she could take your family pictures. She is moving soon, I am sure you are killing me now Kris huh..( Sorry..)

Kris, You are Amazing! I want you to know how lucky I am to have you as a sister.

Not just for your talented abilities..just being my friend.

For sure you have me as your Fan & supporter for life !

I can see clearly now

2010-04-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

I cannot even imagine where I would be today

were it not for that handful of friends
who have given me a heart full of joy.
Let's face it, friends make life a lot more fun.
-Charles R. Swindoll

My experiences over the last few months have taught me some very important lessons,

for these I am truly grateful. I am also truly grateful for my wonderful friends and

family..

I believe it is Very important to surround yourself with positive people,

thus you will in turn be projecting positive back

. We have a saying in our family,

" Garbage in, Garbage out. "

I truly believe this!

Life is just Too darn short to not surround yourself with people that are going to bring you up, and uplift you! I m very excited for what is to come.

I am greatful for the strength I have gained..

Grateful for you (chapps) Thank you!

So.. NOw do you want to laugh??

Kaid loves

The photo booth on my Mac

I can not stop laughin... Love you kaid....!!!

Keep Going...

Ready......

Be Mine 09

2010-04-12T23:07:00.000-07:00

Can I just say.. I am a little behind here... It's just life right.. I hope that I am not the only blogger out there that is a little behind on posting holidays.. lol.. So here is my Valentines post. As those that know, I really can not stand this holiday. Personally I think that it's sad that men think there needs to be only one really " Official " day to bust out the flowers and chocolates. Me, I do not care for either, ( only Peonies, and the are not in season in Feb.. :) So after that Scrooge of an introduction, I was happy to celebrate the time with Kaid and sharing in his excitement.. though I was anything but.

The traditional trip to target to pick out what " Theme" he wanted for the cards, surprise surprise he picked " up" very cute.. Random but cute, ( We had to walk out of the movie, as it was not " cool" ) He wanted to watch bumblebee.. (aka. Transformers. )

After picking them out, I decided to make homemade sugar cookies, Yeah.. That was not the best... I think I might have eaten most of the dough, I admit!! The party at the school was sweet, though I feel sad that I took 1/2 of his candy away and tossed it.. Man.. This post is really starting to depress me.. Sorry everyone.. I am really not a bad mom, I just have a 7 year old that has... " Itty bitty teeth" he grinds his teeth, and I am afraid of cavities on top of that. Someone told me, " Andrea, just let him be a kid and live a little " Hmmm, well to just add.. Those that know kaid will know this is one kid that is never without, what ever I have to do if there is something that I need to do for him, or that he " wants" ( with in Major reason.. ) I try....

So, Happy Valentines day.. lol..

Oh, I did get my Huge bouquet of flowers, and So happy they were not roses! If I have to have flowers, anything but roses I told Kent, he remembered- That did make for a Great Day!

Happy 7th Birthday Love Bug!!!

2010-04-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

I am a little behind blogging, so I am going to hurry and catch up here.. It's nuts right after

the first of the year it seems like holiday after ho

liday mixed in with birthd

ay's and Fun.

Kaid was born April 2 2003, I still remember the moment when I told Kent " I don't feel so good"

I was not due for little under 3 weeks, but was looking l

ike I was ready to pop at any moment.

Getting to the hospital at 8am, he was ready

to come at 1pm, (With help from me of course.)

Stupid me.. Said " NO i need to wait for my Mom " Dumb in the fact that, When a baby is ready a

baby is ready. Needless to say, I was given WAY Way too much (phentional Spelling) and went to sleep.

When my mom arrived, I was So out of it, making this experience

little weird.. ( Great though.)

4:45pm, they woke me up to start pushing.. ( Yeah, I was passed out..) Shortly arriving at 5:01pm

I will never forget the :01 as it had to be a little different and not perfect. That's just my little Andrea isms.

We Had not one Clue that kaid had Down Syndrome what so ever in the hospital, though looking

back at the video.... You can totally tell, Why wasn't I told??

Who knows... I am just glad in a way..I think that I would have gone into shock.

Anyway.. I wanted to write this to have it #1 written so I do not forget,

and to always remember our sweet little boy's arrival.

On His Birthday I drove to his school and delivered Chocolate cupcakes with " Kaid Sprinkles"

( he thinks the store made them for him..)

After school, we took him to his Favorite Toy store that actually just opened, called

Kidzoodles ( I think.. ahh. . I am so bad tonight..) Anyway..we grabbed what kaid went for

in the store, ( he's Way hard to shop for..) & had them wrap them all cute,

then went next door for pizza. Ok.. What happened Next.. Is a Whole other Blog

post.. I can not even begin to explain the complete humiliation.. I will post that soon..( I think)

Anyway.. Kaid came back home and opened up his gifts, and was So So excited, we sang him

" Happy Happy Birthday" From the Wiggles.. Uh.. I know.. but He likes it..

They then both took a bath, brushed teeth, stores, prayers & Bed.

Man... This was a Great b-day.. But one that I will NEVER

forget.. and Need a New Pizza Place now.

We all went to sleep early, as the Mt. Hood Railroad would beearly in the Am.

Pure Love

2010-03-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

Today as Karson and I drove to Jansen Beach ( 1/2 point for the bus) I just began to cry. The tears rolled down my cheeks for the Pure Love I have for them. I know being mom's we sometimes might loose sight of the " little" things they might do. As well as the other moments that just take your breath away. Karson was having a little conversation with me while I was driving, as I was taking it all in ( the fact that he's 17mo. in a week) I was not too sure if this was " Normal " Up until today, I have been comparing karson to what kaid did, or didn't do, not truly meaning to. When Karson began to point to the sky, looking at the passing airplane, ( making the sound as well) and moving his little cute hand in a little five finger motion, I just was so blessed. This might sound weird, however this is all new to me, I very much feel like a Brand new parent. This little interaction lasted only a few minuets, though left me crying with complete gratitude, of the miracle of life. I know cheesy.. But for me these days.. I needed a Cheesy moment! I am so grateful that I can have the opportunity also to be a mom to Kaid. To teach him, & guide him with the correct principals. The road is NOT easy most of the time, But I do know just how rewarding it is & knowing what a special spirit he is. I would be not nearly the type of mom today if it was not for Kaid. I sometimes had a tough time relating to people when they complained about their children, with-out needs. I've heard people say, " I just could never do that." or " Have a child with Special needs, esp with Down Syndrome, not for me I've heard it all... Unless you are heartless, Spineless.. Yes you could!! What precious little life is given to you is your job. How well you can handle situations, how you raise your child the best possible.. etc. Why would anyone want to miss out on such a Learning, and teaching opportunity is way beyond me. I've seen things that have happened to kaid, and having him still here to talk about it. I am not trying to " toot " my own horn about my little guys, it's taken me a while to see what I see, with kaid. There were times, when I really thought I could not handle being his mom anymore,(sad to admit..) I thought there might be a special home for him, or school that he could live at giving him all the care that I just could not. Just writing it now makes my heart break all over again, just that I thought about this. Within a few hours, after saying this out loud, and just how I could not do it anymore, I felt a peace, a peace I have Never felt in my life before. I know without a shadow of a doubt, no mater how hard life is with kaid, we are in it to win it! Love these little Dudes!!

Anything Better..

2010-03-17T22:11:00.000-07:00

OK.. Just needed to change from the last post, I was beyond sick of looking at the same thing.

Winter Term DONE!! Spring term starting March 30th! Looking forward to a major change in the routine. I am just So happy that the Sun is out, Friday to be 65 degrees!! oh I can not wait!

Why must Boys be SO dirty?

2010-02-23T22:21:00.000-08:00

Seriously, I am very close to go insane. OK, maybe not that bad, just beyond frustrated with the fact that my boys are so messy. When Kaid gets dressed for the day in his school uniform, it's a Given Always right after breakfast, his clothes are Covered with syrup, jelly, or oatmeal. I try to not give him such a hard time.. but Man, Toss karson Toddler mess.. I have more laundry now then I did when karson was an infant. I am SO not june cleaver, I just thought this picture was so much like what I am sure most mom's feel like with messy Boys, Kids in general.

I guess this is Payback, when I was a kid. My mom said I changed my clothes 3-4 times. Maybe I would not feel so frustrated if were were not living in such tight quarters. I am use to my Huge washer and Dryer, having to think more about how much more often I need to doing laundry.

Well.. this is a weird post. I agree.. I am just Tired.. and Trying to get my mind off wondering..

Good Night- I am going to bed, walking over the Huge Laundry pile that Needs attention tomorrow..

Winter Class's Almost Done.

2010-02-08T20:11:00.000-08:00

I am truly counting the day's until my term is over! For the most part, it has been OK, just quite stressful with my night class. I have picked out all my classes for Spring Term, Full load again, though NO night classes!! I just need to make sure to camp out by my computer, as soon as the open registration begins.. So I am not on a WL again. Watching my boys grow up so quickly, is only making me want to hurry up faster with my schooling, to secure my degree.. and relax a bit. ( Not for a while though. I am grateful that the boys are young so they will not have to miss me to much during the day. Karson is talking so much! Today as I was getting kaid's backpack ready for school, I said " Kaid, make sure you have your homework in your backpack." all of a sudden, I hear kar start saying " babkak" I asked him to point to what we were talking about, and he went over and grabbed the backpack. Many of you know, The 2nd time around is like being a brand new mom, I am not too sure the Mile markers, if you will. It has been difficult for me to not compare, though they are vastly so different. I have learned though just enjoy the moments, forget about the comparison's, just love them.. I DO, it's just karson is growing too fast!!! 15 mo. and counting. I have not had my camera for a long time, though Pictures are coming soon... We just went to the Central Library downtown Portland, and the boys LOVeD it! The huge tree in the children's area was there favorite part, as well as daddy reading stories to them... Fun times...LOVing the Sun... Oh It's been so long!! Can not wait for more sunny days!

Day dreaming..

2010-01-23T22:45:00.000-08:00

So, I just feel like I have not a whole lot lately say, update, just feeling a little blah. Tonight as I was Turing in my assignment for Art history, ( we are studying Greek architecture) I truly traveled back in time. I use to live in Greece, Yes live. See live to me, even a meager short 4 months, was the BEST experience I have yet to have, ( regards to moving..lol )

From the rich thick culture, to the stately order the Greeks had everything. From going to theAthena's Parthenon, and the Porch of the Maidens, Erechteion Athens, I want TO GO BACK..

Well.. I can go back in my dreams at least.. Jumping off the huge cliffs, in the the warm water.. then laying in the hot sand.. yup sounds really great right now. My feet are Freezing!!

The Parthenon.. Amazing!!!
Patmos,Greece St. John's Monastary...
One of my Views EVERY MORNING!!

Porch Of the Maidens,-- Ok.. as I am looking at this either it's blown up huge or a different

Pronaos.

Where I am

2010-01-14T20:47:00.000-08:00

As I have been going through this tough time in my life, It's hard for me not to just " Wish" I could Peek into the future and see what's to come. If you asked me a few years ago, what I would be doing, I would say something Very far off from where I am now. I want to get it across first, Just how truly Grateful I am that I am with my two Awesome parents, Yes, we tend to get in each others Hair, sort of speaking, but I just would not know what to do with out them.

I have been doing quite a bit of soul searching these last few months, How truly amazing our Heavenly Father truly is. I know that he knows me, and knows just what Pain I'm in. It bring me comfort to listen to comforting music, to bring it all home. As my friend, was going through a really hard time in life as well, she introduced me to the artists that now I have on my play list. I use to think that they were " holy rollers" music... but when you are going through a Huge Trial in life, and you really think that there is No end in sight, It's amazing to listen to these words, knowing that we have a loving savior watching over us, crying when we cry, never letting us fall.

I want to tell all my friends how much I love you, Thank you for not just hating me for just dropping off the earth. I am taking 12 credits, and school seems to be really holding me together right now as well knowing there is So much Wonderful Support I have. I really was worried there in the beginning, thinking that my stress would not let me do about anything.

All I know is there is another day tomorrow.. I know I have two sweet boys that when my eyes open, I have there Georges faces looking right at me when I awake. I pray deeply for my husband, I really love him, I love everything about him, the true man that I met. I really truly believe that one day we will all be reunited and one family. I know that through hard trials, we can only see things for what they are, and what we TRULY deserve. I will be contacting all my LDS friends, my Time is coming soon to go to the temple... I have waited long enough, and now more than ever I need to be there. Thank you for those that listen, and bring me your light. Chaps.. 3 DAYS!! Yippee!! am I excited??? I think so....!!! It will be FUN!!!

Changes...

2009-12-30T00:08:00.000-08:00

I am Sad that the holidays' are over, and I am also extremely happy as well. There have been some major changes that have happened here in our life these last few weeks, and I have been just barley able to take a peek at a few blogs, let alone catch up. The holiday's were very special with the boys, and spending the moments with my family. As I sit here tonight, I have a heavy heart, I was looking back at my last years blog, and just was amazed at where I am not from then. It really goes to show, you NEVER know what life is going to be like, you can Plan what' happens' and you can Do EVERYTHING YOU can to make the " Right" choices, and stay on the path, however you can not get others to choose the same as you. My heart has been breaking these last few weeks for my boys, and my family as we are going though some really hard times, as we are doing the best we possibly can to stay strong. I am very grateful for the amazing friends and family that I have, and the boys have that can lift them up, to help ease them into this new stage of our life. I start school on Monday the 4Th, and am VERY excited for my future! When the days come that I do not want to get out of bed, or I do not even want to get dressed for the day, I just look at my two angles, and know how I want to give them the very best..
I will talk with you Next Year!!! SO excited!!!!

A whole lot of Excitement

2009-12-08T09:28:00.000-08:00

Pictures are on there way.... We got the tree out and up last night... It was So Cute, as Karson and Kaid went Nuts! really.. They were getting crazy with all the decorations. Christmas is Kaid's FAVORITE holiday " HANDS DOWN!!" well.. that, and his birthday. He loves to sit by the warm fire, stay up late, drink apple cider, and watch the Polar Express over and over and over again. There is So much to be happy for, and look forward to. School for me starts in a short time.. 3 or so weeks.. I am excited, and nervous at the same time. I would love to say that I am excited for Christmas Vacation, however I think I would be lying. I love it when Kaid is in school, not only for a " break" but he really Loves it. When he's not in school.. he wants to be. So, I will be in " School mode " here.. Pretending.. I am a little, well.. I am a LOT sad that my sister's are not going to be here this Christmas, ( Sniff ... Sniff... ) Please make it Next year. Pictures to come.... I have been really slacking this year, on the christmas card, the newsletter.. the whole thing.. Am I the only one? I figure I " Might" { key word there.. } get to it the beginning of the year. Or maybe I will just post something here.

Kent's a BMW Pro Now

2009-12-01T23:10:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving would be one to Never Forget. My parents went to Utah to visit my sisters, and so we decided to spend the holidays with our friends out in Newberg. As the we prepared the car for the 45min trip, we stopped off at Fred Meyers for some Last Min trimmings. From our house, NE, we headed out on the I-5 South, driving through Downtown Pdx, up through the Zoo, and back down the 217, taking the 99 Toward Newberg. As we were driving we were singing all the way, it was Such fun. With a pie on my lap, Yams in the back and 2 boys that Really wanted to get out and play we were eager to arrive. While making our journey down 99, we came to Gattenberg Rd, ( Walgreen's ) the light turned Red. Waiting for the light to turn green, Kent turned the music up, and we started rockin to " Rocking Around the Christmas tree" ( I am Setting the scene here for ya.. ) So when the light turned green, being the first car.. Kent put the clutch in and the car stalled. Started it again, and the same thing. What is going on? We both looked at each other with a weird look.. Tried it again.. Nothing.. it just was not getting fuel, would not keep started. How could this be happening. Not to mention if you remembered thanksgiving day, it was a Downpour. As Kent put the hazards on, we were shocked at how many people still Flipped us off, and honked at us. Really people? With 2 kids in the car, Christmas music blaring.. do you think we really want to be stuck holding traffic up? with in seconds 2 nice guys came from nowhere and pushed us down the hill to the Walgreen's. From there, I took the boys in to play with the toys to see if Kent could figure out what it was. 1 hour later, Still nothing, Boys were DONE. We called our friends that we were invited to, and told them the news, and they jumped in there car and headed to pick us up. Kent needed to stay with the car, in hopes that he could get it going. So me and the boys went on to Newberg, and leaving Kent in Tiagard. Had we known then, that we would not be spending thanksgiving dinner with him, we would have Begged him to come with us. He waited there for over 2 hours in the rain for the car to start. All in all, kent made it safely home and we were reunited with each other. The Car on the Other hand was Not working. It was not even working, Kent got it towed to our house, from 1 mile away, bought a book and Diagnosed it. He figured out the Fuel Pump was Fried. This happened due to the fact that in BMW's you can NOT let the gas go towards the Empty before you fill, or the red light coming on. Me, I do this often, this is what caused the Fry. What I AM SO SO SO SO SO thankful for, IS a Husband that is So smart and a awesome troubleshooter! He figured out that the pump needed to be replaced, called around.. all the Dealership's the Part was $480, then to put it in was starting at $ 1,800. I am So proud to say that Kent Bought the Part for $ 219 and Put it in himself! Yes it took him 3 days.. Just being the fact of all the Wires, and German car.. I am Just So So proud of him, and the fact that we saved so much money! This was a Great ending to a crazy thanksgiving..

We for sure have so much to be thankful for. It was Really hard being with out a car for 3 days, thank you to my parents and my Friend that put up with my with my " complaining" it' true what you can handle when the lord hand's you trials. I am not too sure if this was a trial, however it sure as heck felt like one :)

13 mo And Counting..

2009-11-29T00:26:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's Fliped wrong..

Our Sweetness is 13mo. Time Truly is Going WAY WAY too fast.

Karson, is really finding, and showing us who he really is.

* Walking\Running with out limits.

* Bebe { aka his Green Bink, that he says Bebe }

* Talking up a storm, watching everything

* Very Sweet and Soft Natured little boy.

* Patient With Kaid, More so than I ever Thought.

* LOvE's His brother Unconditionally he's his #1 Fan { besides us}

*Wants to ride the bus with kaid

* When Grandpa comes's around, Now one else maters, ( Sorry mom.)

My Greatest joy is getting him in the morning when he wakes up, he ALWAYS has a big smile, just talking in his crib.

I am Truly Thankful to my heavenly father blessing me with Two boys, both of which are 100% opposite, I know HF, blessed me with Calmness, and a little " Break" if you will..with Karsey

I love Love kaid to death, but... Let's face it, It's not Easy.. Just worth it :)

Photo Session

2009-11-13T20:42:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post these, To talk about the awesome day, we had. The pictures speak for them selves. The photographer Jenni Price, captured the very essence of the kids. This was our first out door setting, and the kids really did amazing. Kaid was really exited, he was a ham, and wanted to pose himself, not to mention karson every time he could he would look up at Jenni, with his " watcha doin" look. Kaid loved to take her prymind ( is that what it's called?) and pretend that he was taking pictures as well. The way that the fog was coming in, with the sunny breaks was magical. We took these on the 23rd of October, so these are

Karson's 1st year photos!

( sniff sniff ) Time goes too Fast..

I didn't Do it mom.. He did..

2009-11-08T23:48:00.000-08:00

These were kaids words when I walked in the kitchen to see this, " Mom, I didn't do it, He did" I was Shocked. #1 that I could completely understand kaid, and clearly too. The bowl of candy was way up on the counter. The joys of having boys, Kaid knew that candy was " Off limits" so he scooted the bowl close enough to the edge of the counter, and !Boom! down it fell into the eagerly awaiting lap of little Mini Me..Kar, opened up the Lolly pop, as fast as he could.. I was dying laughing so hard as when he saw me, he tried to hide more candy by sitting on them. He was So sticky, head to tow. The middle picture Is all Kaid, He is loving taking pictures.. I think we have a new little camera guy.

p.s Take note.. The pj's This was at 8am!

Trick or Treat '09

2009-11-03T23:32:00.000-08:00

This was Funny , to say the least. Our neighborhood is not the best for trick or treaters, however we stocked up on candy just in case. Promptly at around 6:45ish, we got our first " Treater" and the last one rounding about 20 min later.

It was a little disappointing, as we have ALL this candy, and me and Will-power are not getting along these days. As we got all excited to take the boys out, Kaid was NOT having it. Quickly re-directing him to change his mind, we headed out to our own neighborhood. All of 4 houses! It was Great nonetheless! Karson was So excited to hold his little Bucket, that was being transferred between the boys. Karson just LOVED the instant gratification that came from knocking on each door, and candy would trail in his bucket. With joyful laughter from both boys, they were reaching the end when we rounded back toward our house. We wanted to take them to larger neighborhood's, however they were very much Satisfied. I will have to take better use of my camera, and take pictures of all of us. Here's our little Dinosaur, and Elmo ~ Again.. he wanted to be Elmo..

He is still knocking on doors, around in the house.. hoping for candy.
He was SO excited!
Notice his mouth, he some how got into the candy..
Could not Believe that he went up all by his self. He normally is FREAKED out.
Daddy giving the boys a prep talk, about Safty, walking

Halloween Spooktscular '09

2009-11-02T14:01:00.000-08:00

It's so great having Karson's birthday be so close to Halloween. I know that karson' is not always going to like the

" Halloweeny" theme birthday, but nonetheless we brought in his first birthday in this fashion. Our last Halloween party was in 07, and we were super over due for another. Due to the fact last year we were in an apartment, we dusted off all our Halloween decorations, and had another costume party. I am a little upset right now, at SONY, my dumb Sony camera. Maybe it's partially my fault for having all the bells and whistles for a camera, and truly have no clue how to use it. The problem was, It did not let me know that he needed to be charged! lol.. So.. pictures are coming. We had such a fun time with our friends, and family. Some could not make it and we totally understand, hope to see you next year. All the little kids were so cute. Once again our friends mike and Nola took home the best costume. They were clowns, Super cute with there red noses to boot! The food was yummy, thank you again to my mom that made a delish salad and apple & pear crisp & Brownie bites. By far the highlight of the night was the boiling punch bowl. It was So great to see the kids faces as the dry ice, mixed with the juice, frothed over the bowl. Thank you to everyone that came, even if you could not make it, thank you for being in our life's we love all of you. Let the Holidays Begin!

p.s... Is it too early to bust out my Christmas stuff?? lol

After looking at the Cupcakes.. They look a little " Sad" They were Really good though.

And the Pear & Apple Crisp was Heaven-- { Thanks mom }

Thanks to all the Friends and Family that posed for Pictures. For some reason, I did not get everyone.. My

lame camera was being weird. I am not even in one.. ( That's A-ok with me though..)

Best Costume { Mike & Nola }

Happy 1st Birthday Karson!

2009-10-27T09:57:00.001-07:00

We can not believe this day is here, One years old! This morning was so sweet, watching kar inspect his wrapped gifts, and GI-Joe balloons it was just so sweet to hear his adorable " oo's.. & ahh's" for Kar's Big day this is what he had to eat.

B- Menu Mickey-Mouse pancakes, OJ, Orange slices

L- Menu Mashed squash, Bananas, Milk

D- Mini- Pizza's { LOVES pizza.. 1st time tonight! } Fruit salad

Birthday Dessert ~ Sky High Triple Chocolate, Cupcake w/ganache.

~ Just making this, I think I gained weight.

I kind of cheated, when shopping this past week, I breezed by the Toy isle, and watched his eye to see what he was Super Fond of. Here is what Karson is Totally Loving.

1~ Loves his Puppy Pull-along

2~ Leapfrog Caterpillar ( Thanks Grandma & Grandpa)

3~ Cookie monster Talking doll.

4~ Push & Talk Vacuum

There are many more that he loves, but these are his " New" faves.

Loves to hear himself talk, loves EVERY thing KAID, it's the cutest thing to watch him trail him throughout the house. Watching the special bond they have, they just look at each other, and in a way it's almost like they are talking with one another, " Spirit to spirit " I know that's cheesy, but it's just amazing to be around them everyday.

It was a little hard this AM, when Kaid did not get any Toys, he is REALLY suffering from " First child Syndrome" if there is such a thing, watching karson open up his presents, was nail biting for kaid, he wanted to play with

all his brother's toys. A little thing about karson, he was Totally OK with it. Karson is a Sweet, Sweet soul, very

calm, and gentle. He knew how much kaid wanted to play with his new toys, he just wanted to make kaid happy.

I was taken back watching karson share his Brand new toys to his brother.

Karson we love LOVE Love you, everything about you..

p.s Tonight was Pretty Funny.. For his Sweet experience, we placed a towel on the Floor, and let him just go to

town, He had it Everywhere! He was So So sugared out! It was funny watching him stumble to the bath,

{ OK, it was not funny.. } We are So glad that we did not give him Sweet's before this day, I truly think that this is

not going to be a frequent occurrence in the Shannon home, { Sweets' that is }

First Grader

2009-10-23T21:21:00.000-07:00

Today I picked up kaid from school today early for our family photo shoot! What a surprise when I saw him, he was So excited, { as well his teacher} to show me what was in his bag. I did not want to disrupt the class, however kaid could not keep his happiness contained. As we gathered up all his art projects, and other things for the end of the week, out come's his School Photo! Oh, my!! I was Speechless!! NEVER, { I never say never } but... Very rarely.. does kaid like to smile, with lots of people, or when " family" is not around. When kaid was so happy to show me his first grade photo I got teary eyed, { I do that a lot } After talking with his teacher about how she got him to take such a great picture, she began to tell me it was not easy. Kaid is very sensory, he is not found of Loud kids, or lots of kids all getting there pictures, in line. He just would not have it. So Mrs. B said after the first attempt, and second, and third, he warmed up to the idea. Kaid was the only one in the gym, and this is the shot that he gave. I guess that's the ticket.. wait until Everyone has taken their pictures, and then go in. Then today, we went up to the Pittoch Mansion and had a photo shoot! I was So worried that we would have to cancel, as the rain was coming down. At 3pm, when we started, The rain was GONE! Kaid was Amazing, so was Karson.. and the end of the session, the Sun was out! What a Perfect day! I am SO excited to see a sneak Peak of the photos' Jenni Price took! Thanks Again.. What a Great Experience!

{ p.s He was So excited to show everyone his missing tooth, his teacher said, so glad I can see it in the pic }

Halloweeny Cookies

2009-10-20T22:41:00.000-07:00

This year I finally let go! I have been really picky on the " mess" however last night for FHE, I just let the boys have fun. Kaid is getting to be quite my little helper in the kitchen. As we were rolling out the sugar dough, little kar was at our feet begging to see what we were doing. I just love love these times, playing with them, reading,getting dirty, { I am still getting use to the dirty part } I just LOVE these two Awesome Boys. It's a little funny to me because kaid is VERY terrified of Halloween, the whole " Skulls,Witches,Clowns " when we were cutting out the cookies, he would NOT have anything to do with the BAT or the Flying Witch.. I hope he's going to be OK on the 30Th, when people come over for a Halloween costume party.. He was So proud of his cookie painting, he wanted to have a picture with his cookies. Note: the colors of the cookies.. yeah, Not my choice, kaid wanted Blue,Pea green, and Yellow.. What can I say.... Got to let him be creative :)

phew...

2009-10-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

Can I just say I can not Stand Water Damage... The basement is full of it at the moment.. Yeah, Carpet is being taken out today.. And I am Really Crossing my fingers,arms,legs,{everything} that the issue is found asap, and new carpet is installed.. all before the 30th. I told the contractor, PLEASE this needs to be rushed. So thankful that Kent is not doing this, it's better that he can just go to work, and not have to deal with this mess. I really think that I love love having parties! Hmmm I am dreaming of our new house, " Entertainer s Dream" we are here until I am done with school though, 2 more years! Then lets see where we go from there. Hopefully I will be able to go to Nursing school here in the NW, looking pretty tough.

My new love...

2009-10-12T16:04:00.001-07:00

My sweet husband bought this for me, a few months ago, and just today I pulled off the sticky tape to finally use it for the first time. I LOVE this machine!! I think I have been a little intimidated from all the features, and cartridges he bought me. However.... my walls are quickly getting filled with my favorite sayings.. and the boys rooms' are Oh, so cute. I am taken pictures of my new place, many have asked to see pic, { soo sorry.. it's been crazy to say the least }

So, if you want come on over, and come use this machine with me! Just get vinyl you want, I have the rest. Kent also got me the Glass etching kit? with stamps.. So I am going to be doing fun things for the holidays. I know I say that now.. but those are my intentions. Check out all the Cricut

Chocolate Cupcake Pops

2009-10-07T21:06:00.001-07:00

( Photo From Bakerella )

So I have been wanting to make these ever since my sister told me about this awesome Website . I had a little helper as well, I will keep this sweet & short, my pictures show all the " tools" needed, and fun little steps, on the link she is great at step by step, and where to get your materials. They were sure Fun, However Time Consuming..( I have time )

So here below is my attempt to make these Oooo so yummy treats. It did not help that, I had a little helper, taking

rather LARGE dips in the chocolate with his little fingers. All in all, they turned out Great, note: leave them in the freezer longer, so they get nice and firm. I think that I am going to do these Pop/Bites For every holiday!

For these pop's it was my mom's birthday, Me and karson's drove to her school to take them to her. It was So cute walking through the hall, to her class room, some students, comments " Wow, are those Cupcakes on a stick", and

" oh, my... Those are soooo cute". Nothing like getting compliments from little kids. Thanks to my mom's 4Th Grade class, they were the BEST!

11 Months

2009-10-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

11 Mo. 31" 20.lb 12oz LOVE LOVE LOVE you!

Why God Made Little Boys

God made the world out of His dreams

Of magic mountains, oceans and streams,

Prairies and pla

ns and wooded land,

Then paused and thought

“I need someone to stand

On top of mountains, to conquer the seas,

Explore the plains and climb the trees.

Someone to start out small and to grow,

Sturdy, strong as a tree…” And so,

He created boys, full of spirit and fun,

To explore and conquer, to romp and run.

With dirty faces and banged up chins,

With courageous he

arts and boyish grins.

When He had completed

the task He’d begun

He surely said “A job well done”.

I just Can not believe karson is 11 months. To think that this month, { the 27Th } he was born 1 year ago. Time really fly's by. Karson, you have been a complete JOY to say the least. It's FOR sure been a contrast, we have had a little bit of an uphill battle for 5 years, Kar is just sometimes { a breath of fresh air } not saying I am not grateful for kaid at all.

Some of the many things karson is into now; WALKING! pretty much running everywhere, loves to be inquisitive. Very Happy, 99.9% of the time, he wakes up with a huge smile, as well when he's going down for bed, completely enjoys playing with his big brother, is excited all the time when kaid wants to play with him. Love, LOVES his daddy. I am a little bummed, that he is not a mommas boy, he's all about daddy. loves to talk, and to hear his voice. The other day, he pointed to what kaid was eating, and said { O*GURT* } kaid was eating yogurt. I was Stunned!! He loves his grandpa, and grandma, and all the loves and kiss's they give him. We are excited that his birthday is close to Halloween, so we can have a themed Halloween/birthday party! I will do this, until he's like.." Please mom, I am so over this.. " Well.. here is to many more milestones, I am missing so many more things to say, as.. he walks around the house with a dust broom, helping me clean, he's my joy & our love, we love you so much Kar! I am sorry.. I have been quite lazy with taking pictures... So much going on. He's changed just from these pictures. Huge Family pictures end of the month.. Cant Wait!

Kar...Up and Running..

2009-09-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

He's Running.... Walking.. You name it.... He's a lot more Bruised up as well, from all his Independence. I love this stage, however.... my cleaning is done at night now.. he's into EVERYTHING!!

Girls Weekend Trip

2009-09-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

Too bad it was not longer, went to Lincoln City for a MUCH needed girls trip. It was SO much Fun! I was bummed that I forgot my camera, however my friends were clicking away.. Thanks Gal's for a Great time! Can not wait to get together again :)

Just to be able to sleep in, not worrying about feeding time's, bath's { for the boys.. } going to the outlet mall, and being able to go into the shops with out screaming, and yelling.. and million's of stares. Bliss I tell you! I loved just hanging out doing NOTHING.. and then, doing facials, with this mud mask, that Truly left my face silky smooth.. Thank you to San,Sar ..{ abbreviated.. } for listening to me, I know you are all in my life for a reason, and I truly am so grateful for each one of you!

Thank you for Email me the Pic.. { I figured it out... lol.. }

Are you ready.. for a picture???

Keep scrolling...

.........

ok.... here I am..

IEP update

2009-09-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

Well... The IEP went actually really good. The three of us going in to the meeting really showed a united front for kaid. I read a letter I wrote about kaid, and brought a picture of him, and placed it in the middle of the table, { mom I think you did that though.. thank you :)| All in all, Kaid is Going BACK today to the original school. I had major doubt about this, however given the experiences that happened, it was just not a good start, 30 days from now we will meet again to discuss kaid's placement, I am hopefully that this is going to be good for him. It is in a push-in class, meaning that when ready she moves them in to GenEd. Well... I will post more.. he's going back today, Friday and he is So happy. I am going to the Beach for a MUCH needed Girls Weekend! Oh... man, I can not even wait!!

Tomorrow,Tomorrow, I love you Tomorrow..

2009-09-16T17:56:00.001-07:00

TOMORROW, TOMORROW I LOVE YOU TOMORROW, YOUR ONLY A DAY A WAY!!

yes.. that is the fav Annie, in our house. Tomorrow is the huge important IEP for Kaid. I have been preparing all day, researching information, making sure I have my documents together, I am so happy my mom is going to be coming with me. Tomorrow is such a special Big day to Shine, and to be showing them really who kaid is, and what we need... There is just no way we are going to place him with more restrictions, what parent would?

Oh, Side note.. How sweet is this, I am on the computer, 6:05pm, the boys are playing in Kaids room, and I hear Pure Sweet laughter coming from Karson, as I peak in, I see kaid playing patty cake, and reading " Kaids" verson of Lighting McQueen. In our house it's call Babeen! Love it! every now and again I hear, " ok? ok? " from kaid.. He's telling karson, it's OK his Bebe fell out, he's looking for it. I was watching him, and he had 1 finger out, with a shake, saying " ok. ok" oh.. I just love these boys!

Beautiful Ridgefeild

2009-09-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

Day 1 of our Week long excursion started out driving to Ridgefield, WA. I am not too sure what made me drive here, but Man I am So glad we did. Packing up the boys, for the day, was the hardest part, as for some reason they just wanted to be couch potatoes. What a Fun Filled afternoon! I have never been to Ridgefield, and let me tell you, I am IN LOVE with the beauty, of untouched land! driving down the road seeing cow fields { extremely friendly, I might add}As we drove down the road, the cows were So amazingly friendly.. as soon as I parked my car, they came trotting along.. the boys just loved it! We drove through the little historic downtown, one that if blinked would surly miss. Growing up on Bainbridge Is. Washington, this reminded me of the Island 20 years ago. I would say that I am not a Country girl at all, I do love to be able to drive to the closest, " Mall" to get what we need, or produce, however living here I would not mind at all.

I had intended on taking the boys to the Wildlife Reserve, however driving up to the road, I was not going to even attempt. My new wheels did not really want to venture down the long gravel, pothole filled road. I was pretty bummed, as this is why we came out. I might have to come back with a larger car to see with this lovely place is all about.

Various People we Share the Planet with

2009-09-12T22:15:00.001-07:00

So, I know that I Facebooked, about his Site, and many of you might be already sick of looking at these picture.. However.. given my week from another PLANET.. I have really enjoyed laughing my head off at these pictures. Some of them, I really question if they are posing, knowing the camera is there, or if they just dress in this attire all the time. Who knows.. Thank you Peopleofwalmart.com for delighting us in non stop laughter!

Enough is Enough!

2009-09-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

Today was kaids LAST day at his elementary school. I feel So good about our decisions, I do have to say, I was really nervous that I was just jumping to conclusions, and just being a " phyco" mom. Well.. today, picking him up set it in stone, his pull-up soaked, and he did not have his own pants, on. I am OK with the fact that they put other pants on him, it's the fact that there was ZERO communication in his bag as to what happened. After calling.. and getting no answer I said.. this is NOT happening any more. I called the Director of S.E, talked with her Assistant, and demanded him be removed from this school, and to be placed in the school that I wanted him all along. I know this is possible, I also know that they, ( Meaning the School district, S.E ) is going to try to just " Warehouse" him. I love that term, thank you to my friend I talked with today, that helped me just with being able to vent.. I So know that this process I could not do with out the love and support from everyone. I wish that I could call everyone and tell you thank you for just being there. If you are reading this, I am talking about you.. anyone that takes time to read this. So next week is going to be fun! ( I am not laughing.. lol.. ) Zoo, Omsi, Children's medium.. I am going to tell him he's going to be going to a new school, I know he's going to be a little bummed, however by keeping him really busy... life will go smoothly in the Shannon home. Then comes FRIDAY! Oh Friday... I am counting down the days, hours, Minutes.. Am I excited?? Just a little..... Cant Wait!!!

2009-09-10T23:08:00.000-07:00

"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." - James Baldwin

I was called from Kaid's Teacher this Afternoon, asking for a meeting, I was excited, to see this step from his teacher, however reluctant, to really Go by myself knowing how emotional I was already. I told her I would be there, and eager to talk about kaid. Walking in to his room, kaid was waiting for me , I could tell ( Smell) a noticeable not good Oder. First things first, I thought.. Breathe.. As his class was walking down the hall to go to the bus, ( leaving us by his room, as are meeting was right after school ) I quickly Checked his Pull-up. I almost Passed out.. With Tears Streaming down my cheeks, I rushed him into the closest bathroom, and layed out little brothers blanket for his head, to change his Pull-up. As I changed him, visibly noticed how, this Business did not just occur, it appears to be quite sometime that he was left this way. Really? How in the world could they not noticeably smell that Oder? I was blown away, yet.. now it's way more serious, this is Major Neglect! I put a smile on my face, as kaid was giving me a worried look, as he was seeing me crying. As I reassured him he was ok, that momma just needed to have a little talk with his teacher. Walking back into his class room, I was filled with emotion, immediately as she walked in, she started talking, catching me off guard. I am not going to post a long one tonight, all I will say is this. Education is extremely important to me, having my son with special needs has truly opened my eyes to truly careless Teachers, Today was a day that I will never forget. Though I will say, he has had some Amazing Teachers as well. So not the case here... His IEP has still not been read, I actually brought my copy with me, as ( HELLO what parent would not be prepared )

His teacher did not have a copy, nor was privy to it.

He's Out of this school, Hopefully Tomorrow will be his Last day.

My Gut told me all along, that this was not a good fit. Tomorrow.. No more MR. Nice mom.. It's Demanding time, Sorry.. it's the way it is. 1 whole Week with Neglect.. That's 1 week Too long!

Legal or non Legal.. This is Ridicules.

Total Let Down ~ School Issues 2 ~

2009-09-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

"I discovered early that the hardest thing to overcome is not a physical disability but the mental condition which it induces. The world, I found, has a way of taking a man pretty much at his own rating. If he permits his loss to make him embarrassed and apologetic, he will draw embarrassment from others. But if he gains his own respect, the respect of those around him comes easily." - Alexander de Seversky

The Second " First" day, started OK, However when I picked up kaid today, I noticed that his Training pants, were showing, drooping down, soaking his little shorts, his clothes were all dischevled, as well as his Sweet new shoes were tied in complete Knots. When I asked the Aid , he said he did not even notice. It took all my might, not to loose my cool right in front of everyone right there. I quickly put kaid in the car, Dialed the School and began my Numerous phone calls, trying to find out WHY he was not Changed, or helped to the Bathroom. Kaid, will go if you help him there, it appears as though no one did. Now leaving a complete rash on his back side. After having a complete meltdown ~ Again~ after picking him up from school, I just could not believe this was happening. First off, this is DAY 2 of the School year, Do you think kaids teacher called me, to talk about what happened, or to see how to best help him? NOT one call.. Me, I am On it.. Every Single Day, Calling the office. I received a Phone call this afternoon from the Principal, after explaining to her my major concerns and the one major being his toileting. I was told that Kaid's teacher was not able to review the IEP for him, as she just got them last week. Taking a minute to ponder that, I let it marinate for a min, and then told her, This was Not acceptable! I feel like we are in a nightmare, and I can not see the light right now. EVERY child deserves the right to the best and " Least" restrictive environment. What ever the case is, They really are messing with the wrong momma. I Do not want to fight, and seem like I am wanting this, I just will not allow him to be in a class to be babysat. Kaid can do everything, at first though he needs to be directed, with any kids with needs, repetition will make thing better. If it was up to me, He would be Pulled out of this school yesterday, and moved to Charter/Art therapy School. I am learning So much right now though, from being his Voice. I address this issues with the facts, and the rights that Kaid Should be receiving. This Lovely IEP, is Thick, its a blueprint for Staff, and teachers to review to find out more about him, etc... Not having them open it up, to review it.. Very Against the Law...So.. from now on, My blogs are going to be Posted School Issues. I have calls into several people , from the School district hopefully I will be able to discover why this is happening at this school. For school tomorrow, I am going to grab a Hot Chocolate, and walk kaid in to class, and observe for a while. We will overcome this

Science may have found a cure for most evils; but it has found no remedy for the worst of them all -- the apathy of human beings." - Helen Keller

A Day To Remember, Forget & Re-Do!

2009-09-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

This day Needs to Be RE-done in Every Aspect! First, the Alarm went off at 7:30am, ( school starts at 8:30) Everything was Smooth.. Shower, Breakfast,he brushed his teeth, Stoked to put his new clothes on, even the backpack. This was a scary thing for me, us.. and Kaid as well. New school, New everything... .Arriving kaid was SO excited, signing the Excited sign, giving us a hug goodbye, and then off to his Chair. We all said a Family Prayer, ( in the car before ) So I really felt great about his first day. As I was leaving the Spirit told me, ( Screamed at me pretty much.. So loud.. ) To leave my Cell phone number. Hm.. I quickly jotted it down, and let them know, (Little did I know just how much they would need that in.. Oh, 37 min.) I then ran a few errands, and when arrived home, I noticed I missed a few calls on my cell, I must have had it on Silent. Listening to the messages, my Heart Sank... then, I felt sick, then.. I thought I was going to pass out. This is what I heard. " Hello, this is Mrs. June from King elementary, kaid just bit a teachers Aid

and drew blood, you need to come take him home asap, " then hung up. Was I hearing this right? With Zero pause, I called the school, I could not believe what they were saying. I drove as fast as the speed limit permitted, to the school. Arriving in the Office, I was filled with different emotions; How could this have happened? Kaid has NEVER ever bitten anyone, let alone caused Harm to anyone. I then thought how scared he was probably, and having this the Very First day, the craziness.. was to be Expected, Not biting in any means, but.. Come one.. Kaid is not doing something Intentional! That is exactly how they treated this situation, as though he was intending to harm her. One lady told me he was not to come back to school until Next Monday, He was Suspend!! I can not even begin to explain how I felt, for me & kaid, how truly crushed, broken, hurt, & sad for both him and the TA. The "Victim" was totally ok, he just Broke through her shirt, and scratched her arm, there was blood but no teeth marks at all.

So, This is what happened.. From 10am or so, when I picked him up, I was on the phone trying to figure out what really happened, I received nothing from his school to provide telling me what truly happened. Kids with disabilities, have different sort of discipline guidelines, however nothing was followed. I found out that the TA, that kaid " Bit" tried to confine him, from getting to play with other kids. Clearly in his IEP, it is layed out that kaid has behavior needs, and never try to retrrain him.. funny how, his teacher said she never read it.

The end result was, I was not ok, with the Suspension. In his eyes he did nothing wrong, no one addressed it at the point, they carried on with there morning, letting kaid carry on as if nothing happened. I want people to understand that, it's not ok at all that he bit someone, it's the fact that, this was 100% not intentional, #2 this should have been handed in the class room with a Time out. After Several atempts to reach the principal to find out what happened, I called the head District office. After telling her the situation, she told me to talk to

the Special Ed, Director ( Highest up you can get. ) She personally called me today, and told me that Kaid WOULD be going back to school tomorrow, and just how sorry she was for how this situation was handled. She advised me that the Principal would be calling me, to tell me as well, She Calls me at 4: 46pm tonight, Not one Apology, just to tell me that Kaid was " Allowed " back to school. We are so disappointed in how this school has handled this, however I am very Optimistic. I know that Kaid will blossom, if it's here, or a different school. It was Heart breaking, pulling him from class today, when he truly did not understand why he was not able to stay. With ANY child, you don't punish them, WAY after the fact, you handle it right there and then..

To be Continued....... Tomorrow.. IS Going to be Kaid's

" Second" First Day of School! Cant' be worse.. right?

Kris, sorry, kaid would just not let me take a good shot of him, back is about it. So Happy..

Truly Hope that He's this Happy for Try # 2 Tomorrow :)

The Eve of Great Things to come..

2009-09-07T22:56:00.000-07:00

I was trying to think of what to Title my post, " The Eve of Great things to come" Just sounds the Very best to me given the nature of what is happening tomorrow. Most of you know that we made the move from Washington State, back to Oregon, with this, a whole new transition for our little Kaid. More so for him, as he is a creature of Habit. From moving, getting settled, I began the process of being kaid's voice, making sure Portland Public Schools knew me, and the process of " Transfer" paper work. Kaid was excepted in a Great School, not very close ( as in walking ) I will be driving him to and from just until the bus is up and going for him. His school is 100% all Uniform! Little kaid has to wear Khaki pants, and either a Black, white, or Red polo shirt, or a shirt with a collar, dress school shoes, and Tenny's for playing. We are excited for this new start for him, knowing just how he loves to learn from others. The only Bummer.. Kaid picked out his Backpack this year.. and I had his name embroidered on it.. ( Courtsey of Lands end) When talking to his teacher, she said as of now, no backpacks, the school will provide one for him . Being the Last relaxed non schdduled day, we loaded the boys up in the car and drove to Omsi for a fun filled day of Craziness,So many screaming little kids, mine as well as many many others. BTW, kent and I checked out the Prenatal exhibit. Pretty Awesome, never saw the stages of life so personal, and educatioal as well.

All day we have been preparing kaid for what's to happen tomorrow, every time we talk about school, he does the Sign for Excited, ( Making a fists, and rubbing his chest with both knuckles ) So happy for him!When we got home, he wanted to carry his backpack around the house. For those that have heard the rare talkative little guy, he's a chatter box! After the bath, and 2, then 3.4,5 books.. he kept saying " Baapkak" lol.." hmm?" then proceeded to jump down grab his "bapkack" and nestle next to it in bed. After prayers, and songs.. he tucked the bag to his covers, and closed his eyes.

Later, after emptying more boxes, I checked on him, and had to snap this pic.. I have more to come.. this is with my phone.. so sorry, it's not the best, it's light and grainy... you get the picture though. I wish I would have captured one when he was hugging it. Excited to Spend some Much NEEDED one on one time with my Buggy boy! Karson and I are going to have some Adventures!

You can see " Kaid " on the top. Tradition that Kaid picks out his bag, this year and probably for ever we shopped online. Best way!

Mountain O Boxes

2009-09-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

Just a little update.. I cant believe I have a sec to update. We have moved, however not fully adjusted by any means.. The boys are having a pretty hard time. I am working 24/7 to see my beautiful hardwood floors.. 10 boxes yesterday.. I am hoping for doubble that today! Pictures to come..I dont want to scare you with what the house looks like now...lol..

School is on the 8th, so this HAS to be done by then.....

Shut The Front Door!! moving time..

2009-08-18T17:57:00.000-07:00

Well.. the move it here.. we are up to our eyeballs with box's, Diapers.. you name it. I really do not feel up to blogging these day's as.. the nice place that I can relax to sit at, is slightly covered with box's, and stuff. I will be down for sometime.. please check back here soon.. We get our new service on the 27th, and then.. I am sure I will be up and going " hopefully" shortly after that. Blogging has really been helping me out.. with Stress.. craziness.. boardness.. you name it. I am probably going to be with-drawing, know that.. I will be back with Sweet Pictures of our New place! So cant Wait!

Yeah, and " Shut The Front Door" I stole from Stacy, from What not To wear, I love this.. it's so much better than saying.

" Fetch" or " Freak" or.. close enough..

Talk with you very Soon :)

Home Click.Com

2009-08-06T21:39:00.000-07:00

I have been going a little batty.. Not really wanting to be at our Apartment, as the Clutter is INSANE! The new house is not quite ready.. the Hardwood Floors are being redone, and We just picked out the Stain today, they are a dark Walnut. So, as things are adding up that we need to get for the house, I thought to myself," How can I save money, and still find Awesome things" Then.. HOME CLICK.com popped in my head. When We built our house before this website is AMAZING.. yes I guess it's a plug, Outlet if you will.. I vowed I would not go to Anymore stores with my two boys, trying to pick out Lighting, and shades, rugs... One stop shop all from the warm cozy comforts my own home. Not to mention, this is guilt free shopping, as you really do save a nice little penny. Next week is the week we will be shutting off our Internet, until the move over there, I will try to get some more Recent Pictures of the Boys.

The other day, Kent comes home with 2 new Car seats for the Boys. Karson's is Able to sit Forward facing now, as he is 21lbs, and the Car seat Say's Forward at 20lbs, then Kaid FINALLY got a new 5point harness! Yeah no getting out while I am driving now.

Kaid Day 3

2009-08-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

Today is the 3rd day of this New Medication..I am BLOWN away! I can already tell that this is completely helping him. The great part is I, just peal and stick a patch to his skin when he get's dressed in the AM. I really thought that he would be noticing there was a patch on him, and try to pull it off, however not the case AT all!! I am SO grateful that We stuck with our gut, and kept trying one's that " FIT" kaid. I truly believe that this one is going to do it. The Sleep is great as well, 8:30 ish, and he's fast asleep, not to wake up until 6am. This is different from his, going to bed with a struggle at 12am, then to be up at 3, or 4am for the rest of the day! Yeah... I am happy for sleep. Things are a little Crazy in the Shannon Family right now, We are moving in roughly 3 weeks, Squeezing a mini Vacation this Weekend, and deep cleaning our Apartment all this Month! It CAN and WILL for sure be done! Tonight we drove to the new place with the boys, and had dinner over there with Kent. I just Love that Kent is Such a Great guy, I truly Lucked out with how dedicated he is to making us happy, and comfortable, he gets up at 7am, drives 40min to work, leaves around 6pm, ( then is normally home by 7pm ) but now.. because we are crunch time, he drives over to the new house.. and works until sometimes pretty late, only to be doing this over and over. As we were outside the house talking about plans for Landscaping, a neighbor came up, when he was walking by, and introduced himself. So friendly, We know that this is Going to be an Awesome Move. I went to the Portland School district today, and Registered kaid for 1st grade. There is a lengthy process, finding the Perfect fit for school when there is an IEP, I am Crossing my Finger's Toes, everything for Alameda Elementary.. I will for sure keep you all posted :) Hope everyone is enjoying there Summer !

Kaid

2009-08-01T02:07:00.000-07:00

~Attitude ~

one Part at a time,

one day at a time,

We can accomplish ANY goal we set for ourselves.

Today, I will do one small task that will contribute

towards the achievement of a life goal.

-- Unknown

This Is A long POST, It could not be Shorten... Sorry

Today, Has been An extremely difficult day for me, ( putting it mildly). This am, Kaid's had a Re-check up at his Paediatrics's office. Kaid has been having a very difficult time with his Aggression, and Temper. We have tried so many different thing's, all of which work for a little, then either he become immune to them, and stop working, or he becomes more aggressive. We have So far tried, 5 Different Types of ADHD medication's, now This will be the 6Th. Making it even harder for me today, was coming to realize that Kaid needed more Medication, to help control his Outbursts. I hit the Wall hard today, The part that I just lost it was, when we were leaving the clinic, I was handed a Stack of Percriptions, with a list of Blood work that he needed at the Hospital. I really Do not want to Sound like I am complainer, more like, when is the CALM going to come to my Storm? It's just really hard for me to swallow, that little reality pill that in order for My little Guy to function just like everyone else he needs a little more "help" doing so. Tonight, as I picked up the bag full of percriptions, I again began to cry. " How is this going to work?" I thought to myself. How in the World can I remember all what to do? I quickly brushed that negative talk aside knowing that was not going to get me anywhere. To give you an Idea,.. When Kaid wake's up, he's Given a Patch on his Hip ( Hopefully he will not Rip it off ) If this does not work,plan(2) then Pill crushed up, several times day. Then he has 2 types of Behavior Medication, with Long list of Directions, 1/2 pill this time, 1.5 pill latter, but not after this time. Then I have to Make sure the Patch is taken off by 9 hours he has his Vitamins that we give him in a syringe, I am extremely Happy that Kaid is beginning to gain some weight, and showing us that he loves food again. I know this is all going to take some time and getting use to. Kaid is the type of kiddo that needs to be told " Way " in advance before something Major is to happen, for instance his Medication. In the Beginning, I would say OK kaid is time for your medicine, and he would Run the other way.. hopeing that I would forget all about it. Now 2 years later, I know he knows that this is helping him, and not harming him, he will sit ( not always ) while we give him his medicine.

This is just something that I needed to write tonght, I needed to be able to Vent if you will... I am not knowing when kaid will just be able to be Calm, having him not Have to be always doing something. I am hopeful, and Prayerful that given these new tools, he will succeed. .having a child with major challenges, can tear your whole world apart. I know that this will pass, this hard trial with kaid, is clearly that, we will look back upon this at a later date and feel so grateful that we pulled though it. I am going to be posting " Kaid " blogs' about his status. I believe this is going to help me deal with all the sadness I have and issue that I just need to vent. So.. If you are reading this, and ever need help with ANY thing related to ADHD, or Hyperactivity, ask away. A little Testimony that I know MY Heavenly Father is Listening to me, and loves me a cool thing happened: Yesterday when I was at the Gym, I got a call on my phone, (I normally Do not take my phone in, however something told me I needed to take it with me while I worked out). when I answered the phone, it was The Chief Medical Dr. at OHSU, Dorenbecher where Kaid has been seen for several years. Just in there 3 weeks prior for our check up, and going over some major issues we had with kaid. As the Dr, went over things with us, He gave us a list of things to do, and Things to help with kaid, " Homework" if you will. So when he called, he said he had a Feeling that he needed to call me to check in on me, seeing how I was doing with kaid that day. I honestly about fell off the Treadmill! I was Having a day that I can not even begin to describe,( leave it at Toileting) I started to CRY. WHY am I crying I thought? Because He Heard me, I answered to myself. I was So blessed that HF listened to my countless prayers that morning, and sent a message to me this was Exactly what I needed. I needed to have someone tell me, " Medically" That Kaid was going to be OK, that This was something that was NOT uncommon, That KAID was a GOOD boy, that I was SICK to death of hearing family and people alike saying the words, BAD boy kaid. Kaid is a Wonderful Loving little boy that just needs a little more help, he said. I could not have said it better. More to come... New Medication starting tomorrow.