Katelyn was sitting on the sofa with her laptop last night, when she suddenly blurted out, "Oh my gosh. I think Brian is engaged!" My daughter was obviously facebook stalking, something she enjoys doing whenever she has a spare minute. Immediately, Katelyn began chatting, via facebook, with her best friend Kaitlen. (Yes. They have the same name. Try not to get confused.)
Before I show you their actual conversation, which they kindly gave me permission to use, let me set up the scenario for you. (Names have been changed to protect the guilty.)
It was only a few short weeks ago that my daughter, Katelyn, was dating Brian, a boy she met in her biology lab. Things kind of fizzled out between the two of them because Brian preferred "hanging out" in large groups and playing volleyball. Katelyn thought that was just weird. She also didn't like the fact that Brian didn't have a job and still lived with his parents in their humongous mansion bought with multi-level marketing money (a sore subject within our family).
From the way Katelyn and Kaitlen (girlie girls) describe Brian, he is a twenty-something year old Hugh Hefner except, Hugh likes pretty women and apparently Brian prefers the butchy type that live in sweat pants and don't wear make-up or shave their legs.
Now that you've got the low down, here are Katelyn and Kaitlen's texts, for your entertainment...
Katelyn- Brian's engaged!
Kaitlen- Shut your mouth!?!!!
Katelyn- Look at his wall!
Kaitlen- Hahaha. Are you kidding me? I cannot stop laughing.
Katelyn- He has to be. It only makes sense. I looked at his older posts and a lot of people are saying congrats!
Kaitlen- Are you KIDDING ME?!
Katelyn- I am pissed. Hahahaha. I want to just rant on his wall.
Kaitlen- Oh my gosh. Me too!
Katelyn- I am dying. I need to say something! What do I say? What do I say?
Kaitlen- Oh, you definitely do. Just text him or something. I don't know if I want to laugh, or cry, or vomit.
Katelyn- He is so two-faced. They haven't been back together more than two months, because that's how long it's been since we stopped dating, and Abbey broke up with him like forever ago. Why the hell is she back with him and marrying him so suddenly? I don't know what to do. I don't know what to do!
Kaitlen- Let's take him a congratulations cake and shove it in his face....and kick him in the nuts so Abbey feels no pleasure.
Katelyn- I should write on his wall and "kick him in the nuts so Abbey feels no pleasure" might be the best thing I have ever heard you say! My mom (she's talking about me here) says, "I wonder if Abbey will wear sweats to her wedding. Better yet, I wonder if she'll wear sweats on her honeymoon night?"
and now for the punchline...
Kaitlen- I can almost guarantee it. They probably won't even have sex. They'll probably just play some volleyball!
I don't need to watch 'Big Brother' or 'The Hills' for entertainment. I live with a teenage girl. :)
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Scrapbook/ Journaling Idea from July 2010 Archive
Here is a fun idea for a scrapbook page. Have your kids answer questions about you (individually). I did this with my children a couple of years ago. It was fun comparing their answers. As you read through these, remember that Cody is my son with special needs. (I promise, I am taller than 2 feet.)
Q What is something mom always says to you?
A Katelyn-“Be safe.”
Casey- “Keep your nose clean.”
Chase- “Knock it off.”
Cody- “Time to rise and shine.”
Q What makes mom happy?
A Katelyn- “Milk Duds”
Casey- “Pills”
Chase- “Coke”
Cody- “Playing Yahtzee”
Q What makes mom sad?
A Katelyn- “Her sons”
Casey- “”Sometimes me”
Chase- “That she doesn’t have grandkids”
Cody- “Grandpa and Terri’s funerals”
Q How tall is mom?
A Katelyn- “5’4””
Casey- “5’6” if that?”
Chase- “5’1””
Cody- “2 feet”
Q What is mom’s favorite thing to watch on T.V.?
A Katelyn- “Survivor”
Casey- “Survivor”
Chase- “The Office”
Cody- “Survivor”
Q What does mom do when you’re not around?
A Katelyn- “Look on the Internet for plumbing ideas”
Casey- “How am I supposed to know?”
Chase- “Hell if I know.”
Cody- “Work”
Q If mom was famous, what would it be for?
A Katelyn- “Best mother in the whole world”
Casey- “I don’t know dude”
Chase- “Running over a skateboard”
Cody- “Being cute”
Q What is mom really good at?
A Katelyn- “Cooking”
Casey- “Cooking”
Chase- “Worrying”
Cody- “Sewing”
Q What is mom not very good at?
A Katelyn- “Spelling”
Casey- “Texting”
Chase- “Playing Nintendo”
Cody- “Cleaning up”
Q What is mom’s favorite food?
A Katelyn- “Mexican and Chinese”
Casey- “Applebee’s”
Chase- “Chocolate Turtles”
Cody- “Lasagna”
Q What makes you proud of mom?
A Katelyn- “I am just like her.”
Casey- “Everything”
Chase- “She drives a sexy car”
Cody- “She’s cute”
Q How are you and your mom the same?
A Katelyn- “We both have nice butts.”
Casey- “We’re both weirdo’s.”
Chase- “Bi-polar”
Cody- “We both like ‘80’s music.”
Q How are you and your mom different?
A Katelyn- “I’m not sure.”
Casey- “She has kids”
Chase- “She gives me money when I need it”
Cody- “I go bowling”
Q Where is mom’s favorite place to go?
A Katelyn- "Disneyland"
Casey- “Disneyland”
Chase- “Las Vegas”
Cody- “Mesquite”
Q What is something mom always says to you?
A Katelyn-“Be safe.”
Casey- “Keep your nose clean.”
Chase- “Knock it off.”
Cody- “Time to rise and shine.”
Q What makes mom happy?
A Katelyn- “Milk Duds”
Casey- “Pills”
Chase- “Coke”
Cody- “Playing Yahtzee”
Q What makes mom sad?
A Katelyn- “Her sons”
Casey- “”Sometimes me”
Chase- “That she doesn’t have grandkids”
Cody- “Grandpa and Terri’s funerals”
Q How tall is mom?
A Katelyn- “5’4””
Casey- “5’6” if that?”
Chase- “5’1””
Cody- “2 feet”
Q What is mom’s favorite thing to watch on T.V.?
A Katelyn- “Survivor”
Casey- “Survivor”
Chase- “The Office”
Cody- “Survivor”
Q What does mom do when you’re not around?
A Katelyn- “Look on the Internet for plumbing ideas”
Casey- “How am I supposed to know?”
Chase- “Hell if I know.”
Cody- “Work”
Q If mom was famous, what would it be for?
A Katelyn- “Best mother in the whole world”
Casey- “I don’t know dude”
Chase- “Running over a skateboard”
Cody- “Being cute”
Q What is mom really good at?
A Katelyn- “Cooking”
Casey- “Cooking”
Chase- “Worrying”
Cody- “Sewing”
Q What is mom not very good at?
A Katelyn- “Spelling”
Casey- “Texting”
Chase- “Playing Nintendo”
Cody- “Cleaning up”
Q What is mom’s favorite food?
A Katelyn- “Mexican and Chinese”
Casey- “Applebee’s”
Chase- “Chocolate Turtles”
Cody- “Lasagna”
Q What makes you proud of mom?
A Katelyn- “I am just like her.”
Casey- “Everything”
Chase- “She drives a sexy car”
Cody- “She’s cute”
Q How are you and your mom the same?
A Katelyn- “We both have nice butts.”
Casey- “We’re both weirdo’s.”
Chase- “Bi-polar”
Cody- “We both like ‘80’s music.”
Q How are you and your mom different?
A Katelyn- “I’m not sure.”
Casey- “She has kids”
Chase- “She gives me money when I need it”
Cody- “I go bowling”
Q Where is mom’s favorite place to go?
A Katelyn- "Disneyland"
Casey- “Disneyland”
Chase- “Las Vegas”
Cody- “Mesquite”
Saturday, June 25, 2011
God Sent to Me an Angel
God sent to me an angel,
it had a broken wing.
I bent my head and wondered
“How could God do such a thing?”
When I asked the Father
why He sent this child to me,
the answer was forthcoming,
He said “Listen and you’ll see.”
“My children are all precious,
and none is like the rest.
Each one to me is special,
and the least is as the best.
I send each one from Heaven
and I place him in the care
of those who know my mercy,
those with love to spare.
Sometimes I take them back again.
Sometimes I let them stay.
No matter what may happen
I am never far away.
So if you find an angel
and you don’t know what to do,
remember, I am with you,
love is all I ask of you.”
by- Paul Dammann
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Camping Bites and I'm Not Talking Mosquitoes
This is the time of year when you hear about camps. There are scout camps, sports camps, cheerleading camps, weight loss camps, boot camps, etc. All of the buzz about summer camps makes me wonder. Have I ever mentioned how much I hate to camp? I don't think I have. Well, I hate to camp and here is why...
I went camping a lot when I was a kid. My family owned property on a nearby mountain and kept a travel trailer on it all summer long. I didn't mind camping when I was a child, but as I got older, I despised it.
I was twelve or thirteen years old when I attended girl's camp. It was my first experience camping in a tent and without my family. The camp leaders thought it would be a wonderful idea to split up friends so the girls could become better acquainted with each other. This was a HUGE mistake as far as I was concerned. I was immediately miserable without my best friend Jill.
While most of the girls had cute, young women for their camp leaders, my group ended up with an old lady that made us rub lotion all over our bodies before we climbed into our sleeping bags. She was convinced that our skin was going to get dry in the cool mountain air, but I am positive that it was completely the opposite. Seriously, what percentage of teenage girls have dry skin anyway? Most of us were worried about our greasy 'T Zones' and breaking out in zits.
Jill and I tried to be together as much as possible during the day, planning our classes/activities at the same time when we could. But when evening rolled around, I was stuck with a bunch of dud girls and Old Lady Jergens.
I think Jill may have went back to girls camp in the summers following that one, but I never did. That one experience traumatized me for life.
My idea of camping nowadays is to stay at a Hilton or Marriott, but even that is iffy with the bed bug epidemic and all. :)
I went camping a lot when I was a kid. My family owned property on a nearby mountain and kept a travel trailer on it all summer long. I didn't mind camping when I was a child, but as I got older, I despised it.
I was twelve or thirteen years old when I attended girl's camp. It was my first experience camping in a tent and without my family. The camp leaders thought it would be a wonderful idea to split up friends so the girls could become better acquainted with each other. This was a HUGE mistake as far as I was concerned. I was immediately miserable without my best friend Jill.
While most of the girls had cute, young women for their camp leaders, my group ended up with an old lady that made us rub lotion all over our bodies before we climbed into our sleeping bags. She was convinced that our skin was going to get dry in the cool mountain air, but I am positive that it was completely the opposite. Seriously, what percentage of teenage girls have dry skin anyway? Most of us were worried about our greasy 'T Zones' and breaking out in zits.
Jill and I tried to be together as much as possible during the day, planning our classes/activities at the same time when we could. But when evening rolled around, I was stuck with a bunch of dud girls and Old Lady Jergens.
I think Jill may have went back to girls camp in the summers following that one, but I never did. That one experience traumatized me for life.
My idea of camping nowadays is to stay at a Hilton or Marriott, but even that is iffy with the bed bug epidemic and all. :)
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Comedians, Garbage Cans, Cable Install Men and Cody
Monday night is trash night and in case you didn't already know, Cody loves taking the garbage can out to the curb. See the following posts:
Working Hard or Hardly Working?
and
Absolute Garbage!
Last night, however, we ran into a bit of a problem. When Cody wanted his dad to help him with this "chore", there was a man installing cable at the end of our driveway, right where the trash can needed to go.
Don told Cody, "We can't take the trash out until the cable guy is out of our way." Don then went out in the backyard to water the garden. About ten minutes later, Don came back inside and Cody said, "Dad. What's Larry doing?"
Get it?
Larry...
The Cable Guy.
AKA Mater...
Working Hard or Hardly Working?
and
Absolute Garbage!
Last night, however, we ran into a bit of a problem. When Cody wanted his dad to help him with this "chore", there was a man installing cable at the end of our driveway, right where the trash can needed to go.
Don told Cody, "We can't take the trash out until the cable guy is out of our way." Don then went out in the backyard to water the garden. About ten minutes later, Don came back inside and Cody said, "Dad. What's Larry doing?"
Get it?
Larry...
The Cable Guy.
AKA Mater...
Monday, June 20, 2011
Top 10 Reasons I Decided Not to Move Out/ Guest Post by Katelyn
1. I love my mother too much. After her post, 10 Reasons I Should be Happy She Wants to Leave Home, I realized as her one and only daughter, she needs me.
2. I am very indecisive. I often want my mother’s approval and guidance on the decisions I make.
3. I am a worrier and get caught up in the “what ifs”. Basically, I worry about what to worry about.
4. Chances are, I would be at my parent’s home every day anyway. I am very attached to the comfort of my family. I like knowing they are there for me, particularly my mother.
5. Free Rent. Free Food. Free Laundry. Free Cleaning. Free Utilities. Free Internet. Free Cable.
6. Convenience of location. My parent’s home is very close to town. It only takes about ten minutes to drive to college, to work, and to my best friend’s house.
7. I don’t have enough money to move out. I pay the balance of my college tuition, above and beyond my scholarship. I pay my own car payment, auto insurance and cell phone bill. I also buy my own gas. If I had to pay for everything listed in #5, I wouldn’t have enough money to buy "girlie" essentials, such as clothing, makeup and bath toiletries.
8. I have a lenient curfew. My parents realize I am an adult. They trust me to make good choices and to come home at a decent hour. I will admit it’s kind of sad when I come home and my dad isn’t waiting up for me (even though he was usually conked out on the couch).
9. Dad helps me with car stuff. On a cold morning, my dad will get up early and start my car to defrost the windows and warm it up. If it’s late at night and my tank is ridiculously empty, I can count on my dad to risk running out of gas on his way to fuel it up, so it’s ready for me the next morning. Also, I can usually sweet talk him into washing my car and waxing out even the tiniest scratches.
10. I hope to get married within the next few years. Why not live at home, rent free, for as long as I can?
2. I am very indecisive. I often want my mother’s approval and guidance on the decisions I make.
3. I am a worrier and get caught up in the “what ifs”. Basically, I worry about what to worry about.
4. Chances are, I would be at my parent’s home every day anyway. I am very attached to the comfort of my family. I like knowing they are there for me, particularly my mother.
5. Free Rent. Free Food. Free Laundry. Free Cleaning. Free Utilities. Free Internet. Free Cable.
6. Convenience of location. My parent’s home is very close to town. It only takes about ten minutes to drive to college, to work, and to my best friend’s house.
7. I don’t have enough money to move out. I pay the balance of my college tuition, above and beyond my scholarship. I pay my own car payment, auto insurance and cell phone bill. I also buy my own gas. If I had to pay for everything listed in #5, I wouldn’t have enough money to buy "girlie" essentials, such as clothing, makeup and bath toiletries.
8. I have a lenient curfew. My parents realize I am an adult. They trust me to make good choices and to come home at a decent hour. I will admit it’s kind of sad when I come home and my dad isn’t waiting up for me (even though he was usually conked out on the couch).
9. Dad helps me with car stuff. On a cold morning, my dad will get up early and start my car to defrost the windows and warm it up. If it’s late at night and my tank is ridiculously empty, I can count on my dad to risk running out of gas on his way to fuel it up, so it’s ready for me the next morning. Also, I can usually sweet talk him into washing my car and waxing out even the tiniest scratches.
10. I hope to get married within the next few years. Why not live at home, rent free, for as long as I can?
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Conversations Between Cody and His Dad/ A Father's Day Post
Cody loves his dad. I could not begin to count the number of times Cody says "dad" when Don is home. Seriously, it would be a ridiculous amount.
"Good morning dad."
"What do you think of that dad?"
"Hey dad!"
"How come you clear your throat all the time dad."
"Dad. What did you do at the 'port?"
"Did you get dust up your nose dad?"
When my other kids were little, I use to tell them if they didn't stop saying "mom", I was going to change my name, but not Cody. He is perfectly happy yakking at his dad.
Cody and Don also like to tease one another and call each other names. I have captured a few conversations Cody and his dad have had over the last week...
Cody- "You smell like a bird dad."
Don- "Really? What does a bird smell like?"
Cody- "Kinda like manure."
Don- "Hi Fred."
Cody- "S'up Dollar Face?"
Don- "Not much Pocket Change."
Cody- belching so loud that he could win any burping contest
Don- (quite annoyed) "Have you ever noticed that nobody else around here does that?"
Cody- "Not really."
Here is a Father's Day poem Cody made up for his dad:
Roses are red.
Violets are blue.
Splenda is sweet
and so are you!
"Good morning dad."
"What do you think of that dad?"
"Hey dad!"
"How come you clear your throat all the time dad."
"Dad. What did you do at the 'port?"
"Did you get dust up your nose dad?"
When my other kids were little, I use to tell them if they didn't stop saying "mom", I was going to change my name, but not Cody. He is perfectly happy yakking at his dad.
Cody and Don also like to tease one another and call each other names. I have captured a few conversations Cody and his dad have had over the last week...
Cody- "You smell like a bird dad."
Don- "Really? What does a bird smell like?"
Cody- "Kinda like manure."
Don- "Hi Fred."
Cody- "S'up Dollar Face?"
Don- "Not much Pocket Change."
Cody- belching so loud that he could win any burping contest
Don- (quite annoyed) "Have you ever noticed that nobody else around here does that?"
Cody- "Not really."
Here is a Father's Day poem Cody made up for his dad:
Roses are red.
Violets are blue.
Splenda is sweet
and so are you!
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Friday, June 17, 2011
Back in My Nest
I intended to post yesterday, on my blog-iversary. (That's right. I have kept this up for an entire year.) Instead, I spent the day travelling home from an appointment with Cody's neurologist. After NOT sleeping at the hotel because our room was next to the ice machine and the a/c was not working, I started thinking about the children's book 'The Best Nest' by P.D. Eastman. Do you remember that book? Let me refresh your memory...
Mr. Bird thinks his nest is the best in the world until Mrs. Bird tells him he's wrong. The couple go on a quest for "the best nest" and try building nests in a mailbox, a church-bell, and a shoe (among other places). Throughout the book they sing, "I love my house. I love my nest. In all the world, this nest is best." but in the end, a storm blows them back to "the best nest of all", their original nest.
That's kinda how I felt yesterday. I love going out of town, even if it is for a doctor appointment. A change of scenery is a good thing, but I am always happy to be home, where nobody gets ice out of my freezer in the middle of the night, I can sleep in a California King Size bed, and pee in my own clean toilet. You know...back in my nest.
FYI- You can find this book at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble. WalMart has a newer edition (2005) available online.
Mr. Bird thinks his nest is the best in the world until Mrs. Bird tells him he's wrong. The couple go on a quest for "the best nest" and try building nests in a mailbox, a church-bell, and a shoe (among other places). Throughout the book they sing, "I love my house. I love my nest. In all the world, this nest is best." but in the end, a storm blows them back to "the best nest of all", their original nest.
That's kinda how I felt yesterday. I love going out of town, even if it is for a doctor appointment. A change of scenery is a good thing, but I am always happy to be home, where nobody gets ice out of my freezer in the middle of the night, I can sleep in a California King Size bed, and pee in my own clean toilet. You know...back in my nest.
FYI- You can find this book at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble. WalMart has a newer edition (2005) available online.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Chill Out and Sip on This
Easy Breezy Lemon Lime Squeezy
My favorite time to sip on this light, refreshing drink is in the evening, after I have had my fill of Diet Coke and/or Iced Tea for the day. You only need the following four ingredients and preferably an insulated cup:
Maraschino Cherries
Sprite or Sprite Zero
Lime
Crushed Ice
Squeeze 1/4 of the lime over the crushed ice. Add one Maraschino cherry and a tiny bit of the juice. Pour Sprite and enjoy.
Like I said...easy!
My favorite time to sip on this light, refreshing drink is in the evening, after I have had my fill of Diet Coke and/or Iced Tea for the day. You only need the following four ingredients and preferably an insulated cup:
Maraschino Cherries
Sprite or Sprite Zero
Lime
Crushed Ice
Squeeze 1/4 of the lime over the crushed ice. Add one Maraschino cherry and a tiny bit of the juice. Pour Sprite and enjoy.
Like I said...easy!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Negligees and Ragged Pajamas
Cody likes to pick at his clothes. Those who read my blog regularly already know that Cody picks at his socks, but he also lies in bed at night and picks at the seams of his pajama tops. I have resorted to purchasing the Hanes 3 pack tee shirts and having him wear them at night. Why put Cody in a nice pair of pajamas if he's just going to ruin them, right?
Late one evening, Don and I had to make a trip into town. Cody, already bathed and wearing his 'make-shift' pajamas, climbed into the car with us. As I looked at Cody's sleeve, I said to Don, "Look at Cody's tee shirt. People are going to think we are negligent parents."
About a mile down the road, Cody said, "Why are people going to think your Randy Travis?" (Confused yet? I was!) Anyhow, this is what followed...
Don- Driving and most likely tuning me and Cody out.
Me- "Why would people think I'm Randy Travis Cody?"
Cody- "You know...'like that pretty negligee that I bought you to wear'. Randy Travis."
After giving it some thought, I realized Cody was quoting lyrics to Randy Travis' song 'Diggin' Up Bones' that was released in 1987! Apparently Cody thought negligent and negligee were the same thing.
Here's the YouTube clip if you'd like to listen to the lyrics and see for yourself. If not, I certainly understand. :)
This is everyday life with Cody. Our conversations are ALL OVER the place.
Late one evening, Don and I had to make a trip into town. Cody, already bathed and wearing his 'make-shift' pajamas, climbed into the car with us. As I looked at Cody's sleeve, I said to Don, "Look at Cody's tee shirt. People are going to think we are negligent parents."
About a mile down the road, Cody said, "Why are people going to think your Randy Travis?" (Confused yet? I was!) Anyhow, this is what followed...
Don- Driving and most likely tuning me and Cody out.
Me- "Why would people think I'm Randy Travis Cody?"
Cody- "You know...'like that pretty negligee that I bought you to wear'. Randy Travis."
After giving it some thought, I realized Cody was quoting lyrics to Randy Travis' song 'Diggin' Up Bones' that was released in 1987! Apparently Cody thought negligent and negligee were the same thing.
Here's the YouTube clip if you'd like to listen to the lyrics and see for yourself. If not, I certainly understand. :)
This is everyday life with Cody. Our conversations are ALL OVER the place.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
11 Reasons to Exercise
Maybe if I write a list, I'll read it once in awhile and stay inspired? Here is some information I found in Prevention Magazine:
11- Heart Pumping increases blood flow to the brain- helping with multi-tasking, planning and memory.
10- It reduces pain and stiffness. It releases endorphins- the body's natural pain reliever.
9- You think more clearly, get more done and interact more effectively with others.
8- It increases blood flow to all areas of the body.
7- It thwarts off gum disease.
6- It boosts your immune system.
5- It helps with sleep patterns.
4- It is good for your eyes.
3- It increases energy and reduces fatigue.
2- It adds strength to your bones.
And, my number 1 reason to exercise...
11- Heart Pumping increases blood flow to the brain- helping with multi-tasking, planning and memory.
10- It reduces pain and stiffness. It releases endorphins- the body's natural pain reliever.
9- You think more clearly, get more done and interact more effectively with others.
8- It increases blood flow to all areas of the body.
7- It thwarts off gum disease.
6- It boosts your immune system.
5- It helps with sleep patterns.
4- It is good for your eyes.
3- It increases energy and reduces fatigue.
2- It adds strength to your bones.
And, my number 1 reason to exercise...
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| My Crazy Family |
Friday, June 10, 2011
Autism/ Taking Things Literally
Don, Cody and I were running errands late this afternoon and the following conversation took place in the car:
Me- We need to get home so I can make dinner... OR we could just grab something, unless you already ate a burger for lunch?
Don- No. I didn't. I ate the frozen pizza I had at work.
Cody- Frozen pizza!!!!?? That's disgusting!
Me- We need to get home so I can make dinner... OR we could just grab something, unless you already ate a burger for lunch?
Don- No. I didn't. I ate the frozen pizza I had at work.
Cody- Frozen pizza!!!!?? That's disgusting!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Multiple Sclerosis Awareness
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. World-wide, MS affects about 2.5 million people (http://www.nationalmssociety.org/). No two cases are exactly alike, and symptoms vary considerably from one individual to another.
Don, my husband, has Multiple Sclerosis. I do not blog about it often, probably because it isn't as "in my face" as Cody's autism is. HOWEVER, Don recently went in for more tests and, I am happy to say that his neurologist gave him a good report.
Last summer I wrote a post about attending a Multiple Sclerosis event with my husband where Jordan Sigalet, a retired Canadian Ice Hockey Goaltender, was the guest speaker. Jordan was born in 1981, the same year as Cody.
To show support of MS awareness, I am reposting Jordan's clip for those of you who may have missed it last year.
Don, my husband, has Multiple Sclerosis. I do not blog about it often, probably because it isn't as "in my face" as Cody's autism is. HOWEVER, Don recently went in for more tests and, I am happy to say that his neurologist gave him a good report.
Last summer I wrote a post about attending a Multiple Sclerosis event with my husband where Jordan Sigalet, a retired Canadian Ice Hockey Goaltender, was the guest speaker. Jordan was born in 1981, the same year as Cody.
To show support of MS awareness, I am reposting Jordan's clip for those of you who may have missed it last year.
Zucchini Stuffing Bake
For those of you who grow your own vegetable gardens, it's time to start thinking about what to do with massive amounts of zucchini. Baking this Creamy Zucchini Casserole is a tasty option and a seasonal favorite of my family.
There are two things to remember when it comes to zucchini-
1. Pick them young and tender.
2. Pick them often. Monster sized zucchini are edible, but not nearly as palatable.
Saute in olive oil-
2 medium zucchini, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
Add-
Microwave-
1 box Stove Top Chicken Flavored Stuffing according to package directions.
Place 1/2 of the stuffing into a small, lightly buttered baking dish. Add zucchini mixture, then top with the remaining stuffing.
There are two things to remember when it comes to zucchini-
1. Pick them young and tender.
2. Pick them often. Monster sized zucchini are edible, but not nearly as palatable.
 |
| 6-8 inches is a good size for zucchini |
Creamy Zucchini Casserole
2 medium zucchini, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
Add-
1 can Cream of Chicken soup
1/2 cup sour creamMicrowave-
1 box Stove Top Chicken Flavored Stuffing according to package directions.
Place 1/2 of the stuffing into a small, lightly buttered baking dish. Add zucchini mixture, then top with the remaining stuffing.
Bake at 350* for 25-30 minutes.
Enjoy.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Why Be Normal?
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Don and I are slowly, but surely, redecorating Cody's bedroom. We painted the walls and bought him a new bed, mattress, dresser and night stand. Now it's up to me to decorate Cody's walls.
I'm not the type of person that can display any ol' thing on the walls of my home. The decor I have in my house has to mean something to me. That is why, when I was browsing the Internet and came across this phrase, "Why be normal?", the thought came to my mind to print it out in vinyl. See how cute it looks above Cody's bed...
I know there are people that get offended by the reference "normal" or "abnormal", but it doesn't bother me. I understand the context for which it is used and realize, for the most part, people mean no harm. If I let every little thing bother me, well...I'd be a bigger basket case then I already am. It just so happens that my family takes pride in being weird. "Normal" is not "the norm" for us. :)
Don and I are slowly, but surely, redecorating Cody's bedroom. We painted the walls and bought him a new bed, mattress, dresser and night stand. Now it's up to me to decorate Cody's walls.
I'm not the type of person that can display any ol' thing on the walls of my home. The decor I have in my house has to mean something to me. That is why, when I was browsing the Internet and came across this phrase, "Why be normal?", the thought came to my mind to print it out in vinyl. See how cute it looks above Cody's bed...
 |
| I was having a few problems with my camera. It appears that the 'n' is peeling off, but it's just poor lighting. |
I know there are people that get offended by the reference "normal" or "abnormal", but it doesn't bother me. I understand the context for which it is used and realize, for the most part, people mean no harm. If I let every little thing bother me, well...I'd be a bigger basket case then I already am. It just so happens that my family takes pride in being weird. "Normal" is not "the norm" for us. :)
Monday, June 6, 2011
Gifts That Say Something
Over the years, I have ordered several items for Cody (visually impaired) from Speak to Me Catalog. They offer numerous talking products such as: electronic and plush toys, watches, clocks, kitchen items, calculators, graduation gifts and much more.
You can browse and order items from Speak to Me Catalog by visiting their website http://www.speaktomecatalog.com/ . They also have a link in the bottom right hand corner of their home page, where you can request to have a free catalog sent to your home.
You can browse and order items from Speak to Me Catalog by visiting their website http://www.speaktomecatalog.com/ . They also have a link in the bottom right hand corner of their home page, where you can request to have a free catalog sent to your home.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Pay Attention to Me!
For some reason, Cody takes pleasure in doing things to deliberately provoke people. It's his way of shifting attention back to himself.
Don, Cody and I were running errands a few days ago, when Cody began clearing his throat excessively in the back seat of the car. (This is something Don often does after he eats and Cody enjoys bugging his dad about it.) Don and I intentionally ignored Cody. After awhile, Cody finally said, "Are you ignoring me because I'm making fun of you dad?"
Keep in mind that Cody is blind as well as autistic as I tell you another thing he did this last week. The four of us were eating dinner when Katelyn mouthed something to me and then pointed downward. As I looked under the table, trying to understand what she was saying to me, this is what I observed...
Cody often will kick people under the table. This time he wasn't kicking Katelyn, just resting his foot on top of hers, trying to get a rise out of his sister. She didn't give him the satisfaction of saying anything and he eventually gave up and moved his foot.
Don, Cody and I were running errands a few days ago, when Cody began clearing his throat excessively in the back seat of the car. (This is something Don often does after he eats and Cody enjoys bugging his dad about it.) Don and I intentionally ignored Cody. After awhile, Cody finally said, "Are you ignoring me because I'm making fun of you dad?"
Keep in mind that Cody is blind as well as autistic as I tell you another thing he did this last week. The four of us were eating dinner when Katelyn mouthed something to me and then pointed downward. As I looked under the table, trying to understand what she was saying to me, this is what I observed...
Cody often will kick people under the table. This time he wasn't kicking Katelyn, just resting his foot on top of hers, trying to get a rise out of his sister. She didn't give him the satisfaction of saying anything and he eventually gave up and moved his foot.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
10 Most Listened to Songs on Cody's iPod Shuffle
Cody likes listening to music on his iPod. Along with having the volume up high, he enjoys pushing the little button, shuffling the tunes until he finds his favorites.
As I was recharging it for him and uploading files, I noticed the play count for each song. Cody currently has 141 songs on his iPod, but some of them are played A LOT more than others.
Take a look at Cody's top ten songs and the number of times he has listened to them:
1) Along Comes a Woman/ Chicago/ 444
2) Good Vibrations/ The Beach Boys/ 281
3) Come Together/ Aerosmith/ 198
4) Africa/ Toto/ 91
5) California Girls/ The Beach Boys/ 88
6) Don't Stop/ Fleetwood Mac/ 81
7) In You Leave/ Pretty In Pink Soundtrack/ 73
8) Vogue/ Madonna/ 64
9) Send Her My Love/ Journey/ 57
There was a four way tie for the 10th spot. Each of the following songs had 55 hits.
All I Wanna Do/ Sheryl Crow
Can't Fight This Feeling/ REO Speedwagon
Too Much Time on My Hands/ Styx
Black or White/ Michael Jackson
To each his own, right? I'm thankful the iPod earbuds don't bother him. If I had to listen to these songs along with him, my ears may be bleeding.
As I was recharging it for him and uploading files, I noticed the play count for each song. Cody currently has 141 songs on his iPod, but some of them are played A LOT more than others.
Take a look at Cody's top ten songs and the number of times he has listened to them:
1) Along Comes a Woman/ Chicago/ 444
2) Good Vibrations/ The Beach Boys/ 281
3) Come Together/ Aerosmith/ 198
4) Africa/ Toto/ 91
5) California Girls/ The Beach Boys/ 88
6) Don't Stop/ Fleetwood Mac/ 81
7) In You Leave/ Pretty In Pink Soundtrack/ 73
8) Vogue/ Madonna/ 64
9) Send Her My Love/ Journey/ 57
There was a four way tie for the 10th spot. Each of the following songs had 55 hits.
All I Wanna Do/ Sheryl Crow
Can't Fight This Feeling/ REO Speedwagon
Too Much Time on My Hands/ Styx
Black or White/ Michael Jackson
To each his own, right? I'm thankful the iPod earbuds don't bother him. If I had to listen to these songs along with him, my ears may be bleeding.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Chase Your Wildest Dreams? No Thank You.
I had a dream a couple of nights ago that I can't seem to get out of my mind. My kids were all around elementary school age and Don and I were taking them on a family vacation...by way of dune buggy! Yep, we were all going to load up in this...
and head to Oregon, by way of Disneyland!
Like most dreams that turn into nightmares, we encountered a couple of problems. I couldn't seem to get the laundry caught up so we could finish packing...
and, the more I thought about it, the more concerned I became about having enough money to do both Disneyland and Oregon, so I was consulting with Don about maybe just skipping The Happiest Place on Earth and heading straight to the pacific northwest.
Can you imagine driving rainy, Oregon roads in a dune buggy with four kids?
I woke up before the decision was made, but either way I would have been miserable.
Boy am I pleased it was just a dream!
and head to Oregon, by way of Disneyland!
Like most dreams that turn into nightmares, we encountered a couple of problems. I couldn't seem to get the laundry caught up so we could finish packing...
and, the more I thought about it, the more concerned I became about having enough money to do both Disneyland and Oregon, so I was consulting with Don about maybe just skipping The Happiest Place on Earth and heading straight to the pacific northwest.
Can you imagine driving rainy, Oregon roads in a dune buggy with four kids?
I woke up before the decision was made, but either way I would have been miserable.
Boy am I pleased it was just a dream!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
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