tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19766495087843490302024-03-11T02:24:26.157-05:00hide-n-(sensory)-seeking We are a busy blog, about a busy family, with a generous dash of self-deprecating humor. Oh yeah, we talk about homeschooling, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, and BiPolar too.Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.comBlogger338125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-55075236608796810262021-01-08T06:00:00.003-06:002021-01-08T06:00:04.920-06:00Homebody<p> Ah! It's Friday, another blissful week of going nowhere. For me, anyway. Almost four weeks went by recently where I didn't leave the house once, and I honestly didn't even notice. I had to think<i> really</i> hard about the last time I left the house. This arrangement works well for me. I love going nowhere. </p><p>My kids <b>do not</b> love the hermit life. And I gotta say, the biggest drawback of quaren-twenty-till-who-knows-when is that the rest of my family is home nearly all the time too. Even as a homeschool family, I still got fairly regular breaks by pawning my kids off on friends or relatives for a day or two once in a while. This is a bit too much togetherness.</p><p>Genuine alone time is scarce these days. But, I have an office with a door that closes; I work from home and reading is part of my job. I am one hundred percent aware what a blessing that is, and I never want to take it for granted. </p><p>The thought of so many people having to go to jobs, or other essential activities where they are at higher heath risk overwhelms me. While I thrive in solitude, and am easily satisfied with the occasional phone or video call, text exchange, and Instagram, I know many others need to be far more socially engaged. I ache for those who desperately want to be physically close to their friends and family and are suffering mentally and emotionally from extended isolation. Especially older ones and single people. </p><p>I worry for my Mama, where going door to door is a requirement of her job. For my sister, who volunteers to take a family member who can't drive to essential medical appointments, while also being the primary errand runner for several in the family. I worry for my brother-in-law, who manages a store. And for my sister who has asthma, to whom he could unknowingly, despite taking precautions, bring the virus home to. And yet another sister and her entire family caught the virus in December.</p><p>Most people in our area simply don't seem to care about guidelines and preventative measures. </p><p>I haven't been to the chiropractor except once over the summer. I have a lot of days where I really want to go, but unless I have another migraine that I can't get to ease up after trying everything in my power and I'm in so much pain I can barely walk, I'm not going because not a single person who works there wears a mask. Including the doctor who owns it. At least, no one was the one time I finally had to go because of the aforementioned unbearable pain. I wore an N-95 mask under my cloth mask because I suspected that they would be lax about the mask policy. There were no changes in the distance between workstations or waiting room chairs, nor were any other clients wearing masks. </p><p>I work hard to keep my asthma under control and to avoid getting sick. As someone with elevated risk for complications from this virus, I am seriously agitated by the callous (to the point of mocking) attitude displayed by so many people.</p><p> But to the people who are taking it seriously, who view it as their responsibility to protect not only themselves, but others, thank you. I see you. I appreciate you. </p><p>I mean, I don't physically see you. I don't leave my house for weeks at a time. Sometimes I ride in the car while hubby runs errands, and I might see you then. </p><p>Probably not, though. I'm usually reading while he goes into the building. But in my mind's eye. I know you're out there and I thank you.</p><p>Stay safe, and whenever possible, stay home.</p>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-18803206158798510702020-12-04T06:00:00.009-06:002020-12-04T06:00:08.802-06:00Growing Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only thing that could have made the first day of December better would have been waking up to a layer of snow instead of frost. I sat out on my porch swing with my coffee for over an hour just reveling in the cold.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The girls had a barefoot race across the yard, in which Kit wore socks because obviously, that's what you do in a barefoot race. Don't question Kit's logic, you'll lose.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our one day of winter went well. I got some good research and writing done and committed to a 500 word a day writing challenge for the month. I may come to regret the last one. Kit made me hot chocolate, mainly so she could guarantee she got to make herself some too, but it was fantastic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking of Kit, she's 9 now. Yeah, four years of not blogging and now she's as old as Zak was when I first started blogging! She's doing amazing. I plan to write an update post for each of the kids, but in the meantime, I'll give you the highlights.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Kit has made so much progress that last year, she decided that Winston the Service Doodle could retire from his official duties and live the life of a regular dog full-time. I cannot put into words how huge that was, how incredibly hard we had all worked, but especially her, to get to the point where she realized she had the tools to face the world without him by her side. Talk about happy tears! He still sleeps with her, but guess who finally moved in with Grace and sleeps in her own bed almost every night? Kitty Not-So-Bitty-Anymore!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Grace is a full-fledged teenager. Fourteen and full of life, this pandemic has, to quote her, "stolen my first year as a real teenager." Apparently, Grace doesn't count thirteen as the first year of teenagehood. Sorry, my love, we don't get do-overs for years lost. She's made the best out of it though and has used a good portion of her plentiful downtime to become a major bookworm (like mother, like daughter), and she has started writing a book. There's a good chance she may get published before me. Only partly kidding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Zak graduated this past summer. Eighteen and an avid skater, he is my business-minded kid. He's trying to get a pool cleaning business up and running, and has big plans for real estate!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's weird writing about my kids at these ages. They've been frozen in time on here for four years so now with this post they have instantaneously grown up! Sorry about that guys!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We've had plenty of other changes too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In 2017, while we were living in Branson, Victor's mom, Lela, got very sick and passed away just a few days later from sepsis. It was a horrible time for us all. We miss her terribly. And I'm starting to cry now just trying to write it. Maybe at some point, I'll be able to write more without my heart breaking all over again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Things were really difficult after that, and I was still very ill. The kids and Victor missed Louisiana. I really loved living somewhere cooler, but the rest of the family did not enjoy the winters at all. Louisiana is where Victor and the kids feel at home and they were all really struggling. After multiple serious discussions, we decided the best thing overall would be to move back. We arrived at the end of the summer in 2018. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Everyone is happy to be back, closer to family and friends. And I'm happy to once again be able to take an active part in the volunteer symphony I was part of. (Of course, our concert this spring was postponed and we haven't been able to start up rehearsals again due to virus concerns, but someday we'll get back to it.) We have a new house, further out in the country than before, and I enjoy getting to see more stars at night. Much of my focus has been on my mental health and getting to a more stable and functional place, so to be in a place where the rest of my family can thrive is a blessing and allows me to focus even better on getting myself as well as I can be. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One great perk about moving back is we have chickens again! I'll tell you about their hurricane survival skills soon. We also have two guinea pigs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We had to say goodbye to my sweet dog, Koda. She had been ill for quite a while, and she just looked at me one day, and I could tell she was done fighting. This hit me harder than anyone else in the family, Koda had been more mine than anyone else's. Winston was here for Kit, I could snuggle on him, but his job was to help her. Victor saw how much I missed her and he surprised me with a puppy a few months after Koda died. I cried.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We named her Biscuit, and she has been by my side since day one. She is my special buddy. When the kids ask who my favorite child is, I say, "Biscuit." She's weird and quirky, and awkward, just like me. She snuggles into my legs at night, is my shadow by day, and loves car trips almost as much as Koda did. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hate it when we have to say goodbye to our fur babies, but I love that we always have room in our hearts for more. I know it might sound silly, but I feel incomplete without a dog in my life. They bring a wonderful warmth to a home, and their presence is reassuring. So I love that we have two sweet puppers that are very happy to have almost all their humans home almost every day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizP2qZOMkiQOUdMAkS4OKyl8cRPvsK5yiIIAzCZ2LU8RBnAY9d3Z6PCFiheeQ4ImJt8gUPHFAEyt99rLC3mDzqQ8MgkpFpDEcpwGMmKiSalKAPxXWLF-iOKiYojHYMu8NH_3WVYsE4paTg/s1600/1607038860325601-0.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winston and Biscuit being adorable.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We still homeschool, but I'm down to two now! There have been some rough times, especially with Kit. But she is a trooper, and she's doing fantastic now! I'll elaborate in later posts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That very briefly brings us up to speed. It's nice to be writing in this space again. I've missed it. Looking forward to catching up with you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-44993841057977956372020-11-27T09:25:00.000-06:002020-11-27T09:25:29.902-06:00One Week at a Time<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div>Four and a half years is a long time. There is no such thing as picking up where one left off after that long. I certainly never anticipated such a sabbatical, and that's putting a positive spin on it. </div><div>In my efforts to start writing again, I have debated and become paralyzed (which in turn made me put off any blogging for an additional year or so) about whether to restart blogging here or start up entirely new. Truth is I can't decide, so I'm going to try both. All three actually, since I also desperately want to continue my book blog as well. </div><div>Three blogs for three passions. This one for family happenings. The book blog for book reviews. And a new one for my other writing projects. I'm working hard at getting some things ready for submission for publication so I'd like to have a site to build that platform on. </div><div>It's somewhat overly ambitious, I know. Am I well enough to manage it? Let's just say there are going to be bumps along the way. I'm ok with that.</div><div>Writing here was a wonderful safe space for me. I love writing about my family and I'm at a point in my health healing journey that I miss it terribly. For a couple years I was simply too sick to miss it, and to be so sick you can't even miss something you love is a terrible place to reside. Thankfully, I was a temporary resident. Gradually I've been able to add back to my routine in small increments things that go beyond mere survival. </div><div>It has been a messy four and a half years. There have been terrible moments, days, even months. Alternately, there have also been beautiful times filled with love and laughter. And therapy. Lots and lots of therapy.</div><div>My desire is to use the tools I've acquired and move forward toward future goals, slowly and steadily. </div><div>My goal for now with this blog is to publish a post once a week on Fridays. Content will vary from week to week including updates, activities, and other highlights. Some of the lowlights too. They're all important. </div><div>For those of you who have remained on my mailing list, thanks for holding out hope for me. You are amazing.</div><div>-Judy</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br><div><br></div></div>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-4839234851247738882016-04-25T09:30:00.000-05:002016-04-25T09:30:03.661-05:00Milestones!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A brief post about how well Kitty Bitty is doing. </div>
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Since Winston the Servicedoodle joined our family, we have seen some miraculous changes from our sweet girl!</div>
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The biggest have happened in the last three weeks. One, she is now sleeping on the bottom bunk!! Not in our room!! I cannot even begin to explain how huge this is. Number two has to do with number two, and number one, as in she is out of diapers during the day!!! It took us until four and three-quarters, but hip hip hooray! She is a potty master! Mostly, she still has the occasional accident. I don't care, I'm so proud of her!!</div>
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She is learning to use Winston for many things, and her desire to socially interact has exploded! She regularly talks to and plays with the other kids at the Kingdom Hall before and after our weekly bible meetings. When we have had company over, or been to events or other's homes, she engages so much sooner and her conversations are so much more natural, instead of short, grumpy responses. She is even asking to have people over, to go places, and doesn't have nearly as many meltdowns. </div>
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She has been to the movies twice and loved it, though she needs her protective ear gear through the louder parts. She is doing so much better on car trips. She is more flexible, willing to help out, and less likely to have a full blown meltdown when things don't go her way. </div>
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I know this progress is not exclusively due to Winston being part of her life, but he has certainly contributed a huge amount. We are so happy to see her thriving!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to Peppa Pig, Kit now calls any mail she gets "post", and I LOVE it. Hope she calls it that forever!</td></tr>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-86722996923303846082016-02-11T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-11T05:00:00.161-06:00Fresh Brewed: Self Care<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: purple;">Welcome to Fresh Brewed! Each week, if I can, I will write about a topic that relates to families. Then, at the bottom of the post is a Linky Tool so that you can link up your posts related to the topic for the week. It doesn't have to be a new post from the past week, if you have written about it in a previous post, link it! The topics will be broad enough to encompass many avenues of thought, but do please only post related posts. Opinion posts are welcome, but not bashing ones please. Please keep it respectful. There may be posts with vastly different viewpoints, or addressing points on vastly different areas of the topic. That's fantastic as every family is different and struggles with different circumstances. If you are not a blogger, but you have an interesting article to share, or read something another blogger posted, please feel free to leave a link in the comments section of the weekly post and a short description of how it relates to the topic. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><u>Fresh Brewed Weekly Link-Up Guidelines</u></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">1. Please link only the URL to your direct post, not to your blog homepage. The Link-Up will be open from <b>Thursday 5am - for two weeks</b>.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">2. Like the Link-Up? Please follow me, either here on the blog or on <a href="https://twitter.com/JudithLloy?s=09" target="_blank">Twitter</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">3. I love love love comments! And so does every other blogger I know. Please take just a few minutes to check out at least the link before yours and share in their discussion by way of a comment!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">4. Link-up or general giveaway posts are welcome so long as they are topic relative. If you have reviewed a product relevant to the topic for the week, by all means, please share. <b>But, please, posts on topic only. </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;">5. Spread the word! Share with your followers, and let your friends know! Grab my button!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Mother May I... </i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><i>And the Struggle to Make Ourselves a Priority</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The tendency to care for other's, specifically our children's, needs before our own <u>is in our genes.</u> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, we are literally genetically programmed to ensure that their vital needs are met before ours. This begins with conception and continues all throughout pregnancy. The nutrients, minerals, and </span>proteins<span style="font-family: inherit;">, that we have in our body automatically go first to the growing fetus, then the remainders nourish the mother's body. If a mother is not taking in enough calcium through her diet to supply the rapid growth of baby's skeletal system, then the calcium stored in mother's bones is mined and used for the baby. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This process continues while a mother is nursing, with her energy and nutrients being directed at her ever busy milk factory. But not only that. A mother's brain and body actually experience hormonal shifts that enable her to be on heightened alert, to wake when baby cries (this partially explains why Daddies blissfully snooze until crying reaches fever pitch), to respond to babies hunger cycles by letting down milk even before baby cries, and often recognizing the different cries baby vocalizes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is no real wonder then, that as our children grow, our </span>tendency<span style="font-family: inherit;"> to tend to their needs first is really first nature, not even second.</span></div>
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Looking around society however, one can reasonably ask, where should a mother's needs fit in? If this is our nature, then shouldn't we follow it? To what extent?</div>
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Again, our own bodies provide a good basis. A woman who is malnourished has a very difficult time getting pregnant and carrying a pregnancy to term, and those who do may have babies who experience low birth weight and other health difficulties including being at higher risk for pre-term birth, and more susceptible to infection. A woman who is poorly nourished and is trying to breastfeed may find that her milk supply dries up and she can no longer nurse her infant. And when resources are scant, a woman who is nursing and finds herself pregnant may discover that her body will not allow her to do both at once. Her milk supply will cease, saving critical nutrients and energy for the growing fetus.</div>
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In these cases, a woman's body is designed to cut off care for a child if the mother's body is so depleted that her body and brain feel it is at risk of shutting down. It has gone into survival mode.</div>
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Obviously, these are extreme cases regarding pregnancy and nursing. And in most cases, completely preventable. But how many of us have found ourselves in extreme deprivation of our mental, physical, and emotional energy and resources? The fact is, far too many. And the fact is, this is still dangerous!</div>
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I know from experience, and from taking with numerous mothers that one of the primary things that keeps us from taking better care of ourselves is...GUILT.</div>
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We feel selfish and guilty doing anything that feels self-indulgent rather than productive or for the greater family good. So we avoid it. The demands of life, the consumption of our energy just compiles and overwhelms us though and the downward cycle robs us of joy. <i><u><b>This is not a healthy way to parent. This is not a healthy way to live!!</b></u></i></div>
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Selfishness is defined as "devoted to or caring for oneself...regardless of others." Nourish is defined as "to sustain with food or nutriment; supply what is necessary for life, health, and growth." and "to cherish, foster, keep alive..." One is detrimental to happiness, but the other is essential.</div>
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Our children are not designed to be aware of our needs in this area. By design, they are survival structured. They behave in whatever way gets their needs met. As infants this means crying to alert parents that they are hungry, dirty, or hurt. As toddlers this involves a fear of strangers and separation anxiety. It also involves throwing tantrums, because, logically the more disruptive one is the more likely they will get needed attention. Clearly toddlers cannot distinguish between the health benefits of carrots and cupcakes, they just need food, so their behavior is the same. Even sibling squabbling is a means of survival. Child One takes what he wants, or what his immature brain is telling him he "needs", Child Two grabs it back, self-defense and adrenaline kicks in and before you know it fists are flying and teeth are biting. Their brain has no way of knowing yet that there is enough to go around, that everyone is safe, and that this is not an emergency. They simply are not programmed for it, yet. </div>
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So clearly they are not going to be able to analyze their behavior and think, "mom looks tired, I think I'll just quietly play in my room and not make a mess." Gradually as they grow and mature, they will begin to be able to reason better, but it's long process.</div>
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Here is the tricky part. They will never learn to look out for our needs if we don't demonstrate that our needs are as important as theirs. Dads tend to do this naturally, and kids accept it and it becomes part of life. How can moms forge this same autonomy?</div>
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1. <b>Stop viewing caring for ourselves as optional. Gently, but firmly, stop allowing our family members to do the same.</b></div>
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Changing the oil in our vehicle's engine is essential to keeping our car running and useful. Let's face it, Mom is the engine of the family. Caring for our needs, especially in regard to rest, nutrition, and stress management are as vital as good oil in an engine. We can run for a while on bad oil, but eventually, we will seize, burnout, and the risk of damage is high. Fatigue, depression, high blood pressure, headaches, are all physical symptoms that our "machine", our body and mind is in severe need of maintenance. </div>
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2. <b>Don't live in crisis mode if we are not experiencing an actual crisis.</b></div>
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In periods of war, famine, or emergency, it is common for mothers to ensure that their children get a larger portion<b> </b>and to forgo comforts to make sure the children will survive. The premise for such sacrifice in part is that we believe the situation to be temporary, and the short term sacrifice will ensure that our children survive and suffer as little as possible, then we will be able to restore ourselves when supplies are again bountiful. </div>
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Most of us however, are not living in such a state of crisis. Yet, we often work well beyond our energy thresholds as if we were, even if it's not as extreme as the above scenarios. We have to get better at labeling emergencies, and stop reacting to normal daily events as if they were. In fact, we need to treat our bodies and minds as if we are preparing them for a time of crisis. By fortifying them with good nutrition, rest, and activities that help us maintain mental clarity and positive emotions. By filling our reserves now, when life is busy but not in crisis, we will have a more fully engaged response now, and be better equipped to deal with a real emergency should one arise.</div>
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3. <b>Learn to say "No."</b></div>
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The happiest people stay that way because they allow themselves to say "no." No, to things that drain their energy reserve. No, to people or things that harm them rather than help them. No, to people they love because the benefits don't outweigh the risks. No, to their own negative self talk. No, to other's negative talk. No, to doing things just because it's "expected" or because it's "standard". No, to doing things for others that they are perfectly capable of doing themselves. No, to apologizing for things not needing an apology. </div>
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"No." It doesn't always need validation or explanation, and typically the person most demanding of one is the least deserving of it, nor will it be sufficient. Practice until saying it feels as natural as acting on other's requests once did. A "no" can often later be changed to a "yes" if we decide that the circumstances merit it.</div>
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4. <b>Learn to say "Yes."</b></div>
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The happiest people also allow themselves to say "yes!" Yes, this is what I need. Yes, to things that bring joy. Yes, to new things. Yes, to things that feed our passions. Yes, to time and conversation with those we love. Yes, to indulgences. Yes, because it is what we would encourage someone else to do in the same situation.</div>
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5. <b>Take your own advice.</b></div>
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We all tell other moms how important it is to take care of themselves. To make time to engage in activities they love. And that they are doing a great job. Then we go home and do the exact opposite. Stop it!! Need a visual and physical way to remind yourself how important this is? </div>
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Write a letter to a mother struggling to get it all done, and who doesn't feel very good about herself. After the date begin the letter "My dear friend" and then leave the name space blank. In the letter, commiserate with her, encourage her, tell her she is beautiful, and how important she is to her family and as a friend. Give her ideas of ways she can give herself fulfillment that is free or cheap, and that can even be done at home. Pour out your love to her, because you know how she feels.</div>
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Good. Your letter is all done? Sign the bottom, "With lots of love" and sign it.</div>
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Now, make a copy of it...write in your friend's name at the top of the letter. Then write your name in on the top of the copy! Every single word in it was thoughtfully written, carefully forged from a place of understanding and love, and they all apply to you personally. Put that advice into action! </div>
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There will always be more to do than we can fit in a day. The only way we can enjoy life as we do it is to prioritize. We automatically prioritize every other member of our families. We are just as much a member of that family. A family portrait isn't complete when one member stands to the side. Their absence is glaring and the picture is incomplete. So too is our family when we do not treat ourselves as a priority. </div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><b>So, how do you take care of yourself? What are your challenges to prioritizing your needs? What are your goals? Share your thoughts in the comments and then link up your own Mama stories!</b></span></div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-55121517346960200632016-02-10T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-10T05:00:00.144-06:00Preschool at Home! Chalkboard Painting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Here is another treasure from the backfiles.</div>
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This started as an act of desperation on my part, I just needed her to be occupied so I could finish something, but it quickly became one of her favorite activities.</div>
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If you have a chalkboard (we made ours on a half wall with chalkboard paint), all you need is a paintbrush, sponge, or washcloth, and a cup of water.</div>
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Dip the brush in the water and have at it!</div>
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Kit LOVES how the water turns the board black. So often, she will be at this so long that by the time she gets across the board, the first area she painted will be dry and a fresh pallet once again.</div>
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You can get creative with the things you use as paintbrushes, but she has been completely happy with our basic art brushes from Walmart.</div>
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I love watching her do this.</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-33558281643056437162016-02-08T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-08T05:00:31.918-06:00A Barefoot Princess<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So I was going through old drafts, "cleaning house" so to speak, and I found this precious gem that got left behind. It was just the pictures, I hadn't written anything with it yet, don't even remember what if anything I was going to.</div>
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Several things I love about these pictures. </div>
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One, she has baby hands and toes in them, her hands and feet are growing and looking like big girl feet lately, and usually have several colors of fingernail polish on alternating nails. </div>
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Two, the dress in these pics doesn't fit her anymore, but, we have the exact same dress in a size 5, which heartbreakingly, does not look as gigantic on her as it feels like it should. </div>
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Three, she still runs barefoot everywhere...at least some things haven't changed.</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-32215069058289953872016-02-05T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-05T05:00:10.389-06:00Winston the Service Doodle Update!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I know, I know...It's about time!!</div>
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Well, here you go. A very picture heavy, explanation light catch-up post.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Ypo69utZVj_Vk2J5PRGtrM6GhyRYHI5QLRC7xqJg8GkcbaqiIOgUPC03koKBAZv-x2KuDxjTwMHJbT-hGcyBsBh1fDn4UPhZ1emrDB4KP1sB1CzBvZAUjNm911-GYd3XYoKwHkN3w3Wh/s640/IMAG0600_1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our handsome boy at five months old! He's a year now, can't believe it!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kit loves her matching necklace!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helping Kitty Bitty through a thunderstorm.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lfulUiJkGce79Bfb9wcrNCfnF6IlWdg-tEw0KFRELwiPmrjLOBuFo_8bQuvMDCBhWmN-X7UF-FcUi32oBaxA6yHOEyDDxW-QVksvqeOPUce2sVSy8t4PkqjUGWfXp-lbMoGb5b5Pbdjt/s640/IMAG0972.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He whizzed through Puppy Two class at only 7 months old!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Story time and snuggles.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just dozing at IHOP.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snuggling on Mama's feet watching Kit jump at a bouncy house park.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winston's "You gonna give me french fries?" face.</td></tr>
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The blue strap across his nose is something many people ask about. It is called a "Gentle Lead". It is exactly like the bridle on a horse's face, but without any kind of mouth bit. The lead goes around his muzzle and be hind his ears where it clips securely, but he can still eat, drink, yawn, and bark if necessary. The leash clips on under his chin and allows me easy and gentle control over his head. If he is going too fast or ahead of us, I just gently pull the leash back a bit and his head turns, he gives his attention to me by checking in with my eyes, and if I need to give an addition command, such as wait or sit, then he is ready and willing. I do not like having to give correction with a leash attached to his collar as I believe he has a soft throat, plus I don't feel it is as quick or natural to get his attention. And this sweet gentle boy has no need for any kind of prong or choke collar, he is smart and eager to please.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching Kit ice skate!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then running to the car in the cold wind and snow!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkp7Pj3INv6dQCuOGmiBFIbvgGIrY_jT3HgD2VevTmTXYSkyrwVK-G5u8NZzbREwcmMiAHu4WaB8jrDhR4_SL3JLMuXEIzHo7au4zky6d6YGEMrd8k2zJDHdws62O40ICYexTD9uLXTpx/s640/781e597e-dae1-4313-b069-b33079ab0f72.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love it when she "shares" her song book with him at the Kingdom Hall.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6eV8KYqaXYxfhlr0mIg8Yw74XL630nIWRFHEaaEMJ1ZJnpmvw4ZhHJmBUxb-HUNfxonQTAmO-BdNHa6xCcaagXo5W0fVvi07TJDi8vvHqJhlaKBqFDPYMF7GoBS2C5GcUK_kiF1On0LX/s640/20151226_143819.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"In Mah pretty pink 'muddle boots'!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helping Kit feel comfortable at the library with other kids and grown ups around. When she needs a little extra space so she is sure not to get accidentally touched, he provides a soft and fluffy barrier.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lQubAnXyykiPpjxnvdqgoKRdUI3SqFMjz16rFldTYGx2nBJDPX9hyPEOYLtf36n5GTt1IolLNzaKai5-j7Aw0mMLaUvX4_BB4MdbO3P-hjx6lE8nrpQtj0ZN_a1HwWqnYdYcxiPONxtm/s640/IMAG1258.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helping her wait in line in a new place!</td></tr>
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We were able to take two family trips in two months. We looked at over a dozen houses in four days. Before that, Victor and I were able to go to Hawaii for six nights for our anniversary. And major meltdowns are at an all time low. When we visited a new congregation in Branson, Kit even talked and hugged, yes hugged!!! another little girl there, and proudly announced that she had made a new best friend! </div>
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Winston has changed our lives! And chewed up most of our shoes. But that is as much our fault as his, I'm constantly telling the kids to put them away, but we all forget sometimes. Anyhoo, he's doing great, Kit is doing pretty great too, which means life is just a little smoother. </div>
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You can follow Winston on Instagram @Winston-the-servicedoodle! </div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-30169807368357893102016-02-03T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-03T05:00:08.203-06:00Changes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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"It's not the fall that kills you."</div>
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We've all heard this line. (Especially us Sherlock fans!!)</div>
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I completely agree. It's not the fall that kills me.</div>
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It's the summer.</div>
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The unyieldingly hot, suffocatingly humid, seemingly endless Deep South summers.</div>
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This past one, I experienced the worst mental emotional collapse I have ever had. I lost almost all function as a person. I was on the brink of a very ugly precipice.</div>
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With the last possible energy I could muster, I asked for help.</div>
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And help came. Well, I went to it really.</div>
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I was referred to a psychiatrist, after a couple visits and some medicine trial and error, she is helping me get back on track. Away from the precipice, and up and moving like a person again. </div>
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A very slow person, but a person again nonetheless.</div>
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My battles with depression over the years were even less under my control than I had ever realized. It wasn't something I could fix on my own. I didn't know the deeper root cause. Now I do.</div>
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I have BiPolar Disorder type 2. </div>
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Now things make a lot more sense. The years and years of doing great, awesome even, to plummeting into depression, then slowly crawling back out again. The cycle seems so obvious. I have a family history of Bipolar. But it never crossed my mind. </div>
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I only knew of one kind of Bipolar. The one most people think of. This is type 1. Where people go into a manic phase and their reckless or paranoid behavior causes major problems. And what a gross stereotypical oversimplification that is. But sadly it's still what most people think of. </div>
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I don't have a manic phase. I have hypomanic phases. It's a more controlled high than full mania. It is characterized by a flood of feel good hormones, surges of energy, great ideas, heightened senses, wonderful productivity, and a wonderful sense of self-worth. I thought for years that that was my true self. That was who I was, and my depressive episodes, which could last months, stole that self, held it hostage in the black fog.</div>
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Turns out, they are both my true self. One is as much a part of me as the other. And I have to learn to love the darkness as much as the light.</div>
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I am currently on two medications to help me try to balance and curb my "mood swings". Yes that is the technical term, which has been so abused that it really feels that it no longer applies to the very serious illness from which it sprang. So I will instead say, my medicine helps to lessen the severity and duration of my depressive episodes and lower the instances of hypomania. </div>
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I am relieved to have help in the depression department. But I honestly miss my hypomania. I was so good at getting things done during these stages. And now I can barely make it through my days without many rest breaks and a lot of mental effort.</div>
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I'm really still at the beginning of treatment. At my current doses, I've only been on these medicines for three months, the first three months was a lot of medicine tweaking every few weeks. I'm on an anti-psychotic, and an antidepressant. I CANNOT take the antidepressant without the anti-psychotic, a lesson we quickly learned this summer. I had some disturbing side effects.</div>
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I still have episodes. I recently had a severe depressive episode that lasted about four weeks. Then boom one day I woke up hypomanic and I have been for over a week now, though not nearly the same as I used to be. But, I'm making lists, plans, menus, looking forward to socializing, pre-organizing schoolwork instead of dragging into it day by day. I still do a large of amount of this from my bed, but I'm doing it instead of not being able to wake up at all. I know it won't last, but I'm trying to make the most of it while I'm here.</div>
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I have been forced to slow down. To start over with the soft foods of life, so to speak. Some days I can handle more, a lot of days I can only handle a little.</div>
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One of the major things that became very clear over the summer and in my course of treatment...I can't live here in the Deep South anymore. It's causing more harm than good. And so, after much discussion, and deliberation...we are moving!</div>
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We are moving in the spring to Branson, Missouri. It is the middle ground for Victor and I. He can still do his job without the enormous costs of having to set up a separate shop and contend with extremely cold weather, but I get hills, fall colors, some real winter weather, including snow, and much easier summers. </div>
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So the next few months are definitely going to be busy and full of change which has already caused plenty of stress and craziness to our already stressed and crazy household. Hopefully though, this time it leads to a happier, healthier, more capable Mama after it all settles down.</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-22876521355571923072016-02-01T05:00:00.000-06:002016-02-01T05:00:03.810-06:00Caregiving:Things I Didn't Know I Needed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Caring for an aging and ailing family member is immensely hard. It consumes so much energy, attention, and yes, money as well. </div>
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Caring for a child with special needs can and often is just as immensely hard, and is often a much longer journey. While I primarily focus on caring for an aging parent in this post, almost all of the points apply to caring for a child with special needs as well, and the accompanying printable list is just as useful for these parents as well.</div>
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Support can be a difficult resource to find at times, and respite even more elusive.</div>
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It has been a year now since our role as full-time caregivers to an elderly parent ended. We have still not fully recovered. We are still floating in bits and pieces in the aftermath of a storm that pulled our family in so many directions at once we felt parts tearing and then smashing into each other again. </div>
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For a family who has some time to prepare for a loved one's illness, it can be incredibly hard to care for that one full time. When you are thrown full force into it without any time to prepare, however, it is beyond overwhelming. </div>
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For someone on the outside looking in, things could seem very strait forward and black and white. But I promise, it gets very muddled down in the trenches. </div>
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Many times during the period we were caring for Grandpa friends and family made offers of assistance. "If there's anything you need." "Don't hesitate to call if you need something." I appreciated the sentiment of these statements. I knew they were genuine words from people who cared about our family.</div>
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I could not ask for what I didn't even know I needed though. At the time, I was drowning in responsibilities, hardly any that I could just hand over to someone else to manage for me. Grandpa arrived at the zenith of difficulties with Kit and Zak and learning that Autism and SPD were behind the nonstop issues that had dominated the previous year and a half. And things got worse before they got better, at least where Kit and Grandpa were concerned.</div>
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Now looking back, it's easier to see what, where, and when I needed certain things that would have or did give a measure of relief. It's also clearer what proved completely unhelpful.</div>
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Here is a list of Needs and Not Needs that hopefully might make another family's life as caregivers a little easier.</div>
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<b>I</b><b> </b><b>Needed</b><b>.</b>..help with the house work. So many days I felt like I was busy all day but the house looked worse than when I started. Being home all day and homeschooling may lead one to think that I should have had plenty of time and hands to keep up with the house, but the exact opposite seems to be true. My homeschooled kids are very messy by nature and very prone to forgetfulness. Add other challenges inherent to Autism and Sensory issues, it's a recipe for household disaster. I never could get more than just cursory cleaning done. By the time I finished one surface job, three more disasters had occurred. </div>
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Three times I hired someone to come in and do the deeper cleaning for me, but only once one actually showed up and did any cleaning. She did a fantastic job, and then her life promptly got complicated so that she could no longer come to clean. After that I hired a teenager to entertain the kids for a few hours one afternoon a week so that I could get in some serious cleaning. That worked out great for a good part of the summer, but then she had to resume her own home and school responsibilities as well. I even traded music lessons for cleaning with a friend until her kiddos lost interest in the lessons. </div>
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What I really needed was someone or several someones to come on a regular, reliable basis and help me tackle the deeper cleaning chores that would have allowed me to catch up and stay afloat better. I was willing to pay what I could, but what I really needed was someone who would not have taken my embarrassed no for an answer. A few friends and family members did insist and simply rolled up their sleeves and made me let them help, and honestly I <i>needed</i> that. I needed them. I needed to let go of feeling ashamed and embarrassed at needing help and open my heart and arms to accept the gifts of labor and love that others were offering. </div>
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<b>I</b><b> </b><b>Needed</b>...meals. We became a family of six overnight. The sixth and newest member being a full grown person who ate regular food. It was already a challenge to cook for a family of five, but now we also had Grandpa whose finicky eating habits surpassed all those of any picky eater I had ever met. Many days, Victor and I had to prepare separate meals just for Grandpa. This was exhausting. I wish I had thought to call up those friends who had offered to help and ask them to bring me freezer friendly ready made meals to get the kids and us fed and through those tough days instead of turning to fast food.</div>
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<b>I</b><b> </b><b>Needed</b>...encouragement. Several good friends and close family members proved true by always having ready shoulders to cry on or an ear when I needed to vent. There were many who genuinely commended Victor and I for caring for Grandpa. All of those words were appreciated. The best and longest lasting encouragement came when friends would write us a card or letter though. It was something we could hang on the fridge and look at when we were hiding ham and chicken in his salad so that he would get some protein for the day since he refused to eat any thing except salad for months. Those cards and letters are visual hugs, and they are so helpful in making a caregiver feel noticed and appreciated.</div>
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<b>I</b><b> </b><b>Didn't</b><b> </b><b>Need</b>...people asking when we were going to move him to a nursing home. This is an intensely private and personal decision. Each family and caregiver have different aspects of life and circumstances to consider. While an outsider may feel they would make a choice easily, one really never knows until one is faced with those kinds of issues, challenges, and decisions. If a caregiver feels comfortable talking about it they will. If they do not, it feels awful to have to awkwardly explain or avoid discussing a topic which may feel intensely private. Trust me, it is a subject that has been investigated by the caregivers and family. We all make choices for many different reasons. Respecting a caregivers choice and privacy regardless of one's own feelings or even experiences can go a long way toward becoming one in whom caregivers confide and really trust.</div>
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<b>I</b><b> </b><b>Needed</b>...breaks. Yes, our situation was especially unique, in that we were smack in the middle of Autism and SPD and were learning everything as we were going along with it at the same time as we became full-time caregivers for an elderly and mentally ailing Grandpa. Finding a babysitter for Kit was nearly impossible. Finding a babysitter for three kids one with real special needs and a Grandpa with issues, not going to happen. Thankfully, Auntie moved closer to us, and Lela and Nana also lived near enough by that they could periodically come down and hold down the fort for an evening or afternoon and let Victor and I have a date night. </div>
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We were and are still so grateful for those who learned signs to be able to talk to and understand Kit when she was non-verbal. The list of people who could step up and steer our ship without us on board was very small. It often took making multiple arrangements with family members and friends to make certain plans happen. Because of the energy and organization involved, we most often simply stayed in rather than go out. We handled everything ourselves instead of delegating more. This was harmful to us as individuals and as a couple. We both hit burnout multiple times in a matter of two years. Our patience worn thin because of life's demands meant that we had little to give to one another. We needed more people who were willing to come spend as much time as necessary letting Kit get used to them, to learn sign language, her routines, and Grandpa's as well so that Victor and I could have had more opportunities to feel relieved of duty and focus on each other for a while. </div>
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I <b>Didn'</b><b>t</b><b> </b><b>Need</b>...to be reminded of what I fun person I <i>used</i><i> </i>to be. Our world came crashing in on us in multiple ways the year Grandpa moved in. We were already feeling the changes happening due to Kit getting older and having trouble going places or having people over. Besides the logistics, going out was just simply not something I had the energy for anymore. I wanted naps, quiet space without screaming meltdowns happening in my lap, or to eat something in one sitting. While going out with friends did have an aspect of fun and held the potential to be good for me, I could barely muster the energy to dig through the laundry for a clean bra on most days, much less shower, make up, hair etc. </div>
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Gradually the invites slowed in frequency, then stopped all together. I was okay with it, honestly, a little relieved. I didn't have to excuse myself and see the hurt or disappointment in a friend's eyes if there was no invitation to start with. I had some amazing supportive friends through those tough times. I would have loved it even more if more of them had shown up with coffee and muffins and were absolutely okay with ignoring the grossness all around the house and just talked with me, filled me in on the world outside of Autism and Alzheimer's. </div>
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I <b>Didn'</b><b>t</b><b> </b><b>Need</b>...advice. At the risk of sounding like a know-it-all and like a real jerk, the vast majority of the time we really needed empathy rather than advice. Our situation truly had some unique aspects, and Victor and I were really the experts in managing things. When others (specifically those not closely related or close friends) would start a sentence with 'you should' or 'you need to', it made me want to scream sometimes! I end up looking like a jerk if I try to explain why that suggestion won't work, or I waste valuable energy trying something anyway that I have experienced going sour before. </div>
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This does no mean that we did not ask for or seek out guidance and advice, we absolutely did, because we are not know-it-alls and really wanted to do right for Grandpa and our kids, special needs or not. It was when it was unsolicited, an especially from ones not particularly familiar with our situation that it proved a source of frustration rather than helpful.</div>
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Full-time care giving for an elderly loved one is definitely one of the hardest things we have ever done. It is impossible for us to separate this form of care giving from that of being full-time parents to kids with special needs. We had<i> both</i> thrust upon us nearly simultaneously. The interesting thing though is that whatever challenge you might be facing related to either one or both, the list applies to your needs. There are gems to be harvested even for parents without extenuating circumstances. Take a good look at your situation and see what areas your needs are not being sufficiently met. The list above may help you to identify problem spots that you need more help shoring up.</div>
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In the moment, when someone reassuringly says, "let me know if there is anything you need, anything at all", we often seem to suddenly forget every area that is lying around in need of some TLC. So having a list of things you often struggle with can be a life and energy saver.</div>
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Most people who offer really do want to help, but they don't want to breech your privacy and they don't know your areas of greatest need. But if you have a list of specific ways friends and neighbors can help, they will readily take on an assigned task.This is so much easier and less stressful than having to call up someone and feel like you are disrupting their life because you can't handle yours. And you both come away feeling better instead of helpless.</div>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jYGrt_kBRO4Bbedx3hn_Shcx6oUq1CfOYFbJn9BTBiA/pub" target="_blank">Here is a printable</a> list to help give you ideas of how to allow others the privilege of helping you. I highly recommend you also keep a list on your phone or mobile device and let ones chose a task and set up a day that works for you both. Put this appointment into your calendar! </div>
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I wish I had had this while Grandpa was alive and under our care. I think it would have helped a lot. Hopefully it can help other caregivers get what they need!</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-41246085509427377802015-10-05T05:00:00.001-05:002020-12-18T15:01:13.176-06:00DIY Light Box<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So this was an awesome Pinterest find that I was able to put together in less than 15 minutes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tk3iDbCtrjKQnW9PhJjK5eOcK5xyliNpuhpbLRhDy1DTA-68cNFFnSCev5SPSlumpH24wLR4501umkKmTpc9LXh-4QWlU3eH_B9xpJ1Xg8slc-q5h9S8iVh5mMSeVDjCy-hgnO8_026N/s1600/IMAG0287_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tk3iDbCtrjKQnW9PhJjK5eOcK5xyliNpuhpbLRhDy1DTA-68cNFFnSCev5SPSlumpH24wLR4501umkKmTpc9LXh-4QWlU3eH_B9xpJ1Xg8slc-q5h9S8iVh5mMSeVDjCy-hgnO8_026N/s640/IMAG0287_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I happened to have all the supplies already which made it all the more awesome!</div>
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Supplies:</div>
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1 Clear storage container (the lid for mine was white, so I simply turned the container upside down.)</div>
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1 string of twinkle lights (I used white, but different colors would create cool different effects)</div>
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A strip of wax paper the length of the container (this makes the surface opaque, which diffuses the light more evenly)</div>
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White duct tape ( any color would do, I just like the cleaner look of the white.)</div>
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Use small strips of tape to secure the twinkle lights evenly arranged on the bottom of the container, or in my case to the lid, since that was going to be the bottom of our light box. Leave the length of wire with the plug loose and make sure you have arranged the lights so as to have the plug where you will have ease of access to an outlet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYrL-cUohZA3a10BvIXb3QZcjO4hP_lhak4k6yPZXm3ZBraimx5b03WEgSFYKWf-b5OmCd0k1IVd7yYwI3F7haqg7GixGdnQpvLY77yNFKw3A6FoQMZv4Mdw6Ips3YUNd7mm0G3yuGGoe/s1600/IMAG0289_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYrL-cUohZA3a10BvIXb3QZcjO4hP_lhak4k6yPZXm3ZBraimx5b03WEgSFYKWf-b5OmCd0k1IVd7yYwI3F7haqg7GixGdnQpvLY77yNFKw3A6FoQMZv4Mdw6Ips3YUNd7mm0G3yuGGoe/s640/IMAG0289_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Secure the lid onto the container, be sure not to trap any bulbs between the lid and container as this could break the bulbs. The wire may easily fit between the lid and container, as it did in ours, but if you container has a more snug seal, you may want to cut a hole through the container large enough for the plug to fit through.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DBnAsXayyoMwNVavmdFc_Ay1LWwDWltxeiwCXw94tR46tvQH9atOgGbnrlCdxRnoTb6Uml-bHcTje9Hu5xALTOwgxq3hCYdWIhzfeW3yyal5CiurVWuY1nbp3Wh71zzzVAIAcoc5Z9UX/s1600/IMAG0288_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_DBnAsXayyoMwNVavmdFc_Ay1LWwDWltxeiwCXw94tR46tvQH9atOgGbnrlCdxRnoTb6Uml-bHcTje9Hu5xALTOwgxq3hCYdWIhzfeW3yyal5CiurVWuY1nbp3Wh71zzzVAIAcoc5Z9UX/s640/IMAG0288_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Lay the wax paper on top of the container and secure edges all around with white tape. This prevents tears along the edges. ( I know that we will have to periodically replace the wax paper on ours as it accidentally, or purposely, gets nicked and ripped.)</div>
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Plug in and enjoy!!</div>
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Kit loved putting together her gear set on top of the table and watching them spin over the glowing light.</div>
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Then Zak joined in and they used the Blockus pieces to create cool patterns on the surface, and then put on the crazy glasses from our Googley Eyes game to make some kaleidoscope like effects.</div>
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All in all, it was a quick, easy, and fun indoor activity. We used it a lot this summer when it was just too hot to play outside. But now that fall is here and winter soon to follow, this would make a great play station on those frigid days as well.</div>
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It also makes a lovely night light!</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-75886773630112923372015-10-02T05:00:00.000-05:002015-10-02T05:00:08.843-05:00Taking Their Time<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I may have seemed cool, calm, and collected, but inside I was writhing with anxiety. </div>
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<i>What</i><i> </i><i>if</i><i>...</i><i>what</i><i> </i><i>if</i><i>...</i><i>what</i><i> </i><i>if</i><i>...</i></div>
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Four years old...five...six. Still in Velcro or zip-up shoes. </div>
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<i>Other kids are supposed to know this by now! </i></div>
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<i>Other kids DO know this by now!!</i></div>
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<i>We are falling behind! So what if he can read and do second grade math! He can't tie his shoes! I can't even get him interested!</i></div>
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Seven years old. Another mom expresses concern about her own son's lack of interest and asks if it's something we are going to focus on. </div>
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"I'm not too worried. When he is ready he'll let me know. He won't be twenty and still not know how to tie his shoes." I was reassuring myself as much as her.</div>
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Eight years old. "Mom, can I have some tie shoes?" </div>
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<i>YES!!</i> Imaginary fist pumps in the air!</div>
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"Of course you can." </div>
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Like many things, he only needed me to show him a couple of times, and boom, he got it.</div>
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Let's just say I worried a lot less by the time Grace was approaching seven and still not interested in tying her shoes. (She took an interest somewhere in year seven, and now whips out a bow like a pro.)</div>
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I learned a lesson I have had to repeat numerous times as a mom: </div>
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Chill, Mama! Everything comes in time. Their time.</div>
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Not a single one of my children has been what I expected. They have been so much richer, more vibrant, creative, funny, and amazing than it was possible for me to imagine.</div>
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They are already each a unique and beautiful flower. As if I were handed a pot of soil each with a surprise seed or bulb nestled below the the surface. I don't set the pace at which they grow or blossom. I get to water, fertilize, protect, and make sure they have enough sunlight and room to grow. </div>
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Some burst open right away and shine their brilliant colors for all the world to see! Others take more time, start out small but gradually grow fuller and fuller and more and more aromatic until you are simply awed by their majesty. Some need to climb! Others need deep roots. Some need more pruning than others.</div>
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They are not here for me to make into people. They are already people, with distinct personalities, and nearly unlimited potential. They are here for me to protect, love, guide, and teach so that they can hone their abilities and strengths, overcome or work around their weaknesses, and make their own special contributions to the world. </div>
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Best of all, I get to enjoy them at every stage! </div>
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What a privilege to tend these amazing creatures. </div>
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These whole persons who share my life.<br />
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-67828545054309877732015-06-23T00:30:00.000-05:002015-06-23T00:30:02.132-05:00Book Review! And Giveaway!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/blog-tour-launch-interview-giveaway-axel-theo-my-dog-is-the-emperor-of-a-faraway-galaxy" style="text-align: left;"><img alt="Axel and Theo - Blog Tour Button" class="aligncenter wp-image-23292" src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Axel-and-Theo-Blog-Tour-Button.jpg" height="368" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/" target="_blank">Mother Daughter Book Reviews</a> is pleased to be coordinating a Blog Tour for the lower middle grade book "Axel & Theo: My Dog is The Emperor of a Faraway Galaxy" by Amberly Kristen Clowe from June 22 to 28, 2015. This one is a great choice for reluctant readers!</h4>
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About the Book</h2>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NI49TD4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NI49TD4&linkCode=as2&tag=mothanddaugbo-20&linkId=WUKR7XM3MPMCIUU3" target="_blank"><img alt="Axel and Theo: My Dog is the Emperor of a Faraway Galaxy" class="aligncenter wp-image-22991" src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Axel-and-Theo-701x1024.jpg" height="584" width="400" /></a> </div>
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<strong>Title: </strong>Axel & Theo: My Dog is the Emperor of a Faraway Galaxy | <strong> Author:</strong> Amberly Kristen Clowe<strong> | Publication Date: </strong>November 15, 2014<strong> | Publisher: </strong>Smooth Sailing Press<strong> | Pages: </strong>44<strong> | Recommended Ages: </strong>6to 10<strong>
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<strong>Summary: </strong>Theodore Howard wants a white flag. The kind of white flag that will show Riverwood Elementary’s biggest bully, Theo’s given up on ever surviving the fourth grade, and achieving his dream of becoming a real-life astronaut. But, Theo’s seemingly pathetic future gets a glimmer of hope in the form of a very talkative weenie dog named Axel. Theo learns that his best friend on four legs, is actually an alien from the planet Doglin, and just when he begins warming up to the idea of having an alien for a best friend, Axel is kidnapped by two cats from the planet Catlat. Theo chases after Axel and his kidnappers, embarking on an adventure he could have never imagined.
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NI49TD4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NI49TD4&linkCode=as2&tag=mothanddaugbo-20&linkId=WUKR7XM3MPMCIUU3" target="_blank">Amazon</a> * <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23567142-axel-theo" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></h3>
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Book Preview</h2>
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<span style="color: purple;"> <span style="font-size: x-large;">My Thoughts:</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was pretty excited when I was offered the opportunity to review Axel and Theo. A boy who finds out his dog is actually intergalactic royalty was a plot too good to turn down!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It did not disappoint. This novel for young readers is an action packed, swift moving story, that is engaging, yet still easy to follow for young or reluctant readers. The author did a nice job of making the story line and details vivid and logical, with plenty of surprises, but still held her readers in high regard and capable of understanding common references and vocabulary. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I think a fairly vast age range would find this book enjoyable and could even be one of those books that makes a kid really learn to enjoy reading! An excellent story to have your young reader read aloud to you or another reading buddy (especially of the canine variety!). My creative juices started flowing thinking of all the cool projects that can be done in conjunction with this story, like making intergalactic goo and a pancake tasting, great for homeschool or classroom kiddos alike!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The only thing I would suggest is that the author add a silly checklist game so readers can find out if their dog or cat are earth natives, or alien visitors!</span></div>
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More Buzz About the Book</h2>
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"When I saw the subheading of this book — My dog is the Emperor of a faraway galaxy, I knew I had to read it. After all, how often do you see a sci-fi kid’s book? Being the sci-fi nut that I am, I couldn't pass this one up. I was not disappointed."<em>~ Shari T., Amazon
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"Fun book!! The story is imaginative but told with enough familiar themes to make young ones think, "I can see how this could happen!!" And in a world jam-packed with princesses and girl power, it's nice to see fun stuff for boys, too." <em>~ Valerie S., Amazon
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"What a nice story! Got this for my son and he chuckled through it all. He loved the characters and their adventure. He is looking forward to the next one." <em>~ Nathalia G., Amazon</em></div>
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"It is a great book! My kids loved it (as did I).
I can't wait for the second adventure!" <em>~ John, Amazon</em></div>
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About the Author: Amberly Kristen Clowe</h2>
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<a href="http://amberlykclowe.yolasite.com/"><img alt="Krissy-Clowe" class="alignleft wp-image-22994" src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Krissy-Clowe-256x300.jpg" height="234" width="200" /></a></div>
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An avid story writer since elementary school, <strong>Amberly Kristen (Krissy) Clowe</strong> truly discovered her passion for writing after enrolling in a college, children's literature class, where they read and analyzed children's books. After completing her BA in early childhood education she began her teaching career.
"After my first year of teaching second grade, I had so many ideas swirling around in my head, I had to write. I might have gone crazy if I didn't!" Clowe tells.
<em><strong>Axel & Theo</strong></em> is the first chapter book series written by Clowe, though she already has two other children's picture books in print, and another due for publication in 2015. Today, her children provide the inspiration to her many stories, along with everything else she loves in life.
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://amberlykclowe.yolasite.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> | </span><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/amberlykclowe?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7074646.Amberly_Kristen_Clowe" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></span></h3>
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Axel & Theo Blog Tour Schedule</h2>
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<strong>June 22</strong></h4>
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<a href="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/" target="_blank">Mother Daughter Book Reviews (Launch & Author Interview)</a></div>
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<a href="http://lianssummeroffun.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lian's Summer of Fun Blog (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://enterherecanada.com/" target="_blank">Enter Here Canada (Excerpt)</a></div>
<strong>June 23</strong>
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<a href="http://hide-n-sensory-seeking.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hide-n-(Sensory)-Seeking (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cherrymischievous.com/" target="_blank">Cherry Mischievous (Excerpt)</a></div>
<strong>June 24</strong>
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<a href="http://rockinbookreviews.com/" target="_blank">Rockin' Book Reviews (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://abis-scrapsoflife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Blended Blog (Review)</a></div>
<strong>June 25</strong>
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<a href="http://www.birdhouse-books.com/" target="_blank">View From the Birdhouse (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://totsandtalesreviews.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tots & Tales Reviews (Review)</a></div>
<strong>June 26</strong>
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<a href="https://2readbook.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">2ReadBook (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.whereconnorandjtgo.com/" target="_blank">Where Connor and JT Go (Review)</a></div>
<strong>June 27</strong>
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<a href="http://www.inderpreetkaur.blogspot.in/" target="_blank">Eloquent Articulation (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.dinomama.com/" target="_blank">We Are The DinoFamily (Review)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lmurnc.com/" target="_blank">Lisa's Research and Reviews (Excerpt)</a></div>
<strong>June 28</strong>
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<a href="http://ahowland.org/wordpress/" target="_blank">Stitch Says (Review & Author Interview)</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.heartofaphilanthropist.com/" target="_blank">Heart of a Philanthropist (Review)</a></div>
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* Blog Tour Giveaway *</h2>
<strong>Prize:</strong> One winner will receive a <strong>$25 Amazon gift card</strong> or <strong>$25 PayPal cash prize, </strong>winner's choice
<strong>Giveaway ends:</strong> July 5, 11:59 pm, 2015
<strong>Open to:</strong> Internationally
<strong>How to enter:</strong> Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-3456972891774181662015-06-05T14:04:00.001-05:002015-06-05T14:08:52.229-05:00Summer Reading!<p dir="ltr">A little over a month ago we instituted a reading reward program here at home. </p>
<p dir="ltr">We've always been avid readers here. The kids were not highly motivated however to choose many books outside their preferred favorites.</p>
<p dir="ltr">"What is something that you really want?" I asked Grace.</p>
<p dir="ltr">She answered without hesitation.<br>
"Roller skates!" </p>
<p dir="ltr">"Ok, how many books do you think you can read to get roller skates?"</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Um...I don't know, twenty maybe?"</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Hmm...roller skates is a pretty big prize and you are a pretty fast reader. How about, forty books."</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Forty! That's a lot!"</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Yes. But...every ten books I'll give you a smaller prize. And six of each set of ten can be comic or graphic novels like Big Nate."</p>
<p dir="ltr">She thought those were acceptable terms.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Zak, also thought so. His desired prize being a remote controlled drone. Also, his limit for comic or graphic novels is only four for every ten.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Zak has already reached his goal. He is loving his drone! </p>
<p dir="ltr">Grace is still working on hers, she has read twenty-five so far!! And since Zak reached his so fast, I think I am going to surprise her with her reward at thirty instead. </p>
<p dir="ltr">What this mostly told me is:</p>
<p dir="ltr">1.) Zak needs a much more challenging goal.</p>
<p dir="ltr">2.) I am completely fine with bribing my kids to read. I mean, rewarding them abundantly for something they already enjoy!</p>
<p dir="ltr">3.) They are wholy invested and reading all the time, which is amazing because I thought they read a lot before!</p>
<p dir="ltr">4.) My kids are awesome! (I knew this already, but I love when I get to tell others about it too.)</p>
<p dir="ltr">I have arranged for a book swap with some friends. We have quite a lot of books that the kids are done with and are not treasures stories, so we will trade them in for some new to us books. Its all free and everyone wins!</p>
<p dir="ltr">At the library last week, they were getting set up for the Summer Reading Program. We signed up. Since they are already reading, I figured they may as well get some bonus prizes!</p>
<p dir="ltr">I didn't sign up for the adult program, but I did decide to challenge myself to some summer reading as well. </p>
<p dir="ltr">A couple years ago, I found nearly a dozen Reader's Digest Condensed Books at a thrift shop for twenty-five cents each! I have yet to crack them open, though I love looking at them on my shelves. My goal this summer is to read at least one!</p>
<p dir="ltr">I don't know if I will reward myself, as just getting to read for pleasure is definitely a reward all in itself for me these days.</p>
<p dir="ltr">What will you be reading? Any goals or programs you will be aiming for?</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZsgSGJCkUHV7iXmct7av6SwMHjJDw-1ct61gWDXy5mf5Sf3ysrVLz26P5uwQdC4Z9OndMXOxLi4DlM-0tXwtcAHQzXNmG5WtwW-cwhiLLVIX8QVEy6TLOASwfu3eWkAPnJvYyOycuaj_/s1600/IMG_20150603_182733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZsgSGJCkUHV7iXmct7av6SwMHjJDw-1ct61gWDXy5mf5Sf3ysrVLz26P5uwQdC4Z9OndMXOxLi4DlM-0tXwtcAHQzXNmG5WtwW-cwhiLLVIX8QVEy6TLOASwfu3eWkAPnJvYyOycuaj_/s640/IMG_20150603_182733.jpg"> </a> </div>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-4552016252419939572015-05-21T21:56:00.000-05:002015-05-21T21:56:52.811-05:00Winston the Service Doodle!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello friends! </div>
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Meet Winston Uppercut Charlesworth III!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-u2PBpl9yvn0LG7wE9HlmWAU8ocWORpMWdLh6ucsbE2XXFkNthjyv1JNgdw_pUnDSJuJhVOgRQovq81IniKkPLxkqDtOrT7Enxvg6nhVcXW4fxniveCYEvvSnZdt7vc6Adz6pcBTYNLkN/s1600/IMAG0353_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-u2PBpl9yvn0LG7wE9HlmWAU8ocWORpMWdLh6ucsbE2XXFkNthjyv1JNgdw_pUnDSJuJhVOgRQovq81IniKkPLxkqDtOrT7Enxvg6nhVcXW4fxniveCYEvvSnZdt7vc6Adz6pcBTYNLkN/s640/IMAG0353_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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He is Kit's new Autism Service Dog.</div>
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He is a Goldendoodle, which, for those who may not know, is a golden retriever and poodle hybrid. They often inherit the poodle's non-shedding attribute, or at least shed much less than most breeds.</div>
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He is four months old. He's still in training, but he has had a fantastic start thanks to the trainers at <a href="http://www.puppystepstraining.com/" target="_blank">Puppy Steps Training</a> who did a top notch job with his early socialization, desensitization, house training, leash training, and basic obedience and manners. They took a great dog, and helped him develop into an absolutely awesome doggie citizen!</div>
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To do on our own, the kind of training they have done with a puppy, would have been insanely stressful and probably not even close to this successful just because of where we are at in this season of life and the many variables involved. Their trainers and training program have given all of us the best possible start down this journey together. I have many more complementary things to say about this program, but I will have to do so in a future post as this one is to introduce Winston!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoTB4nbhHm-ZCjxSCF4PJKCKDkp473fQijYwao0MsBFymQX3Av18Gj_3UV5WjcjGPJIcFwJzaQuN7DVGIFOV7LiMjgx_u_mSYFGuk_1Vaj9yMPshtJ379AKTS34r6-CiWwaXYovAJdBRBH/s1600/IMAG0338_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoTB4nbhHm-ZCjxSCF4PJKCKDkp473fQijYwao0MsBFymQX3Av18Gj_3UV5WjcjGPJIcFwJzaQuN7DVGIFOV7LiMjgx_u_mSYFGuk_1Vaj9yMPshtJ379AKTS34r6-CiWwaXYovAJdBRBH/s640/IMAG0338_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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He arrived yesterday evening, and we are all still adjusting. But he has completely blown us away by how amazing he is!! He is the gentlest dog I have ever met. And he just accepted us immediately, willing to do whatever we asked and eager to please! And just loves to be with us and lay near us! And when it was time for bed, he did whine a bit in his crate when I left the room, but then he just settled down and went to sleep. He even got to wear his Service Vest on his first outing today! He enjoyed PetCo. Such a good boy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2PQS-VqoQ7ZoI9miWXIbn9AJO1sMcdpob6kueVfsGnEMkFaHa6LC_dNY_Uf9oqBXS4gjInfLCV8WFHs5uIGILygYQzLWu0k-7BXiGQvVHP1abplQPnq0lh905ntvlpX2F0ns-zQTQHAe/s1600/IMAG0343_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2PQS-VqoQ7ZoI9miWXIbn9AJO1sMcdpob6kueVfsGnEMkFaHa6LC_dNY_Uf9oqBXS4gjInfLCV8WFHs5uIGILygYQzLWu0k-7BXiGQvVHP1abplQPnq0lh905ntvlpX2F0ns-zQTQHAe/s640/IMAG0343_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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So then, we have a very busy year ahead of us! Besides immediately falling in love!</div>
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First, we must keep up the excellent training he has already received and continue building on that foundation. So everyday, we must practice, practice, practice!</div>
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Second, we have more socialization to do. We need to expose and get Winston comfortable with as many possible situations, places, and people of all kinds as possible. When he is comfortable, then we will gradually keep working on performance in those situations, continuing to practice until he can excellently work under all conditions in all places. This process is slow and ongoing, spanning for well into the next year of his life, and only at a pace that he is able to maintain confidence in his skills. We don't ever want to push him past his limit and make him begin to resist working for us. We want him to enjoy his job!</div>
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Third, but in conjunction with socialization, is ongoing training. Winston knows over a dozen commands already, thanks to his early training. In addition to those he will be learning roughly fifteen more specifically pertaining to helping Kit, including learning how to give her deep pressure on her legs, several different responses to certain emotional or sensory behaviors from Kit, such as giving her kisses to help divert her away from a meltdown or pull her out of one, and acting as a physical barrier when she feels her personal space is being encroached upon and she is anxious about being touched.</div>
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He has a lot to learn still, as do we! Some of these new skills will likely come to him very quickly as he is very smart and in tune with his people. </div>
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To help facilitate a strong bond between Winston and Kit, we will be trying to set up as many interactions together to be very positive for both of them. Kit is my official helper at his mealtimes, and they will spend some time together each day snuggling while she watches her favorite shows on the tablet and I periodically give her treats to reward him with for keeping her company. Soon she will help with brushing him, and accompanying us on his walks as well. She has already expressed a strong desire to go with him where he goes and snuggle with him, so hopefully that is a good sign of things to come!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AD_Ov-ITNZdrO9eSLnvapcrl0p1tnjbMCJ1gb3ZTIx4BjXAYAGxiCi7NcI8NV-QICq9sShr2e4l1E5iN3zN1NXvjrWcTb_1b8M8riE31Yvt12747Kn5v-u95F5xEl47EW6tUPEzjYb1X/s1600/IMAG0347_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AD_Ov-ITNZdrO9eSLnvapcrl0p1tnjbMCJ1gb3ZTIx4BjXAYAGxiCi7NcI8NV-QICq9sShr2e4l1E5iN3zN1NXvjrWcTb_1b8M8riE31Yvt12747Kn5v-u95F5xEl47EW6tUPEzjYb1X/s640/IMAG0347_1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"This is my Kitty!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxCwJl-9KlHdKJTrhykLmn5y9Z5V1PNDXEmSxmWwLG6G1SNkn9YfQg92O5a0DwbvMGinDe06LalUvC2u5jRPy8EPZmdNmZfJep_xdDbiPNJWLLQk0ZzZ2b52AcrLdu1dVSyCQo_Yl4OUe/s1600/IMAG0346_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxCwJl-9KlHdKJTrhykLmn5y9Z5V1PNDXEmSxmWwLG6G1SNkn9YfQg92O5a0DwbvMGinDe06LalUvC2u5jRPy8EPZmdNmZfJep_xdDbiPNJWLLQk0ZzZ2b52AcrLdu1dVSyCQo_Yl4OUe/s640/IMAG0346_1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitty is not so sure about our newest family member, he went to hide.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having some playtime with Winston's favorite toy.</td></tr>
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They are already good pals. They both cried when I had to put him in the crate so I could shower today, and again at bedtime. They didn't want to be apart. Or Kit didn't want to be apart at least, Winston most likely wanted to be wherever the action was. She is very clear about "he is my Service Dog!", which of course she doesn't fully know what this means. She does know however that he is here to help her when she is sad and "to help me not get mad", in her own words. And indeed, he is already doing that with his sweet kisses! </div>
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The big kids do get to have some snuggle time with him too. However, we have talked with them a lot about the fact that Winston is not our family pet. He is here to learn to help Kit, and that is an important job that he needs to learn to take seriously, so fostering the bond between the two of them is of highest priority. The big kids still get to play, pet, and eventually assist as I teach him new commands and concepts though.</div>
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No one can work all the time however, so he gets plenty of downtime and will still get to be a normal dog. We are still learning what he enjoys playing, but we are loving his sweet nature and soft soft shaggy coat! </div>
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This new adventure is both exciting and a little overwhelming. But we will all try to imitate Winston's natural positive spirit and take life one treat at a time!</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-59790207476709883772015-04-22T21:40:00.000-05:002015-04-22T21:40:43.146-05:00Caterpillar Shoes - Book Blast and Giveaway!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hi friends! Wanted to share with you what looks to be a fun new book! Check it out and don't forget to sign up for the Giveaway!<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VB0PMCE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00VB0PMCE&linkCode=as2&tag=mothanddaugbo-20&linkId=MEK4SPMDKAXJ5QKV" target="_blank"><img alt="Caterpillar Shoes" class="aligncenter wp-image-22601" src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Caterpiller-cover_AM-1024x1024.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a>
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About the Book</h2>
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<strong>Title:</strong> Caterpillar Shoes | <strong>Author: </strong>Angela Muse | <strong>Illustrator: </strong>Ewa Podles |<strong> Publication Date:</strong> March 26, 2015 |<strong> Publisher: </strong>4EYESBOOKS |<strong> Pages: </strong> 28 |<strong> Recommended Ages: </strong>0 to 8<strong>
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<strong>Summary: </strong>Patches is an energetic caterpillar who is trying to decide what activities to do. In the end, she doesn't put any limits on herself and lives her life to the full.
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VB0PMCE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00VB0PMCE&linkCode=as2&tag=mothanddaugbo-20&linkId=MEK4SPMDKAXJ5QKV" target="_blank">Amazon</a> * <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25251946-caterpillar-shoes" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></h3>
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About the Author: Angela Muse</h2>
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<a href="http://www.4eyesbooks.com/"><img alt="Angela Muse" class="alignleft wp-image-22602" src="http://motherdaughterbookreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Muse-Angela-Photo-300x300.jpg" height="175" width="175" /></a></div>
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<strong>Angela</strong> was born in California to a military family. This meant that she got used to being the "new kid" in school every couple of years. It was hard trying to make new friends, but Angela discovered she had a knack for writing. In high school Angela began writing poetry and song lyrics. Expressing herself through writing seemed very natural. After becoming a Mom in 2003, Angela continued her storytelling to her own children. In 2009 she wrote and published her first rhyming children's book aimed at toddlers. Since then she has released several more children's picture books and released her first young adult romance series, <em><strong>The Alpha Girls</strong></em>, in 2012. Angela's husband, Ben Muse writes suspense/thriller books that can also be found on Amazon. Check out what else she's working on by visiting <a href="http://www.4eyesbooks.com/" target="_blank">www.4eyesbooks.com</a>
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<a href="http://4eyesbooks.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/4eyesbooks" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3155533.Angela_Muse" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/amuse663" target="_blank">Twitter</a></h3>
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* $50 Book Blast Giveaway *</h2>
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<strong>Prize:</strong> $50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)
<strong>Contest ends:</strong> May 6, 11:59 pm, 2015
<strong>Open:</strong> Internationally
<strong>How to enter:</strong> Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
<strong>Terms and Conditions: </strong>NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Angela Muse and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. </div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-86482559355235875582015-04-01T03:06:00.001-05:002015-04-15T15:44:54.475-05:00Explaining Death to My Autistic Concrete Thinking Preschooler<p dir="ltr">Kit does not do well with abstract ideas. </p>
<p dir="ltr">She never has. </p>
<p dir="ltr">This lack of abstract thinking is not limited only to Autistic minds. The concept of time is a good example. Toddlers and preschoolers in general have a very limited understanding of time, and that is part of what makes waiting so hard. Waiting is scary when you can't tell the difference between five minutes and forty, so everything feels like forty! </p>
<p dir="ltr">But what about an even scarier abstract concept? One where people go away and never come back no matter how long you wait?</p>
<p dir="ltr">You might not think death to be an abstract concept. To most adults the concept seems quite factual and concrete, at least the understanding that the person is no longer there with us and that they are not going to be back. But to young children, it might just be the most abstract concept they have ever encountered.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To many young kids,<b> </b>death can seem scary.<b> </b>To some, their only exposure to the concept is in terms of technology. Our cell phone "died", we need to plug it in and voila! It works again. This can make death even more confusing. To a child on the autism spectrum, who thinks very firmly in black and white, yes and no, concrete ideas, it can be frustratingly difficult to grasp.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Thankfully, in our case, we had some prior experiences with death on a less intense level (two of our parakeets in fact) that opened up the way a little for Kit to be better prepared to receive the news that Grandpa had died. As in knowing that when a living creature dies, <a href="http://m.wol.jw.org/en/wol/bl/r1/lp-e?q=ecclesiastes%209%3A5">it no longer breaths, moves, nor comes back after leaving.</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">Without trying to sound morbid, it actually was a subject I had given real thought to multiple times over the past year precisely because I wanted to be better prepared to help her understand.</p>
<p dir="ltr">* * *</p>
<p dir="ltr">Grandpa's death was sudden and unexpected.<b> </b>We took him to the hospital thinking he would get much needed fluids, possibly medicine, and some rest. But we were expecting that he would stabilize and we could bring him home. That was not to be. He passed away peacefully in his sleep in the middle of that night.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The following morning, while Victor was at the hospital taking care of things, I told each of the big kids separately and stayed with them and listened while they talked through their reactions. Sadly, this was not their first experience loosing a loved one, but thankfully it was much easier to adjust to and wrap the mind around and far less painful than the first one. They handled it very well, in part because they both were glad that he wouldn't have to go live in a nursing home now, that he was able to finish out his life in our home with people who loved him.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I did make a request of each of them when they were ready to move forward with the day. I asked them not to talk about it in front of Kit, and to especially not mention that he fell asleep and did not wake back up as that could truly frighten her. They agreed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">As odd as it might sound, we did not have a funeral service. He had not wanted one. All of the immediate family said goodbye in their own way, and the rest of his family were too far away and many are suffering from health problems of their own. </p>
<p dir="ltr">By not having to deal with the pressures of a funeral it made the sudden absence easier for Kit to handle because things here at home remained fairly calm. We decided to wait a little while to explain to her that he in fact had died. To introduce his sudden absence we told her that Daddy had to take him to the hospital because he had gotten sick, and that he was not going to live with us anymore. </p>
<p dir="ltr">This was a lot for her to process, and she asked me to tell her again multiple times over the next couple of weeks. I felt it especially important that she become accustomed to his absence first, instead of spending those first few tender weeks uttering the words "Grandpa died" on echolalic repeat as she processed this huge change.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I think that was a good decision. For us. That may not be feasible for larger families whose loved one was also deeply rooted in an extended family and community, and a funeral is a way for all to come together to support one another while grieving. </p>
<p dir="ltr">But for us, and for Kit, waiting helped. She struggled with the sudden change. We saw rapid behavioral changes, and more difficulty all around in generally being able to cope with life. We didn't think burdening her with the concept of death would have been good for her right then. Especially not when over the course of the following weeks more household changes occurred.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Zak moved into Grandpa's old room after about two weeks. We were able to begin attending both our weekly meetings at the Kingdom Hall all together as a family for the first time in close to a year. My practice sessions for the orchesta of which I am a member began rehearsing more often building up to once a week, which means on most Monday evenings I am gone from late afternoon until well past bedtime. And the big kids started with a music program two days a week right about then as well. That is tons of change for someone who doesn't like change.</p>
<p dir="ltr">* * *</p>
<p dir="ltr">After about a month, she was beginning to settle and I was sort of waiting for a natural opportunity to arise to be able to address it with Kit. All that time gave me plenty of practice at what I thought best to tell her.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It arrived via a casual conversation with Grace which I knew Kit was half listening to (she is always listening even though she doesn't seem like she is). Grace asked a question which required a time reference related to Grandpa's dying. So I answered and included for reference "before Grandpa died".</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Grandpa died?!" Kit was now fully engaged in the conversation. </p>
<p dir="ltr">"Yes, Grandpa died."</p>
<p dir="ltr">She asked the same question several more times, but I could tell she was searching for more, for words she has trouble finding because they are abstract to her. Why and How and What happened?</p>
<p dir="ltr">So I knew it was time to explain further.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I explained that Grandpa's heart stopped beating and that he stopped breathing, and that means that he died. He was not alive like we are anymore. I said his heart was not strong like hers, and his body was not strong like hers and mine and that they stopped working. </p>
<p dir="ltr">She repeated everything back to me as I said it. I had to repeat several parts. And then she got distracted by a toy and ran off. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It has now been two months since he died. She hasn't asked about him again since that last conversation. Until this week. </p>
<p dir="ltr">She asked Victor while they were getting ready to read her bedtime story, "Where's Grandpa?" </p>
<p dir="ltr">He said it took him my surprise, but then he told her, "Grandpa died."</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Grandpa died?!"</p>
<p dir="ltr">"Yes, he died. Daddy had to take him to the hospital because he got very sick and he died. So that is why he is not here any more. <a href="http://www.jw.org/en/publications/magazines/wp20131001/is-there-hope-for-the-dead/#?insight[search_id]=b623b36c-45ef-4e2f-993a-822d67180946&insight[search_result_index]=12">But we will see him again in Paradise."</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">"Oh, okay." And she was ready for her story.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Her behavior has shown great improvement. I take this as a sign that to whatever degree she is capable, she has worked through the change, and has replaced what could have been scary and incomprehensible into tangible facts that she can comprehend and digest. </p>
<p dir="ltr">* * *</p>
<p dir="ltr">I don't think there is one right way to explain death to any child, especially an autistic one when they are very young. I do think there are some very important <b>Dos and Don'ts</b>.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DON'T </b>tell your concrete thinker that death is like sleep. That can terrify them and create sleep issues.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DON'T </b>lie. Waiting is ok. Easing into the subject is fine. Giving them small doses of information and letting them absorb it slowly is perfectly acceptable. But don't lie. When they find out the truth it will damage their trust in you.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DON'T </b>automatically assume that because they do not react that they do not understand. It can take a long time to process, but they will, and they will need you to be there to answer questions when they are ready.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DON'T </b>assume that because they do not cry or seem to mourn that they are not feeling sad or grieving. Behavior is communication. Watch their behavior closely to give you clues into some of their inner process. Provide opportunities for them to find comfort, such as from home videos or photo albums, doing things that the loved one enjoyed doing and telling your child it is a way for you to remember the happy even though you are also feeling sad.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DO </b>give your child some slack. For some kids on the spectrum it may seem like they only experience one feeling at a time. This is not exactly true, they may be feeling many at one time, but one may feel much stronger at times and cause unpredictable behavior. They may even feel so overwhelmed that they try to turn their feelings "off". This is a coping mechanism, but it is critical that parents recognize that it is a temporary dam and that the floodgates, when they burst, can be as surprising and scary to your child as they are to you. So, tread softly, and try to be even more patient than usual.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DO </b>acknowledge that anger is a real and legitimate emotion to experience when a loved one dies. Perhaps especially for an individual on the autism spectrum. It's ok for them to feel angry at this person for leaving them, for not giving them any warning, without saying goodbye. It's ok for them to feel angry at other caregivers or family members for not being able to stop it. Remember, at times their thinking is concrete and either/or. This means they cannot necessarily understand the limitations imposed on those caring for a sick or aging loved one. Allow, and even encourage them to feel this huge emotion and let them know that others feels the same. Help him find an outlet for his anger. Perhaps by drawing how he feels, writing a letter to their loved one telling them how they feel or what they wanted to be able to say, or throwing beanbags into a hamper or rocks into a lake or punching pillows. Anger can be scary for the child and parents, but it can give way to tears, and crying is restorative, it acts as a pressure relief valve and helps drain some of those huge emotions so that healthier ones can begin to take their place.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DO </b>reassure them that they are safe and alive and that you are too. Use whatever helps them to feel safe, no matter if it means answering the same questions hundreds of times, familiar scripts that help them work through the process, or comfort objects that remind them of the loved one.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>DO </b>explain to older autistic kids, that some things that might make them feel better, like scripting facts related to the person's dying, might make others who are sad more sad because it is such a direct reminder of their loss. Many autistic individuals, including kids really do care about others feelings, often though they may feel confused as to how to proceed. <b>Autistic individuals may not be able to stop themselves </b><b>from</b><b> </b><b>certain</b><b> behaviors and that is ok, they need their coping mechanisms,</b> but some will be able to refrain. <i>If they are refraining from these kind of scripts, it is essential that parents realize what a sacrifice that is, and they should praise and encourage the child!</i> Practicing with your child a substitute script that still feels good to them but that they can use to engage with other grieving loved ones may be possible. Helping kids practice phrases such as, "I miss Grandma. I liked playing cards with her. What was your favorite thing to do with her?" might gradually help them see that others miss the loved one too, and that they can make others smile with a good memory. This may not be a possibility for some kids on the spectrum, <b>and</b><b> </b><b>that</b><b> </b><b>is</b><b> </b><b>ok</b>, they need to be able to cope. As parents we can help be the social salve. Support and console your child first, then remind others that this was a huge emotional blow for everyone and that she is trying to process this in the only way she knows how right now, then offer your love and support to your relative or friend as well. You don't need to apologize unless your child has said or done something truly innapropriate. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Whew! I know some of those were long, but they are soooooo important!</p>
<p dir="ltr">I am sure we will be having more conversations about Grandpa with Kit as time goes on. The subject is too big and abstract for her to have a tight grasp on right now. But that's ok. She can take all the time she needs. </p>
<p dir="ltr">In the meantime, while I hope none of you find yourself in the position of having to use this information, if you do, I sincerely hope it helps. </p>
Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-28914645929755668522015-03-16T12:02:00.000-05:002015-03-23T13:44:20.539-05:00Meanwhile...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqbT-QpRjPF0BVwchAdYmB0ov0vhlXLpvIvm5MU0f5II8e-j1bJ4rIjoq8D_yLbGst5vGVBoJe-OsSBYF5OY2OFv2ABY8DDG_q_o6LNV4zDvbHVyGxGHXUpPU0r2KndQfWvWn4Lrf3XHs/s1600/IMAG0166_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: sans-serif; text-align: center; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqbT-QpRjPF0BVwchAdYmB0ov0vhlXLpvIvm5MU0f5II8e-j1bJ4rIjoq8D_yLbGst5vGVBoJe-OsSBYF5OY2OFv2ABY8DDG_q_o6LNV4zDvbHVyGxGHXUpPU0r2KndQfWvWn4Lrf3XHs/s640/IMAG0166_1.jpg"></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The problem with a long absence is trying to figure where to pick back up and what needs caught up.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br>
It's far too overwhelming to go into detail the events of the past few months, so I will fill in the most important gaps. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">First off, Victor's dad passed away at the beginning of February. It was sudden and unexpected, but peaceful, for which we were grateful. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Obviously, adjusting was an interesting process. As was how to go about explaining the concept to Kit. I will write a separate post on that. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">While it was sad, there is also a relief that comes when you know a person is not going to continue to deteriorate in health, body and especially in Grandpa's case, mind. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Kit struggled for a long while with the change that comes when a person who was in her life every day is suddenly not there any more. She was not especially close to Grandpa, they sort of lived around each other in the same house rather than together. He was a constant presence nonetheless, and some of his activities were predictable and part of the fabric of her routines. So when that change came abruptly and without any time to prepare her, I suspect she just felt quite confused. She had a very hard time with transitions, and any thing that made her feel out of control usually brought on yelling or tears. It was very tough for a while but she seems to be mellowing over the last couple of weeks.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAL0AsZQ-KmwNUIwzX03XNCXYyTAn9BOYrcq-BplzJjKQevVuD_eQoTIfibZudvyPBqDtUBtRvAyVHw-F5Q76zE2p7IMtWzoCDb5_QaTy1hnoEcUlYNC49dbK9c1RMrhHKnwoLLl9YfyPj/s1600/IMAG0069_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: sans-serif; text-align: center; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAL0AsZQ-KmwNUIwzX03XNCXYyTAn9BOYrcq-BplzJjKQevVuD_eQoTIfibZudvyPBqDtUBtRvAyVHw-F5Q76zE2p7IMtWzoCDb5_QaTy1hnoEcUlYNC49dbK9c1RMrhHKnwoLLl9YfyPj/s640/IMAG0069_1.jpg"></a><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The next big thing is much more recent. I am currently sleeping on the recently vacated (Zak has his own room now) bottom bunk as Kit and I have said goodbye to nursing, and to help avoid nighttime battles that might occur as a result. Both her and my sleep has been of particularly poor quality and duration for a long time now. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">When she wakes at night she wants to nurse and would often cry until this was able to happen. As long as I was in the house, she would cry, at times nearly making herself hysterical. If I was gone from the house however, or when she would go spend the night with Auntie or Nana, she would manage just fine without nursing. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Victor and I have talked about it many times, but we finally felt that we had the time and energy necessary to dedicate to helping her adjust to such a major change.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We told her several days in advance what would be happening. And we made sure the evening before to let her know that the next morning was going to be her last nursing session. And you can be sure, she remembered when morning came. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">In fact she was nursing while I was still quite sleepy and I wanted her to stop for a while so I could get just a few more minutes of sleep, so I detached her and moved her away. She thought that was the end, and she broke down since she wasn't ready and hadn't quite finished to her satisfaction. So I grumbled at myself, then sat up to wake myself up. I asked her if she wanted to finish, and she nodded with tear stains on her cheeks.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">She cuddled in and nursed for about another 10 minutes. She sighed a big sigh, let go, and then said, "That's it? No more nursing?" </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">"That's right. No more nursing."</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">She looked like she was about to cry, but sat up and asked me to hold her. We snuggled for another few minutes, and then she asked to play the tablet.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">She has been remarkably ok. She cried that first night that I wasn't in the bed, but she calmed down and was ok with Daddy being there. Again we had reminded her that I was going to sleep in the other room and that there would be no more nursing at night or in the morning. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">She has come into the room and crawled into bed with me and asked to nurse each morning since, but she has managed well when I tell her we are not doing that anymore. Once I had to get up and leave the bed because she was getting upset, and then she calmed down and accepted redirecton when I suggested we go get some breakfast in the kitchen. And once, she got so upset that Daddy had to take her to have a quick reminder talk, but then she came back and just snuggled.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">It was hard to take away something that has always meant so much to her as well as has been one of our strongest emotional connections and ways to bond. But sleep for both of us is so so important and we desperately needed to be able to sleep better. It was time. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">On the not great side, she has been chewing her hand more and biting at me a lot. Most of the time, I sense it coming and can manuver myself or her out of the way in time and then redirect her to bite something else, a blanket or stuffed animal. She got in two real bites last week, not out of meanness or anger, it was completely sensory seeking. The second one left a sizeable and tender bruise. So her oral seeking needs are clearly still a driving force and nursing was indeed helping. But we will just have to step up her sensory diet in that department and we will all have to just learn to manage without that source of sensory regulation.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7DhDnSJ2AQJdAMrXlwHXRt0GmyD9_U_aLMfeaL3k_uxJwjvIw1wokkK_CtSfQh7ySPrhcr0Rxv4XXVlnFadN7svJeOfrrhIvkBf1eE3ycgRt6yiUIxldwOD7zzxuPkawr6jcdqKbIJr2/s1600/IMAG0159_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: sans-serif; text-align: center; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7DhDnSJ2AQJdAMrXlwHXRt0GmyD9_U_aLMfeaL3k_uxJwjvIw1wokkK_CtSfQh7ySPrhcr0Rxv4XXVlnFadN7svJeOfrrhIvkBf1eE3ycgRt6yiUIxldwOD7zzxuPkawr6jcdqKbIJr2/s640/IMAG0159_1.jpg"></a><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">In upcoming events, you can look forward to being inundated with information about autism service dogs, as we are seriously considering, and her Nurse Practitioner agreed that a service dog may well be the constant "aide" that she needs. We think it could be a big help by being:</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">-A loyal companion to help her not feel alone when it comes time to move her to her new permanent bed in the room with her sister, a presence that she right now needs either myself or Daddy to fill. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">-A calming effect when she is upset by change or unpleasant transitions or unwanted situations. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">-A soft and sturdy buddy who doesn't mind her rubbing her face in his fur or hugs that are too rough for the kitty to handle. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">-A safety when she wants to walk without holding hands, but still tries to run when she sees something she likes or is overwhelmed by the situation or siblings. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">-And hopefully a friend and conversation starter to help her feel more comfortable talking to others in social situations instead of running away, yelling, or crossing her arms and avoiding.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I will write about all of this in more detail later. Just wanted to catch everyone up with what's been pretty much all consuming around here for the last few months.</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I wish everyone a fabulous week!</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-58932161364143160412015-02-05T16:39:00.000-06:002015-02-13T13:23:13.104-06:00Busy Bag: Clothespin Counting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's been a while since I made a new busy bag. But I have several ideas still swimming around in my head that I've just not had the time and/or energy to sit down and make. However, Thursday Kit was sick, and had moments of the day where she was feeling more mellow, so I took advantage of one of those interludes to put this Busy Bag together.</div>
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I call it Clothespin Counting, but there is a lot more happening in this little bag than just counting.</div>
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First, I outlined some shapes on construction paper and cut them out. Next, i used a permanent marker to write numbers, starting with one in one corner and then progressing clockwise. On the back, I wrote the name of each shape. On the circle, I numbered it like a clock. Then I laminated the shapes.</div>
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Next, I selected 12 clothespins and wrote a number on each one, 1-12.</div>
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When we sat down to play with them together, we first talked about the shapes, and identified each one. Then I showed Kit how each number matched up with the numbers on the shapes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She pretty much took it from there... </div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-46026581436103962692015-01-30T11:05:00.001-06:002015-01-30T11:05:09.580-06:00Conversation Vacation<p dir="ltr">Scene: Kit insists on accompanying me to the bathroom. She walks by the toilet, balancing the tablet precariously in one hand uncomfortably close to said toilet.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Me: Sweetie, please move the tablet away from the toilet. I really don't want it to fall in.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Kit: Will it drown?</p>
<p dir="ltr">Me: Yes.</p>
Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-66201700737185837672015-01-28T05:30:00.000-06:002015-01-28T05:30:01.691-06:00Le Petite Chef: Egg Salad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Grace loves egg salad.</div>
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Really loves it, as in she would eat it every day most likely.</div>
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So it was no real surprise that one of the things she wanted to learn to make during our cooking sessions together was egg salad.</div>
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So that is what we did.</div>
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There are about as many ways to do egg salad as there are condiments and spices and herbs in the world. So there is endless variety when it comes to flavor, which I happen to think is awesome.</div>
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This is our basic recipe.</div>
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Supplies: </div>
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<li>Eggs</li>
<li>Mayo</li>
<li>Mustard</li>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step One: </span>Grace filled a saucepan a little over halfway with water and then gently set the eggs in the pan. Make sure there is enough water to cover the eggs with a little room to spare. Put the pan on High heat, we want the water to boil. When the water reaches a boil, turn off burner. Let eggs sit in the hot water for 8-10 minutes.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step two:</span> While the eggs rest in the hot water, fill a medium bowl with ice and just enough water to come to the top layer of ice. (We used a large bowl because it was clean and within reach.)</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Three:</span> An adult should drain the hot water from the pan. </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Four:</span> Grace used tongs to transfer the hot eggs into the ice bath. Then allow eggs to rest in ice bath for 10 minutes. This makes the eggs cool enough to be handled by little hands, keeps the yolk from turning green, and helps make the eggs easier to peel.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Five:</span> Drain the water from ice bath. We set the eggs on a towel for simplicty of work space.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Six:</span> Peel eggs. (Note: Fresh eggs are actually kind of a pain to peel. To learn why check out<a href="http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2015/01/fascinating-facts-about-eggs-with-egg.html" target="_blank"> this cool post!</a>)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnKjQCZJZuBaguAQnqIzzTDtG1aT2XKP-al4Oa4zyNxny1n2rqU08W_liB-KPcJguLKmkwm11YE0WrR6XMIFNnUtHRcCFaHigQDhcMMMnl7hmHJ1BzACVh-xFyFprcuATojdJ8V_CHHW3/s1600/20141204_153412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEnKjQCZJZuBaguAQnqIzzTDtG1aT2XKP-al4Oa4zyNxny1n2rqU08W_liB-KPcJguLKmkwm11YE0WrR6XMIFNnUtHRcCFaHigQDhcMMMnl7hmHJ1BzACVh-xFyFprcuATojdJ8V_CHHW3/s640/20141204_153412.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Seven:</span> Cut eggs into pieces. We don't have a potato masher, which is how I did it as a kid, so we just use a fork and a knife, which is great motor and utensil practice anyway.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpryRW8_Rw-imeesbEJ1m4E9B6xA5auXf8rOOpescTjCXF57sADvUcCeKPoA_2vl9O0KJHElel77ZJPeOOzTn3DoU__p0buUfr1322MeGU1HZ0hECuuEntUpuaHXWUGLyC7hUEAgZyLWjs/s1600/20141204_154353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpryRW8_Rw-imeesbEJ1m4E9B6xA5auXf8rOOpescTjCXF57sADvUcCeKPoA_2vl9O0KJHElel77ZJPeOOzTn3DoU__p0buUfr1322MeGU1HZ0hECuuEntUpuaHXWUGLyC7hUEAgZyLWjs/s640/20141204_154353.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Eight:</span> Add desired amount of mayo. We don't really measure it, but it probably is about half a cup for eight eggs.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Nine:</span> Add mustard. Again, we don't measure, we add and taste. But we probably use about 1/8 cup for eight eggs.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Ten:</span> Add any other desired herbs, spices and ingredients. This time we didn't add anymore. We were out of both sweet and dill relish, which we usually add one to the eggs depending on our moods that day. </div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Step Eleven:</span> Devour! Spread on bread for sandwiches. Serve on crackers. Or grab a spoon and eat as is, which is one of Grace's favorite ways to chow down on this dish!</div>
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How do you like your egg salad? Share with us and we'll try out your recipes!</div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-13235061372159310702015-01-26T05:30:00.000-06:002015-01-26T05:30:01.266-06:00Looking Back: Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have multiple things I'm working on and attempting to get out of my head and into posts, but this is slow going and often interrupted.<br />
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I am deep in the midst of Burnout. Have been, to a greater or lesser degree, for the last two years in fact, but this time feels worse than the others. It's much slower digging out, and the hole feels much deeper this time, but I'm slogging away at it nevertheless.<br />
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One of the things I have been wanting to do is to re-post some of my older posts. I know not everyone has the time, energy, or desire to read through two years of archive posts. So I will, over the next few weeks, re-share some of my favorites. Reading back over these, it's amazing both how close and far away these days feel. We've made much progress in so many areas. Others were better back then, but prove challenging right now. Anyhow, I hope you enjoy reminiscing with me.<br />
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The following piece was originally posted <a href="http://hide-n-sensory-seeking.blogspot.com/2013/09/once-upon-betime-story.html" target="_blank">September 30, 2013,</a> while we were still primarily using ASL to communicate with Kit, and when sleep issues still dominated our days and nights. I will forever appreciate Victor for taking over bedtime when I simply could not function anymore. But I think the bond he and Kit have as a result is way beyond priceless, and I'm so glad they still share a unique bedtime routine, even if it doesn't need to happen in sign language anymore.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>Once Upon A Bedtime Story...</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>Ever since our youngest was born, sleep has been one of our biggest challenges. After months and months of two steps forward one step back, and trial and error (oy, lots of error!), we can finally say we are making some progress.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>Baby and Daddy still sleep on the couch.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>Every night though, for about a month, Daddy gets her corner ready just how she likes it. Then she cries because she doesn't want to be apart from Mommy. But then he says its time for a story...</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>She quiets down, settles in and waits.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>Then, every night, Daddy tells her a story using signs. They are usually about a baby, and a daddy, and going outside. And when Daddy forgets a sign or doesn't know one, he asks her...and she always knows, and shows him.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>She listens, she smiles, and she signs along.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>When they finish, Daddy says a prayer with her, lays her down, and covers her with her weighted blanket.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>And for the first time in her life, she falls asleep by herself, without nursing, being held or rocked, or even touching one of us.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>She amazes us everyday.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><i>And I...have fallen in love with her Daddy all over again!</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-iDt5T7NUrFEgKVuL0aaOxBBRYPnhZOItENGFOoxL2ONvalsm1wJ0nso5RJZq5HkiM5OT9D6hU0RHjPecVnhMQZX9PyARJOCYZwLgqueRuJtiX2WdN5rPO7z6FR66pqYnC2h_Ok0RrtlL/s1600/Screenshot_2013-07-12-02-11-13-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-iDt5T7NUrFEgKVuL0aaOxBBRYPnhZOItENGFOoxL2ONvalsm1wJ0nso5RJZq5HkiM5OT9D6hU0RHjPecVnhMQZX9PyARJOCYZwLgqueRuJtiX2WdN5rPO7z6FR66pqYnC2h_Ok0RrtlL/s640/Screenshot_2013-07-12-02-11-13-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-59105994241306454682015-01-24T19:57:00.000-06:002015-01-24T20:01:50.333-06:00Indoor S'mores<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hi everyone. Sorry about just sort of dropping out of the blogosphere for a while there.</div>
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I don't want to go into the details of the last month, suffice it to say I've been bled of all energy and the demands for it have only multiplied. Blegh!</div>
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So I had to let things go in order to better focus my energies on the things of highest priority, my family. That included blogging for a while. I hope to get back to it it more regularly soon, but for today, here is a recipe that I originally found on Pinterest, but tweaked, and I think improved.</div>
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We call them Indoor S'mores, and they are amazing!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAxV4LsaNv2N5WTqxl3NqriF-67PMvxKa5iccK_hedY9pG2iMZnBRj-kC5fIR9D0nJcLjSGQ2jyDK5TMkrkj7BSz7uvFAFleGQwpIXfPrg72oyAIe5sAmr64n96Tm4JsoTE3njrGGhWtv/s1600/IMAG0081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAxV4LsaNv2N5WTqxl3NqriF-67PMvxKa5iccK_hedY9pG2iMZnBRj-kC5fIR9D0nJcLjSGQ2jyDK5TMkrkj7BSz7uvFAFleGQwpIXfPrg72oyAIe5sAmr64n96Tm4JsoTE3njrGGhWtv/s640/IMAG0081.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here are the ingredients:</div>
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<li><i>Non-stick Muffin Tin</i></li>
<li><i>Ready to bake Sugar or Snickerdoodle cookies. </i>We prefer the Snickerdoodle. A package of these contains 24 cookies, so you could either make just a few, or the whole batch if desired.</li>
<li><i>Nutella</i></li>
<li><i>Marshmallows</i>, little or regular size both work. I've used both and I prefer the large ones as they stay in the middle of the cookie better, making it easier to remove from the muffin tin.</li>
<li><i>Crushed graham crackers </i>(optional), we made ours by putting a couple crackers in a zipper bag and crushing with a coffee cup.</li>
<li><i>Chocolate</i> - bars, chips, kisses, of whatever variety you choose all work, though I didn't like the chips as they didn't stick well to the marshmallow. We've tried various kinds, Krackle, Butterfinger Bites, Andes Mints, and regular milk chocolate Hershey's. The original Hershey's tends to be the favorite, though I really like the Andes mints with them, but I am a mint person. I would still like to try AlmondJoy, Mounds, and peanut butter cups with these.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr5WQCOf1WmRTXqzffHMC_EqXe6dvYfG9ZX58c0XMRXNXg0a8tlKWdieK7qwdPNonCeN5hIXuxYwRXOS_F1pc2LSjYWlcVxtP3bezfOUhwVdWHEJkIy9pOa1PRNYAHCTFPTGoH-GLNwD2z/s1600/IMAG0034_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr5WQCOf1WmRTXqzffHMC_EqXe6dvYfG9ZX58c0XMRXNXg0a8tlKWdieK7qwdPNonCeN5hIXuxYwRXOS_F1pc2LSjYWlcVxtP3bezfOUhwVdWHEJkIy9pOa1PRNYAHCTFPTGoH-GLNwD2z/s640/IMAG0034_1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /> </a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFKT8Q4R19y5BLy0g1IDunxKtni8WieIyPq3KCn0E0ZPtPSCZpVZfk7KOyhCpExC7s8ApjUyI8tE6VhWC7pqKfseeD8RldQmfaTwB4ycZDWsEsmXm9Rm76quhvzh6-f5NiQ1OjFdOPZpN/s1600/IMAG0075_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKFKT8Q4R19y5BLy0g1IDunxKtni8WieIyPq3KCn0E0ZPtPSCZpVZfk7KOyhCpExC7s8ApjUyI8tE6VhWC7pqKfseeD8RldQmfaTwB4ycZDWsEsmXm9Rm76quhvzh6-f5NiQ1OjFdOPZpN/s640/IMAG0075_1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Step one: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</div>
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Step two: While the oven is heating up. Place one cookie in each muffin cup according to the number you want to make. If you are making less than six, the cooking times might need to be adjusted down by a few minutes, so check on them frequently so they do not overcook.</div>
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Step three: When oven is ready, bake cookies in muffin tin for approximately 11 minutes. Then remove from oven and set on a heat resistant surface. The cookies will not be completely cooked. Do not remove from muffin tin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyox1bWSp3-F-AHC8rRl_5CVebJ3s15scsARV-2U-TFNijSq5dM80rz0cKK68T6OaIhK-RA2qeuIRqWa7Qb0RlhyRtCcLbOLBjaSj6EUbWe5HBKc8r_OEu9nCT8PRGjLpEVS7zwmpq_FmB/s1600/IMAG0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyox1bWSp3-F-AHC8rRl_5CVebJ3s15scsARV-2U-TFNijSq5dM80rz0cKK68T6OaIhK-RA2qeuIRqWa7Qb0RlhyRtCcLbOLBjaSj6EUbWe5HBKc8r_OEu9nCT8PRGjLpEVS7zwmpq_FmB/s640/IMAG0035.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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Step four: If using graham cracker crumbs, pour 1/4 teaspoon onto each cookie and spread gently.</div>
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Step five: Add a dollop of Nutella, about 1 teaspoon, on each cookie on top of the graham cracker crumbs.</div>
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Step six: Press five mini marshmallows or half of one large one into the Nutella in center of cookie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT8qainlLeYzVDlbs8NTqhxASKqyByxJMhwdQH-3xumYM-pBfzsbHZcrMCqaYSPogA3xqf7lD9BSKDBdFmEEP44bEK8pYZScJa1tNjcbOEInVJ0trY7GVOa1w0H4_0lrSCnHDtgQwUi5h/s1600/IMAG0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT8qainlLeYzVDlbs8NTqhxASKqyByxJMhwdQH-3xumYM-pBfzsbHZcrMCqaYSPogA3xqf7lD9BSKDBdFmEEP44bEK8pYZScJa1tNjcbOEInVJ0trY7GVOa1w0H4_0lrSCnHDtgQwUi5h/s640/IMAG0036.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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Step seven: Put back in oven and let cook for 3 minutes more. Then remove from heat and turn off oven.</div>
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Step eight: Place once piece of chocolate of choice on top of each marshmallow (or group of mini marshmallows). Allow to cool for at least ten minutes (but we like to let them sit longer, at least 30 or more).</div>
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Step nine: Devour, and delight in chocolaty marshmallow cookie goodness!! Faces and fingers may get quite sticky, but these are sure to bring a smile to little faces and make a great-just-in-from-the-cold kind of snack.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpo3jw0YXDdRiaqoFWv234U8m7JUFbQnCi0LdqL6jyaTZuBIKCR_dW62RUFJyEpZ7Tq7B6EtBBcsJHh0aZtCsVgJqs2F8C_NVs5UunhqCk6E4CzGV2QeaQsv-_F-wCPqUOA_rDmorzuSiB/s1600/IMG_20150122_235029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpo3jw0YXDdRiaqoFWv234U8m7JUFbQnCi0LdqL6jyaTZuBIKCR_dW62RUFJyEpZ7Tq7B6EtBBcsJHh0aZtCsVgJqs2F8C_NVs5UunhqCk6E4CzGV2QeaQsv-_F-wCPqUOA_rDmorzuSiB/s640/IMG_20150122_235029.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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Keep cozy, everyone!</div>
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Sharing on the <a href="http://mommycrusader.com/saturday-evening-family-friendly-free-week-sixteen/" target="_blank">Saturday Evening Family Friendly Free For All</a></div>
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Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-56542779192922973992014-12-20T16:28:00.001-06:002014-12-21T00:14:42.487-06:00Book Review: Trouble Blows West<p dir="ltr"><i>I recieved a free pdf copy for the purpose of review. I have not been otherwise compensated. All thoughts and opinions expressd herein are entirely my own.</i></p><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWgwvx6sQY2ETilE9QPBdvGJpWggYCP5QBW1iqGG-y18u1Rjtdinto3so-Ok8sR0628HnCHxR1QnOD_NGa7XMgGcj9WbnPlFB2esR6hWxvSy-wwIB53vZbX1L9eY292P3uQxhqkwRVtQJ/s1600/Screenshot_2014-12-20-23-59-07-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: sans-serif; text-align: center; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWgwvx6sQY2ETilE9QPBdvGJpWggYCP5QBW1iqGG-y18u1Rjtdinto3so-Ok8sR0628HnCHxR1QnOD_NGa7XMgGcj9WbnPlFB2esR6hWxvSy-wwIB53vZbX1L9eY292P3uQxhqkwRVtQJ/s640/Screenshot_2014-12-20-23-59-07-1-1.png"></a></p><p dir="ltr">Ginnie West leaps before she looks when the school bully Pierce Owens tries to pick a fight with her twin brother. Besides getting suspended for fighting, and the consequences that brings from her dad, her brother is less than happy at her chivalry. Not to mention how angry Pierce is after being bested by a girl in the middle of the cafeteria. Ginnie and Toran come face to face with some big choices. What makes a bully? Can a bully change? Do they deserve a second chance?</p><p dir="ltr">I like the character development in this second Ginnie West Adventure, all the main characters are faced with difficult choices, and navigate some very harsh realities.<br></p>
<p dir="ltr">There are some intense scenes between Pierce and his dad. But, this book can be a really good way to open up a dialogue between kids and parents/teachers about subjects like violence, bullying, and domestic abuse. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Again, I appreciate the respecful relationships expected in the West family. <br></p><p dir="ltr">Again, I feel the pictures deter from story, not allowing it to be taken as seriously.<br></p>
<p dir="ltr">And again, I felt that Buzz and a few others were unnecessary characters, just more people to keep track of. </p>
<p dir="ltr">But overall, this book talks about real life issues in a way I think young readers can relate to, and can really get them thinking about their own actions. I recommend it for ages 10+.</p><p dir="ltr">I give it three stars.</p><p dir="ltr">☆☆☆</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1976649508784349030.post-42019002969479397542014-12-13T02:51:00.001-06:002014-12-15T13:35:29.308-06:00Sometimes You Just Gotta Dance! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhGLbXvR_mAWVwYxN4sA-G5pNfTXv0BLQVhGCcerdAx5g0Np3sqwT2F-Dx7PiJ1mL1vPpQi0ccGaJjKM2YYrTMEdyovWXOHWu_5W8qx-MeYoW8gSPX95FHBAFU1s-F2SoW019rNHGfkc8/s1600/20141203_103843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhGLbXvR_mAWVwYxN4sA-G5pNfTXv0BLQVhGCcerdAx5g0Np3sqwT2F-Dx7PiJ1mL1vPpQi0ccGaJjKM2YYrTMEdyovWXOHWu_5W8qx-MeYoW8gSPX95FHBAFU1s-F2SoW019rNHGfkc8/s640/20141203_103843.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gqDR-SE10URfEj9kWvLdsWrjzywLu1APU8x6mvi-Nsg89l58xmyUpaEp_EkSCYmYYPp7W6WyzwDGbdLOL4Td7qJBH4RTHtGIIACObs8BdMzK6hGB5Ve2X7Lbr6GJ-JkWpkpKGrBzYRgd/s1600/20141203_103841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gqDR-SE10URfEj9kWvLdsWrjzywLu1APU8x6mvi-Nsg89l58xmyUpaEp_EkSCYmYYPp7W6WyzwDGbdLOL4Td7qJBH4RTHtGIIACObs8BdMzK6hGB5Ve2X7Lbr6GJ-JkWpkpKGrBzYRgd/s640/20141203_103841.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioh_OhIbLNlHQcKMWlz9jLH1XJK6wE4deaqQIFjXWQ0FKDq1PcakSSVO3_W3grdPLlChDZ0pDk16TMTUq2OQ0Cnn3uXPv-m25dvXX_Jd29oa6qNQzykPgtXgC1F6sojwnDXSVBmThZbJ5S/s1600/20141203_103900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioh_OhIbLNlHQcKMWlz9jLH1XJK6wE4deaqQIFjXWQ0FKDq1PcakSSVO3_W3grdPLlChDZ0pDk16TMTUq2OQ0Cnn3uXPv-m25dvXX_Jd29oa6qNQzykPgtXgC1F6sojwnDXSVBmThZbJ5S/s640/20141203_103900.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecXl46JJ0Ef1uI5hNZ-NGGaoeiG9lxg_Q6xOreufux_J53Gt0ogHlIYkORtQEcm7WA6jI5kF4hORDB9D4bj9c0fFqLhDbhFI6utOuOoceZQBbderN0SUekCPXSlNmYrHllmDUf8cEMNbz/s1600/20141203_103852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecXl46JJ0Ef1uI5hNZ-NGGaoeiG9lxg_Q6xOreufux_J53Gt0ogHlIYkORtQEcm7WA6jI5kF4hORDB9D4bj9c0fFqLhDbhFI6utOuOoceZQBbderN0SUekCPXSlNmYrHllmDUf8cEMNbz/s640/20141203_103852.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLJEpDFjup2ItMly55_D3x0I1bSdmkTdegh6900kQaXPWrhHBCASLC1qBzg-uQMgT8Kq76hi1N4pIH5Hp4pJQYUfu5bU75OejnsCzmNyZDK-ARbUVAr4EK0S6t68sIL4xfKveTWieczzc/s1600/20141203_103854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLJEpDFjup2ItMly55_D3x0I1bSdmkTdegh6900kQaXPWrhHBCASLC1qBzg-uQMgT8Kq76hi1N4pIH5Hp4pJQYUfu5bU75OejnsCzmNyZDK-ARbUVAr4EK0S6t68sIL4xfKveTWieczzc/s640/20141203_103854.jpg"> </a> </div>Judith Lloyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12020288554761012445noreply@blogger.com4