tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-164724572024-03-13T18:20:00.778-05:00The Hartley HooligansGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.comBlogger159125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-16604975288970417292021-02-05T15:32:00.000-06:002021-02-05T15:32:25.397-06:00My Daughter, The Warrior<p>Last week, I donated some clothing to our local DAV. I didn't really think of which route I would be following to get there, but I ended up having to drive right by the hospital where we lost our sweet Lola. In fact, I had to stop at the (very long) stoplight right in front of it. Sitting there, I could see <a href="https://wesleymc.com/locations/wesley-childrens/" target="_blank">Wesley Children's Hospital</a>. I located the room(s) we stayed in, and I could even remember the colorful lights shining in our window at night and how pretty the many sunsets were from that higher vantage point. I could see the <a href="https://rmhcwichita.org/" target="_blank">Ronald McDonald House</a> across the street, remembering what a godsend they were to us all those nights. I was quite literally flooded with memories as I waited there at that dreaded stoplight.</p><p>I also could not forget the difficult times... the times I had been parked at that very light on my way back to the hospital after a quick one-hour run home to shower and grab more items, my anxiety through the roof with worry & fear about what the future held for our beautiful girl. I remembered my many prayers for her healing... my pleas to God to take years off my own life and add them to hers so I could once again take my baby home from the hospital. I didn't have that luxury with her big sister, Claire, just 9 months prior, as she passed away suddenly at home. Oh yes, so many prayers were said at that very light, crying out to the Universe to PLEASE SAVE MY BABY! Please give her another chance at life! </p><div dir="ltr">We held out hope for sooooo long. We had to stay positive for her and for us. We had to believe that she was going to beat this a second time (within 5 weeks) and that the second hospitalization of her entire 13.5 years of life was NOT going to end in us losing her also. I reeeeeally thought we would get her back home again, until the last day or two. </div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">Now, as I look back on those days that I held onto hope with all my might, I am almost disgusted with myself. HOW DID I NOT SEE THIS COMING??? Did everyone else know that Lola was dying? Why couldn’t *I* accept this? Was I delusional? Too hopeful? How the fuck could we not save her another time?!?! We had helped her survive so many other upper respiratory infections before. We watched her tiny, little body waste away and struggle too many times to count in the past, often with no real reason as to why this was occurring. It wasn't at all unusual for us to worry about her survival or mortality daily. She was our ultra-sensitive, fragile child. I don't know what contract she signed with the Heavens before entering this life, but I still stand in awe of just how hard my baby girl fought so many times to <u>STAY</u>. Heck, she was on the brink of death a multitude of times just weeks prior, fighting the same viruses, and she somehow managed to make it back home after ten days of pure hell. Why would she not be able to do so again? After all, she had always been "bulletproof," as my friend Amy put it. </div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3a1pT95flo/YBhQNdcCLiI/AAAAAAAAGv8/T7w2n06TNfE6Jt-pI_CsG0fVLSrUiiq2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/6A1A09F6-4E0B-4AB3-A3C9-C93C26A3C1CA.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3a1pT95flo/YBhQNdcCLiI/AAAAAAAAGv8/T7w2n06TNfE6Jt-pI_CsG0fVLSrUiiq2QCLcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/6A1A09F6-4E0B-4AB3-A3C9-C93C26A3C1CA.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div dir="ltr">My baby died in that hospital.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">I will never, ever forget this or "get over it." I am never going to sit at the stoplight at Central & Hillside again and not remember how desperately hard our baby girl fought to LIVE. </div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">I haven't been able to write about this topic hardly at all. I am still not ready to do so at length. I wonder if I ever fully will be. It almost feels too sacred and private to discuss outside of our home. What our beloved daughter endured, what we witnessed, the endless bagging, the many IV's, all the medicines (and their reactions), her heart rate repeatedly plummeting, the catastrophic seizures, the suffocating heaviness of it all... it changes a person. It flat out HAUNTS you. These nightmarish, traumatic memories somehow worm their way into your consciousness, begging to be remembered and felt. I am not ok. I am not sure I will ever be ok again. I miss my babies.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">As I parked there for what felt like 5 minutes, I also began thinking of all the people inside those walls who, like our sweet girl did 15 months prior, are fighting against a fatal respiratory virus. Our Lola didn't die from Covid, but she too fought with the strength of a warrior just to breathe. Over 2 million people have fought so hard and lost their battles, too. It completely shatters me to even ponder this harsh reality, not to mention the fact that they suffered and died alone. The weight of the world is feeling absolutely unbearable to me lately.<br /></div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">The light finally turned green, and I continued through the intersection in tears, the music lyrics in the background ripping through me... "Stay alive, stay alive... for me." (Truce, by Twenty One Pilots ~ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCeBNwBUkcI" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCeBNwBUkcI</a>)</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">[You should know that I have never been suicidal at any point after losing our girls, but a part of me understands fully how one could reach that inconceivable point of despair. My heart goes out to those who face these feelings daily. I encourage anyone who is reading this and feeling that hopelessness to reach out to someone at th<span style="font-family: inherit;">e <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;">National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ~ 1-800-273-TALK (8255).]</span></span></div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">As I headed home after the DAV drop, I continued listening to music, tried to refocus, tried to forget. You see, grief is exhausting, all-consuming, and heavy. It can derail me for a few moments or for weeks on end. Sometimes I get mad at myself that I keep burying it all and that I am not finding ways to offload some of this guilt and sorrow. I wish I was better about facing it head-on, but honestly, I am not sure I am strong enough for that. Truly allowing myself to feel the reality and weight of losing both Claire & Lola inside of ten months of one another... it is pure torture. Most days, the best I can do is to not let myself remember what she... what WE... experienced. I know I cannot run away from this forever, but I wish to God I could. I want to remember how Claire & Lola LIVED, not how they died. I want to live inside their magic forever.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">I hate to say this, but most days it truly feels like a dream that our girls were even here. I don't know how to accurately explain this to someone who hasn't lived through it, but let me try. I think our brains work so damn hard trying to make sense of something that makes ZERO sense that everything becomes a little cloudy. You begin questioning everything. Their clothes aren't in your laundry anymore, you are no longer listening for them day and night, your every moment spent caring for them... it all vanishes. It almost feels as though you are plucked from the life you know and love and are dropped alone into a foreign country where you do not speak the language and everything is scary & unfamiliar. You feel lost and so desperately wish to return to your safe, comfortable life, but that is impossible because that life no longer exists. You are forced to find your way in this new place, completely starting over, rebuilding your whole life, learning this new language and place, making new friends, restructuring previous relationships, relearning how to function in society, and most of all, rediscovering your entire life's purpose. I wish I could somehow put a happy spin on child loss or find some random silver lining like I always seem to do as I process my feelings through writing. My dear friend, Stephanie, shared this post recently, and I could not agree with it more.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHHqeTF_-Ss/YBsVO8YvJwI/AAAAAAAAGwI/Fyc2RVztDv0yU_peBGv3VtCmFNQNI4b1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1079/IMG_1376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="1079" height="174" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sHHqeTF_-Ss/YBsVO8YvJwI/AAAAAAAAGwI/Fyc2RVztDv0yU_peBGv3VtCmFNQNI4b1wCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h174/IMG_1376.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div dir="ltr">As I turned into my little town, the sky along the horizon was dark and stormy looking. Above that, the sun’s rays shone so beautifully, creating many luminous beacons of hope... almost as if they were little winks from above. I swear I heard my girls' sweet voices echoing in my head saying, "Hey Mom, we are still right here! *WE* are your light within the dark. We are always with you, Mama..."</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">I think when you lose someone very close to you, you miss their physical presence so profoundly that you automatically tune in to any signs or messages from the other side a little more than most. Many may not even believe this is possible, but we have had too many undeniable events occur to NOT believe that our girls are reaching out to us. (Don't even get me started on the ladybug I saw in my bedroom this week in the dead of winter with freezing temps outside when we hadn't seen any ladybugs since autumn... Hi, Claire-bug!)</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">As I pulled into my garage, I sat in silence in my car for a moment before going inside. Being a part of the world again, interacting with others, and doing "normal" daily activities drains me so much more than ever before. I am different now. Many days it feels like I just do not fit in anywhere I go. The pandemic seems to have complicated that even more. Just as I was about to head inside the house, I remembered something I used to do early on after losing Claire & Lola that always helped me feel a lot closer to them. This may sound ridiculous to those on the other side of grief, and I fully understand if you think I've lost my damn mind (pleeeeeease, don't think I don't question that myself daily! LOL). As I sat in this deafening silence, I talked to my babies. I told them how much I loved them and how proud of them I will forever be. I cried telling them how much I missed holding them and how sorry I was that I could not save them. I told them to come to me in my dreams and to leave me messages whenever they could so I would know they were still near. Lastly, I asked my angel babies to play me a song that would ease my aching heart. I then hit shuffle on my 62 GB of music on my phone (not a typo!), and the song that played was this one. So fitting. Soooo Claire & Lola.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i41qWJ6QjPI" width="320" youtube-src-id="i41qWJ6QjPI"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">(Lyrics: <a href="https://genius.com/Beyonce-i-was-here-lyrics" target="_blank">https://genius.com/Beyonce-i-was-here-lyrics</a>)</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">Mama loves you forever & ever, my baby girls. I miss you.</div><div dir="ltr"><br /></div><div dir="ltr">xo</div>Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-10472410539953908972020-01-08T15:50:00.000-06:002020-01-08T15:50:45.779-06:00Rest in paradise, my darling Lola...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Lola Grace Hartley </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
April 28, 2006 ~ October 12, 2019</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6fc4G4DqD8/XhY9yBH9SFI/AAAAAAAAGG4/8B5nF5q1R0w-rOCh9IQ4b9GBdkT3RjBGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_8271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6fc4G4DqD8/XhY9yBH9SFI/AAAAAAAAGG4/8B5nF5q1R0w-rOCh9IQ4b9GBdkT3RjBGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_8271.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
[Post from Facebook on October 12, 2019]</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Early this morning, with a full moon shining in our PICU window, our sweet Lola ascended into the Heavens to be reunited with her big sister, Claire. Her body was overcome by back-to-back viruses as well as other medical complications that she was not able to overcome. She fought with everything in her to stay. She is quite literally the strongest human being we have ever known. She could have left so many times over the course of her 13.5 years, and every single time, she chose to stay. We are completely devastated. She was an absolute warrior till her last breath and final heartbeat. We are going to miss her so incredibly much.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We are in complete disbelief and shock that we are here again just shy of 10 months after losing Claire. Lola has struggled so much more since Claire passed in December. She has required oxygen, constant monitoring, and extra care, and we fully believe this is a result of missing her big sister. We have no idea how to chart a course through this tremendous grief & PTSD we are feeling. It just seems utterly impossible at this time.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We want to thank our night nurses, babysitters, therapists, teachers, family & friends for always providing such wonderful care and love for Mrs. Pockey. You are and will always be family to us, and we love you so very much. We also would like to thank the Wesley Children’s Hospital PICU team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists & staff for believing in our girl and for treating her with such love and respect. We love all of you.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Ronald McDonald House, 551 N Hillside St Suite 100, Wichita, KS 67214. We are ever so grateful to them for allowing us to stay there so we could be close to Lola during her hospital stays.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Share condolences at the following link: </span><a href="https://www.cozinememorial.com/notices/Lola-Hartley" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Lola's obituary</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx4xwP-oem8/XhY_x6CWp_I/AAAAAAAAGHE/uY5IvQnT6gQuFNbrGuBYXIb0wf-eI9M0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_6995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="1125" height="311" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx4xwP-oem8/XhY_x6CWp_I/AAAAAAAAGHE/uY5IvQnT6gQuFNbrGuBYXIb0wf-eI9M0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_6995.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Link to local news story about Lola's passing: <a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/She-was-an-absolute-warrior-KS-family-mourns-loss-of-13-year-old-daughter-with-rare-condition--562940821.html" target="_blank">KWCH News 10.12.19</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Link to local news story about Lola's passing: <a href="http://www.kake.com/story/41174431/benton-kansas-family-mourns-loss-of-13-year-old-daughter-with-rare-condition" target="_blank">KAKE News 10.12.19</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cI2Tv6F1618/XhZBppr7vbI/AAAAAAAAGHQ/ybmTRpTP2Pw0jxxQKqKvhMAo9x35yxQZACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/_MG_3574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cI2Tv6F1618/XhZBppr7vbI/AAAAAAAAGHQ/ybmTRpTP2Pw0jxxQKqKvhMAo9x35yxQZACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/_MG_3574.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Lola ~ 11.9.10</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="max-width: 854px;">
<div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25%; position: relative;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" scrolling="no" src="https://embed.ted.com/talks/lang/en/nora_mcinerny_we_don_t_move_on_from_grief_we_move_forward_with_it" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; top: 0; width: 100%;" width="854"></iframe></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SSWSsHoZZRY/XhZE_vvF7NI/AAAAAAAAGHw/JPBHlz8ItQIIUZ-nbU8_J9B7dkfULD-OQCEwYBhgL/s1600/084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SSWSsHoZZRY/XhZE_vvF7NI/AAAAAAAAGHw/JPBHlz8ItQIIUZ-nbU8_J9B7dkfULD-OQCEwYBhgL/s400/084.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Lola ~ 10.4.16<br /></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2kGnMYI9I2I/XhZNQSIcrjI/AAAAAAAAGH8/z6HNyWb6tOEiX1W22FUIUAmBVxLNXXPHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/171%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="707" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2kGnMYI9I2I/XhZNQSIcrjI/AAAAAAAAGH8/z6HNyWb6tOEiX1W22FUIUAmBVxLNXXPHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/171%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
<br />Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-32651823070468127402019-02-01T10:12:00.000-06:002020-01-08T15:48:45.064-06:00Rest in peace, sweet Claire...<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 12px 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;"><b>Claire Elise Hartley </b></span><span style="color: black;"><br style="margin: 0px;" /> July 25, 2001 ~ December 17, 2018</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 12px 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-psrBsyJP36Q/XFRpScXlchI/AAAAAAAAF3o/z3lHPO_7AlU3HVYQso7ovvQ5z2CcHZj1ACLcBGAs/s1600/295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-psrBsyJP36Q/XFRpScXlchI/AAAAAAAAF3o/z3lHPO_7AlU3HVYQso7ovvQ5z2CcHZj1ACLcBGAs/s400/295.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">[Post from Facebook on December 18, 2018]</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We are absolutely devastated to have lost our sweet Claire last night. Her body systems shut down, possibly<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"> due to a catastrophic virus. <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard-prefer-more-content-show="1" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=829120267&extragetparams=%7B%22__tn__%22%3A%22%2CdKH-R-R%22%2C%22eid%22%3A%22ARDdpwPML5bpCISh4sXr_Hp7a-TkhfELiMJAItpfTq_J5z9ar4iKBIKLmQ2i02txMWs9JFtYwOSAWlgR%22%2C%22fref%22%3A%22mentions%22%7D" href="https://www.facebook.com/abby.maclaskey?__tn__=KH-R&eid=ARDdpwPML5bpCISh4sXr_Hp7a-TkhfELiMJAItpfTq_J5z9ar4iKBIKLmQ2i02txMWs9JFtYwOSAWlgR&fref=mentions&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDRafAIc8pTkjF6M4mKNdkND0EfCzQqvUmJWPWGc9-Sc8jCeusTBHlefFmWhNTl6jzwdqORgkim7L5kw580fyi5NnS07j7SelM6PCwsjfveYXvkzW3laZK0grFQ-AoSe3eptu30ycWD93E_0saO-YYyzBlF30R-4qJuxzmY-WRkFwteQtFMBmwj1AHdr4HizrkJ3njnsB7Cx08GKWBcxbeLHXSypbR9AnU0vX1C729zT-QwXk7x7t6t6YKf5u2EBd9bp5SqkQ7h75ndYaOYFJFivUDC6mPaIFDpBKlU4Rp5HmW-uOr7HbwgX543mcanRHdPtK-cXTLYhHtvD4tFxKrBpQ" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black;">Abby Dawn Maclaskey</span></a>, our local EMS and police worked lovingly and thoroughly to try to save her life. Despite their attempts, we were not able to restart her heart. Her body had fulfilled its mission on Earth, and Claire earned her angel wings. We are completely shattered, in total disbelief, and heartbroken beyond comprehension. We know how many lives she impacted in her short 17 years, and we are so proud of her for living and loving life to its fullest. We selfishly wanted more time, as life is just not the same without her here. We will be taking a social media break until we feel we are able to sort through the magnitude of this tremendous loss. Thank you for loving our girl all these years and for never forgetting how important her precious life was. We love you all. <span class="_47e3 _5mfr" style="clip: auto; height: auto; line-height: 0px; margin: 0px 1px; overflow: visible; position: static; vertical-align: middle; white-space: normal; width: auto;" title="heart emoticon"><img alt="" class="img" height="16" role="presentation" src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/f6c/1/16/2764.png" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; vertical-align: -3px;" width="16" /></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; display: inline; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In lieu of flowers (as Lola is allergic to many flowers), memorials can be made to: Night To Shine in c/o the Tim Tebow Foundation and Make a Wish Foundation of Kansas.</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; display: inline; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Share condolences at </span></span><span style="color: black;">the following link: </span><a href="https://www.cozinememorial.com/notices/Claire-Hartley" target="_blank">Claire's obituary</a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 12px 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-owHVZNUSQwQ/XFRpZN0YZmI/AAAAAAAAF3s/HEPLCdmnGfsjl2GQh3dEQvgHs74C4rJqgCLcBGAs/s1600/I%2Bcould%2Bonly%2Bbe%2Bgrateful....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="736" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-owHVZNUSQwQ/XFRpZN0YZmI/AAAAAAAAF3s/HEPLCdmnGfsjl2GQh3dEQvgHs74C4rJqgCLcBGAs/s400/I%2Bcould%2Bonly%2Bbe%2Bgrateful....jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 12px 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 12px 0px; text-align: left;">
Link to local news story about Claire's passing: <a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/Benton-family-mourns-end-of-jounrey-with-oldest-daughter-503160201.html?fbclid=IwAR3ewPBTDW1ioizXzuYApxIJqvqvDcT7ZX7ZMqhdNbdYQcfZX3Z3hnTnsRs" target="_blank">KWCH News 12.19.18</a></div>
<div style="margin: 12px 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1na3uvqDgIA/XFRszrv9roI/AAAAAAAAF4E/3_-FP24QW8UBitihS5dApINQQNHuVxdAwCLcBGAs/s1600/_MG_1206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1536" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1na3uvqDgIA/XFRszrv9roI/AAAAAAAAF4E/3_-FP24QW8UBitihS5dApINQQNHuVxdAwCLcBGAs/s400/_MG_1206.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Claire ~ 12.11.07</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 12px 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PXPUc-DZ9bA/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PXPUc-DZ9bA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3GgysrUGavA/XFRsS_j9SkI/AAAAAAAAF38/ww5EXAbmYIMwPyI5tL944aw8gVLfYXHogCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_1442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1077" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3GgysrUGavA/XFRsS_j9SkI/AAAAAAAAF38/ww5EXAbmYIMwPyI5tL944aw8gVLfYXHogCLcBGAs/s640/CRW_1442.jpg" width="430" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Claire Elise ~ 10.28.04</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><br /></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ys9zF6mGuMo/XFRugXESJTI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/zkefVx-IXx0cX9mw5H1lrsR9xhJIoZ1NQCLcBGAs/s1600/544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ys9zF6mGuMo/XFRugXESJTI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/zkefVx-IXx0cX9mw5H1lrsR9xhJIoZ1NQCLcBGAs/s400/544.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 12px 0px;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-61448583197467097222018-08-27T18:16:00.000-05:002018-08-27T18:16:47.556-05:00I SEE YOU.To those of you feeling underappreciated, overlooked & unloved... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To anyone feeling lost, hopeless, depressed, anxious and heartbroken... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To my friends who have lost children and who forever feel like a whole piece of your heart is missing, who can barely get out of bed many days, who feel immeasurable, soul-shattering grief every single day while life goes on for the rest of the world, who feel guilty laughing and smiling, whose wounds will remain open for a lifetime, whose very lives will never, <u>EVER</u> be the same for as long as you live… I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To those who have difficult family situations, broken families, divorces, estrangements, abuse, neglect, daily struggles and to those who feel disconnected from your roots & home... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To those who are sick, fighting both seen and unseen battles, whose lives feel fragile... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To everyone who is a caregiver, those who feel as if all you do is give-give-give, those who are tapped out, drained & mentally broken, those who want nothing more than to HELP PEOPLE & better lives & save your loved one... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To the parents of children with special and/or complex medical needs whose love is undying, relentless & eternal... To those parents who would move both Heaven & Earth to help improve the quality of your child's life even the tiniest little bit... And to those who put your own needs on the back burner on the daily to provide the best life possible for your child because you don't know how much time you have left... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To the parents who CHOSE the special needs life, some through fostering and some through adoption, to those who travel to other states or countries to rescue your child(ren) out of cribs before they die alone, to those of you whose very lives & missions SLAY ME on a daily basis... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To my friends and loved ones who fight daily to become parents... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To my friends who have lost spouses, partners, parents, best friends, neighbors, coworkers, other family members & loved ones -- whose hearts break daily feeling this unbelievable loss... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To everyone battling addiction... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To my friends who work their asses off at multiple jobs to provide for their families... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To my friends who don't know what direction in life to go... who worry that nothing feels quite right... who feel as if they wander aimlessly daily, who are unsure of how to proceed... I SEE YOU. And I believe in you. Your answers are coming.<br />
<br />
To those who are suddenly, unexpectedly alone... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To my friends who are unemployed, unable to find a job, feeling financially strapped, unsure of whether you can pay your bills, whose marriages are strained because of money issues, who pray nightly you will win the lottery, who cry at night because you worry that you won't be able to give your family enough for Christmas... I SEE YOU. My heart aches for you.<br />
<br />
To those who have found themselves homeless... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To those who feel fat, ugly, unimportant, or like a non-productive member of society... I SEE YOU. And I assure you that THIS WORLD NEEDS YOU IN IT. Very much. I see your beauty & worth, and I hope that one day you will too.<br />
<br />
To those who live in fear daily, who are dying, who feel like you are dying, who wish you were dying, who worry about the future until you are sick, who feel out of control, who feel helpless, who feel terrified, who battle depression/anxiety, who are in abusive relationships, who want to finally feel hope... I SEE YOU. And I am here for you always.<br />
<br />
To my friends sending their children off to college, who are both bursting with pride and crying with sadness, who spent 19 years preparing them for this day and it is finally here, to those who go home & cry in their child's now-empty room, who look back through old pictures, swearing that was "just yesterday," who desperately want them to grow up but also still remain "their little girl/boy," who miss them in such a primal way it almost cannot be put into words, who feel so lost without them yet thrilled for them all at the same time... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
All you brand new empty nesters... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To those who have died for our country to ensure the freedom of all Americans, to those in the military who put on a uniform and fought/fight for our country, to those who love our country fiercely and are willing to become involved politically, to those who love our leadership, to those who despise our leadership, to those who are fearful of the future of our country, to those who feel empowered, to those who are silent & those who are vocal, to those engaging in debates online & those who can only read them and weep... I SEE YOU. I bow to you. I respect you. I applaud you for truly caring.<br />
<br />
To those with the weight of the world on your shoulders who make huge decisions daily that impact many lives, who shoulder this enormous responsibility, who stay up late wondering if you are doing right by those you love & care about.... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
To everyone running nonprofits & collecting donations for those who are truly in need, who pray for others nightly, who do good deeds even when they aren't seen, who pay for other peoples' coffee or meals or gas, who loan a friend money, who volunteer, who start charities, who check in on elderly neighbors, who send handwritten letters to people *just because*, who still write thank you notes, who send "Thinking about you" texts, <span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">who change flat tires for strangers, </span>who smile or wave at people they don't know, who give out hugs like candy, who strive to make others feel better about themselves, who don't see and/or judge people based on their skin color or race or gender or disability or size or sexual orientation or religion or socioeconomic status or differences of any kind, who give freely without expecting anything in return, who are there for your loved ones no matter what time of day or night you are needed, who live & love so big every damn day... I SEE YOU.<br />
<br />
And lastly, to those who are unhappy, who hurt others physically & emotionally, who say things they don't mean, who bully, who send or post hateful messages/comments, who are keyboard warriors, who are trolls, who hate their lives & want everyone else to be miserable too, who hate those who do good things, who aren't receiving the love they deserve, who just got dumped & are angry as hell, who call people names, who threaten people, who hurt themselves so they finally feel something, who attempt suicide, who ruin other peoples' relationships, who cheat, who lie, who stir the shit, who betray people, who discriminate against others, who abandon people, who talk shit behind peoples' backs or to their faces, who abuse others, who do unforgivable things... I SEE YOU. I am sorry that your life has been so difficult. I hope you know that your life has significance, and your journey could help so many others in similar situations. I really wish I could hug you right now.<br />
<br />
Those around you (including me) may not tell you this daily, yearly or ever, but please know, <b>I SEE YOU</b>. And I love you. Your life & soul are important and valued, not just by me. I hope that reading this reminds you of your worth because I never want any of you to forget.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpPodHVA5hg/W4Q1WSG06eI/AAAAAAAAFz8/IJ1bxcTFppouw5Q5XWM9H26p2lgV6PqCgCLcBGAs/s1600/733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpPodHVA5hg/W4Q1WSG06eI/AAAAAAAAFz8/IJ1bxcTFppouw5Q5XWM9H26p2lgV6PqCgCLcBGAs/s400/733.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qt7Z5Pc2028/W4QzUpEPQ3I/AAAAAAAAFz0/BFe5c0c65nEqTeHb7R9jTQkt7d2tjmQLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/008%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="495" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qt7Z5Pc2028/W4QzUpEPQ3I/AAAAAAAAFz0/BFe5c0c65nEqTeHb7R9jTQkt7d2tjmQLgCEwYBhgL/s400/008%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="301" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-9024125926566366552018-04-23T19:18:00.000-05:002018-04-23T19:18:19.848-05:00Bottles & Buckets
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-18hDqSwaKdU/Wt1eDPqCFDI/AAAAAAAAFyY/Kpt6yTqMJuckfnipQH_9GqHCFTSTSxG1gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-18hDqSwaKdU/Wt1eDPqCFDI/AAAAAAAAFyY/Kpt6yTqMJuckfnipQH_9GqHCFTSTSxG1gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6511.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Lola ~ April 22, 2018</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last n<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">ight as I was feeding Lola her bottle, I remembered
something important I wanted to share with all of you. Let me back up for a
minute...</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When Claire was born almost 17 years ago, she struggled with her
feedings. I was bound and determined to breastfeed her. I wanted every single
additional IQ point I could maybe provide for her & also longed to connect
with her any way possible. So, every single feeding every 2-3 hours involved me
breastfeeding her first which was a struggle for her and me (Let's not even discuss her tonic bite... suffice it to say our nursing relationship ended when blood was drawn! <gasp!>), then I would use
the breast pump for 5-10 minutes to be sure I had extra milk for her and to
keep my supply up, and lastly, I would feed her another ounce or two via a
bottle to be sure she got enough. I would then sit her up, burp her, and watch
her reflux the contents of her stomach into the bowl I kept next to the couch
for just this very thing. I would pour what she vomited back into the bottle to
see how much she lost, and it was usually 3/4+ of the total amount I fed her. No
matter what I tried, this happened every feeding, maybe 8-10 times a day. It
was brutal and frustrating and draining for both of us. She could not be laid
flat EVER, due to her severe reflux. The medicine her doctor prescribed for us
to help with her reflux actually made her vomit even more, if that was even possible. I don't know how she continued to gain weight amidst all this chaos, but she did. </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It wasn’t until Claire started solid foods (organic, raw, fresh bananas and
avocados) around 9-12 months of age that the reflux finally stopped. I found myself
resorting to solids more than liquids because she was able to tolerate those so
much better. She was unable to use food thickeners for her liquids because they contained her food allergens. I knew she needed more liquids, so I would add an ounce or so of her
formula to her mashed avocados & bananas. I also was able to add butter and
ghee to her feedings to increase her caloric intake. Her bi-weekly weight checks showed unbelievably slow but steady gains. It wasn’t until Claire contracted Rotavirus
at age 3 that we realized how important her hydration was. The illness involved nearly constant diarrhea and vomiting over the course of several days. This led to severe dehydration and almost her death. Chronic dehydration is no joke. We had a g-tube
placed a month later when her body was stronger, and we’ve never looked back since. Claire is probably the
healthiest member of our family. She never enjoyed eating, and the g-tube,
while it seems invasive and scary, honestly isn’t that big of a deal. We
promised her we would never again let her get dehydrated. She is rarely ill,
and her diet is immaculate (full of fresh, organic fruits, vegetables &
greens) because she doesn’t have to taste it. HA! Total win-win. Best decision we
ever made was getting Claire a g-tube, and 13 years later, I have zero regrets
about doing so. It saved her life. </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fast forward to a few months before Lola’s birth when we found out
she too had the same condition as her sister — While we knew the g-tube was a
lifesaver for Claire, I did sort of feel like we lost one of the last
“normal” parts of parenthood the day she got her feeding tube. I remember praying for two things those last
few months of Lola’s pregnancy: </span></span></div>
<ol>
<li><div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I prayed she would
survive the birth process.</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I prayed she would be
able to nurse and eat “normally” and that it would bring her joy.</span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Guys, Lola turns TWELVE in 5 days. <b><u>12</u>!!!!!</b> I am proud to say our prayers were answered. She is *still* able to
drink from a bottle, she eats baby food off of a spoon like a champ, and she
flat-out LOVES TO EAT still. </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">W<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">hat hit me today is how absolutely miraculous this is. I will
never forget all the people who told me right after Claire was born that she
would likely lose the ability to eat & that it was pretty unrealistic to think that
she would be able to continue to nurse/drink from a bottle/eat off a spoon for
very much longer. I remember them telling me how it wasn’t that abnormal for
her to be able to eat orally before age 1, maybe even age 2. They told me that somewhere between age 1-2, the suck-swallow reflex turns into a “learned
behavior” and that a huge majority of kids who have brain abnormalities simply
cannot learn how to coordinate this any longer. Many will begin to aspirate at some point.
They will not be able to swallow effectively anymore, and the fluid that is
accidentally aspirated into their lungs will make them sick with pneumonia.
They all swore we would be in and out of the hospital frequently with
aspiration pneumonia, and this would cause lung damage and scar tissue. At some
point, their little bodies wouldn’t be able to fight this anymore. They all
urged me to schedule a g-tube placement for her ASAP. They told me the warning
signs to watch for. They worried about her small size and fragility. No one
thought Claire would live to age 1. </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">After having Lola, these words echoed in my head once again. <span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">I remember being terrified once she turned 1 that I would soon see the decline
occur. I watched her like a hawk during feedings. She was even tinier than her
big sister, and she seemed to get sicker more often than Claire also. She too fought
horrific projectile reflux (And it might have been more intense than Claire's ever was -- One incident, she actually projectile vomited a distance of 15 feet, which if you do the math on that, considering she was approximately 18" tall at the time, this would be like a 6' tall person vomiting a distance of 60 FEET! That shit was POWERFUL, yo!), though it was easier to replenish because she ate
so well & had such a good appetite. To this day, I feel like much of our days are spent feeding and preparing fresh blended foods for the girls. (SO GRATEFUL for Scott, our babysitters & nurses for stepping up & helping share this responsibility with me now -- Don't know what I'd do without you guys!!!) I have
always wanted to give them what they needed. I was determined to optimize their
lives and “save them” from their grim prognoses. I wanted them to reach their
full potentials no matter what. I still have no idea if anything we do has given them the opportunity to defy odds as they have or if it would have happened regardless. Honestly, it just makes me feel proactive & at this point, I'm scared shitless to stop doing what we're doing, as SOMETHING is clearly working.</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I guess my message to all the parents of children with special
needs is this: </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>No one freakin’ knows what the future holds.</b> NO ONE! Not the leading expert in the field, not your pastor, not your Mama, not
the parent who has a child JUST LIKE YOURS. Anything — and I mean ANYTHING! —
<u>is possible</u> with these kiddos of ours. Be willing to think outside the box.
Listen to your Mommy instincts. Question everything. Do your research. Ask
other veteran moms for tips. Seek alternative solutions. Have a support network
to lean on for additional help. Don’t give up on what you hoped for before the
diagnosis. Never lose hope. Stay positive always, even if you have to "fake it till you make it." I repeat, NEVER. LOSE. HOPE!</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">None of this was supposed to happen. Claire & Lola were never
supposed to be able to eat orally for years on end or survive past age 1 or progress
developmentally or even have vision. They were supposed to be in the hospital
frequently and ill often. Don’t get me wrong, we have struggles beyond what
anyone can fathom, but they are struggles we are coping with and still learning
from. Never doubt for a moment that your child isn’t strong AF because look at
how hard they fight daily to be here and function. They are fucking warriors
and superheroes and badass odds-defiers, every last one of them. </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-saU6exVBIMU/Wt1eElIYDEI/AAAAAAAAFyc/sqtWTYg4TRgtNtWR1ZQXETCLuApFB3OHwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_6522.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1214" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-saU6exVBIMU/Wt1eElIYDEI/AAAAAAAAFyc/sqtWTYg4TRgtNtWR1ZQXETCLuApFB3OHwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_6522.jpg" width="302" /></span></a><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P89KhF-av9M/Wt5ze4bYuNI/AAAAAAAAFy4/LjoyWFz2e6ktGUQaaBk_tgtMVoE0LG6GACEwYBhgL/s1600/037%2B%25283%2529.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1263" data-original-width="1241" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P89KhF-av9M/Wt5ze4bYuNI/AAAAAAAAFy4/LjoyWFz2e6ktGUQaaBk_tgtMVoE0LG6GACEwYBhgL/s400/037%2B%25283%2529.PNG" width="392" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">SO appreciate all who came before me carrying buckets... You guys saved <u>ME</u>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="font-family: inherit;">xo</span>Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-34718974357805309362018-03-05T20:21:00.003-06:002019-02-19T09:27:42.025-06:00Claire's Night to Shine ~ 2018On Friday, February 9, 2018, our sweet Claire, whom we never thought would ever get to take part in "normal" high school activities, WENT TO THE PROM. And not just any prom... she went to the <a href="https://timtebowfoundation.org/ministries/night-to-shine" target="_blank">Tim Tebow Foundation's Night to Shine prom</a>! We learned about this prom last year but were unable to attend because it conflicted with one of Cal's basketball games. This year, the stars aligned, and our girl was able to go!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CkeoPbYltkg/WpSRl5Sr2KI/AAAAAAAAFvs/Q7gTRfWRy0s6aTpjGAszoXcIr1aPRrMKwCLcBGAs/s1600/NightToShine_Large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="1600" height="218" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CkeoPbYltkg/WpSRl5Sr2KI/AAAAAAAAFvs/Q7gTRfWRy0s6aTpjGAszoXcIr1aPRrMKwCLcBGAs/s400/NightToShine_Large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Now, finding an age appropriate dress for a 16 year old who is only 36" tall and 25 lb. isn't easy! Most of the dresses her size are toddler mini bride dresses or flower girl dresses which look like they were designed for a 3-4 year old. Ditto fancy shoes. I vowed to make Claire feel special & like any other 16 year old, so I found <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0787TXCV5/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">a jaw-dropping princess dress on Amazon</a> which could be made exclusively to fit each individual person. The seamstress we worked with was fast & very skilled, and the dress arrived a good week before we needed it. And let me tell you... IT. WAS. PERFECT. Just like our badass, strong girl. It could not have been more "Claire-esque" if I'd designed it myself. 😍<br />
<br />
We spent the afternoon putting in rollers, painting fingernails, and letting Claire snooze so she might have a fightin' chance of staying awake later that night. I reeeeeally should've hearkened back to 2012 <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2012/02/knotty-girls.html" target="_blank">when we tried Bantu knots</a>, which were such a booming success, but alas, I did not. Let's just say, I pert near (I have always wanted to use that phrase in a sentence!) paid the price. See below for my overzealous roller action...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LRvf7vWc0U0/Wp2x6UilZcI/AAAAAAAAFwc/aNGK224DuMckRD1bR7oqHDNEQvQsQ8PJACLcBGAs/s1600/1505%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1531" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LRvf7vWc0U0/Wp2x6UilZcI/AAAAAAAAFwc/aNGK224DuMckRD1bR7oqHDNEQvQsQ8PJACLcBGAs/s400/1505%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="382" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sleepy girl getting some beauty rest before her big night!</span><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kmu3z-7d0nI/WpSL14Dto5I/AAAAAAAAFsM/hFGUIQ9IzWs6PmsKjtnuUtZqJDbdff-HgCLcBGAs/s1600/1505%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></a></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kmu3z-7d0nI/WpSL14Dto5I/AAAAAAAAFsM/hFGUIQ9IzWs6PmsKjtnuUtZqJDbdff-HgCLcBGAs/s1600/1505%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v9XpV_Y5RuA/WpSL2PfyWnI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/V4C5lK8xQIInlvZtU-fSBCFfI99z1_-hQCLcBGAs/s1600/1504%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1515" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v9XpV_Y5RuA/WpSL2PfyWnI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/V4C5lK8xQIInlvZtU-fSBCFfI99z1_-hQCLcBGAs/s400/1504%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="378" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">You & that dad-gum camera again?! REALLY?!?!?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oh, and did you SERIOUSLY use the smallest rollers we had? I'm so screwed.
</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uQw1bjyT4M/WpSL2v0NJgI/AAAAAAAAFsU/kyiwgdBnDFsgHFQlWDFhZH2315OK-vGPQCLcBGAs/s1600/1513%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1244" data-original-width="1600" height="310" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uQw1bjyT4M/WpSL2v0NJgI/AAAAAAAAFsU/kyiwgdBnDFsgHFQlWDFhZH2315OK-vGPQCLcBGAs/s400/1513%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Letting her nails dry... and actually holding her "lickstip" (as Cal used to call it when he was a toddler!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">and Chapstick without dropping them at the same time! WOOHOOOOO!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">PS -- The brilliant combo of OT + hours of primping = CHECKMATE, yo.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8KrjJ78Ioc/WpSL5Fl28YI/AAAAAAAAFsY/6F_vR_VjhscXLqhwoLyFJFG9lZQV9hqOgCLcBGAs/s1600/1516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H8KrjJ78Ioc/WpSL5Fl28YI/AAAAAAAAFsY/6F_vR_VjhscXLqhwoLyFJFG9lZQV9hqOgCLcBGAs/s400/1516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Those eyes... omg.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vClZZXISGR4/WpSL59VyyTI/AAAAAAAAFsc/hquR48LmJQARinNTjHfrjsarKBIjj1smACLcBGAs/s1600/1525%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1222" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vClZZXISGR4/WpSL59VyyTI/AAAAAAAAFsc/hquR48LmJQARinNTjHfrjsarKBIjj1smACLcBGAs/s400/1525%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Claire was workin' the classic pin-up pose like a total girl boss.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1P4bADnYIw/WpSL5x1upjI/AAAAAAAAFsg/cMtz9wvaAEosy6fLh7KDjGN0jgi96AtxACLcBGAs/s1600/1526%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1292" data-original-width="1600" height="322" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1P4bADnYIw/WpSL5x1upjI/AAAAAAAAFsg/cMtz9wvaAEosy6fLh7KDjGN0jgi96AtxACLcBGAs/s400/1526%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"Ain't no mountain hiiiiiiiigh enough..."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oh sorry, I mistook you for someone else!!! (Who doesn't love them some Diana though, for real?!)</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9VgMlg3JvQ/WpSL8_Ew8vI/AAAAAAAAFsk/eSXitgYs6VI_NuQC-R8uuPSrhLDmcduFQCLcBGAs/s1600/1531%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1397" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9VgMlg3JvQ/WpSL8_Ew8vI/AAAAAAAAFsk/eSXitgYs6VI_NuQC-R8uuPSrhLDmcduFQCLcBGAs/s400/1531%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="348" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m14Vpm0jD8A/WpSL9SW9ruI/AAAAAAAAFso/AkxQenIYfOY2vLpphygwG8Cz0xDCHmuDgCLcBGAs/s1600/1536%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1103" data-original-width="1600" height="275" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m14Vpm0jD8A/WpSL9SW9ruI/AAAAAAAAFso/AkxQenIYfOY2vLpphygwG8Cz0xDCHmuDgCLcBGAs/s400/1536%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oNQxPnTuj8/WpSL9qrrqGI/AAAAAAAAFss/NDll0gSrKw8zjsEKPhoxwzTbIFWilUIVACLcBGAs/s1600/1545%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0oNQxPnTuj8/WpSL9qrrqGI/AAAAAAAAFss/NDll0gSrKw8zjsEKPhoxwzTbIFWilUIVACLcBGAs/s400/1545%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">OMG you guys, my girl is a stunna! Could not take my eyes off of her all. night. long.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2BiZE-BaWc/WpSMDPLw5jI/AAAAAAAAFs4/D98k_RXK-c4cxuXZ7tq48oVk3JlRVX0pwCLcBGAs/s1600/1549%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2BiZE-BaWc/WpSMDPLw5jI/AAAAAAAAFs4/D98k_RXK-c4cxuXZ7tq48oVk3JlRVX0pwCLcBGAs/s400/1549%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I didn't think I could possibly love this man o' mine anymore than I already did, UNTIL THIS NIGHT.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">He was the coolest dad, so interactive, so patient, so loving, SO FREAKIN' FUN! I'm lucky AF, you guys.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V99CEq9xUpA/WpSMCVf0YlI/AAAAAAAAFs0/4geOlK9I8vgiVsz_V07WW77rmU9itOtjQCLcBGAs/s1600/1557%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1336" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V99CEq9xUpA/WpSMCVf0YlI/AAAAAAAAFs0/4geOlK9I8vgiVsz_V07WW77rmU9itOtjQCLcBGAs/s400/1557%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="333" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
</span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Classic positioning having Claire's feeding pump in the background. 😏 Oops!</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
</span>
<div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></span></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12.8px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KDvYkCh4QxU/WpSMDRnTrWI/AAAAAAAAFs8/DMD4HLco3aQ8LMPS77c1z641epdMKoMiwCLcBGAs/s1600/1576%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1521" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KDvYkCh4QxU/WpSMDRnTrWI/AAAAAAAAFs8/DMD4HLco3aQ8LMPS77c1z641epdMKoMiwCLcBGAs/s400/1576%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="380" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Total perv status for both whippets. LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you look close, you can see they are workin' their black/white bow ties! Oh, you fancy huh!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTWHO_QqMVU/WpSMHX1GF1I/AAAAAAAAFtE/NyIY8ss554kDUdYPDZCEZl11Ht_19UN7ACLcBGAs/s1600/1586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1093" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pTWHO_QqMVU/WpSMHX1GF1I/AAAAAAAAFtE/NyIY8ss554kDUdYPDZCEZl11Ht_19UN7ACLcBGAs/s400/1586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The back of this dress had me all heart eyes allllllll niiiiiiight looooooong! It has a traaaaaaaaaain!!!!!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-spbTO48qfeU/WpSMIFc5mKI/AAAAAAAAFtI/6--uhPEbDKMzFN_HQSHd3B81iJAQPu2ewCLcBGAs/s1600/1587%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1052" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-spbTO48qfeU/WpSMIFc5mKI/AAAAAAAAFtI/6--uhPEbDKMzFN_HQSHd3B81iJAQPu2ewCLcBGAs/s400/1587%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="262" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
After a <strike>crap</strike><strike></strike> ton of pictures at home, we headed out to <a href="https://www.aviatorchurch.com/" target="_blank">Aviator Church</a> for Night to Shine 2018. We weren't sure what to expect, as we'd never been before, and we hadn't even talked to anyone who had. We arrived to check in, Claire got her "under 21" bracelet (no Tequila Sunrises for our little party girl! JK, it was just to ID who she was), and we waited for her to get announced on the red carpet. We could not believe how many people were there, how incredibly kind everyone was to all of us, and how "all out" they had gone. We were simply blown away.</span><u><br /></u>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pa4mNqcuE8M/WpSMJi1gUHI/AAAAAAAAFtM/3AqJm6v1qqQ38pcadQ2S9I9DmpJ8Zh7UgCLcBGAs/s1600/1601%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1315" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pa4mNqcuE8M/WpSMJi1gUHI/AAAAAAAAFtM/3AqJm6v1qqQ38pcadQ2S9I9DmpJ8Zh7UgCLcBGAs/s400/1601%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="328" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Waiting in line to be announced for the red carpet!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzzogSVmocdtre3FMqnl_GrraJNyqZrmXWlxe8UAL163WsI6XbicS97IyW7_VIwneaRhbbQKKuEOOo' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lQEiMnWoCTM/WpSMLTg8oWI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/NH7XwTYYyK4kKxsSY2HLbA4Zq1cm8y8AACLcBGAs/s1600/1604%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="1600" height="306" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lQEiMnWoCTM/WpSMLTg8oWI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/NH7XwTYYyK4kKxsSY2HLbA4Zq1cm8y8AACLcBGAs/s400/1604%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Josh Kelly, red carpet announcer, lit it UP! He made it so very special for everyone involved.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQrCut3U9Kw/WpSMM7o7-ZI/AAAAAAAAFtU/u38nU1DhZV4DXridT57LFEWlVQnNV0vzwCLcBGAs/s1600/1605%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQrCut3U9Kw/WpSMM7o7-ZI/AAAAAAAAFtU/u38nU1DhZV4DXridT57LFEWlVQnNV0vzwCLcBGAs/s400/1605%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz7w_mPk4sz37LVCR0i9l6AOYT1o-VhQdjk_3_hFXzFnD8tP12QFM1ARggKnSf9X_KgeiFJJMJnkbY' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rR3KMjtMbqo/WpSM9EiuYCI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/72r7dRtGtSMuiBytA0UIGM3hQlK_1HDNACLcBGAs/s1600/1759%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rR3KMjtMbqo/WpSM9EiuYCI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/72r7dRtGtSMuiBytA0UIGM3hQlK_1HDNACLcBGAs/s400/1759%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-klsMgaIz3TA/WpSMOYe1o6I/AAAAAAAAFtY/nETwc-k4u8oM0i3ipd3RQxGFdHvzt8tsgCLcBGAs/s1600/1608%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1490" data-original-width="1600" height="371" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-klsMgaIz3TA/WpSMOYe1o6I/AAAAAAAAFtY/nETwc-k4u8oM0i3ipd3RQxGFdHvzt8tsgCLcBGAs/s400/1608%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Getting her wrist corsage</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhzj2HbK3qM/WpSMQpx8NcI/AAAAAAAAFtg/zXV93jqqLTEijgWt4lv7xXpJx_d6h7ERwCLcBGAs/s1600/1611%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1304" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhzj2HbK3qM/WpSMQpx8NcI/AAAAAAAAFtg/zXV93jqqLTEijgWt4lv7xXpJx_d6h7ERwCLcBGAs/s400/1611%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="325" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hrHNtE1uOWc/WpSMoR0iPbI/AAAAAAAAFuY/5NQ8nfCWswEkM0zTbZ7b4ccVGQNh3Rc9QCLcBGAs/s1600/1681%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="1600" height="307" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hrHNtE1uOWc/WpSMoR0iPbI/AAAAAAAAFuY/5NQ8nfCWswEkM0zTbZ7b4ccVGQNh3Rc9QCLcBGAs/s400/1681%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_JaSeyh3m4/WpSMQk37KDI/AAAAAAAAFtc/TtpIXgaY9FgGG4IVeE1ZTBEA6yi9GbXEwCLcBGAs/s1600/1613%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1562" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_JaSeyh3m4/WpSMQk37KDI/AAAAAAAAFtc/TtpIXgaY9FgGG4IVeE1ZTBEA6yi9GbXEwCLcBGAs/s400/1613%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="390" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-06wRBsONkyY/WpSMTWWI5yI/AAAAAAAAFtk/OCPsHu3M6roLr5S3grR3-JL0PI9D1VbQwCLcBGAs/s1600/1615%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-06wRBsONkyY/WpSMTWWI5yI/AAAAAAAAFtk/OCPsHu3M6roLr5S3grR3-JL0PI9D1VbQwCLcBGAs/s400/1615%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">We were told they had a party bus as well as a limo in which the attendees could ride around the large parking lot, so we decided to brave the bitterly cold weather & winds to check it out! The party bus had already left and no one was inside the limo, so we quickly jumped in for a spin. To our relief, it was about 85 degrees inside the limo with the heater on blast, which our Mimi LOVED! (Scott's pit stains might have disagreed though... HA!) The music was blaring, the ceiling lights were flashing and changing colors, and SHE. WAS. IN. HEAVEN!!! This might have been her favorite part of the whole night. The last time I saw Claire this into the lights was in Vegas at New York New York where the little bubble lights lined the ceiling of the entrance. Her eyes immediately darted up as soon as she entered the limo, and she stared in awe at the ceiling the entire few minutes we were inside. It was so visually stimulating, and we enjoyed watching our girl take it all in, feeding off her happiness & delight. </span></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-prYHXDz_AWA/WpSMV4TZnTI/AAAAAAAAFts/Jl9fYWiHjy8bakPTKIuU2JM6NpO3EiGrgCLcBGAs/s1600/1625%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-prYHXDz_AWA/WpSMV4TZnTI/AAAAAAAAFts/Jl9fYWiHjy8bakPTKIuU2JM6NpO3EiGrgCLcBGAs/s400/1625%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ttH2cwIg0ek/WpSMYHxcQQI/AAAAAAAAFtw/hCl7qq4WI6srpke9XG9-l971CXh9wih6wCLcBGAs/s1600/1628%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ttH2cwIg0ek/WpSMYHxcQQI/AAAAAAAAFtw/hCl7qq4WI6srpke9XG9-l971CXh9wih6wCLcBGAs/s400/1628%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aF80xUlPBCQ/WpSMZ4iNCaI/AAAAAAAAFt0/Qy4RdOFGddYPN_JmtoaDMNCB-MvALKvzQCLcBGAs/s1600/1630%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aF80xUlPBCQ/WpSMZ4iNCaI/AAAAAAAAFt0/Qy4RdOFGddYPN_JmtoaDMNCB-MvALKvzQCLcBGAs/s400/1630%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PBX7L_WrrNM/WpSMc9Xyr2I/AAAAAAAAFt4/UPRP26c22n0yxtJeA3b-BzGvhFhGUhDkwCLcBGAs/s1600/1632%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PBX7L_WrrNM/WpSMc9Xyr2I/AAAAAAAAFt4/UPRP26c22n0yxtJeA3b-BzGvhFhGUhDkwCLcBGAs/s400/1632%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="312" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxobGmCSdUUykFTZTWKeVjwC8uLAy2esPO5BX7FNhx-XhoJPFYGsqT32qqY5JfSaIej99HWmUbbBWk' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-93apsXolCpc/WpSMdORWmlI/AAAAAAAAFt8/vYzPPP0I01oO_10dvVVElVJoRWwSw_DmACLcBGAs/s1600/1633%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1428" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-93apsXolCpc/WpSMdORWmlI/AAAAAAAAFt8/vYzPPP0I01oO_10dvVVElVJoRWwSw_DmACLcBGAs/s400/1633%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="356" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1pjVAtIzh0/WpSMfz11tcI/AAAAAAAAFuA/WsRNXydoQB09MwUTqSw4uYmhCu4SZIL2gCLcBGAs/s1600/1637%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1pjVAtIzh0/WpSMfz11tcI/AAAAAAAAFuA/WsRNXydoQB09MwUTqSw4uYmhCu4SZIL2gCLcBGAs/s400/1637%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUGrPA1ZMhI/WpSMi9he01I/AAAAAAAAFuI/VzKzxewAXP85dnLbTkc-wUq5ePA9r305ACLcBGAs/s1600/1640%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QUGrPA1ZMhI/WpSMi9he01I/AAAAAAAAFuI/VzKzxewAXP85dnLbTkc-wUq5ePA9r305ACLcBGAs/s400/1640%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dymeqzLdds1gSQKWkqpOUC2SW20naZQ39_xQs5KheSnQOiNA_0kGjGhteAF7kUkBaQiMZcV4-L00s0' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CDA8FuAKI0o/WpSMg5O_MTI/AAAAAAAAFuE/qtyG2bysiLktx2Jw3iIYkX7IVpbu3gv-wCLcBGAs/s1600/1644%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1353" data-original-width="1600" height="337" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CDA8FuAKI0o/WpSMg5O_MTI/AAAAAAAAFuE/qtyG2bysiLktx2Jw3iIYkX7IVpbu3gv-wCLcBGAs/s400/1644%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d21zEUqUXys/WpSMloNQjqI/AAAAAAAAFuM/z48bNm0QCRAU-xLdcgJXD1VX9B1mVFImwCLcBGAs/s1600/1650%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d21zEUqUXys/WpSMloNQjqI/AAAAAAAAFuM/z48bNm0QCRAU-xLdcgJXD1VX9B1mVFImwCLcBGAs/s400/1650%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XCAGWPV5PJ0/WpSMmVggqPI/AAAAAAAAFuQ/-Ezd-Nwtu_UNvROavYLClREFZxosCMnPwCLcBGAs/s400/1651%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">We decided to venture into the dance hall itself, again unsure of what to expect. We were in complete awe when we saw this...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzxJePuc1pujRTL7-9DvafmqJemXhklklGjRWeVLJopccfSeVQznPG7FzmEs9GOC5bYfySP91w9Z6Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QoiPxHZpDlg/WpSM8Z_D5vI/AAAAAAAAFvI/joX-UBTpZRwFuJALf3iUYXl_irlqkZONACLcBGAs/s1600/1757%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="714" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QoiPxHZpDlg/WpSM8Z_D5vI/AAAAAAAAFvI/joX-UBTpZRwFuJALf3iUYXl_irlqkZONACLcBGAs/s400/1757%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">It was decorated SO beautifully inside... much more exquisite than we ever expected!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyt-EtMUUhm0v07mBBw60_x92MjZlMl34jGvz2ZASaCEczmcueaWBn1VfEw8S1WlzNXgy0OhxN2rVc' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NKZK7pWm-dE/WpSMnQYt0eI/AAAAAAAAFuU/6t5Y6hLgNCAthdkXWIZRGpcGk9vKWDhEACLcBGAs/s1600/1664%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NKZK7pWm-dE/WpSMnQYt0eI/AAAAAAAAFuU/6t5Y6hLgNCAthdkXWIZRGpcGk9vKWDhEACLcBGAs/s400/1664%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">'Bout to get our swerve on... </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dynNmE0FSjsR5lyaLljdLN6FfDvpeyEEVhNLcbq-oHSeopIAKpTXuA9Ke-1dHoVgfnOYYv8N_IUZcw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwrNiJ12jcLrkf1HjPjfI1-uVyufK3gte9h29hp58g4_zdizEJ58ttP2Z2BNotrosxqucmMGWNc5Xg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
I'm not sure who was having more fun that night -- Claire, Scott or me! The DJ was slaying, the videographer was capturing everyone dancing & projecting it onto a huge screen, and the rest of us were gettin' down with our bad selves!</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KCwhH-hTADw/WpSMsglnsHI/AAAAAAAAFuc/8bD2ByIUCb89PzAKIV31bcgLaTAo0wofQCLcBGAs/s1600/1688%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KCwhH-hTADw/WpSMsglnsHI/AAAAAAAAFuc/8bD2ByIUCb89PzAKIV31bcgLaTAo0wofQCLcBGAs/s400/1688%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxCTgyz6q5jkuEy_WJYFgVkHzo4p5yy665ZoH5vDuxZFNy8KM9joAYB8R1Z0WI4AXuEzYufFwx8rsY' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Idzc4Ki1MHA/WpSMtEh2JkI/AAAAAAAAFug/8UDKJRYgylYmBtoXwktEBjSWtBFy3coJQCLcBGAs/s1600/1700%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Idzc4Ki1MHA/WpSMtEh2JkI/AAAAAAAAFug/8UDKJRYgylYmBtoXwktEBjSWtBFy3coJQCLcBGAs/s400/1700%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"Hold me closer tiny dancer..." ~Elton John</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxlTlajZDIPkBQoCr5sHM6VKZcYBiHENSOGQXvOEBGTAvMkw95yeCWKdDBCrIE0O5fOrGP-L34qX9g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">
We were so stoked to get to meet one of our online friends in person whom we had known on Facebook for almost 4 years. Brianna & Claire were like long-lost besties after 30 seconds! They kept stealing looks at each other, almost like, "Hey girl, nice tiara!" "No, yours is soooo much better, girrrrl! OMG!" "Is your Mom annoying you as much as mine is?!?!" "Totallyyyyy. Let's ditch these losers!" We were cracking up at their reaction to one another! Both looked simply stunning. ❤</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZQfAaXSu74/WpSMuyl_tGI/AAAAAAAAFuk/_vxDAAvnfWEy7hwQqNN0v4_yEy7kg1oeACLcBGAs/s1600/1705%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xZQfAaXSu74/WpSMuyl_tGI/AAAAAAAAFuk/_vxDAAvnfWEy7hwQqNN0v4_yEy7kg1oeACLcBGAs/s400/1705%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RU5gX6MAmHE/WpSMycW1q3I/AAAAAAAAFuo/tWvxFwzUYgQok2fiUjRYgDHb0v1ViKhtgCLcBGAs/s1600/1713%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RU5gX6MAmHE/WpSMycW1q3I/AAAAAAAAFuo/tWvxFwzUYgQok2fiUjRYgDHb0v1ViKhtgCLcBGAs/s400/1713%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxqiNJLjgGcUHuXIVUFh962Y1KaXV4mIS7IzdldbLON5MhF20eQB5eHEYl99R53prnslomoMqisKn4' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sDR2gER8ns/WpSMy64NGZI/AAAAAAAAFus/zdzbHuMm5L4IPAK-XfnJfsiv9Gg7KTdcgCLcBGAs/s1600/1723%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sDR2gER8ns/WpSMy64NGZI/AAAAAAAAFus/zdzbHuMm5L4IPAK-XfnJfsiv9Gg7KTdcgCLcBGAs/s400/1723%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"Cuttin' a rug" with her Daddy!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwf4WYRoOwTVbxOrehpO7oXXLS6VTx5N-URsB3EWFkR4BVgkU2-ADMA1D-D9aaPQApAIJT_rXxccbk' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyg2DAsE6szf4bsiNgMqCXYnwQiywETNzoTIf5Go9I8vHKylE4BihhdqeqNbi0iB3F6gN17WGhInw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-10kQL8yZYs8/WpSM0iDK5OI/AAAAAAAAFuw/41_02zfh1g4dxcltIk6_H1vWTvL64uwmACLcBGAs/s1600/1725%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-10kQL8yZYs8/WpSM0iDK5OI/AAAAAAAAFuw/41_02zfh1g4dxcltIk6_H1vWTvL64uwmACLcBGAs/s400/1725%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oh my heart. <gasp!></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Possibly my favorite pic of Claire with her Daddy EVER.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYRH0i6Nuu39sZ_W5r6b81PKfunViTl4G5NW3hGSO47CUv5q-BW9R3JCUm6iM7GVz6xxZMgiRXNQg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2KLJ6-qChoM/WpSM3u5JdwI/AAAAAAAAFu0/OLIX1sq57wgyndLaXb_T3rMXlxyJQTeiQCLcBGAs/s1600/1732%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2KLJ6-qChoM/WpSM3u5JdwI/AAAAAAAAFu0/OLIX1sq57wgyndLaXb_T3rMXlxyJQTeiQCLcBGAs/s400/1732%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Claire was shocked to see that her brother, Cal (& his girlfriend, Kerby),</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">had made a surprise appearance on her special night!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WjdTBn5-4NM/WpSM43M50UI/AAAAAAAAFu4/akROnP3WV78aXTumvE3sTHBlLYtzTKmJwCLcBGAs/s1600/1733%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WjdTBn5-4NM/WpSM43M50UI/AAAAAAAAFu4/akROnP3WV78aXTumvE3sTHBlLYtzTKmJwCLcBGAs/s400/1733%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kerby, Cal & Claire</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3BG_fJ9yivc/WpSM6M_awCI/AAAAAAAAFu8/-TI9PZXsw1YZWGxy1prlaerb8SXPTKTjACLcBGAs/s1600/1738%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1325" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3BG_fJ9yivc/WpSM6M_awCI/AAAAAAAAFu8/-TI9PZXsw1YZWGxy1prlaerb8SXPTKTjACLcBGAs/s400/1738%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="331" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Check out Claire's sparkly Chucks! Do they make these in my size?!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2iOTKNiB5U/WpSM8f-62cI/AAAAAAAAFvE/5mkd2ECHgFYD29qg3S7wPIV-6TDeCvnBACLcBGAs/s1600/1741%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2iOTKNiB5U/WpSM8f-62cI/AAAAAAAAFvE/5mkd2ECHgFYD29qg3S7wPIV-6TDeCvnBACLcBGAs/s400/1741%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDtLgD48rv8/WpSM9MwE5jI/AAAAAAAAFvM/aTXImvykit4uqjWZpYCBLmdGYvxOQNqawCLcBGAs/s1600/1747%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDtLgD48rv8/WpSM9MwE5jI/AAAAAAAAFvM/aTXImvykit4uqjWZpYCBLmdGYvxOQNqawCLcBGAs/s400/1747%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZm5YZp2P-A/WpSM7feSwLI/AAAAAAAAFvA/iM-SAssPITkPxCNh70cxaBWeewMrTbncwCLcBGAs/s1600/1753%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZm5YZp2P-A/WpSM7feSwLI/AAAAAAAAFvA/iM-SAssPITkPxCNh70cxaBWeewMrTbncwCLcBGAs/s640/1753%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="356" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L3Zim3c5MBo/WpSMUTL3q0I/AAAAAAAAFto/VG6Hz1WQ064yUTDN-RXUNlZsHLXeHQuxACLcBGAs/s1600/1623%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1155" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L3Zim3c5MBo/WpSMUTL3q0I/AAAAAAAAFto/VG6Hz1WQ064yUTDN-RXUNlZsHLXeHQuxACLcBGAs/s640/1623%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="462" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1PhtDKprhZw/XGwUQPi1FCI/AAAAAAAAGA8/BobXiclpyrcE5nZNQHFy9eumiQK2HjTbwCLcBGAs/s1600/1f5dce087cd997d037fa79cb7a347abc--typewriter-series-senior-quotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="500" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1PhtDKprhZw/XGwUQPi1FCI/AAAAAAAAGA8/BobXiclpyrcE5nZNQHFy9eumiQK2HjTbwCLcBGAs/s400/1f5dce087cd997d037fa79cb7a347abc--typewriter-series-senior-quotes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">For more video footage of this breathtaking night, <a href="https://vimeo.com/255498982" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for Aviator Church's video highlights (peep our girl at the 1:08 mark!) or visit <a href="https://www.aviatorchurch.com/nighttoshine/" target="_blank">THEIR WEBSITE</a> for more info about this event, ways to donate, or learn how you can be a part of this touching event next year. Please know that even if you don't have a child with superpowers who is 14 years of age or older, you can still be a buddy/volunteer in your area! Scroll to the bottom of <a href="https://timtebowfoundation.org/ministries/night-to-shine" target="_blank">THIS PAGE</a> to locate a Night to Shine Prom in your state. Join the mailing list. Check out the #nighttoshine hashtag on Instagram. See the pure joy on the faces of all who take part in this unbelievable night. I SO wish we had known about it sooner!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Lastly, thank you, Tim Tebow, for ALL you do for individuals like our Claire. The world is such a better place because you are in it. We are eternally grateful for your giving heart, your ability to see the beauty in places most cannot, and for "fighting for those who can't fight for themselves." We bow to you & are so proud of you for being a voice for not only Claire but also for others who are unable to speak and be heard. <b>THANK YOU</b> from the bottom of our hearts. 💝<br />
<br />
xo</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-16999846567641554232017-07-25T12:54:00.000-05:002017-07-25T12:54:07.429-05:00Better<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYPQL4DR_6k/WXeAFZi0o7I/AAAAAAAAFqA/7qRUuFp9PycSNugzY2le3J5bK09EYZKnwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1300" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYPQL4DR_6k/WXeAFZi0o7I/AAAAAAAAFqA/7qRUuFp9PycSNugzY2le3J5bK09EYZKnwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4228.JPG" width="325" /></a></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5547">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5546"><br /></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1">Two nights ago, I dreamt that Claire spoke her very first word ever. It was not my usual type of dream because I didn't dream she was radically different or more advanced. I dreamt she was exactly as she is in "real life." During the dream, Claire was mad and arching as she sometimes does when she is laying on her tummy in her beanbag and her g-tube is tilted in the stoma or rubbing on her belly in an uncomfortable way. She will almost do what looks like a push-up in her beanbag, arching her upper body wayyyyy off the beanbag to alleviate the pressure on this sensitive area.<span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5558">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5560">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5559">In the dream, she was doing this very thing. And as I always do in reality, I walked over to her in the dream and said, "Here, baby! Let me help flip you over. Does that feel better?" to which she replied with a smile, "Better!" (It actually sounded a little bit like she said "butter!") My eyes widened, and I said, "What did you say?" She grinned and again said, "Better!" I kept asking her to say it again, and every time she would repeat "better," grinning with pride. I tested her to see if she could say any other words, and my sweet girl just wanted to say "better!"</span><span class="yiv2662567045s1"></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5561">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5563">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5562">After she had said this word maybe 20-25 times in my dream, in complete disbelief, I grabbed my phone to video it, and she immediately clammed up and gave me her best <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=RBF" target="_blank">RBF</a>, just as she does almost every time I try to take her picture now, in true diva fashion. Don't get it twisted, I totally dig her 'tude, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to get a real nice pic of my girl these days. And if you know me, I like my pictures, so she & I have been butting heads about this very thing lately! <span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5564">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5566">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5565">I was left feeling confused when I woke up, always trying to seek meaning from the things that life throws my way. And I also felt a little bit wistful for the things she is still unable to do. I love her for the way she CAN communicate with the world and for the progress she HAS made in her therapies and so forth. Do I wish she could do more? Absofuckinglutely. But do I value who she is and love where she's at currently? Damn skippy. These highs & lows, you guys... these far extremes... the many polarities in my thoughts and feelings... they're very real, and they hit me hard sometimes, these last few months especially.<span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"><span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c1pW6DzEckQ/WXeBczJfbZI/AAAAAAAAFqo/7EckYmbgK1Ut8PO8mGpy_ph79ODxScXvwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1231" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c1pW6DzEckQ/WXeBczJfbZI/AAAAAAAAFqo/7EckYmbgK1Ut8PO8mGpy_ph79ODxScXvwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4229.JPG" width="307" /></a></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"><span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5567">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5568">Today Claire turns 16 years old. Sweet 16... holy shit. How is that even possible?! I look at her with such admiration and awe at all she has fought through to stay. My child who wasn't supposed to live to age 1 is SIXTEEN today. I bow to my knees and pray to every God/angel/protector/magician in the whole Universe for wrapping their arms around my precious girl and giving us the gift of time.<span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5570">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5572">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5571">The more I think about my dream, the more I wonder if maybe Claire just needed me to see things from a "better" angle. Perhaps she wanted me to remember the most important thing in life -- that I am in control of my own happiness, and life can be "better" if I so choose. I'm not gonna lie, it has all felt pretty heavy lately... pretty sad... pretty out of my hands. Not just Lola's rash, but nearly every other area of my life as well.<span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5575">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5574">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5573">Leave it up to my best little teachers to help me see things from a different vantage point. That's generally how it works. They give me such perspective and always bring me back to a place of love.<span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"><span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8XAt39LJr0I/WXdk1Mnr6oI/AAAAAAAAFpw/yYIwT0-n1uoOr18fzNyVSEHuorPbZEPgQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_4218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8XAt39LJr0I/WXdk1Mnr6oI/AAAAAAAAFpw/yYIwT0-n1uoOr18fzNyVSEHuorPbZEPgQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_4218.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p1">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"><span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv2662567045p2" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5584">
<span class="yiv2662567045s1" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1500996535568_5578">I wish you the happiest of birthdays, my sweet Mimi. You shook my soul to its core 16 years ago, you showed me what love really is, and you simply made. me. <u>BETTER</u>. I love you with all of my heart, soul and being, my perfect girl.<span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="yiv2662567045s1"><span class="yiv2662567045Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xlmTfqISP4w/WXeAHLCSk5I/AAAAAAAAFqU/QF9ggT9wPeYLUOQjN7X31tRsMJiqBzL6wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xlmTfqISP4w/WXeAHLCSk5I/AAAAAAAAFqU/QF9ggT9wPeYLUOQjN7X31tRsMJiqBzL6wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n9DiYUvUTQc/WXeAFtNuaYI/AAAAAAAAFqI/T4cTGOzOuqAQuOCMmBetjEvjflmnA4NQgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1534" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n9DiYUvUTQc/WXeAFtNuaYI/AAAAAAAAFqI/T4cTGOzOuqAQuOCMmBetjEvjflmnA4NQgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4227.JPG" width="382" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kerby, Cal, Claire, Christina, Lola & Elisabeth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HER7_AviWUk/WXeAFvDHBGI/AAAAAAAAFqE/ihkOGVKphMgZ2BJs2vucCLamw_uorZYTACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1318" data-original-width="1600" height="328" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HER7_AviWUk/WXeAFvDHBGI/AAAAAAAAFqE/ihkOGVKphMgZ2BJs2vucCLamw_uorZYTACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4226.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
If anyone ever spots these ostrich socks in grown-up ladies sizing,</div>
<div>
I'll give you a million bucks if you buy them for me.</div>
<div>
Just kidding. Sort of. Tee heeeeeeee! I NEED THESE!</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wJT41v4pGag/WXeAHNffXZI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/ZLCpAAvF6tgLqpYX9WeHnpenYKdSqh_bwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="1600" height="341" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wJT41v4pGag/WXeAHNffXZI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/ZLCpAAvF6tgLqpYX9WeHnpenYKdSqh_bwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4230.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-26jN90pyyL0/WXeBAPGA--I/AAAAAAAAFqk/o7e7OxSWBmQaP081xURXfGxaqU-8pA7cgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-26jN90pyyL0/WXeBAPGA--I/AAAAAAAAFqk/o7e7OxSWBmQaP081xURXfGxaqU-8pA7cgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_4220.JPG" width="225" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
xoGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-69742632517055309922017-05-02T08:39:00.001-05:002017-05-02T08:39:46.495-05:00Nipples galore!<span style="background-color: cyan;">*NOTE: PLEASE SHARE THIS BLOG POST!!!!! (Read below to see why!)</span><br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l5HqdCxHuvU/WQPfR3nddnI/AAAAAAAAFnI/q6bYPz00RDIJGhubPThqKATbYmSss7QuACLcB/s1600/IMG_0114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l5HqdCxHuvU/WQPfR3nddnI/AAAAAAAAFnI/q6bYPz00RDIJGhubPThqKATbYmSss7QuACLcB/s400/IMG_0114.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & Pocket ~ 3.29.17</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
HEY, GUYS! You might remember the below picture I posted on my personal Facebook page and my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheHartleyHooligans/" target="_blank">Hartley Hooligans Facebook page</a> back in November of 2016 which was shared over 8,100 times. You may recall my plea for now discontinued Playtex latex fast flow nipples, the ONLY kind of nipple our Lola is able to use and how her dwindling latex nipple supply was in a world of hurt. You may remember my many nipple posts/tweets/memes/inappropriate comments (You're welcome). You may also have noticed that I've not updated you guys in a LONG while about #Nipplegate2016, and so I wanted to give you the 411 (Did I just date myself?!?! Shout out to Mary J!) on what's been goin' down the past 5 months! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vx8fjwCQO7I/WQPfTDtYdaI/AAAAAAAAFnU/J_FAmUXB0w4b4pAq89iNwTegsczVwu-FgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vx8fjwCQO7I/WQPfTDtYdaI/AAAAAAAAFnU/J_FAmUXB0w4b4pAq89iNwTegsczVwu-FgCLcB/s400/IMG_4211.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reeeeeeeeally freakin' hard to find these bad boys in 2016 & beyond, yo...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4AJJfuvbjhs/WQPfTjRTUcI/AAAAAAAAFn0/pCW7F38-5O87e0x1zIAbD4Jqud8M8x0vwCEw/s1600/IMG_4246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4AJJfuvbjhs/WQPfTjRTUcI/AAAAAAAAFn0/pCW7F38-5O87e0x1zIAbD4Jqud8M8x0vwCEw/s400/IMG_4246.JPG" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs. I Can't Do Things Like Everyone Else Because I Am A Creature Of Habit And Also A Real Freakin' G</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The most awesome part of this whole nipple fiasco is that not only was my post shared a ton, but my desperate pleas were also ANSWERED. My daily post office visits resulted in box after box and envelope after envelope filled with nothin' but nipples. Every single day I would gather my stash in <strike>udder</strike> utter (tee hee!) delight that people cared so much to take the time to send me unused nipples they found in their basement or got from a friend. You have NO IDEA what this has meant to us! I offered to pay for the nipples and/or shipping, and every single time, I was told no. The final tally of nipples we received was................ <DRUMROLL PLEASE!> .................. <span style="background-color: orange;">357 nipples!!!!!!!!!</span> <b><u>357</u></b>!!!!!!!!!!!! FAITH. OFFICIALLY. RESTORED in the human race, you guys. OMG. Still in shock SO many of you took the time to send these to us. We have been using them for the past 5 months, and honestly, I don't know what we'd have done if it weren't for all these nipples we were sent. They've been a LIFESAVER for our girl!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And on top of that, I got to hear the funniest man on the planet -- my hubby, Scott! -- drop the best comments EVER about "what better package could one possibly receive than a box full of nipples" or he'd coin a new term (Nipplemania, Nipplefest, NipNipNip, Nipply AF, #nipplesalldayerryday, Nipocalypse, Nipped Out, Mount Nipple, #nipsfordays... you name it!) or he'd sing, "Today was a good day" in his best Ice Cube voice after we'd get like 12 more packages of straight nipples. He even threatened to have professional pictures taken of him (possibly buck nekked) amidst all the nipples strategically placed (which could or could not be a complete insult to him as a dude!) to cover his special parts. (I won't mention how many times I've had nightmares of this very image since this threat was made!) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOuczIvrNzs/WQPfK98TN2I/AAAAAAAAFmk/e3YMexbdT3cqQpousCk7O0UKDGlVTO0KwCEw/s1600/FullSizeRender5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="383" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOuczIvrNzs/WQPfK98TN2I/AAAAAAAAFmk/e3YMexbdT3cqQpousCk7O0UKDGlVTO0KwCEw/s400/FullSizeRender5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh hot damn! My daily P.O. run for awhile there looked like this!<br />
What a teat, I mean TREAT!, it was to go pick up so many packages every day to help our girlie!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uzb80cFtHQE/WQPfWHiCFvI/AAAAAAAAFn0/7u6Ag9RGhwchQqjMcET5rxBGdwcEEfWAACEw/s1600/IMG_4580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uzb80cFtHQE/WQPfWHiCFvI/AAAAAAAAFn0/7u6Ag9RGhwchQqjMcET5rxBGdwcEEfWAACEw/s400/IMG_4580.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One day's loot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXE2ZF5q3HY/WQPfMvq72hI/AAAAAAAAFn0/aP3oHu5AsgAzgISyoh5Q_cyN7OaeuxwEACEw/s1600/FullSizeRender6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXE2ZF5q3HY/WQPfMvq72hI/AAAAAAAAFn0/aP3oHu5AsgAzgISyoh5Q_cyN7OaeuxwEACEw/s400/FullSizeRender6.jpg" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We also got some extra bottles & bottle liners that people weren't using. You guys are THE BEST!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eKK_yQ8-ZWU/WQPfToB-naI/AAAAAAAAFn0/B07w5rjYrLwvD-NhSarskX9_fbCSorZRACEw/s1600/IMG_4498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eKK_yQ8-ZWU/WQPfToB-naI/AAAAAAAAFn0/B07w5rjYrLwvD-NhSarskX9_fbCSorZRACEw/s400/IMG_4498.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_lpKFjyGIQ/WQPfM9p7zpI/AAAAAAAAFn0/vRjMURgCRAwhbMhQxClk13o7XpXHBnMjACEw/s1600/FullSizeRender7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_lpKFjyGIQ/WQPfM9p7zpI/AAAAAAAAFn0/vRjMURgCRAwhbMhQxClk13o7XpXHBnMjACEw/s640/FullSizeRender7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our "Thank You" for everyone who donated nipples/bottles/liners!<br />
<br />
If for some reason you didn't receive yours (there were 2-3 that I could NOT find addresses for that were bought off eBay & some that bounced back to me), PLEASE send me your address via email or DM so I can get this out to you right away! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The other side of things that I wasn't able to discuss until it was finalized was that I was in talks with <a href="http://www.playtexbaby.com/" target="_blank">Playtex Baby</a> since the beginning about possibly helping us out with Lola's nipple dilemma. They were originally trying to locate any remaining latex inventory not only in North America but also worldwide. Their search came up empty. After more consideration, they reached out to me about doing a production run of these latex nipples for Lola. We discussed her special, unique situation, how we knew latex "expired" in three years' time, how we would hopefully (God willing) need this to be an ongoing thing for Lola, as bottles were the only way she could take her formula/liquids (since putting her under anesthesia to place a g-tube was not possible). We talked about her needs, her requirements for # of nipples, the kindness of outsiders sending us their unused/used latex nipples, and where to go from here. We were ELATED to hear that Playtex Baby decided to send us 1,095 latex, fast flow nipples (one nipple a day for 3 years' time) for our Lola!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not only did these nipples arrive a few days ago, but with them came an email from the General Manager of Playtex Baby stating that they would do production runs for 1,095 nipples for Lola at every three year interval after that as well!!! SO GRATEFUL that they still had the equipment available to produce these discontinued nipples for us and that they cared enough to do so. A HUGE thank you to James MacIntosh and Carolyn Abbass for taking the time to discuss Lola's needs & for making the thoughtful decision to help her. You will NEVER know what this has meant to us. THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Note: I wanted to clarify one important point, on behalf of Playtex Baby. This was a VERY special situation with unique circumstances involved. Playtex Baby receives many requests for specific products or help with discontinued items. They do their best to always accommodate those in need, but it's not always possible to do so. We are eternally grateful they were able to help us, but I just wanted to make note that this is not always something within their capability to do. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1T5jFl6B8s/WQPfKi879pI/AAAAAAAAFn0/gMY8_MNHpz8xQ2E1kb4oRO0prjmTcQf9QCEw/s1600/FullSizeRender3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1T5jFl6B8s/WQPfKi879pI/AAAAAAAAFn0/gMY8_MNHpz8xQ2E1kb4oRO0prjmTcQf9QCEw/s400/FullSizeRender3.jpg" width="331" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Playtex Baby shipment is here!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bXx1PxXjHZo/WQPfKymVjpI/AAAAAAAAFn0/LNUBMiBkZ_EOWSdYGwhwwV3clMMZWPmbACEw/s1600/FullSizeRender4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bXx1PxXjHZo/WQPfKymVjpI/AAAAAAAAFn0/LNUBMiBkZ_EOWSdYGwhwwV3clMMZWPmbACEw/s640/FullSizeRender4.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom in to read the enclosed note... So much love.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flXPMfplqow/WQPfJ8wDNUI/AAAAAAAAFn0/sHyLhsueV50PzERa6QA2lV60laKeVbcMACEw/s1600/FullSizeRender2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flXPMfplqow/WQPfJ8wDNUI/AAAAAAAAFn0/sHyLhsueV50PzERa6QA2lV60laKeVbcMACEw/s640/FullSizeRender2.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GRATEFUL.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CmEkIcuycIs/WQPfPblgZCI/AAAAAAAAFn0/w53KQhwF5TY2lqNfS-KPyud3PU4JaneWgCEw/s1600/IMG_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CmEkIcuycIs/WQPfPblgZCI/AAAAAAAAFn0/w53KQhwF5TY2lqNfS-KPyud3PU4JaneWgCEw/s400/IMG_0003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ugJY8h0gbk/WQPfWChdE2I/AAAAAAAAFn0/nrBHsXeYobkv-h1VjTJSP04Dy-zGPwhAgCEw/s1600/IMG_9980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ugJY8h0gbk/WQPfWChdE2I/AAAAAAAAFn0/nrBHsXeYobkv-h1VjTJSP04Dy-zGPwhAgCEw/s400/IMG_9980.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lola is so happy!!!!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrbkoK3e5Zc/WQPfW_6WqbI/AAAAAAAAFn0/q0NbPcZy_8EVjCUMLfDOSZC2YOQzQ_UmACEw/s1600/IMG_9990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrbkoK3e5Zc/WQPfW_6WqbI/AAAAAAAAFn0/q0NbPcZy_8EVjCUMLfDOSZC2YOQzQ_UmACEw/s400/IMG_9990.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you, <a href="http://www.playtexbaby.com/" target="_blank">Playtex Baby Team</a>!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wUAwZaB-plc/WQPiUy_UzlI/AAAAAAAAFoA/jgPSy3ujeTk2S3QpnMQyifKGMYra9GDpgCLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wUAwZaB-plc/WQPiUy_UzlI/AAAAAAAAFoA/jgPSy3ujeTk2S3QpnMQyifKGMYra9GDpgCLcB/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a14NBQ0p6m0/WQPiU1GD5WI/AAAAAAAAFoE/EP2YQQmI5Qc1i0aUHc4Lt2lC-TcWX6HFgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a14NBQ0p6m0/WQPiU1GD5WI/AAAAAAAAFoE/EP2YQQmI5Qc1i0aUHc4Lt2lC-TcWX6HFgCLcB/s400/IMG_0017.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8ISneNOaDM/WQPjQl9IBoI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/m8qNzpLrtngf1TfLOn84PXMgedM_PdgdgCLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8ISneNOaDM/WQPjQl9IBoI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/m8qNzpLrtngf1TfLOn84PXMgedM_PdgdgCLcB/s640/FullSizeRender9.jpg" width="379" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As promised... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DHEyPsexrmA/WQPjRPArn2I/AAAAAAAAFoc/6hBnru-r1QYyBKJxL0AfWvXU9K9NvmAlwCEw/s1600/FullSizeRender10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DHEyPsexrmA/WQPjRPArn2I/AAAAAAAAFoc/6hBnru-r1QYyBKJxL0AfWvXU9K9NvmAlwCEw/s400/FullSizeRender10.jpg" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#Nipplegate2017</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q0V-9rnFuj0/WQPfR-IlP-I/AAAAAAAAFn0/Dp0ivZXFbrI5ZsJo_VhjAWwdiuiDA7CKQCEw/s1600/IMG_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q0V-9rnFuj0/WQPfR-IlP-I/AAAAAAAAFn0/Dp0ivZXFbrI5ZsJo_VhjAWwdiuiDA7CKQCEw/s400/IMG_0071.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My heart (& tub) is full!!!!!!!<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;">For the record, our final nipple tally from everyone who shipped us nipples plus what Playtex donated was 1,452!!!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">ONE THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY TWO!!!!!!!! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">1452, you guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">HOLY NIPPLES!!!</span><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vdro65ZaQBE/WQPfTZSQkJI/AAAAAAAAFn0/2HgtNFKXpbgy5pwVUjGmetcqaRqVlJVHwCEw/s1600/IMG_4255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vdro65ZaQBE/WQPfTZSQkJI/AAAAAAAAFn0/2HgtNFKXpbgy5pwVUjGmetcqaRqVlJVHwCEw/s400/IMG_4255.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrvNDe3u4mE/WQPfHmttauI/AAAAAAAAFn0/RlYEmlE98gAvt0pufPEbjWKIUo1jCWdJgCEw/s1600/FullSizeRender11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrvNDe3u4mE/WQPfHmttauI/AAAAAAAAFn0/RlYEmlE98gAvt0pufPEbjWKIUo1jCWdJgCEw/s400/FullSizeRender11.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I could NOT resist!!!<br />
<br />
And before you all freak out, all the nipples were sealed in plastic bags<br />
and will be boiled before the first use! No doggy germs or bodily fluids here. <br />
<br />
I will spare you the pics of Scott though. HA!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsiUScAnGUE/WQYR0-5_NSI/AAAAAAAAFo8/uriEjdZbz4wTysmyln_HUyzIhcyUPk8_ACLcB/s1600/15283925_858283504275183_7393454462102621970_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hsiUScAnGUE/WQYR0-5_NSI/AAAAAAAAFo8/uriEjdZbz4wTysmyln_HUyzIhcyUPk8_ACLcB/s320/15283925_858283504275183_7393454462102621970_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">True story.<br />
Especially up in here!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhqA-QiLoVc/WQPfVjaWRTI/AAAAAAAAFn0/54Njx_8CMEs14Zzu0N5NuFtirptWJvTxQCEw/s1600/IMG_9055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhqA-QiLoVc/WQPfVjaWRTI/AAAAAAAAFn0/54Njx_8CMEs14Zzu0N5NuFtirptWJvTxQCEw/s400/IMG_9055.JPG" width="328" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you ALL so much for your kindness & generosity toward our Lola.<br />
You will NEVER know what this has meant to us that you stepped up in such a HUGE WAY during our time of need.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L63YVY9exfk/WQPq3ts9GkI/AAAAAAAAFoo/jbd4kj3xx0ASkg8iZBWZhUchW8PWdb98ACLcB/s1600/513.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L63YVY9exfk/WQPq3ts9GkI/AAAAAAAAFoo/jbd4kj3xx0ASkg8iZBWZhUchW8PWdb98ACLcB/s400/513.PNG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This. Sooooo much this.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All I know is this:</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>My faith in humanity is restored. Across the freakin' board.</li>
<li>I am a loyal <a href="http://www.playtexbaby.com/" target="_blank">Playtex Baby</a> customer FOR LIFE.</li>
<li>Every chance I get to pay it forward to others in need, I intend to do so.</li>
<li>Playtex Baby deserves soooo many props for how they are helping our Lola <u>for the rest of her life</u>.</li>
<li><span style="background-color: cyan;">Sharing this blog post as much as possible will get Playtex Baby the credit they SO deserve!!!</span></li>
<li>To my longtime followers & those who helped us by sending nipples to Lola -- You guys are THE BEST!!! We love you <u>so</u> very much. </li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-77108116663240506832017-04-13T10:32:00.000-05:002017-04-13T10:32:15.204-05:00Thankful ThursdayToday I am thankful that Natalie, Chris & Gerald took the time to share our family's story recently. I have updated <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/p/media.html" target="_blank">my blog's Media page</a> with our most recent interviews, but I wanted to share them here as well. My hope is that when people are educated about those with differences that they no longer will fear what they do not understand. I hope that instead they will take the time to understand these differences & realize what importance these individuals have in our world & how much they have to offer.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://miraclemama.com.au/the-miracle-project-gwen-claire-lola/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to read our Q&A with Natalie over at <a href="https://miraclemama.com.au/the-miracle-project/" target="_blank">Miracle Mama's The Miracle Project</a>!<br /><br /></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We SO enjoyed meeting Christopher Ulmer from <a href="http://www.specialbooksbyspecialkids.org/" target="_blank">Special Books by Special Kids</a>! We are so grateful he took the time to fly from Florida to Kansas to come meet our girls & other kiddos in the area who also happen to have superpowers. Click play below to watch our interview. Also be sure to check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/specialbooksbyspecialkids/" target="_blank">SBSK Facebook page</a> to see more amazing interviews!!! Just so, so proud of Chris & all the important work he is doing. We love you, Chris!<br /></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L5aUfoyb1yw" width="560"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">I had the best visit with Gerald at <a href="http://orangesocks.org/" target="_blank">Orange Socks</a>! Being a fellow parent of a child with special needs, he asked amazing questions & our time together on the phone flew by. You can hear the entire interview (I apologize for being a little long-winded... HA!) by visiting <a href="http://orangesocks.org/stories" target="_blank">Orange Socks' Stories Page</a> & clicking on "Gwen: Microcephaly, Asparagine Synthetase Deficiency or ASNS" link. While you are there, take the time to listen to the other interviews as well. The strength & dedication of these parents straight up floors me. I am proud to be in such good company.<br /></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F1816870848556051%2Fvideos%2F1867232953519840%2F&show_text=0&width=560" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy Thursday!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cW02PLN2RSc/WO-X8XYV9jI/AAAAAAAAFjs/5DHpx9ffx9QPE8GE_OHl7AALFfq0PSB-QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cW02PLN2RSc/WO-X8XYV9jI/AAAAAAAAFjs/5DHpx9ffx9QPE8GE_OHl7AALFfq0PSB-QCLcB/s400/IMG_9414.JPG" width="301" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-23380899277011107902017-01-09T11:36:00.000-06:002017-01-09T11:36:57.402-06:00I'm at it again...You're welcome in advance for not sharing every single one of my <strike>completely-fucked-up-to-the-point-you-would-be-concerned-for-my-actual-health-and-well-being</strike> dreams with you on a daily basis. I'm not joking when I say that Scott has expressed genuine concern about me at least once in the last week and too many times over the course of our marriage to even count, after hearing what my dreams entail upon waking. Usually they're just WEIRD, sometimes quite telling about where I am emotionally, but usually they are just worthy of eye rolls upon eye rolls. For your sake, I won't go into details about my blindfolded, not-so-soft-core, sexy dream from last week which felt very much like a cross between Dexter and 50 Shades, but I <u>will</u> share with you the dream I had last night which definitely got me thinking...<br />
<br />
During this dream, I was walking behind many of my family members. It was almost like an out of body experience. It was as if I was in another realm, watching life unfold while observing from behind. It felt like I was seeing our lives from the outside in vs. the inside out. It was dark outside, and light snow was falling. Everyone was dressed warmly. I looked at & studied each person as they interacted with one another, smiling, laughing, enjoying the winter night out. Everyone was happy and acting silly. It was then that I noticed Lola... she wasn't being carried, she was walking while holding the hand of a family member. She was the exact size she is now, but she was walking. She wasn't walking "normally;" she was sort of stiff-legged, almost prancing lightly over the ground. Her hair was braided in a Heidi braid over the top of her head. I instantly knew it was her. I could recognize that darling little head and those cute little ears from a mile away. Claire was not in the dream. My whole focus was solely on Lola, and I could not take my eyes off of her and the fact that she was mobile. It was both touching and fascinating, all at the same time. To see her upright and moving, to see our family member bending down SO LOW to grab her tiny little hand for support, to see her feel so free... it was incredible.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1d28PBSQ50/WHPFaIGUQ7I/AAAAAAAAFis/yEdaOAsZaUQiNry1ohOKx1hZk-DaEcThQCEw/s1600/191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1d28PBSQ50/WHPFaIGUQ7I/AAAAAAAAFis/yEdaOAsZaUQiNry1ohOKx1hZk-DaEcThQCEw/s400/191.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But I didn't feel sad or teary in the dream as I usually would have. Instead, I was joyful and ecstatic. It was then in my dream that I saw her fall forward... and the family member kept a tight grasp on her hand, and she was able to regain her footing. It felt so amazing to see her this way, so unencumbered by her own body. So different than she is in her usual daily life.<br />
<br />
I need a live-in dream interpreter STAT! Singlehandedly, I would keep him/her in business! I wish I could make sense of this dream -- or maybe the real lesson here is that I don't need to make sense of it at all.<br />
<br />
A year or so ago, <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2015/12/i-love-you-every-step-of-way.html" target="_blank">I dreamt the same thing about Lola</a>. It was such a different feel, almost as if it is ME who is growing, changing, and evolving now. That makes me so happy. And just as I typed this, <a href="http://www.ask-angels.com/spiritual-guidance/1111-what-does-it-mean/" target="_blank">I saw 11:11</a> on my computer clock. No mistakes... I am right where I need to be.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2vj1tVNqh_4/WHPHKeMq8eI/AAAAAAAAFi0/TuVhdGk-6TweZFGz4296RfV2nhfQrv2agCLcB/s1600/062%2B%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2vj1tVNqh_4/WHPHKeMq8eI/AAAAAAAAFi0/TuVhdGk-6TweZFGz4296RfV2nhfQrv2agCLcB/s400/062%2B%25288%2529.JPG" width="378" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-29637225362375880052016-12-08T08:41:00.000-06:002016-12-08T09:58:10.049-06:00Self Care (in La Paz, Mexico!)I remember after we had Claire, feeling very much like I should not ask ANYONE for help. I wanted people to know that I could handle two kids, and to me, at that time, asking for assistance with day-to-day tasks (beyond asking Scott) felt like I was showing weakness. I chose to have another baby, and by God, I was gonna take care of that baby on my own no matter what! Plus, I just wanted to. And in my warped, postpartum mind, no one was gonna do it as well as I could. And I was breastfeeding. And taking care of a 2.5 year old. Yet still, I rarely asked for help.<br />
<br />
Then Lola came along about 5 years later. She required a little -- wait, who am I kidding?!?!? -- A LOT more of my time. Not saying she was a diva, but she was toooooootally a diva. Lola also breastfed, and in order for me to keep this going, I had to use the breast pump after each feeding or my supply would have decreased significantly. It was a big ordeal & basically meant my boobs were out like 18 hours daily <strike>and Scott was not complaining</strike>. So, like eleventy seven times a day, I would hook up my <a href="http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/products/51/supplemental-nursing-system-sns" target="_blank">Medela SNS feeder</a>, strap it on (get your minds out of the gutters, ya' pervs!), feed Lola, burp Lola, hold/position/keep her upright for 30-45 minutes, pump for 5-10 minutes, save the collected "Liquid Gold" in bags & freeze them, and then I'd have like 26 minutes before I had to start the whole process again. I followed this schedule daily. For two whole years. So asking for help during this time was essentially not an option. Aside from a boob transplant, there was really no way to help me except to maybe burp Lola/freeze the breast milk/clean breast pump/hold Lola upright for 45 minutes/take a nap for me/do laundry/change my sheets which probably had been on my bed for a month/vacuum/pour me a glass of non-alcoholic wine/fill the dogs' food bowl/pray for me/possibly shower for me. Nothing major.<br />
<br />
So, by the time Lola was maybe 3-4 years, suffice it to say that I felt like I was losing my damn mind. It truly felt like all I did daily was give-give give. And I LOVED GIVING (and I STILL DO!), don't get me wrong... but it was too much. I rarely had time for myself, aside from a random date night here or there. I LIKED that I was there for my kids. It felt good to be the one to raise them & stay home with them. I was grateful beyond belief to Scott for helping make that work. How on earth would I EVER find a daycare anyway that would provide 1:1 care for BOTH GIRLS as good as I would?! The answer was simple. I COULDN'T. It made more sense for me to be home, and I still look back with gratitude for having those days at home with all three of my kids, no matter how taxing it was on ME.<br />
<br />
I remember being terrified to find a babysitter. Would they EVER be good enough?! Would they love my yayhoos as much as me? NO WAY, I thought. I remember hearing about a few babysitters through my girls' PT -- one was a nurse & one was a teacher in a special education classroom. I also found a friend of mine who taught Yoga for the Special Child to help me out, each of them providing 3-4 hours a week of babysitting. I remember thinking 11 hours a week out of the house felt like I was being a horrible mother. Like, WHY did I need to "GET AWAY" so bad?! What was I running from? I usually went grocery shopping or ran errands. On rare occasions, Scott & I would do a date night or go with just Cal to one of his basketball games. It felt SO WEIRD (and still does) being out & about WITHOUT THE GIRLS. It always makes me feel guilty. And like part of me -- part of US -- is missing.<br />
<br />
But oh how Jan, Patti & Jana loved our girls... like they were their own. They formed connections with our girls beyond my wildest hopes & dreams. They also bonded with Cal. And our kids bonded with THEM. And I was happy. Because to me, it felt like there were just more people loving my kids, & how on EARTH could that EVER be a bad thing?!?!? I got over my guilt pretty quickly. And I looked forward to those 3 afternoons/evenings a week where I had some "me-time." And then I felt guilty I looked forward to them because did that mean I didn't always want to be with them? Geez, this mommy guilt is a dirty little bitch!<br />
<br />
Those three babysitters stayed with us for many years, and we also had others along the way... Charcie, Jenny, Kristin, Tracey, Rachel, Hannah, Kelsey... not to mention others that weren't able to stay quite as long. And they all shared one thing in common -- they all became FAMILY. All of them loved our kids fiercely. And I think the reason that they became family is because they got to experience & feel firsthand what our life is like -- all the intense joy/fear/sadness/hope/love that comes with knowing & loving our unique, perfect girls. They each were a fill-in Mommy to my 3 kids, and I love them dearly for loving my kids as their own, because that is not the easiest thing to do. On top of that, our lives are laced with so many highs and lows, sometimes I worried (and still do) that it might just be wayyyyyy too much for others to take on.<br />
<br />
I think one of the things I have gotten out of welcoming help into my home is that I overlooked that basic human need -- self care -- for way too many years. I am almost always "on." Whether I have help at home or not, I'm basically on call, I'm just in the other room, I'm constantly listening & responding to so many different "calls" literally 24/7. Just since I've been writing this, I have had to reposition Lola in a cushy chair next to Romeo in the office 3 ft. away from me no less than 6 times in the last 13 minutes, I had to get Claire out of her chair & put her on her tummy in the beanbag, I had to change her diaper, and I had to check Lola's diaper, get Lola's hair out of her face twice, locate lost Bok and get him into position, pull the blanket off Lola's face (which happened because she wants to be held & is arching her back & burying her head on purpose so I'll do just that!), go try to stop a seizure with some Clary Sage oil, and Lola is now ready to eat & I wish I could just stay put & bang out my thoughts here real quick, but I know I need to feed her THIS INSTANT, so I'll be right back... (And yes, THIS RIGHT HERE is why I can barely find time to blog these days even though I SOOOOOO want to!!!!!!!! It has taken me 3 weeks just to finish the writing on this post!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--NkebZsbw-A/WEiMTJ10C9I/AAAAAAAAFdw/-Q9QDn69YC0KFx42ExErWsECNP6OmcHuwCEw/s1600/318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--NkebZsbw-A/WEiMTJ10C9I/AAAAAAAAFdw/-Q9QDn69YC0KFx42ExErWsECNP6OmcHuwCEw/s400/318.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty sure this was Row Pi (π?!) on the plane, right in front of the shitter,<br />
but we didn't care because we were off to MEXICOOOOOO!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Back in 2013, I looked at Scott & said, "This year, we're taking a trip -- just you and me. We're going somewhere quiet & tropical & off the beaten path & we are going to think about our relationship & focus on the two of us & <strike>knock some boots &</strike> find ourselves & be "off" for more than a few hours in a row. It is crucial for us -- for our marriage, for our sanity, for our kids. We NEED a break. We are TAKING THAT BREAK this year." We visited the U.S. Virgin Islands/British Virgin Islands that year for 6 nights. It was glorious. Our babysitters all chipped in and covered the days, while our night nurses covered the nights (we finally had some by this point, due to Lola's desire to <strike>torture us</strike> not sleep like freakin' EVER -- Thank you, Lucille & Becca!!!). It took many months of planning to pull it all together, and it was soooo worth it. If you look back on my blog, you'll notice that I didn't post a damn thing about it back in November of 2013. I only posted two lone, vague pics on my Instagram that trip (@gwennieh -- and yes, that was a shameless plug! #instaDAMN!). It wasn't until our now-annual trip of 2014 that I got the balls to blog about it because I was borderline ashamed & felt guilty AF for even leaving them for 10 whole days. <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2014/11/the-struggle.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to read about me bitching about traveling to straight-up paradise in November of 2014 and please don't punch me in the cooter next time you see me after reading what I said. HA! I also refused to post about our clusterfuck of a trip that we took in 2015 where Lola got so sick she was on oxygen day 4 of our 10 day trip, and I damn near cashed in my trip insurance (which cost hundreds of extra dollars but we felt we HAD to add) to fly home to my baby. My "team" at home assured me they had it under control, and so we stayed... and cried in beach bars... and questioned if we were the worst parents on the planet... and barely enjoyed that faraway beach the next 6 days since we just wanted to be home & fix our baby.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H8UTTCqpgfY/WEiMRLeNLqI/AAAAAAAAFdo/xhUi_Ktq7BMFCvRmE8gaFjA2QJqXT7wYgCEw/s1600/322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H8UTTCqpgfY/WEiMRLeNLqI/AAAAAAAAFdo/xhUi_Ktq7BMFCvRmE8gaFjA2QJqXT7wYgCEw/s400/322.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabo San Lucas, Mexico</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We contemplated not even taking a trip this year, as last time we did so, it was a complete disaster. We opted for a shorter trip, and we headed out to a new destination this year -- Baja California Sur, Mexico. We flew in to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, rented a car, and drove 2-3 hours north to the quaint town of La Paz, Mexico. I found out about the opportunity to swim with whale sharks there somehow on Instagram. The more I started researching this area, I found out that you could also swim with sea lions there if you ventured out to an island off the coast of La Paz called Isla Espiritu Santo. This island is connected to another island called Isla Partida. Off the tip of Isla Partida is a sea lion colony/rookery called Los Islotes. I wanted to stay on Espiritu Santo, but I read online that both islands were uninhabited due to the fact they were part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. One of the beaches there has been named a top beach in the world, so I knew it would be gorgeous. I liked the fact that it was quiet & less travelled. Our daily lives back home are busy enough -- we prefer traveling to "off the beaten path" locations that take us back into nature where we can really just BE. We opted for a different type of trip... instead of our usual VRBO.com homes or a fancy resort on the beach, we decided to circumnavigate part of the islands by kayak & camp out in tents on the beach for 3 nights/4 days (sort of a trip-within-a-trip, if you will!) with <a href="http://www.kayactivities.com/" target="_blank">BOA (Baja Outdoor Activities)</a>. No permanent structures can be built on these islands, but camping IS permitted. We felt unsure about this excursion for several reasons. First, we kind of like to relax & be pampered on our yearly vacations. Second, we knew we'd have little to no cell phone reception while out there. Lastly, we weren't sure if we'd like being part of a more organized trip vs. just winging it as we usually do. BOA worked out an arrangement so we were able to check in by phone with our family back home daily, and our fears quickly dissipated. The island was BREATHTAKING. Kayaking was such an awesome way to explore this island, and the trip didn't feel rigid or "planned out" at all. We all worked together to ensure it was exactly what we hoped it would be, and we still had plenty of downtime to explore the island as we all chose. Words cannot express how unbelievable this entire experience was. This isn't a sponsored post, but I have to give a shout out to Chino, our guide with BOA, for helping make this trip so unforgettable. xo<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NVTo7cN7ojI/WEiMWcVfGWI/AAAAAAAAFd0/CC0kxQ5a6NocKCeub8EG8Ig4AELJPKlkgCEw/s1600/333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NVTo7cN7ojI/WEiMWcVfGWI/AAAAAAAAFd0/CC0kxQ5a6NocKCeub8EG8Ig4AELJPKlkgCEw/s400/333.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.costabajaresort.com/index_english.html" target="_blank">CostaBaja Resort in La Paz, Mexico</a> ~ Right on the Sea of Cortez </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We ended up kayaking around 3-4 hours daily, floating above the most pristine, clear, turquoise water you can even imagine. We saw fish & turtles swimming under our kayaks. We watched unique, regional birds fly above us. We were able to stop on deserted beaches that looked like they should be on a postcard. We met people from all over the US/Canada/Mexico who became close friends in a matter of hours. We ate fresh-caught seafood daily, watched the sun rise and set, and stared at the stars until we became sleepy, watching for meteors. We talked & laughed & enjoyed Happy Hour & laughed & snorkeled & swam & laughed & hiked in our "free time." We crowded around an old transistor radio on Election Night, seeking out the only American radio station we could find to listen to the results. I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else in the world but there -- in that moment -- with those exact people -- that night. Unlike the Virgin Islands, it wasn't lush and green on Espiritu Santo -- it was a desert, complete with cacti, jackrabbits, scrub brush, and gorgeous pink mesas & cliffs. The water was turquoise and surreal, almost looking more like a swimming pool than the ocean. If you've never experienced the Sea of Cortez before, I'd highly recommend it. Surrounding the islands are many coral reefs, and it's even been referred to as "The World's Aquarium" by Jacques Cousteau. We can definitely vouch for that. The snorkeling was incredible -- definitely an amazing, life-changing experience!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dY_6S-LSBbs/WEiMzOQegeI/AAAAAAAAFeo/cj_QJ5n2GTINxaNFckldM4FNDQkAYnB7wCEw/s1600/548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dY_6S-LSBbs/WEiMzOQegeI/AAAAAAAAFeo/cj_QJ5n2GTINxaNFckldM4FNDQkAYnB7wCEw/s400/548.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gang! <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!! And when are we doing this again?!?!?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Not only were we able to swim up close & personal with sea lions in their own environment, but we were also able to swim in the wild with dolphins and whale sharks. I am still in shock about this, as what we saw almost doesn't even feel REAL to this day. To be 1-2 feet away from whale sharks that are 25+ feet long and as big around as a school bus while they filter feed/gulp water in a vertical position had us in awe. From the side and back, they truly looked like a black shark with white polka dots. They had the gills and the tail that was very "sharky." But when you looked at them head-on, they looked like a whale or a really big catfish almost! They were so gentle & surrounded by a little fish posse who must have been mooching off of them for food. We were so grateful to <a href="http://bajades.com/en/" target="_blank">Yosef at Baja Desconocida</a> for taking us out to swim with the whale sharks and also to give us the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins while out in La Paz Bay! We didn't expect to get to swim with dolphins at all (we simply hoped we would see a few!), but on the way to swim with the whale sharks, we saw many dolphins, and they wanted to interact with us. We slipped into the water, and they would zoom past us, usually in pairs! They made a very high pitch squeal underwater that was instantly recognizable, so you could tell when they were getting close. They really had no reason to be near us that day, except that they simply wanted to play. We would dive down & twirl around, and they'd follow. One swam past me about 2 feet away with a smile on its face! They had such immense power balanced with such gentle grace. We also had the privilege of being just a foot or so away from dozens of sea lions (who we couldn't touch, but they could & did touch us!). They would mimic our every move & swim up to our masks as if to say "hello!" They played with us like sea dogs! They were so inquisitive & couldn't figure out what our GoPro camera was, so they just kept swimming up to it and staring directly into it. This was absolutely one of the coolest experiences OF MY LIFE!!!!! I simply have no words. It was so much more than I ever could have ever expected or hoped for. All 3 experiences were definitely Bucket List items for us!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IglD3viRocs/WEiV1BD-ORI/AAAAAAAAFfc/Io3b9z_zHrsH6v5oIGyDyyaVQXq6gLuKwCLcB/s1600/018.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IglD3viRocs/WEiV1BD-ORI/AAAAAAAAFfc/Io3b9z_zHrsH6v5oIGyDyyaVQXq6gLuKwCLcB/s400/018.PNG" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close-up of one of the dolphins we swam with!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-m57fmxJhQ/WEiV1b84i9I/AAAAAAAAFfg/qfvNB-0CBLUnXPVwWgNSMoA4zYOBm5c8ACLcB/s1600/019.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-m57fmxJhQ/WEiV1b84i9I/AAAAAAAAFfg/qfvNB-0CBLUnXPVwWgNSMoA4zYOBm5c8ACLcB/s400/019.PNG" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whale Shark Selfie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am so very grateful for this trip to Baja, for meeting new, lifelong friends, for time away with Scott, for people holding down the fort at home like bosses (!), for being able to witness heaven on earth in Mexico, and for finally recognizing the absolute critical importance of self care. I leave you with a few pictures & videos from our trip...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGgVC2n1yOU/WEiWRRTSJYI/AAAAAAAAFfo/IMWQYn-OHzgWtxjo6ebgXJFfavSXhjkTQCLcB/s1600/363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGgVC2n1yOU/WEiWRRTSJYI/AAAAAAAAFfo/IMWQYn-OHzgWtxjo6ebgXJFfavSXhjkTQCLcB/s400/363.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMLg0FCisY8/WEiWSJ5JteI/AAAAAAAAFfw/zlDBqzTvvwQbq8zjmx9XuE6vhjHR7-tPgCLcB/s1600/385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SMLg0FCisY8/WEiWSJ5JteI/AAAAAAAAFfw/zlDBqzTvvwQbq8zjmx9XuE6vhjHR7-tPgCLcB/s400/385.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first beach we were dropped off at... I felt like I was dreaming!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ynnazA0je6I/WEiWTI6VYDI/AAAAAAAAFf0/u8js0T4E5_EjH7jZWdeMh79y51XLzKg4QCLcB/s1600/410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ynnazA0je6I/WEiWTI6VYDI/AAAAAAAAFf0/u8js0T4E5_EjH7jZWdeMh79y51XLzKg4QCLcB/s400/410.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The water here was seriously that ridiculously pretty. NO FILTER!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rKMd-qYUy1I/WEiWWCpN5gI/AAAAAAAAFgI/ZF1-GSff6Fcfc6tCndS7MNERUJ2RHulrACLcB/s1600/450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rKMd-qYUy1I/WEiWWCpN5gI/AAAAAAAAFgI/ZF1-GSff6Fcfc6tCndS7MNERUJ2RHulrACLcB/s400/450.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We could see coral, fish, sea turtles and more beneath our paddles all day long. STUNNING!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8L7QOzQ4jT8/WEiWVmQar9I/AAAAAAAAFgE/N53boE6yAHQ2bwWwn6L91B-tpBG9l1NIQCLcB/s1600/463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8L7QOzQ4jT8/WEiWVmQar9I/AAAAAAAAFgE/N53boE6yAHQ2bwWwn6L91B-tpBG9l1NIQCLcB/s400/463.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_T6uVAQRMVs/WEiWaWJztOI/AAAAAAAAFgM/ljzoftGnYow0twz2SBSldkl_xQ4F8bIQwCLcB/s1600/473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_T6uVAQRMVs/WEiWaWJztOI/AAAAAAAAFgM/ljzoftGnYow0twz2SBSldkl_xQ4F8bIQwCLcB/s400/473.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We snorkeled around those rocks for a few hours and saw two octopuses (octopi?!) up close! One hid quite a bit, but the other one was literally "running" along the bottom of the ocean a few feet beneath us, changing colors instantaneously. It was UNREAL. As he zoomed from one place to another, he was light blue, then would land next to a dark brown rock with white streaks and he would instantly look that same color. I have never seen anything like it! We watched him for a good 20 minutes and seriously could have watched even longer. AMAZING! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdVZf5F3764/WEiWUtftLeI/AAAAAAAAFf8/Q15GgD3HYA80oTssPsAk3Au91QahVY8AACLcB/s1600/435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdVZf5F3764/WEiWUtftLeI/AAAAAAAAFf8/Q15GgD3HYA80oTssPsAk3Au91QahVY8AACLcB/s400/435.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SzkgvmdVTcE/WEiWcF4Q-WI/AAAAAAAAFgU/iAVer-mYKrw6LuB-lht3zZaJiGERSzH_ACLcB/s1600/481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SzkgvmdVTcE/WEiWcF4Q-WI/AAAAAAAAFgU/iAVer-mYKrw6LuB-lht3zZaJiGERSzH_ACLcB/s400/481.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perv. HAHA!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XgbV7teWdTA/WEiWfmgmlzI/AAAAAAAAFgc/e4Fq6XIIizkjo9ut1sOBHDI949KaD5UFACLcB/s1600/483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XgbV7teWdTA/WEiWfmgmlzI/AAAAAAAAFgc/e4Fq6XIIizkjo9ut1sOBHDI949KaD5UFACLcB/s400/483.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r87mWM7CH9Y/WEiWiYYmgFI/AAAAAAAAFgs/3zkNXPw0IAEfuqayHG3Xqc7Z3BUIisKUACLcB/s1600/572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r87mWM7CH9Y/WEiWiYYmgFI/AAAAAAAAFgs/3zkNXPw0IAEfuqayHG3Xqc7Z3BUIisKUACLcB/s400/572.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOnIN4KPTog/WEiWiYHrSvI/AAAAAAAAFgk/rDAwj863rD4JrqHfE4ZzMUGMT2Lcrwt0QCLcB/s1600/599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOnIN4KPTog/WEiWiYHrSvI/AAAAAAAAFgk/rDAwj863rD4JrqHfE4ZzMUGMT2Lcrwt0QCLcB/s400/599.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--j5A6Di92dU/WEiWQTFKiMI/AAAAAAAAFfk/xXA3HBTppbkmsc6StzUrbhx2CtejLk3vwCLcB/s1600/358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--j5A6Di92dU/WEiWQTFKiMI/AAAAAAAAFfk/xXA3HBTppbkmsc6StzUrbhx2CtejLk3vwCLcB/s400/358.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OsuYKKCFTDw/WEiWlVIz-vI/AAAAAAAAFgw/by652i-znociqGcSp5wJFPCTcrjdnY9DgCLcB/s1600/619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OsuYKKCFTDw/WEiWlVIz-vI/AAAAAAAAFgw/by652i-znociqGcSp5wJFPCTcrjdnY9DgCLcB/s400/619.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our tent was just steps from the water. We worried we wouldn't be able to sleep without our white noise, but the waves subbed in quite nicely. Heaven on earth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6oybLOKVOsA/WEiWl-iEXJI/AAAAAAAAFg0/g-ci0MZpveYI7Ezn7pnSr5VqSuMBQ5EDQCLcB/s1600/643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6oybLOKVOsA/WEiWl-iEXJI/AAAAAAAAFg0/g-ci0MZpveYI7Ezn7pnSr5VqSuMBQ5EDQCLcB/s400/643.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SO hard saying goodbye to our camp, our friends, this water, this entire experience, this island... we can only hope that someday we will be able to return for Round Two!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XFAUGZN2E84" width="560"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LdvHqCS54NY" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eTJjlj7L91s" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RAcNc77yc50" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lzegeEyQCyk" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-su-1-qDRhmA/WEifzzj0h0I/AAAAAAAAFhQ/61NxnyFcDdwKvJKW6pMWsB_0GkeeMHY3gCLcB/s1600/780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-su-1-qDRhmA/WEifzzj0h0I/AAAAAAAAFhQ/61NxnyFcDdwKvJKW6pMWsB_0GkeeMHY3gCLcB/s400/780.JPG" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SO glad to get back home to the kids though! YOU 3 ARE MY EVERYTHING!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: yellow;">xo</span>Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-34013978692888809542016-10-22T10:43:00.000-05:002016-10-22T10:43:05.914-05:00We've got answers!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ixONetU2AaM/WAgt1_Ti69I/AAAAAAAAFbQ/GSqZVdrTszga57SvI7oxyXE46NsCcohLQCEw/s1600/140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ixONetU2AaM/WAgt1_Ti69I/AAAAAAAAFbQ/GSqZVdrTszga57SvI7oxyXE46NsCcohLQCEw/s400/140.JPG" width="343" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9.30.16 ~ Microcephaly Awareness Day with my homegirls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am embarrassed that it has been MONTHS since I last updated my blog. You guys know me well enough by now to know that when large amounts of time passes between posts, it usually means that shit is goin' down. And suffice it to say, that's accurate. Much of it has been positive and fun! See list below for the deets...<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Claire turned 15 (HOW CAN THIS BE?!?!??!)!!!</li>
<li>We watched Cal finish up/kick ass during his very last AAU summer basketball season with awesome trips all over the Midwest with some of our favorite families.</li>
<li>We witnessed Cal's all-star team win MAYB Nationals on a last second shot which actually made the SportsCenter Top 10!!! (<a href="http://www.espn.com/video/clip?id=17250581" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to view it -- our boy is #15 in the far left corner spotted up to shoot a 3 if needed.)</li>
<li>We started the process of Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) genetic testing for our girls through two separate labs -- one in Boston, and one in Kansas City.</li>
<li>We took a quick, action-packed trip to Colorado with my very favorite people (that may or may not have resulted in Yours Truly contracting Norovirus and needing to get an IV at the hospital).</li>
<li>We cheered our girls on as they both continued to progress developmentally!</li>
<li>We took on a minor house updating project/remodel which involved a new stone fireplace/bar area.</li>
<li>Our girls got some interesting, helpful results from a cardiology appointment.</li>
<li>Our baby boy (He will ALWAYS be my baby boy!!!!! Is that wrong?!?!?!) started his senior year of high school/was a Fall Homecoming King candidate/took part of his senior pictures already.</li>
<li>We rocked yellow on Microcephaly Awareness Day on September 30th!</li>
<li>We took in a local hockey game with our besties thanks to Mrs. Pocket's nursing agency!</li>
<li>After the game, I got to hear Lola tell me ALL ABOUT why she DID NOT want to leave her <span style="background-color: yellow;">BFF's</span> & the game! MY GIRL COMMUNICATED WITH ME! <a href="https://chirb.it/dmNLkh" target="_blank">Click HERE to listen to LOLA'S SWEETEST LITTLE VOICE!</a> (When redirected to that page, click the PLAY button in the top right corner.)</li>
<li>We did my favorite interview EVER with the coolest people EVER & when I get an air date, I will post it here because I am sooooo excited to see it!!!</li>
</ol>
Life is SO. FREAKIN'. GOOD!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3_z9NkVpaZ0/WAgtPL1HIzI/AAAAAAAAFbM/snWN41Swn5EI7Zh1bZVFrQPZWc_BAA6xwCLcB/s1600/161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3_z9NkVpaZ0/WAgtPL1HIzI/AAAAAAAAFbM/snWN41Swn5EI7Zh1bZVFrQPZWc_BAA6xwCLcB/s400/161.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But sometimes shit happens, too. Seriously, this last week has been the polar opposite of stellar. Last weekend, our A/C went out during a week when Kansas set record high temps for the month of October. Of course, fixing the problem would prove to be just as expensive as buying a new unit, so cue up the iPhone money-with-wings emoji 27 times followed by the purple angry devil one, the middle finger for emphasis, then one-tear-sad-face and lastly, tears-streaming-down-sad-face emoji then possibly the <strike>bullshit, horrible, unacceptable, pistol-replacement</strike> green water gun + X-eyes emoji. <b><u>Somebody stop me</u>!</b> (And did I type "unit" up there?!?! HA!) Due to having to leave the windows open because of said record temps, our sensitive Lola reacted to the many allergens in the air which floated in on 40+ mph gusts over two straight days, and she was on oxygen and felt pretty miserable. She is on the mend though after taking some homeopathic allergy remedies & using some allergy-busting Young Living essential oils. I am grateful for guidance & squeezed-in appointments from our chiropractor/applied kinesiologist, because Mrs. Pocket is officially off oxygen just 2 days after going on it & basically back to her "normal." WHEW.<br />
<br />
As if that wasn't enough drama, our whippet, Romeo, had an episode yesterday where he fainted and his heart briefly stopped after fence fighting another dog. Scott happened to be out there with him when it happened, he picked him up, told him to stay with us, and carried him into the house, where he finally came to. We are pretty sure this is related to his heart murmur and the severe bladder infection he has been fighting for the past several days, as the vet ran countless tests (once again, cue flying money emoji x 1,000,000 that I would gladly spend over & over to be sure my babies are OK!!!!!) and the results of each test were NORMAL. Thank you, 8 pound, 6 ounce, newborn baby Jesus. I am learning to not just hate these wild bumps in the road but to view them as little reminders of exactly how fragile life really is and how important it is to enjoy every precious moment we have here on this gorgeous, spinning planet. I just wish I didn't have to worry so damn much when my babies get sick.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqPxDxXqMs4/WArtzUt2ZDI/AAAAAAAAFb4/u9I4oCpo2dQiml7-pafUkI8o_suBX2hKgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqPxDxXqMs4/WArtzUt2ZDI/AAAAAAAAFb4/u9I4oCpo2dQiml7-pafUkI8o_suBX2hKgCLcB/s400/IMG_2117.JPG" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">October 20, 2016 ~ Lola, Bok & Nurse Romeo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In true roller coaster fashion, on Monday, I got perhaps the best news of the year! For fifteen years, no one has been able to give us ANY answers genetically as to what particular gene(s) defects the girls possess. We started genetic testing shortly after Claire's birth back in 2001. When she was three months old, we flew to Chicago for further genetic information/testing. We also submitted saliva samples after Lola was born to a researcher in the UK for yet even more genetic testing. All of those tests yielded ZERO ANSWERS. In June of this year, we felt compelled to begin our quest for answers once again. We knew the research had advanced since we'd last tested, and we also wanted to have answers for Cal so that someday when he wanted to have children, he would know if he was a carrier like we were. We knew it was a long shot, but we decided to submit blood samples to both labs. We sent blood samples from all five of us to Boston for testing. We also gave blood from Scott, the girls & me to a genetics lab in Kansas City. We crossed our fingers that we'd find something out, but honestly, we weren't sure we were meant to know.<br />
<br />
On Monday of this week, I got a call from Genetics in Kansas City saying they had a diagnosis. I almost couldn't catch my breath. A DIAGNOSIS, y'all!!! Should I say it a third time? THEY HAD ANSWERS!!!!!!! They told me they'd figure this whole thing out, and THEY FREAKIN' DELIVERED.<br />
<br />
Scott & I were found to be carriers of this gene defect (it is an Autosomal Recessive gene, resulting in a 25% chance of this occurring each pregnancy, as we suspected), and both girls presented with the <b><u>ASNS gene for Asparagine Synthetase Deficiency</u></b>. It apparently causes most all of the girls' diagnoses, and the one picture I was able to see of another affected child could have passed for a Middle Eastern, male version of Claire at age 4. The newborn baby picture looked IDENTICAL to my girlies' noggins/faces/chins/ears/head shapes! This appears to be what we have been searching for all these years...<br />
<br />
I will be curious to hear if the other lab in Boston confirms this result and/or finds anything else. It certainly feels good to know more, but it also feels a bit scary. There are 12 known cases of this in the world, though there are probably others who are still undiagnosed as our girls were prior to Monday. I am not aware of any other cases in the U.S. I read online the incidence is <1/1,000,000 worldwide. My girls are rare, yo. I already knew that, but holy shit. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e2-70QeKOLs/WAg8Z_--1cI/AAAAAAAAFbg/MmuSlLOwfScU94IeHsUWSIBse9GEZgF7ACEw/s1600/154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e2-70QeKOLs/WAg8Z_--1cI/AAAAAAAAFbg/MmuSlLOwfScU94IeHsUWSIBse9GEZgF7ACEw/s400/154.JPG" width="345" /></a></div>
<br />
I read that ASNS typically involves cerebral atrophy and that it is progressive. That scares the fuck out of me. While I know the girls' prognoses have always been grim, I have become the queen of pushing it out of my mind -- sometimes many times a day -- because I am unable to process this harsh reality without it completely shattering me on a soul-level. I want to believe my girls are an exception to this rule because their heads are growing still & their development is progressing. Surely this cannot be a sign of atrophy or degeneration. I will hold out hope that they are setting a new standard for this diagnosis & that they will be giving hope to other families who are diagnosed with this condition down the road. My online research found a family with 3 affected individuals with ASNS who lived into "the third decade of life." That gave me hope. Hope is literally ALL I NEED at this point. It is all I have EVER wanted & needed since day one.<br />
<br />
We have a conference call next week with our team at <a href="http://www.childrensmercy.org/Clinics_and_Services/Clinics_and_Departments/Genetics/" target="_blank">Children's Mercy Genetics Department</a> to learn more about the specifics of this condition and to answer our many questions at length. I am both giddy and nervous, all at the same time. A big thank you to Dr. Amudhavalli, Laura, and the entire Genetics Staff at CMH for giving us something we have sought for MANY years and feared we'd never find... <u>answers</u>. It truly means SO MUCH.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_34EHmO9n2U/WArrCerIXnI/AAAAAAAAFbw/2AdTxO-xETIx2dTRiZDR5YU86uk5XYb7QCEw/s1600/I%2Bwas%2Balready%2Bstrong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_34EHmO9n2U/WArrCerIXnI/AAAAAAAAFbw/2AdTxO-xETIx2dTRiZDR5YU86uk5XYb7QCEw/s400/I%2Bwas%2Balready%2Bstrong.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-89836360016082391872016-07-28T12:21:00.000-05:002016-07-28T12:22:38.807-05:00Thankful Thirsty Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
So, a few days ago, this happened... again! (My longtime followers might remember <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olsKUBz0ing" target="_blank">THIS VIDEO I posted on YouTube back in July 2013</a>.) We were between feedings, and both Scott & I stopped to get a drink, so I thought I'd offer one to Lola, too. My girl drank from that water fountain like a G!!! And clearly, now we're gonna need to install one in the living room. HA! I am trying to hunt down a converter for our little, skinny reverse osmosis dispenser that might turn it into a drinking fountain. How awesome would that be?! <br />
<br />
I had to share pics and a video with all of you. Thank you SO MUCH for always seeing my girls' worth & value. You have no idea how much that means to all of us!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd0-B2QK4Lk/V5oyRTiinDI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/Y41GnlDvKEwRV7SCItK_WU1vNjyZ5XXiwCLcB/s1600/195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd0-B2QK4Lk/V5oyRTiinDI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/Y41GnlDvKEwRV7SCItK_WU1vNjyZ5XXiwCLcB/s400/195.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKDkxNpKmPk/V5oyRjdohrI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/5aNqB1TrjK01HqRo2qz2iPLwUwf1ARqvwCLcB/s1600/198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKDkxNpKmPk/V5oyRjdohrI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/5aNqB1TrjK01HqRo2qz2iPLwUwf1ARqvwCLcB/s400/198.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-poOpsOfuP5E/V5oyRq7Ki9I/AAAAAAAAFaA/NukmY-vziSgrs843R-Y4J6gBX7NjuyuWwCLcB/s1600/199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-poOpsOfuP5E/V5oyRq7Ki9I/AAAAAAAAFaA/NukmY-vziSgrs843R-Y4J6gBX7NjuyuWwCLcB/s400/199.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCybBtwJDQo/V5oySUzyDCI/AAAAAAAAFaE/RGxpbdADiyoB35xTu5uuyPXE-7gDrWUQgCLcB/s1600/200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCybBtwJDQo/V5oySUzyDCI/AAAAAAAAFaE/RGxpbdADiyoB35xTu5uuyPXE-7gDrWUQgCLcB/s400/200.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxksY6wsNC07CdNaPOmfaseS9HzX0NEj5cjF7Xw8AWgEtL1Ua62Dyjh4AoaeFssa0L9MykZRs69--s' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BOhnFHMK1cU/V5o9gcMZqpI/AAAAAAAAFao/uMdOMGOvKL4HjJ7l0ZmFY_I5edPvRcNuwCLcB/s1600/the%2Blittle%2Bthings%2Baren%2527t%2Blittle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BOhnFHMK1cU/V5o9gcMZqpI/AAAAAAAAFao/uMdOMGOvKL4HjJ7l0ZmFY_I5edPvRcNuwCLcB/s400/the%2Blittle%2Bthings%2Baren%2527t%2Blittle.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-30982782064183423632016-07-20T19:44:00.000-05:002016-07-20T19:44:38.485-05:00Finding Answers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It isn't a secret that Us Hooligans have been MIA lately, and for the first time ever, I am perfectly OK with it. My most recent blogging hiatus was so needed after a CRAZYYYYYYY winter/spring with all the Zika virus/microcephaly <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/p/media.html" target="_blank">media attention</a>. We are grateful to have had the privilege of sharing our girls' lives, and we were lucky to work with some amazing journalists who truly have gifts of telling our family's story so beautifully. To them, we say <u>THANK YOU</u>! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But I'm not gonna lie, it has felt positively <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTmb8zw3rNI" target="_blank">scrumtrulescent</a> getting our lives back to "normal." (If you don't click through and listen to that 0:02 clip of Will Ferrell saying that genius word on SNL, you are missin' out!) Where was I? Oh yeah. We've just been livin' the dream! Without going into too many details and instigating a full-fledged sob-fest, suffice it to say that I am oh-too-painfully aware of the fact that my only-child-who-will-attend-school-and-likely-graduate-in-a-robe (though not ruling anything out with our dwarves) has <gasp!> ONE. YEAR. REMAINING. Oh yes, you read that correct. Cal is about to start his SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL. My babyyyyyy! My son. <b>MY HEART.</b> I almost cannot even discuss this situation without tearing up. My emotions have been swirling like a real shitnado up in here. One day I have brilliant perspective, complete with a smile, uplifting thoughts about how "maybe by then I'll be ready," and how he is "preparing me slowly for him leaving by being gone all the time now," and I should be proud of myself that I've "raised him right" so he is "ready for the world," and how much fun it will be to have a student in college who is hopefully playing basketball and growing up and figuring out his future & all that jazz. I try to convince myself how awesome it will be to have my "nights free" and how much we'll be able to "get done around here" and how we'll be "more social with friends we've lost touch with" and how we'll be "poppin' bottles" & "knockin' boots" more without all of Cal's schedule in the mix. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Other days (and trust me when I say I try to not let these days outweigh the others), I am a complete disaster. I cry randomly when people ask me non-related questions. I bring it up at inappropriate times. I think about it incessantly. I dwell on how DIFFERENT life is going to be without him around... how QUIET this house is going to be... how different *I* will be. (Damn floodgates opened up already?!?!) Don't get me wrong, (and here's that damn disclaimer again!) I LOVE MY LIFE AS IT IS. But the keywords there were "as it is." I'm not a huge fan of change. I very much like my life exactly as it is RIGHT THE F NOW. Thinking ahead to the future has me more flustered than I feel 4 minutes into HGTV's Tiny House Hunters. (I mean REALLY?!?!? Who wants to live in a 173 sq. ft. house with other people and pets FULL FREAKIN' TIME?!?!?)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've been living in the moment, you guys. FULLY enjoying the year I DO have left. I don't wanna miss anything. We've been following Cal all over the country to his various AAU basketball tournaments & truly trying to spend time with him while we can. Hope you guys understand! I do try to stay active on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheHartleyHooligans/" target="_blank">Hartley Hooligans Facebook page</a> and on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gwennieh/" target="_blank">"The Gram"</a> in case you need your daily fix of Da' Hooligans. See you over there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25Vgg255dAU/V4_3vXcUJ3I/AAAAAAAAFZE/0tfVOaQ1-w4b8b-LUVE-2c0n4u6qB-KXgCEw/s1600/112%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25Vgg255dAU/V4_3vXcUJ3I/AAAAAAAAFZE/0tfVOaQ1-w4b8b-LUVE-2c0n4u6qB-KXgCEw/s640/112%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="475" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Recently we re-started genetic testing for Claire & Lola. We are working with Walsh Labs, a part of Boston Children's Hospital, on our quest to try to find answers about our genes. We began genetic testing when Claire was born, and so far, we have zero answers. We are aware that could happen again, but with technology being more advanced now, we're hoping that this time will be different. The process could take months, years or even decades. No one knows. But we're happy to say that the ball is rolling. We are hopeful that in time we'll be given more clear answers as to how our girlies got their genetic superpowers. Also, we're hoping to find out if Cal is a carrier as well and what his risks are for having children like Claire & Lola someday <strike>many, many, many years down the road</strike>. We will certainly keep you all posted of any results that come our way!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our girls were very brave getting their blood drawn. Missy may quite possibly be the best phlebotomist on the planet. She was so patient with the girls, their high tone, and all that 'tude. Big love to her for always making <strike>my</strike> their blood draws as non-dramatic as possible!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSosi-xHbjw/V4_3pjNtT2I/AAAAAAAAFZE/kLPlnjWVeZA5k0YHTFCXnZ1U_yY9jF85ACEw/s1600/095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSosi-xHbjw/V4_3pjNtT2I/AAAAAAAAFZE/kLPlnjWVeZA5k0YHTFCXnZ1U_yY9jF85ACEw/s400/095.JPG" width="376" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Bitch, I KNOW what's comin'. GET OFF OF MEEEEEEE!!!!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HoQCRa-UeA/V4_3pjtLLiI/AAAAAAAAFZE/sNW2vFShQGk5OVjoDXEjLhEpOYYm9a6ZwCEw/s1600/097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HoQCRa-UeA/V4_3pjtLLiI/AAAAAAAAFZE/sNW2vFShQGk5OVjoDXEjLhEpOYYm9a6ZwCEw/s400/097.JPG" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Son of a Nutcracker, that hurts!!!!!!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IurMS5xqLho/V4_3sb-uIUI/AAAAAAAAFZE/aTrRq6tKwpEVqpeU9tUTihpi18nVMXlSACEw/s1600/102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IurMS5xqLho/V4_3sb-uIUI/AAAAAAAAFZE/aTrRq6tKwpEVqpeU9tUTihpi18nVMXlSACEw/s400/102.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Oh wait. That's not so bad!"<br />
(Shortly after this, Claire fell asleep while Missy finished up!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then it was Lola's turn...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XVYoA522Kfk/V4_3sl1N97I/AAAAAAAAFZE/N82a6nwbOR4XdVKtmJyADbJP-tiFKBcQgCEw/s1600/104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XVYoA522Kfk/V4_3sl1N97I/AAAAAAAAFZE/N82a6nwbOR4XdVKtmJyADbJP-tiFKBcQgCEw/s400/104.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ummmmm, tell me you are trying to help me do my best Funky Chicken move right now..."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O3gn7pwqo5w/V4_3svAphEI/AAAAAAAAFZE/nu-nNy2GRsUk-SOnQpSbGoW0JEI81JPoACEw/s1600/106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O3gn7pwqo5w/V4_3svAphEI/AAAAAAAAFZE/nu-nNy2GRsUk-SOnQpSbGoW0JEI81JPoACEw/s400/106.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FFS!!!!!!!!! <br />
(The vein blew.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPU50XtV09s/V4_3v-DiL8I/AAAAAAAAFZE/9Vrlj4CThCUKU4g767pnwF-_IAuV0EragCEw/s1600/112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPU50XtV09s/V4_3v-DiL8I/AAAAAAAAFZE/9Vrlj4CThCUKU4g767pnwF-_IAuV0EragCEw/s400/112.JPG" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying a large vein in her lower leg...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv29_gpeHUg/V4_3uqDemRI/AAAAAAAAFZE/sNeGzVe9rZEftRgZ_fnLuU3P2sxqcvARgCEw/s1600/109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv29_gpeHUg/V4_3uqDemRI/AAAAAAAAFZE/sNeGzVe9rZEftRgZ_fnLuU3P2sxqcvARgCEw/s400/109.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ouchy!<br />
(The large, super-visible vein that was going to be "THE ANSWER" blew also.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6HMDSypVKbs/V4_3xPq7H0I/AAAAAAAAFZE/XHlMDBLfI_EjqTqRvzFeGbQcKYa4zCFUwCEw/s1600/115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6HMDSypVKbs/V4_3xPq7H0I/AAAAAAAAFZE/XHlMDBLfI_EjqTqRvzFeGbQcKYa4zCFUwCEw/s400/115.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moving on to the groin where we were able to get a full tube+ from our wee little Lola!<br />
(Did I mention that it took like 5 minutes for it to slowwwwwwwwly trickle out?!) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Blood from all 5 of us plus saliva from Lola (since she was only able to fill one tube of blood!) was successfully sent to Boston! YEAH! We are also on a 10 month waiting list to be seen in office for a genetic evaluation in KC. Hoping to start WES (Whole Exome Sequencing) then in addition to the testing Boston is doing. Fingers crossed!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The girls have been busy during summer school learning about the Badlands & various other awesome ecosystems. Can I just get an "Amen!" for all my fabulous teachers/therapists that take time out of their summers to come work with our girls?!?!? WE LOVE YOU!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IAUHAtL72_w/V4_3zGoLfuI/AAAAAAAAFZE/EmzCvvdM_NUrVN-8T6My9miH6Rpj1cLvQCEw/s1600/455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IAUHAtL72_w/V4_3zGoLfuI/AAAAAAAAFZE/EmzCvvdM_NUrVN-8T6My9miH6Rpj1cLvQCEw/s400/455.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amy playing hardcore rap videos about Bison for the girls off YouTube.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YIaWKIlkpM/V4_3ymGoi9I/AAAAAAAAFZE/OXVc-A8oOR0bAN8dl8LJMG2k-mgEjQ4xwCEw/s1600/121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YIaWKIlkpM/V4_3ymGoi9I/AAAAAAAAFZE/OXVc-A8oOR0bAN8dl8LJMG2k-mgEjQ4xwCEw/s400/121.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire gettin' it DONE in her new Rifton Gait Trainer! <br />
<br />
If you didn't see the video of her walking, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheHartleyHooligans/videos/752300531540148/" target="_blank">click on this link</a> to see my girl in action the FIRST TIME SHE GOT IN HER WALKER!!!!!!!! Talk about a blubbering mess of tears... it was THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING I HAVE EVER WITNESSED IN MY WHOLE LIFE, aside from my kids' births & possibly <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bl-QY84hojs" target="_blank">that one raccoon video</a> where he stands on his hind legs and uses his tiny human-like hands to rattle that rock against the sliding glass window repeatedly for like 2 minutes so he can get more food in his food bowl because he is a freakin' G, but that's beside the point.<br />
<br />
MY GIRL IS WALKING, YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JW7unWkI1I/V4_3yJVGbmI/AAAAAAAAFZE/sizTLSAVwZcScqxa4TVUTPa94HM8tE5hACEw/s1600/199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JW7unWkI1I/V4_3yJVGbmI/AAAAAAAAFZE/sizTLSAVwZcScqxa4TVUTPa94HM8tE5hACEw/s400/199.JPG" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The long lost Kardashian sister, minus the gigantic ass, fantastic tan, and fake boobs. <br />
We shall call her Kola. Or maybe Kocket. HA!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJdrWyOO8dI/V4_3p0EYxeI/AAAAAAAAFZE/M82mlRGTcA8Oo7_L5Moy4dVaegEklf-1wCEw/s1600/050.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJdrWyOO8dI/V4_3p0EYxeI/AAAAAAAAFZE/M82mlRGTcA8Oo7_L5Moy4dVaegEklf-1wCEw/s400/050.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OruRob30MnA/V5AOpD45pkI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/_3S2E7atEOUJM_eaH1dOD-_OCorqCx85wCLcB/s1600/264.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OruRob30MnA/V5AOpD45pkI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/_3S2E7atEOUJM_eaH1dOD-_OCorqCx85wCLcB/s400/264.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-45665349394397698102016-04-28T18:10:00.000-05:002016-04-28T18:10:15.994-05:00TEN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today you are 10 years old, my darling Lola. I can barely wrap my mind around the fact that you have graced this earth with your sassy presence for a decade now. How can that be? Is it that whole <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2015/12/time-warp.html" target="_blank">time warp</a> thing I have discussed many times before? Is it true what people say about time passing so slowly when you're young and then as you grow up, it flies by in the blink of an eye? Not even gonna admit that time has flown by because I am old, because I'm still super young and spry, right? (Dadgummit, who uses the word "spry" anymore?! If you answered "the elderly," imma fixin' to tar & feather ya'. Hell's bells!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Ten.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ten fingers and ten toes that I didn't even count the day you were born. Somehow, it seemed so unimportant. All that mattered was that you were here and breathing and alive. I cannot tell you how frightened I was the day my water broke, one month before your due date. All I'd heard your entire pregnancy was that no one knew what the future held. They weren't sure if you'd be similar to <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/p/claire.html" target="_blank">Claire</a> or different. They weren't sure if you would survive the birth or have major complications. I was asked to answer questions that I was not ready to have to answer about resuscitating you, intubating you, and saving your life. The answer was always YES, Lola. Please do all you can, just as you would if she were "typical," I told the doctors. I hated that word -- "typical" -- because you and your sister were anything BUT typical, and the opposite felt so negative, harsh and unknown. I prayed every single night for you, sweet girl. I cried and bargained with all Higher Powers to shave years off of my own life if they'd spare yours. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Ten.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ten sonograms. Ten chances to see you before your birth. Ten reassurances that you were still alive and stable. Ten opportunities to fall in love with you even more. Ten times I prayed that somehow, miraculously, you'd be healed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ten sonograms = The number of sonograms necessary for me to realize that you didn't need healing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You were already everything I had hoped and prayed for. Your tiny, malformed brain would not define your life or determine your worth. You were here to experience life just as you were. The only person who needed to change was ME. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Ten.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ten perfect birthdays that we celebrated on your behalf. Ten special days I wasn't sure I'd get with you just ten years ago. It is mindblowing all we have been through over the course of the last decade. Choosing the pictures below really took me back. It allowed me to remember and sit for awhile with each passing year. Oh, we have come SO FAR, baby girl. You have proven time and again that you want to be here. Thank you so very much for choosing to stay.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YWWNTf3EUH4/VyE9ol70iNI/AAAAAAAAFT8/_bORM6u6PQY6DDCzhV8GHbI_UoKU-WboQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YWWNTf3EUH4/VyE9ol70iNI/AAAAAAAAFT8/_bORM6u6PQY6DDCzhV8GHbI_UoKU-WboQCLcB/s640/IMG_4676.JPG" width="473" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unicorn crown from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/novaskys.co/" target="_blank">Nova Sky's Co.</a><br />A huge thank you to Fatima Lee for sending this beautiful crown to our sweet, magical Unicorn Princess.<br />(And one to Claire, also!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A peek back through the past ten years...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2006</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dkjJ523PEI/VyJxH2WXUEI/AAAAAAAAFUM/s_x6Oh7LIWo8vST-Ocuoff4Jg0RipGP8wCLcB/s1600/2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dkjJ523PEI/VyJxH2WXUEI/AAAAAAAAFUM/s_x6Oh7LIWo8vST-Ocuoff4Jg0RipGP8wCLcB/s400/2006.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The day of your birth... You were -- and still are -- so perfect, Lola.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kfOekcKncdk/VyJxLcBBMSI/AAAAAAAAFVE/vHOXiM3o6_k4i_TWX5CTJHoASPdBlx3owCKgB/s1600/2006%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kfOekcKncdk/VyJxLcBBMSI/AAAAAAAAFVE/vHOXiM3o6_k4i_TWX5CTJHoASPdBlx3owCKgB/s400/2006%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2007</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z27Whj7WsPI/VyJxOFTdIBI/AAAAAAAAFUU/nv4uLIDSUrkY5MxS8tf2naKabm81FqVawCLcB/s1600/2007%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z27Whj7WsPI/VyJxOFTdIBI/AAAAAAAAFUU/nv4uLIDSUrkY5MxS8tf2naKabm81FqVawCLcB/s400/2007%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture reduced me to tears immediately upon seeing it. I am 100% convinced that the siblings of individuals with special needs are some of the most incredible, considerate, compassionate, loving people on the planet. Cal has always been everything his little sisters needed. From the day both of them were born, he loved them unconditionally as only their big brother could. His ability to see past differences, accept people for who they are, and love with his whole heart has inspired me more than he could ever know. I could never have survived Lola's diagnosis without <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/p/cal.html" target="_blank">his wisdom</a>. I am so honored to be called "Mom" by these three children of mine.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v49XN6WfTgs/VyJxOb1Y0TI/AAAAAAAAFUY/8eskOxl5b9U_aYRb5ZtHc13fTwHCtXU8QCLcB/s1600/2007%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v49XN6WfTgs/VyJxOb1Y0TI/AAAAAAAAFUY/8eskOxl5b9U_aYRb5ZtHc13fTwHCtXU8QCLcB/s400/2007%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="323" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dl3fCAfRWlI/VyJxO2MiSTI/AAAAAAAAFUc/H2sPqegMBU858D6QBo4HaTTBtN6fr2rQACLcB/s1600/2007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dl3fCAfRWlI/VyJxO2MiSTI/AAAAAAAAFUc/H2sPqegMBU858D6QBo4HaTTBtN6fr2rQACLcB/s400/2007.jpg" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Possibly my favorite baby picture of Lola EVER! This is what she thought of therapy toys back in '07!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2008</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_vQVeTasbM/VyKQRgGwe5I/AAAAAAAAFWw/o9RnSkhjFdsXQQGuAw1FDih8peNupdl3ACLcB/s1600/2008%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_vQVeTasbM/VyKQRgGwe5I/AAAAAAAAFWw/o9RnSkhjFdsXQQGuAw1FDih8peNupdl3ACLcB/s400/2008%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice Cal trying to help Lola blow out her candles?<br /><SWOON!></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qalnHeJPgbc/VyJxU7C14CI/AAAAAAAAFUk/TsH7k0j4T_M0HPggL_xbcUy2ISw0tcCLwCLcB/s1600/2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qalnHeJPgbc/VyJxU7C14CI/AAAAAAAAFUk/TsH7k0j4T_M0HPggL_xbcUy2ISw0tcCLwCLcB/s400/2008.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday Princess!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2009</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_HUJaiNu_6o/VyJxbscaU9I/AAAAAAAAFUo/G61_P6ayZWY3gV4aTYPiP4qo0uc3wc1-wCLcB/s1600/2009%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_HUJaiNu_6o/VyJxbscaU9I/AAAAAAAAFUo/G61_P6ayZWY3gV4aTYPiP4qo0uc3wc1-wCLcB/s640/2009%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the cousins!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uB8COlnQN5M/VyJxeEgkmlI/AAAAAAAAFUs/MidNT2yHAnwT1nxedhNQF82wuTBZnGVeACLcB/s1600/2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uB8COlnQN5M/VyJxeEgkmlI/AAAAAAAAFUs/MidNT2yHAnwT1nxedhNQF82wuTBZnGVeACLcB/s400/2009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2010</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FAePw898d-8/VyJxeYQY0xI/AAAAAAAAFUw/uqRNUWkBJ4cW3xXvJ0SX9o8fPdkp2_qnACLcB/s1600/2010%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FAePw898d-8/VyJxeYQY0xI/AAAAAAAAFUw/uqRNUWkBJ4cW3xXvJ0SX9o8fPdkp2_qnACLcB/s400/2010%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-2UcWWSUVQ/VyJxjbDZfjI/AAAAAAAAFU0/UL5BcL6fD6sJAKYkv_MVIEAz6QCdG970ACLcB/s1600/2010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-2UcWWSUVQ/VyJxjbDZfjI/AAAAAAAAFU0/UL5BcL6fD6sJAKYkv_MVIEAz6QCdG970ACLcB/s400/2010.JPG" width="255" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2011</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3c942dNHU4/VyJxpQsmwlI/AAAAAAAAFU4/iM3LHs8RZWIoTCdCRs4_OjP5mvoZzP7JACLcB/s1600/2011%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3c942dNHU4/VyJxpQsmwlI/AAAAAAAAFU4/iM3LHs8RZWIoTCdCRs4_OjP5mvoZzP7JACLcB/s400/2011%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="282" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JS4VGZXF0cA/VyJxrywsLuI/AAAAAAAAFU8/rX6yjEoqG34hu-nxgvWvGNpvKTGM7dsZgCLcB/s1600/2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JS4VGZXF0cA/VyJxrywsLuI/AAAAAAAAFU8/rX6yjEoqG34hu-nxgvWvGNpvKTGM7dsZgCLcB/s400/2011.JPG" width="290" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2012</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K3zJ9nM171w/VyJx8mFk5yI/AAAAAAAAFVM/GL-RdybZC8MeX2JME-utSjxlQHiryeMgQCKgB/s1600/2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K3zJ9nM171w/VyJx8mFk5yI/AAAAAAAAFVM/GL-RdybZC8MeX2JME-utSjxlQHiryeMgQCKgB/s400/2012.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-byTYKUySH5g/VyJxvNF4ZLI/AAAAAAAAFVs/M-Yg1ARmDSIFRYjYDHQwr0ZnZcQFv7XNACKgB/s1600/2012%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-byTYKUySH5g/VyJxvNF4ZLI/AAAAAAAAFVs/M-Yg1ARmDSIFRYjYDHQwr0ZnZcQFv7XNACKgB/s320/2012%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="251" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2013</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0iOHjjMbMg/VyJx7t8cz7I/AAAAAAAAFWA/GOr39XOH4XA3e8Ocix3Strm2FG3V_wlEACKgB/s1600/2013%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0iOHjjMbMg/VyJx7t8cz7I/AAAAAAAAFWA/GOr39XOH4XA3e8Ocix3Strm2FG3V_wlEACKgB/s400/2013%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post chicken pox.<br />These pictures were hard to see. She was SO. THIN. Notice she is wearing the same dress as in the top picture above, but she literally swam in it. It is a 6-12 month size (thanks, Jessica!), and at age 7 above, she had lost so much weight due to being ill that she could barely wear that size. Heartbreaking to see where she was, but we are so grateful for the progress that has been made the past three years! Lola is seriously the strongest person I have ever known.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9m0qUpN-RM/VyJx_1SKCgI/AAAAAAAAFWA/WcbudxAGCFIZITSS_QPwAOAjFu5So6AZQCKgB/s1600/2013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9m0qUpN-RM/VyJx_1SKCgI/AAAAAAAAFWA/WcbudxAGCFIZITSS_QPwAOAjFu5So6AZQCKgB/s400/2013.JPG" width="330" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2014</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MDt7HVKNO4A/VyJyDvLvEmI/AAAAAAAAFWE/t2Y-IV8yZXcXHLkpUDJjQs8vlbgrdnFAQCKgB/s1600/2014%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MDt7HVKNO4A/VyJyDvLvEmI/AAAAAAAAFWE/t2Y-IV8yZXcXHLkpUDJjQs8vlbgrdnFAQCKgB/s400/2014%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pHKBa6E_rjQ/VyJyIGlay9I/AAAAAAAAFVc/pb8u6vx6Jgw4BuIT3bd4ZRdqkxfxmPcXgCKgB/s1600/2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pHKBa6E_rjQ/VyJyIGlay9I/AAAAAAAAFVc/pb8u6vx6Jgw4BuIT3bd4ZRdqkxfxmPcXgCKgB/s400/2014.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#IDFWU</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2015</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DfNEIrEh94I/VyJyMc2J9MI/AAAAAAAAFWE/SdaIDUASA_syapk_9DClEkRZRoBxuF05ACKgB/s1600/2015%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DfNEIrEh94I/VyJyMc2J9MI/AAAAAAAAFWE/SdaIDUASA_syapk_9DClEkRZRoBxuF05ACKgB/s400/2015%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="258" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9A-2OHBueRo/VyJyPJvJZ_I/AAAAAAAAFWE/1lQ9J9A7Ors6ED_UD4moKyLBPgJDBNM5QCKgB/s1600/2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9A-2OHBueRo/VyJyPJvJZ_I/AAAAAAAAFWE/1lQ9J9A7Ors6ED_UD4moKyLBPgJDBNM5QCKgB/s400/2015.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">2016</span></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrQULOxqXUM/VyJyV0AdGmI/AAAAAAAAFWE/NRWholICtmoO_Z3PvoEjPPNGHqWolHY9wCKgB/s1600/current%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QrQULOxqXUM/VyJyV0AdGmI/AAAAAAAAFWE/NRWholICtmoO_Z3PvoEjPPNGHqWolHY9wCKgB/s400/current%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drop that knife, <strike>OJ</strike> Mrs. Pocket!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KbWOaSIex0Y/VyJyZPNjrFI/AAAAAAAAFWE/g4_vsdGggOE54V7fDWEtwywKJ7IE9vUwQCKgB/s1600/current%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KbWOaSIex0Y/VyJyZPNjrFI/AAAAAAAAFWE/g4_vsdGggOE54V7fDWEtwywKJ7IE9vUwQCKgB/s400/current%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#CashandLola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iKr_Mn2nY4U/VyJyf948bII/AAAAAAAAFV4/vAvThF3hKfIo6Y74vQlZlcoaJs06CyxEwCLcB/s1600/current%2B%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iKr_Mn2nY4U/VyJyf948bII/AAAAAAAAFV4/vAvThF3hKfIo6Y74vQlZlcoaJs06CyxEwCLcB/s400/current%2B%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lola, Kerby, Cal & Claire ~ Prom 2016</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jdn4MgjFnws/VyJygdGJtpI/AAAAAAAAFV8/D9iZacypJCsAWaVyLGaW8cfDq-Vg8L-0gCLcB/s1600/current.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jdn4MgjFnws/VyJygdGJtpI/AAAAAAAAFV8/D9iZacypJCsAWaVyLGaW8cfDq-Vg8L-0gCLcB/s400/current.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;"><b>Ten. </b> </span></div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
Ten times I kissed you, through tears, just now after reading you this post. Ten tears streaming down my cheeks. Ten "I love you's." Ten seconds of eye contact after telling you that you are the most perfect third child I could have ever asked for in this life, just as you are. </div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
Happy 10th Birthday, Mrs. Pocket. I love you to the moon <u>ten</u> times and back.</div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DZ5ro0CibwI/VyDUGYJCILI/AAAAAAAAFTw/VBl8hBv72_8VkGESpO-t10EPcuLKLjhdgCKgB/s1600/IMG_4650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DZ5ro0CibwI/VyDUGYJCILI/AAAAAAAAFTw/VBl8hBv72_8VkGESpO-t10EPcuLKLjhdgCKgB/s400/IMG_4650.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: proxnov-reg, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-7824030550638063262016-04-10T16:52:00.000-05:002016-04-10T16:55:24.748-05:00Feel Better Friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This past week, we were completely BLOWN AWAY when these <a href="http://fbfdolls.org/" target="_blank">Feel Better Friends</a> arrived on our doorstep, courtesy of our new friend, Michele Llamas-White. She had contacted us months ago and expressed interest in making some FBF for the girls. I didn't quite know what to expect. I sent her many pictures of the girls, zooming in on their legs and faces so she could try to replicate them as best as she could. I also checked out their website & Facebook page to see more examples of what had been made before. I was completely awestruck by the end results created by these ARTISTS at work! The intricate details of each doll... the precision... the craftsmanship... the careful consideration for the beauty that comes through differences... WOW. I am still speechless.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But I was even more speechless when our girls' Feel Better Friends arrived. I couldn't take my eyes off of them for a good half hour. I just kept seeing things I'd not seen before. I kept turning them around, feeling their soft hair, looking closer & closer at how PERFECTLY they were made, and tearing up -- all at the same time. Check it out... (said in my best Fergie voice... you know you just said it out loud, too. Don't even lie!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L-tLO0FGPOo/Vwh_vxOHHPI/AAAAAAAAFSw/KZahJB5hDqMyDtBkNJNSruZMv2MYcTBGA/s1600/275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L-tLO0FGPOo/Vwh_vxOHHPI/AAAAAAAAFSw/KZahJB5hDqMyDtBkNJNSruZMv2MYcTBGA/s640/275.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shall we call them LoLo & Clara? Lolita & Clarice? LeeLee & Mimi? Jury's still out...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qak47PD7yNU/Vwh_usSGOBI/AAAAAAAAFSs/SJx5MEZXKC8aFKfKdANgztxmTDUQwkekQ/s1600/277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qak47PD7yNU/Vwh_usSGOBI/AAAAAAAAFSs/SJx5MEZXKC8aFKfKdANgztxmTDUQwkekQ/s400/277.JPG" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Michele flat-out NAILED IT on Claire's doll. The darling crossed legs (left over right, baby!), her arm position, her beautiful ears, her most fabulous Halloween costume EVER... it was straight up PERFECTION. ALL OF IT!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-f7vkWsGoA/Vwh_wD4FIDI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/z1uUyGKffDM9uXGbKfF9mzwtBhGWYMHMQ/s1600/276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-f7vkWsGoA/Vwh_wD4FIDI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/z1uUyGKffDM9uXGbKfF9mzwtBhGWYMHMQ/s400/276.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And check out mini-Lola! CAN I GET A "BOK BOK" FROM EVERYONE WHO SAW FETA FIRST & FOREMOST?!?!??! I love you, Michele, for including our Bok. He'd want it that way. (Though he told me he is jealous he isn't as large, bodacious & colorful as mini-Feta... or should I say MAXI-Feta?!) I love how the doll's legs are tucked under her. I love her blue eyes. I love her birthmark, long, flowy hair and her low forehead. She is so pretty -- just like my girl!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5R1X6LgoZc/VwiAK0Go5XI/AAAAAAAAFTM/xabnixVUpuUcvuUUg8Oqpo89vmYy0Emlg/s1600/285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5R1X6LgoZc/VwiAK0Go5XI/AAAAAAAAFTM/xabnixVUpuUcvuUUg8Oqpo89vmYy0Emlg/s400/285.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the little birthmark on her chin?<br />
That's what we love about you, Michele -- your attention to detail!!!<br />
(Fake $5 to the first person who knows what movie that's from!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EBmbrFkqiuQ/VwiAIa0cJEI/AAAAAAAAFTI/eGtqCBlD4HIyX5gneu5wNNoLXWLA8AKzA/s1600/286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EBmbrFkqiuQ/VwiAIa0cJEI/AAAAAAAAFTI/eGtqCBlD4HIyX5gneu5wNNoLXWLA8AKzA/s400/286.JPG" width="342" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#FetaForever #BokNation #FetaForPresident #BokIsLife #InBokWeTrust #WWFD #ICouldGoOnAllDay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g0e1sqrXoO8/Vwh_4obdr5I/AAAAAAAAFS4/0EQLnk8yp3wbt2l-vP0kdueH7HLCouSEQ/s1600/279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g0e1sqrXoO8/Vwh_4obdr5I/AAAAAAAAFS4/0EQLnk8yp3wbt2l-vP0kdueH7HLCouSEQ/s400/279.JPG" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I spy with my little eye the most beautiful girl on the planet! Wait, that's me!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mitb4pg9B0U/Vwh_8UIQafI/AAAAAAAAFTA/klIMBOK3ETMfmEEzpGVmruGyQpHwdFbyw/s1600/280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mitb4pg9B0U/Vwh_8UIQafI/AAAAAAAAFTA/klIMBOK3ETMfmEEzpGVmruGyQpHwdFbyw/s400/280.JPG" width="275" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-naPGzZWlurw/Vwh_76dy9FI/AAAAAAAAFS8/sgHDzq9stSc7O7gOAp9fNsUUNaG_B8TDQ/s1600/281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-naPGzZWlurw/Vwh_76dy9FI/AAAAAAAAFS8/sgHDzq9stSc7O7gOAp9fNsUUNaG_B8TDQ/s400/281.JPG" width="368" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Who wore it better?! If you guys say the Shorty with the bigger head, somebody's gonna be in a world of hurt."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M2pgw9B9yhA/VwiAFBW963I/AAAAAAAAFTE/cU3FA57CFmkbEq73Eu1g6_S2Cn7YkPwHA/s1600/282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M2pgw9B9yhA/VwiAFBW963I/AAAAAAAAFTE/cU3FA57CFmkbEq73Eu1g6_S2Cn7YkPwHA/s400/282.JPG" width="352" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#chickengameonfleek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We want to thank Michele & Feel Better Friends for making this a reality for our girlies! We simply cannot tell you enough how much we adore these dolls, how fabulously they were made, and how touched we are by Michele's kindness. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For more information about these beautiful, handmade dolls stuffed with love and well wishes, click on the following links:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FeelBetterFriends/" target="_blank">Feel Better Friends on Facebook </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://fbfdolls.org/" target="_blank">Feel Better Friends Website</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-at6CzubjfXs/VwiC_1AxtVI/AAAAAAAAFTc/qBvOEytO5s4soXABhrquuYNgNdyLLCA9g/s1600/quote-friendship-is-genuine-when-two-friends-can-enjoy-each-others-company-without-speaking-a-word-to-one-george-ebers-341856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-at6CzubjfXs/VwiC_1AxtVI/AAAAAAAAFTc/qBvOEytO5s4soXABhrquuYNgNdyLLCA9g/s400/quote-friendship-is-genuine-when-two-friends-can-enjoy-each-others-company-without-speaking-a-word-to-one-george-ebers-341856.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-79828589503517259552016-03-12T00:42:00.000-06:002016-03-12T00:42:56.574-06:00Finding The Light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Growing up and living in Kansas my entire life, I have always loved sunflowers. Since Scott & I have been together, he has often given me sunflower bouquets. They are stunningly gorgeous, unique, brilliant in color, and timeless. In part, sunflowers define what I love about Kansas besides its flowing "amber waves of grain," our green, rolling Flint Hills, and the most breathtaking sunsets EVER which so totally -- hands down -- trump all other sunsets on Planet Earth <u>without question</u>. I love that we're known here in Kansas for this striking flower that eternally faces the sun & follows the light each and every day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh yes, I love sunflowers. And that is why I was so elated when our girls' teacher, Amy, told me that she'd be doing a sunflower project with the girls to celebrate Kansas Day this year. During the end of January, the girls worked hard several Fridays in a row to create their special painting with Amy's help. How awesome it is to have an art emphasis to help our girls learn! Amy explained to me her plan for this picture and how the girls would use their hand prints and footprints to create sunflowers on a foot-painted sky and grass background. I couldn't see her vision initially, but I am so glad I was able to watch the picture unfold each week because it was magical!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will always treasure this one-of-a-kind painting because it represents so much for our family. It is a reminder of my love for Scott, my girls, my favorite flower, & my state. I see this painting and remember how hard the girls worked on this project to achieve this perfect finished result. I am in awe of their progress this year, and seeing their sunflowers is a physical symbol of all of their accomplishments. Most of all, it embodies the way we try to live our lives. No matter how dark life seems, we continue to find our light and keep our faces to the sun. It isn't always easy, but it's always worth it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PsWytDN0Uvo/VuBcKxKODdI/AAAAAAAAFQs/schK2RqShDM/s1600/306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PsWytDN0Uvo/VuBcKxKODdI/AAAAAAAAFQs/schK2RqShDM/s400/306.JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Sunflowers" by Amy, Claire, Lola & Feta ~ January 28, 2016<br />
<br />
(Ignore Mrs. Pocket's attitude -- my girl was hangry!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qQ03mSzrnQg/VuBbywgmZsI/AAAAAAAAFRA/KdLJBatmjcI/s1600/176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qQ03mSzrnQg/VuBbywgmZsI/AAAAAAAAFRA/KdLJBatmjcI/s400/176.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Hey Chucko, that doesn't smell like mud."<br />
(If you don't know what movie this is from, I'm not sure we can still be friends. LOL)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cpD20R_02lM/VuBbyFpHGgI/AAAAAAAAFRA/xCOuq4iDzI0/s1600/175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cpD20R_02lM/VuBbyFpHGgI/AAAAAAAAFRA/xCOuq4iDzI0/s400/175.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire seemed to enjoy the feel of hand painting & seeing her finished <strike>gang signs</strike> hand prints!<br />
#WestsideDwarves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ar778G71k5w/VuBbyYlfH5I/AAAAAAAAFRA/N56QIZATJPc/s1600/178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ar778G71k5w/VuBbyYlfH5I/AAAAAAAAFRA/N56QIZATJPc/s400/178.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out those long legs! Claire is growing so tall!!!<br />
Notice her yellow-fading-to-orange-fading-to-red footprints in the background? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GUkf_4OmdVM/VuBb7QUKXyI/AAAAAAAAFRA/rk4h4zdBH5M/s1600/183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GUkf_4OmdVM/VuBb7QUKXyI/AAAAAAAAFRA/rk4h4zdBH5M/s400/183.JPG" width="331" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ummmm, are you really gonna stick my foot into that cold paint??? Who do you think I am?!?! Where's my tiara?"<br />
Routine eye roll ~ #divability</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8qzlpy46as/VuBcP4ckXbI/AAAAAAAAFRM/fSXfljynASc/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8qzlpy46as/VuBcP4ckXbI/AAAAAAAAFRM/fSXfljynASc/s400/FullSizeRender%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--34A09j493Q/VuBcKfBylgI/AAAAAAAAFRM/-rZChkHLO5M/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--34A09j493Q/VuBcKfBylgI/AAAAAAAAFRM/-rZChkHLO5M/s400/FullSizeRender%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the way she is looking at Amy. So incredible seeing such progress with her vision lately!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I1s9DZOkK5k/VuBcPN7XwxI/AAAAAAAAFRM/C2hILcHu6EM/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I1s9DZOkK5k/VuBcPN7XwxI/AAAAAAAAFRM/C2hILcHu6EM/s400/FullSizeRender%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L2jhf03Lk6c/VuBcCbn41BI/AAAAAAAAFRA/O0KHQ7OEMYg/s1600/261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L2jhf03Lk6c/VuBcCbn41BI/AAAAAAAAFRA/O0KHQ7OEMYg/s400/261.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feta could not be excluded... notice the "seeds" in the center of Lola's sunflowers?!<br />
Yep, chicken scratches GALORE.<br />
#VincentVanCock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rT-Hpp54r0/VuBb80kHs4I/AAAAAAAAFRA/N0WmyCmReGk/s1600/262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rT-Hpp54r0/VuBb80kHs4I/AAAAAAAAFRA/N0WmyCmReGk/s400/262.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I see you, Pablo Bokasso!<br />
<br />
Look how his little feet are tucked under as he is painting!!!! I literally can't even. And I still can't, for the life of me, figure out what the shit that means, but I simply can't. Even. Or whatever. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O7gPdd36W7A/VuBcjguh_lI/AAAAAAAAFRU/NSAG3JLcMGc/s1600/IMG_2187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O7gPdd36W7A/VuBcjguh_lI/AAAAAAAAFRU/NSAG3JLcMGc/s400/IMG_2187.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In its new home!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L7OEAnwyeog/VuBck8O3QCI/AAAAAAAAFRU/htNFXAX8uck/s1600/IMG_2188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L7OEAnwyeog/VuBck8O3QCI/AAAAAAAAFRU/htNFXAX8uck/s400/IMG_2188.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sXOWkuF1PoY/VuBceqUfpvI/AAAAAAAAFRU/UM1ulSAkjG8/s1600/IMG_2194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sXOWkuF1PoY/VuBceqUfpvI/AAAAAAAAFRU/UM1ulSAkjG8/s640/IMG_2194.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lola's flowers are on the left, and Claire's are on the right. You will notice that the center brown sections of the sunflowers are the girls' hand/fist prints. The yellow petals are their footprints. Claire foot-painted the sky, and Lola foot-painted the grass.<br />
<br />
What you WON'T see but PLEASE KNOW IT STILL EXISTS (!!!) is a rogue, white paw print located nearly dead center of the picture under a yellow petal. They say that many great artists hide codes or secret messages in their artwork. A certain large, white, apparently artsy-fartsy whippet, who had to be part of this project in his own little way, may or may not have galloped across said painting as it was drying after the girls foot-painted the background. I'm not gonna<br />
name names, but suffice it to say that it rhymes with "brash," "trash," and "gigantic horse's ash." </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DA1U_ktAosc/VuBcJKOEORI/AAAAAAAAFRM/fI-9lMVyOq0/s1600/302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DA1U_ktAosc/VuBcJKOEORI/AAAAAAAAFRM/fI-9lMVyOq0/s400/302.JPG" width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once again, we are SO GRATEFUL to have such awesome teachers & therapists working with our girls! <br />
We could not be luckier to have Amy as part of Team Hooligan!<br />
THANK YOU again, Amy, for one of the most touching gifts we've ever received.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br class="clearBoth" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Geneva, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 14px;" />
<div class="movieItem" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #333333; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 25px; margin-top: 15px;">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">“I don't think there's anything on this planet that more trumpets life than the sunflower. For me that's because of the reason behind its name. Not because it looks like the sun but because it follows the sun. During the course of the day, the head tracks the journey of the sun across the sky. A satellite dish for sunshine. Wherever light is, no matter how weak, these flowers will find it. And that's such an admirable thing. And such a lesson in life."</span></span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">~Helen Mirren, from the movie <i>Calendar Girls</i></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
xo</div>
</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-47290718441114454322016-02-24T21:14:00.002-06:002016-02-24T21:14:41.810-06:00The Perfect Cheer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Back around Christmastime, I had the pleasure of seeing my friend, Danielle (& her family) from high school. One of her daughters -- Mady -- is a cheerleader at a nearby school that Cal's team plays against in basketball. Danielle mentioned that she & Mady would like to make hair bows for both sets of cheerleaders -- Cal's team & Mady's team -- to wear in Claire & Lola's honor. I thought that sounded like THE COOLEST IDEA EVER. We talked a few days before the game, and we set up a time and place to meet. She even texted me a pic as I walked into the gym. I was in complete & total awe at this... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0D6FKXNUDsQ/Vst38qFNyhI/AAAAAAAAFPQ/n2ilj-RK0Ys/s1600/099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0D6FKXNUDsQ/Vst38qFNyhI/AAAAAAAAFPQ/n2ilj-RK0Ys/s640/099.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1.29.16 ~ Rose Hill & Circle cheerleaders with Claire & Lola<br />
(Mady is holding Lola.)<br />
Photo by Danielle Baker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S2aLu_Lelk4/Vst3WDmYjXI/AAAAAAAAFPY/LdrrkgvnrGU/s1600/048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S2aLu_Lelk4/Vst3WDmYjXI/AAAAAAAAFPY/LdrrkgvnrGU/s400/048.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-game photo by Danielle Baker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jk1En3LsHFg/Vst35PesofI/AAAAAAAAFPg/CqQ7A0lBnHU/s1600/098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jk1En3LsHFg/Vst35PesofI/AAAAAAAAFPg/CqQ7A0lBnHU/s400/098.JPG" width="353" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting suited up! Lola = #DivaStatus<br />
Photo by Danielle Baker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KQIHah-LPmM/Vst3jz3JLTI/AAAAAAAAFPY/k1XOEKnod_Q/s1600/053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="379" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KQIHah-LPmM/Vst3jz3JLTI/AAAAAAAAFPY/k1XOEKnod_Q/s640/053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ehyxcucQg0I/Vst3u7hZjhI/AAAAAAAAFPg/UzSwhX9dlnY/s1600/057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ehyxcucQg0I/Vst3u7hZjhI/AAAAAAAAFPg/UzSwhX9dlnY/s400/057.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bows designed by Mady & handmade by Danielle and Mady<br />
I am SO digging that Disney princess font -- PERFECTION!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0u3DP0ZkuE/Vst3zRoUjHI/AAAAAAAAFPg/KJsQRuuXIkU/s1600/059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0u3DP0ZkuE/Vst3zRoUjHI/AAAAAAAAFPg/KJsQRuuXIkU/s400/059.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic move on Claire's part of strategically aligning her head so as to pinpoint gauge Lola's eye out with very little effort on her part whatsoever. Well played indeed. Sibling rivalry at its finest -- I would expect nothing less!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqQHiuGBVUg/Vst34tEtggI/AAAAAAAAFPg/PGMFL80s4JI/s1600/062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqQHiuGBVUg/Vst34tEtggI/AAAAAAAAFPg/PGMFL80s4JI/s400/062.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWy0J5l-kAY/Vst391n6x2I/AAAAAAAAFPg/11wym0czjgo/s1600/072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWy0J5l-kAY/Vst391n6x2I/AAAAAAAAFPg/11wym0czjgo/s400/072.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls are rocking their handmade tutus, also made by Mady! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu8viqNelf0/Vst3gGFFkkI/AAAAAAAAFPY/fVgZszp_v6M/s1600/051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu8viqNelf0/Vst3gGFFkkI/AAAAAAAAFPY/fVgZszp_v6M/s640/051.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honorary Cheerleaders!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I still get goosies thinking about that night and how perfect it was in every single way. I loved how the two teams came together for a common goal, how both sets of cheerleaders made my girls feel so included, how proud they were to honor Claire & Lola, how others watching wanted bows also, how both teams' parents reached out to Scott, the girls & me telling us how touched they were by this gesture, how I didn't even give a shit who won the damn game because this whole thing felt SO. MUCH. BIGGER. I love how our Circle cheerleaders still wear the bows many games later & how they smile with such love in their eyes at the girls <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2014/12/worlds-tiniest-cheerleaders.html" target="_blank">when they get their fist bumps during the home games</a> as if they are their "little sisters." I love seeing tweets like this:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-asyW9-RkM4w/VsuM0yMcmCI/AAAAAAAAFP4/Ee6FwUywaFI/s1600/IMG_1665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-asyW9-RkM4w/VsuM0yMcmCI/AAAAAAAAFP4/Ee6FwUywaFI/s400/IMG_1665.jpg" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big love to you, Ivory!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I love how, more than anything, it isn't just OUR little town who is embracing differences & seeing the beauty ANYWAY & giving and sharing love because of Claire & Lola. Our girls are changing this WORLD. I cannot tell you how much I love seeing my daughters as tiny messengers of change. I just am *so proud* to be part of the special needs community.<br />
<br />
Thank you from the absolute bottom of my heart to Danielle, Mady, the Rose Hill High School Cheerleaders, the Circle High School Cheerleaders, both communities, both teams, and all those who love our girls. You will never know how very much you mean to our family. We love you guys!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVjw8ZA14q4/VsuCotylz1I/AAAAAAAAFPo/XC0Mh25lRJs/s1600/we%2Brise%2Bby%2Blifting%2Bothers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVjw8ZA14q4/VsuCotylz1I/AAAAAAAAFPo/XC0Mh25lRJs/s400/we%2Brise%2Bby%2Blifting%2Bothers.jpg" width="397" /></a></div>
<br />
xoGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-33759497567719532072016-02-09T22:56:00.000-06:002016-03-25T21:10:53.484-05:00CODE YELLOW... THE SAGA CONTINUES!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
When we last left you, <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2016/01/code-yellow.html" target="_blank">our cocky companion, Bok, was teetering on the edge of his destiny</a>, unsure of whether to go toward the light or return to Earth with his BFF, Lola. It was touch & go for awhile in the Hooligan household, and we weren't about to count our chickens before they hatched, so to speak. But our Feta just HAD to live to cluck another day. SURELY he could pull through! He's a tough old bird, right?!?! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zkZ95R1It-E/Vrpn6MqeAOI/AAAAAAAAFE0/aoYt76GkuCQ/s1600/237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zkZ95R1It-E/Vrpn6MqeAOI/AAAAAAAAFE0/aoYt76GkuCQ/s400/237.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We were bound & determined to stick our necks out any way possible to save that little guy. Granted, Bok was no spring chicken, but his life still had worth and value, and we would pull out all the stops to help our Feta rule this roost yet again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlA4yOxjSmE/Vrpiq63d9eI/AAAAAAAAFEI/zx7Tz-w_iKg/s1600/207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qlA4yOxjSmE/Vrpiq63d9eI/AAAAAAAAFEI/zx7Tz-w_iKg/s400/207.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We suctioned...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EPPukTTIVD8/VrpvsZu_8UI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/nWABf8DadLE/s1600/206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EPPukTTIVD8/VrpvsZu_8UI/AAAAAAAAFFQ/nWABf8DadLE/s400/206.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and we suctioned some more.<br />
<br />
[PS -- Guess what? Chicken butt.]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkKDG9g5Iqk/VrpwlHvdMBI/AAAAAAAAFFk/xOZThUtsLMo/s1600/210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkKDG9g5Iqk/VrpwlHvdMBI/AAAAAAAAFFk/xOZThUtsLMo/s400/210.JPG" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7? O.M.G. His temp is down to SEVEN DEGREES?!?!? We're losing him!!!<br />
DAMN THAT WASHING MACHINE OF DOOM!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX-ToUXqUAk/VrpxAe_qbfI/AAAAAAAAFFs/Da622eHSrQI/s1600/212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX-ToUXqUAk/VrpxAe_qbfI/AAAAAAAAFFs/Da622eHSrQI/s400/212.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's see if a rectal temperature reading is more accurate... Ummmm, no.<br />
Come on, ya dumb cluck!!! Put up a freakin' squawk!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UbCorhwjYWg/VrpxzeR7GPI/AAAAAAAAFF8/p0z1HCYc7-c/s1600/200.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UbCorhwjYWg/VrpxzeR7GPI/AAAAAAAAFF8/p0z1HCYc7-c/s400/200.JPG" width="345" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9avV8NWa2Wo/Vrpyox4U3eI/AAAAAAAAFGM/7NTJQrZj-oY/s1600/203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9avV8NWa2Wo/Vrpyox4U3eI/AAAAAAAAFGM/7NTJQrZj-oY/s400/203.JPG" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ohhhhh nooooooooo!!!!!! Wattle we do?!?!? (See what I did there?!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n2-8B1Vj4CQ/VrpzFK-FAaI/AAAAAAAAFGU/cmY1uavUYGM/s1600/194.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n2-8B1Vj4CQ/VrpzFK-FAaI/AAAAAAAAFGU/cmY1uavUYGM/s400/194.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A1LgkamF8rM/VrpzYeh63SI/AAAAAAAAFGg/K9GjSsVpwaw/s1600/193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A1LgkamF8rM/VrpzYeh63SI/AAAAAAAAFGg/K9GjSsVpwaw/s400/193.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Be brave, Bok. Come back to your flock.<br />They say Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can sometimes be effective with near-drownings, so we had to give it a go.<br />If it was good enough for Michael Jackson, it is good enough for our Feta.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SrSWJ1eaPv4/Vrpz7k2uoaI/AAAAAAAAFGs/G_nO3d6HPio/s1600/214.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SrSWJ1eaPv4/Vrpz7k2uoaI/AAAAAAAAFGs/G_nO3d6HPio/s400/214.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AcpI40jHSso/Vrp0Tf5vYlI/AAAAAAAAFG0/Zhitbn-Eic0/s1600/216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AcpI40jHSso/Vrp0Tf5vYlI/AAAAAAAAFG0/Zhitbn-Eic0/s400/216.JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On a wing & a prayer, Scott tried tiny chest/breast compressions on our<br />
fowl friend with hopes that Feta would once again strut his stuff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fp-j_4NEV7k/Vrp1FFFf30I/AAAAAAAAFHM/Vq3iLosUTvQ/s1600/217.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fp-j_4NEV7k/Vrp1FFFf30I/AAAAAAAAFHM/Vq3iLosUTvQ/s400/217.JPG" width="330" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2QH6jfAu04/Vrp1xWhwiHI/AAAAAAAAFHY/RkDJMQRh1l4/s1600/243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2QH6jfAu04/Vrp1xWhwiHI/AAAAAAAAFHY/RkDJMQRh1l4/s400/243.JPG" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When all else failed, Scott tried mouth-to-beak resuscitation...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TsrYARNh9HU/Vrp2Be6PoZI/AAAAAAAAFHg/RAvnhSJS5N4/s1600/240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TsrYARNh9HU/Vrp2Be6PoZI/AAAAAAAAFHg/RAvnhSJS5N4/s400/240.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... and he was sure to listen for any signs of clucking and/or breathing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U_29nECk23w/Vrp2dsHBWcI/AAAAAAAAFHs/k_V31kB_oSE/s1600/227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U_29nECk23w/Vrp2dsHBWcI/AAAAAAAAFHs/k_V31kB_oSE/s400/227.JPG" width="330" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There was only one thing left to try... fried chicken. I mean, shocking our rubbery rooster back to life.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ga8g0XfGyIM/Vrp22IpQOaI/AAAAAAAAFH0/Ob8LKXYh-wI/s1600/222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ga8g0XfGyIM/Vrp22IpQOaI/AAAAAAAAFH0/Ob8LKXYh-wI/s400/222.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLEAR!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-auu8xwNZwnM/Vrp3msqXK-I/AAAAAAAAFIE/rTf_7v7FrDo/s1600/236.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-auu8xwNZwnM/Vrp3msqXK-I/AAAAAAAAFIE/rTf_7v7FrDo/s400/236.JPG" width="337" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">And now it was simply a waiting game. Would Feta "wake up with the chickens" ever again? Would he ruffle any more feathers? Would he ever cross the road? Would he run around like a chicken with his head cut off? Would the sky continue falling? Would he ever choke his own chicken (wait, wrong chicken quote... oopsie!)? Would he ever again do the "funky chicken" in all his glory?!?!? And furthermore, which DID come first -- Bok or the egg?! So many questions, so few answers. Only time would tell.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsCU0niHlAU/VrqQphSX5_I/AAAAAAAAFMk/jEeJlkvX3o8/s1600/121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsCU0niHlAU/VrqQphSX5_I/AAAAAAAAFMk/jEeJlkvX3o8/s400/121.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-9Knf8lAKE/VrqQqR2XdQI/AAAAAAAAFMo/_HQnMl8LzOA/s1600/244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-9Knf8lAKE/VrqQqR2XdQI/AAAAAAAAFMo/_HQnMl8LzOA/s400/244.JPG" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.5pt;">I would SO cue the 2004 Grammy
Award-winning anthem titled “Shake Ya Tailfeather” by Nelly, P. Diddy (or is it
Puff Daddy? Puffy? Diddy? Sean? Sean John? Cluck it, I give up.) & Murphy Lee if I
could right now because that Bok OG (Original Gallus, as in Gallus Domesticus, the
scientific name of the common chicken. Not to be confused with Common, the rapper.) cock-a-doodle-doo’ed
himself right back to life, by gum! </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FtDhRcgKS4A/VrqOJNjC0gI/AAAAAAAAFL8/nCTLhVXRWTY/s1600/124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FtDhRcgKS4A/VrqOJNjC0gI/AAAAAAAAFL8/nCTLhVXRWTY/s400/124.JPG" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 9.5pt;">Feta & his colorful
counterpart attempt to coexist with Mrs. Pocket in complete harmony.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SptyUcApp0o/VrqPz-nIP-I/AAAAAAAAFMM/pgClri0NxZk/s1600/127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SptyUcApp0o/VrqPz-nIP-I/AAAAAAAAFMM/pgClri0NxZk/s400/127.JPG" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wait, who is this guy?!?! Imma wring his neck!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ya3VmxtaEpk/VrqRNUFOr6I/AAAAAAAAFMw/e4zlfG0TO5M/s1600/128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ya3VmxtaEpk/VrqRNUFOr6I/AAAAAAAAFMw/e4zlfG0TO5M/s400/128.JPG" width="390" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmmm...tastes like chicken.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eVKNfRrqX7w/VrqRSUMO93I/AAAAAAAAFM0/LzDjMPJq5_I/s1600/129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eVKNfRrqX7w/VrqRSUMO93I/AAAAAAAAFM0/LzDjMPJq5_I/s400/129.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lola says, "The yolks on you!" by subtly attempting to "Ozzy Osbourne" poor stand-in Feta.<br />
She clearly isn't his "Mother Hen."<br />
(Note: No chickens or dwarves were harmed during the filming of this dorky melodrama.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFDhw58OB54/VrqRT7vdjSI/AAAAAAAAFM4/9hEjmOda2hQ/s1600/135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFDhw58OB54/VrqRT7vdjSI/AAAAAAAAFM4/9hEjmOda2hQ/s400/135.JPG" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pocket has never been more cocksure of anything in all her life. That fake Feta got what he deserved!!! They say poultry maintain a definite pecking order, and that is CLEARLY evident here. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9Mq8Ch-uSY/VrqTeJXs3BI/AAAAAAAAFNI/mVuAp1BJhzs/s1600/248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9Mq8Ch-uSY/VrqTeJXs3BI/AAAAAAAAFNI/mVuAp1BJhzs/s400/248.JPG" width="343" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothin' but LOVE</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4YlaR7eRgkc/VrqTfPV6zoI/AAAAAAAAFNM/4d6DtDq-Wy8/s1600/071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4YlaR7eRgkc/VrqTfPV6zoI/AAAAAAAAFNM/4d6DtDq-Wy8/s400/071.JPG" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bok = Cock of the Walk<br />
#rockoutwithyourbokout</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-3346150605014583182016-01-28T16:49:00.000-06:002016-01-28T16:50:39.609-06:00Thankful Thursday ~ BBC RadioYesterday I was interviewed by Julian Marshall of BBC Radio regarding microcephaly and the Zika virus, a mosquito-borne virus which is believed to be causing microcephaly in newborns whose mothers were infected by this virus while pregnant. I was honored & thankful to discuss our experience with microcephaly, and I hope that maybe, in some small way, my testimony can help new mothers whose babies were diagnosed with microcephaly to feel less alone & afraid. I certainly don't have all of the answers regarding this diagnosis, but I want to help set their minds at ease however I can.<br />
<br />
It is sad to me that microcephaly is being vilified in the media due to Zika, and I hope that the general public realizes that though this diagnosis would not be something I would have chosen, I am NO LESS BLESSED by having two daughters with this condition than if they'd been born typical. I am just as proud of my girls as I am of our neurotypical son, Cal.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03grzjh" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to listen to my radio interview from yesterday! As of now, I am being told it may only be active for another five days, though I hope to be able to download an mp3 of it at some point so I can share that here as well. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JJM_2y5rhA/VqqW5v7aehI/AAAAAAAAFB0/8FuPguhVLqc/s1600/163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JJM_2y5rhA/VqqW5v7aehI/AAAAAAAAFB0/8FuPguhVLqc/s400/163.JPG" width="330" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1.20.16 ~ Claire, Cal, & Lola celebrating the #DayOfAcceptance for #3ELove</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
xoGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-90552551436738529902016-01-15T16:28:00.000-06:002016-01-15T16:28:32.955-06:00CODE YELLOW! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_x6GypdEY00/VpgVe5kmLqI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/-Tspir17PzI/s1600/IMG_0458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_x6GypdEY00/VpgVe5kmLqI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/-Tspir17PzI/s400/IMG_0458.JPG" width="348" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(NOTE: Real Feta is considerably less red in the head/claw region than the chicken pictured above.<br />An impostor chicken was used for the "LOST!" poster, as real Bok was MIA.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the morning of January 8, I snapped the below photo of Cash & Lola. As I zoomed in closer to look at the picture, I gasped and chills spread throughout my body when I realized that our loyal compadre, Bok, was not in his trusty protector's hand. (For all you newbies, Bok -- also known as Feta -- is literally the ONLY thing in the whole wide world that Lola has ever voluntarily held onto, her rubbery roommate, her feathery-yet-non-feathery, feta-cheese-stankin' friend, her poultry partner-in-crime, her yellow yardbird, her chickeny chum. I could go on all. day. long!) Yes, it is common for Feta & Lola to "break up" or be "on a break" several times a day. She frequently drops him like a bad habit, and they live the single life for the rest of the day. Other times, he falls from her tight grasp and gets kicked under the couch. Not today, friends. Not today.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LJCxIHhK4tw/VpgWLHa65AI/AAAAAAAAE-g/L04uArxkVEk/s1600/089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LJCxIHhK4tw/VpgWLHa65AI/AAAAAAAAE-g/L04uArxkVEk/s400/089.JPG" width="363" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">#CashandLola ~ BFF's times infinity</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nope, today was a different story entirely. I checked all the usual locations for that little pecker, and he was nowhere to be found. He wasn't under either couch, either ottoman, the chair, Claire's beanbag, or on top of the ottoman. He wasn't on the kitchen counter drying with the g-tube extensions after a good cleaning/bath. He wasn't on the tray with all the remote controls and pens and essential oils (yep, I'm one of THOSE people!). I even pulled up all the couch cushions to check for his lifeless, little body, to no avail. What the cluck?!?! Where WAS he?!?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At this point, I was beginning to assume Cash had come into play with our beloved Bok. I began to fear the worst. Was he residing within a certain someone's colon and/or in a dung pile in our back yard? If so, could he be saved? And if he were miraculously found & saved, could he still be Lola's sidekick if I boiled him, or would that be wrong?! I almost went outside to look, but then I opted against it. (Hey, why do <b><u>all</u></b> my posts somehow end up circling back around to discussing shit?! It's like the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Six_Degrees_of_Kevin_Bacon" target="_blank">Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon</a> except in turd form. WTH!?!?) Instead, I decided to bust out a backup Bok. I know, I know. TOO SOON. I get it. I didn't want to believe he was gone either. But Lola seemed distressed, so I caved. I dug out my bag of alternate Fetas, removed the keychain ring (don't judge, it was the only 3" rubber chickens I could find on Amazon), and stuck that trickster in her hand.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hAyu1BwyElc/VpgWMjUkBpI/AAAAAAAAE-s/aUsfV6fRwjQ/s1600/103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hAyu1BwyElc/VpgWMjUkBpI/AAAAAAAAE-s/aUsfV6fRwjQ/s400/103.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">Upon having Fake Feta placed in her hand as a substitute for her Bok OG, Lola immediately became wide-eyed and distressed. She stared wildly into the distance while hearkening back to the wise words of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of The United States of America ~ “I may not know much, but I know chicken shit from chicken salad.”<br />That's my girl.</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Shortly thereafter, as I sat on the couch racking my <strike>bird</strike>brain trying to figure out where on earth Feta could be, I hatched an idea. I wasn't about to put all my eggs in one basket, but I had a pretty good idea of where he might be. I dashed into the laundry room, flung open the washer (which was full of clean, wet clothes, as usual), and I began removing piece-by-piece, shaking each one, hopeful that Bok might magnificently reappear. When I was almost to the bottom, I grabbed a blanket, gave it a good shake, and much to my surprise, Feta took flight (it was only a short flight though, as chickens are not capable of long distance flights)! He sailed majestically through the air, descended rapidly, and lodged himself precariously in the deep crevasse between the washing machine and our laundry cart. I could barely believe my eyes! FETA WAS FOUND!</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgbYRl3CYaY/VpgWMofybxI/AAAAAAAAE-o/dCz1qv7mlXU/s1600/106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgbYRl3CYaY/VpgWMofybxI/AAAAAAAAE-o/dCz1qv7mlXU/s400/106.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-enGx-NxHzBE/VpgWR_xYqnI/AAAAAAAAE-4/r7OD4iNqXGc/s1600/107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-enGx-NxHzBE/VpgWR_xYqnI/AAAAAAAAE-4/r7OD4iNqXGc/s400/107.JPG" width="370" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Save yourself, Feta! Don't fall deeper into the dark abyss!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At precisely that moment, Scott got home from work. The garage door opened, he walked in, and I yelled, "Bok's been lost! I couldn't find him anywhere & I looked EVERYWHERE! I finally figured out that he might have gotten wrapped up or hidden in a blanket & accidentally thrown in the washer with the dirty clothes & so I went to look & I shook out a blanket & he went airborne & somehow ended up almost plummeting to his death between the washer! Look where he landed! HE WENT THROUGH A WHOLE 57 MINUTE WASH LOAD! I am so glad he is found because fake Bok sucks!!!!!" To which Scott calmly replied, "We must save him." He quickly rushed out to the garage and returned with this...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j9kBw-HSIZk/VpgWZi1u-uI/AAAAAAAAE_A/5wu39Vu7gAg/s1600/108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j9kBw-HSIZk/VpgWZi1u-uI/AAAAAAAAE_A/5wu39Vu7gAg/s400/108.JPG" width="273" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEkBwAnKJrM/VpgWcdFhkgI/AAAAAAAAE_I/1sZ3BbV8JmY/s1600/112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEkBwAnKJrM/VpgWcdFhkgI/AAAAAAAAE_I/1sZ3BbV8JmY/s400/112.JPG" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noooooo!!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JsgklrNvFp4/VpgWhGPlClI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/ofDi9WtTM68/s1600/113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JsgklrNvFp4/VpgWhGPlClI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/ofDi9WtTM68/s400/113.JPG" width="325" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uoQP_Z9gGV8/VpgWl-APYaI/AAAAAAAAE_Y/0BaYYHUSWAU/s1600/114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uoQP_Z9gGV8/VpgWl-APYaI/AAAAAAAAE_Y/0BaYYHUSWAU/s400/114.JPG" width="297" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aMtBQGrJzZM/VpgXdsTdMoI/AAAAAAAAFBM/_IqHxLdQzDg/s1600/117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aMtBQGrJzZM/VpgXdsTdMoI/AAAAAAAAFBM/_IqHxLdQzDg/s400/117.JPG" width="323" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soaring high above the Machine of Doom... with aforementioned Blanket from Hell in foreground</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tVP8i4M9neg/VpgWvb6L_JI/AAAAAAAAE_o/IwDKlezy4hs/s1600/119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tVP8i4M9neg/VpgWvb6L_JI/AAAAAAAAE_o/IwDKlezy4hs/s400/119.JPG" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've got ya', little fella...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W_gjUvT3_ns/VpgW36kYPEI/AAAAAAAAE_0/OEh1rdCId7Q/s1600/120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W_gjUvT3_ns/VpgW36kYPEI/AAAAAAAAE_0/OEh1rdCId7Q/s400/120.JPG" width="368" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lvRsrNO34rE/VphghKhnHLI/AAAAAAAAFBg/T0RXrqYGDEY/s1600/196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lvRsrNO34rE/VphghKhnHLI/AAAAAAAAFBg/T0RXrqYGDEY/s400/196.JPG" width="232" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B4Kz0_6FVlE/Vphfy4gWndI/AAAAAAAAFBc/eVSGbD1QsKs/s1600/198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B4Kz0_6FVlE/Vphfy4gWndI/AAAAAAAAFBc/eVSGbD1QsKs/s400/198.JPG" width="393" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They say that pale combs on top of chickens' heads indicate illness or disease... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlEyq3hgk2U/VpgXP-3vdsI/AAAAAAAAFAo/815HJkz_W4Y/s1600/229%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlEyq3hgk2U/VpgXP-3vdsI/AAAAAAAAFAo/815HJkz_W4Y/s400/229%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="332" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stay with me, Bok!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JhADXcLZDPQ/VpgXXnJW7BI/AAAAAAAAFBA/76_uLlIQwHo/s1600/230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="387" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JhADXcLZDPQ/VpgXXnJW7BI/AAAAAAAAFBA/76_uLlIQwHo/s400/230.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't go to the light... NO! Don't do it!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W7bMTZahEZE/VpgXVllON1I/AAAAAAAAFA4/wgw2SObiM2I/s1600/237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W7bMTZahEZE/VpgXVllON1I/AAAAAAAAFA4/wgw2SObiM2I/s640/237.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
TO BE CONTINUED...<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for the gripping conclusion of Feta's rescue... Will he survive? Will he succumb to the light?<br />
<br />
xoGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-69657586046911793592015-12-16T10:33:00.001-06:002015-12-16T10:33:11.354-06:00I love you every step of the way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtZSQp3Q_Eg/VnF5ts1kc3I/AAAAAAAAE58/u24pUfDzHXU/s1600/048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtZSQp3Q_Eg/VnF5ts1kc3I/AAAAAAAAE58/u24pUfDzHXU/s400/048.JPG" width="385" /></a></div>
<br />
A few nights ago, I dreamt that Lola could walk.<br />
<br />
We were on a trip together, and I was holding her in my arms as I often do. Apparently just the two of us went to run an errand, and while there, I needed to use both hands at the same time. I couldn't do so while also holding Lola, so because there was a counter in front of me, I said, "Miss P, I'm gonna need you to stand up. Put weight on your feet, baby girl. Mama needs to use her other hand." And my girl did JUST THAT. <u>She stood</u>. Her little body unfurled, her back straightened, and she beared weight through her feet. I could not believe what I was seeing. I finished what I had to do, and then on a whim, I decided to try something else... <br />
<br />
I gently set my 2 foot tall, 12 pound, 9.5 year old daughter down on the floor next to me, I grabbed her hands, and I watched in awe as she proceeded to take steps. I let go with one hand, and because of how small she was, I bent over at the waist to hold her other hand, and again, she took off walking awkwardly. It was as if she'd been waiting to do so all her life. <br />
<br />
Eventually, she let go of my hand entirely. She toddled down the stark, white, relatively empty hallway in front of me, and I literally watched in disbelief as it looked impossible for someone that petite to be walking at all. People all around us were staring with wide eyes. Tears were flowing down my cheeks as I cheered & cried & laughed & couldn't take my eyes off my sweet Lolita.<br />
<br />
At one point, she started making clicking/sucking sounds with her mouth, and I realized that she might be hungry or thirsty. A lady nearby offered me a glass of water in a plastic cup with a lid and straw. I told her that Lola was unable to use a straw, but maybe we could take the lid off & I could try to carefully pour the water into her mouth. I was holding the glass with the straw when Lola pulled my hands closer to her mouth & DRANK OUT OF THE STRAW. She then walked off again, this time holding the glass! A few minutes later, I saw her take the lid off & point into the now empty glass to indicate she wanted more. Mind. Officially. Blown. <br />
<br />
I woke up shortly thereafter in complete shock, shook Scott's arm, & told him the whole damn story, giddy with excitement.<br />
<br />
In the past when I've dreamt about the girls being more able than they actually are, a sadness has flooded me upon waking. I usually feel an emptiness -- a longing -- a desire to try to make that dream a reality by working even harder with them in hopes this helps them achieve this goal or somehow selfishly makes me feel like I helped them live a fuller life. I remember talking to their therapists about my ideas & how badass it was to "see" this occur in my dream. I would tell them how I know that all of this sounds farfetched -- even impossible -- but that I really don't want to ever rule things out. Let's let <u>THE GIRLS</u> show us what they're capable of, I would tell them. Oh, yes. In the past, I have always tried to forget how magical it felt in the dream to see what I saw because back then, the absence of this skill in "real life" so completely & totally devastated me. It felt like yet another huge disappointment grounding us once again.<br />
<br />
However, this dream was different. I don't know why I was meant to dream it, but this time it felt like such a gift. It felt a little bit like a fast forward of our lives... and as hard as it is for me to say this (I almost don't even want to go there), it almost felt like Heaven -- how I imagine it will be when we reunite someday on the other side. I was able to see my little girl in such a different light. I know her heart inside & out already, but seeing her explore her world & delight in the little things felt like a lifetime worth of happiness condensed into one breathtaking moment.<br />
<br />
After spilling my guts to my husband-who-already-thinks-my-dreams-are-f'ed-up-and-insane (for other screwed up dreams, click <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2012/06/dream-interpret-this-bad-boy.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> and <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2013/11/the-dream-that-brought-me-full-circle.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Oh, and you're welcome.), I could hardly wait to scoop up my non-mobile-in-real-life girl, take her back to bed with me, & hold her so tight. I'm not gonna lie, I shed a few tears. But mostly, my heart just felt FULL. Full of love for my girl, full of all the hopes & dreams I still have for her (which don't include walking unless SHE chooses to do so), & full of gratitude for the blessing I'd just been given with this dream -- a new set of eyes to see my girl & all she can STILL do in this life. It was as if I finally realized how unimportant it is that she cannot do more things physically. I am so grateful that her body's many limitations no longer shatter me as they once did. I love the curve of her back due to her kyphosis. I love how tucked up her little body remains. I love how tiny she is and how complete I feel when she is in my arms. I love that I have the PRIVILEGE of even holding my 9 year old in my arms still! I love how cute she looks when she puts her lip out & cries (even if it is seizure-related). I love her little mostly-non-functional hands which cradle her beloved Feta. I love her birthmarks and her chicken pox scars and her now luxurious hair that just a few years ago barely existed. We have come SO far. Lola is perfect to me -- then and now.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7CziXCEXF0s/VnF8CN-lYwI/AAAAAAAAE6M/vPUffPISPJE/s1600/120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7CziXCEXF0s/VnF8CN-lYwI/AAAAAAAAE6M/vPUffPISPJE/s400/120.JPG" width="311" /></a></div>
<br />
I'd be lying if I didn't say I loved seeing her mobile in the dream because I SO DID. But seeing her non-mobile moments later didn't cause me to love her any less -- in fact, it maybe made me love her more. I honestly don't think Lola would be Lola without her current limitations. I used to wish that one day we'd wake up, and Lola and Claire would be miraculously healed. I prayed for it so hard those first few months of Claire's life that it damn near consumed me. I pleaded with God to take years off my own life to give them the chance to sit up or walk or even to not deal with reflux. I used to be so angry when nothing would change. That longing for something different seems like eons ago now. My prayers & wishes for my girls have changed so much. I just want them to be happy, to know the depth of our love, to live full, meaningful lives, and to have many more years here with us to make lasting memories. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3w3I_w_2rk8/VnGFhBT_thI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/ur_UIR7LKvU/s1600/10482310_923127824365789_1113651678076799289_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3w3I_w_2rk8/VnGFhBT_thI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/ur_UIR7LKvU/s400/10482310_923127824365789_1113651678076799289_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
xoGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-41361127503760953022015-12-08T14:11:00.000-06:002015-12-08T14:11:45.415-06:00Time Warp<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfGQmmm45LY/VmZGT46TnEI/AAAAAAAAE4k/xDHrLHSwcJs/s1600/333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wfGQmmm45LY/VmZGT46TnEI/AAAAAAAAE4k/xDHrLHSwcJs/s400/333.JPG" width="356" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">December 7, 2015</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I don't know what it is about early mornings when I'm sleep deprived and exhausted both physically and emotionally that really gets my mind goin'. And by goin', I mean crazy talk. The stage was set for Mommy Meltdown the other morning when 5:00 am rolled around, & Lola was still partying. I should have known she would crash hard as soon as she came off that milk high. It would have made sense to just ride out the emotional shitcoaster I was on, but NO, I actually went there. I had tried every single position known to man to get her calmed down. She wasn't having ANY of them. Literally I tried to position her on my right side sitting up, my left side sitting up, my right side laying down, my left side laying down, against my knees as I laid down, against the side of the couch facing the TV as I laid down, on her tummy across my tummy, on her back across my tummy, up on either shoulder, stretching her back across the arm of the couch/my legs/the ottoman, <strike>upside down (don't judge, I almost tried it!)</strike>, in her awesome <a href="https://www.4moms.com/mamaroo" target="_blank">Mamaroo swing</a>, in her Nap Nanny (yes, I know it's been recalled, but my non-mobile child who is being watched 24/7 is safe in there, I PROMISE!), in her bouncy seat, on the couch alone & not touching me, on pillows on the couch next to me... shit, you name it, I tried it, & IT FAILED MISERABLY. I finally told her <strike>to cut the horseshit</strike>, </span><span style="background-color: white;">"Lola, you are nine-and-a-half... Almost <b><u>TEN YEARS OLD</u></b>. You know better!!!"</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">And that is when it hit me. My BABY is going to be 10 YEARS OLD in April. How is this even possible?<br /> </span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9E1Jzl1Wo80/VmZGfZFSP5I/AAAAAAAAE4w/w1dHSJSyhR0/s1600/296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9E1Jzl1Wo80/VmZGfZFSP5I/AAAAAAAAE4w/w1dHSJSyhR0/s400/296.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">4:51 am, bitchezzzzzz!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">TEN, you guys. This wee little girl o' mine who still fits perfectly in my arms and on my lap is damn near a decade old. I am speaking of the last child I gave birth to... My 12 lb. "baby"... My spunky, opinionated, nocturnal, spirited, beautiful, freckled, rubber-chicken-loving daughter. She turns fucking *ten* in a mere 4 months. Double. Damn. Digits. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">This life -- it is like a time warp in so many ways. It feels like she ought to be maybe 3. Like it was just a few years ago that our worlds were forever changed as Lola joined our family. It feels like I blinked and suddenly my child-who-appears-nine-months-old is almost ten. I am almost ashamed to admit how much this terrifies me for reasons even I don't understand. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I think it signifies that life is changing, time is passing, and we are all growing older. Maybe that is what I struggle with... feeling like our girls are defying odds, worrying that they won't always be able to do so, worrying that with age comes more difficulties, worrying about Cal leaving home soon, worrying about my own issues as I age. I don't know. It just feels scary. Change is hard. And for families who have children with special needs, sometimes we just want things to stay the same... for ALWAYS.</span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IP5K3mvb2Hw/VmZM8OZt8HI/AAAAAAAAE5g/sfzj6sViJGs/s1600/219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IP5K3mvb2Hw/VmZM8OZt8HI/AAAAAAAAE5g/sfzj6sViJGs/s400/219.JPG" width="300" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">December 3, 2015</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I so remember everything about my pregnancy with Lola. I remember how scared we were because doctors weren't sure if she would survive the birth process. How so much was simply unknown. How it felt like uncharted territory for all of us. How our perinatologist moved away when I was 18 weeks pregnant and at that time - right before Christmas of 2005 - he basically cleared my pregnancy as "normal." I remember seeing Lola's fully open hand giving us a "high five" of sorts and wondering if that was a sign from her (and maybe God) that she was going to be OK. After all, Claire's thumbs were always tucked into her fists - surely this meant all was well?! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">I remember doctors wondering if she would be more or less advanced than Claire. We all studied her movement on sonogram so closely, specifically looking for spasticity (as if we could see it) or jerky movements that might indicate cerebral palsy/hypertonia or even seizures. When we saw nothing, that gave us hope. I prayed so hard that all these signs put together might mean that my baby girl, whom I prayed for with everything in me for the past five years, would simply LIVE so we all could have the privilege of knowing her.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">I remember forbidding the use of the word "Microcephaly" in our hospital room. And I could never forget how we bargained with the Universe to give us that typical birth experience we so longed for -- that we were denied with Claire & possibly took for granted with Cal. How the ONE THING that mattered most to me was that I could nurse my baby and she could be able to bond with me in that way, as I feared my bond would somehow be less or limited somehow because of all that the medical world viewed as "wrong" with her brain. </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">I remember my water breaking at 36.5 weeks and knowing that my whole world was about to be rocked and crying because I was so damn scared that I might come home without a new baby. I just wanted our Lola to LIVE. I wanted to take my tiny, preemie, microcephalic daughter home to begin our lives together, however abnormal that seemed to the rest of the world. These fears and possibilities and what-ifs nearly dismantled me.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">The one thing I knew with 100% assurance was that we were going to be given the perfect child for us REGARDLESS. And we so were.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Lola made her grand debut as only a diva could - QUICKLY. So quickly that my OB-GYN didn't even have time to arrive, and Yours Truly didn't have time to have a pain-free birth! Yep - I felt IT ALL, and I am positive that was what was intended for us. To feel EVERYTHING. And OH, how we did. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jSHyayis72w/VmZIQCJSAvI/AAAAAAAAE5I/Dubiv3_snrc/s1600/IMG_0222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jSHyayis72w/VmZIQCJSAvI/AAAAAAAAE5I/Dubiv3_snrc/s400/IMG_0222.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">April 30, 2006 ~ 2 days old</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Mrs Pocket was simply perfect. 5 lb. 10 oz. of pure spitfire! Our bitty badass perfectly complimented our family and made us raise our game to give her exactly what she needed in this life... And ironically, also what *WE* needed. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1_uzHTeej0/VmZLYHs3N1I/AAAAAAAAE5U/mH61M0di98E/s1600/IMG_2233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1_uzHTeej0/VmZLYHs3N1I/AAAAAAAAE5U/mH61M0di98E/s400/IMG_2233.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">March 19, 2007 ~ This picture has always meant SO MUCH to me because it is the only picture I have of Lola breastfeeding -- on the beach, no less! It was so important to me to try to make this work, and after countless visits with a <a href="http://www.llli.org/" target="_blank">La Leche League leader</a>/lactation consultant, <u>we did it</u>. You cannot imagine how happy this made me. The hours spent pumping 5-6 times daily for 2 years were worth it all.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Nearly TEN years ago, our sassy Lola taught us to slow down and live & love IN THIS MOMENT. To cherish each and every day. To focus on the NOW vs. trying to control our future or how we might possibly deal with what inevitably lays ahead (which I cannot bear to say out loud or even type). </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">I thought having Claire taught us a lot -- and OMG, I could devote five whole posts detailing all the ways she SO DID -- but together, all three of our children have shaped us as only they could. We are so damn lucky to have been chosen to parent Cal, Claire & Lola. And no matter what, I will continue to pray for TIME so we can love them longer and make as many memories as we can. Even at 4:51 am.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R1spzCzaIyM/VmZGvuZqBSI/AAAAAAAAE48/p50H1aTbsxY/s1600/297.JPG" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R1spzCzaIyM/VmZGvuZqBSI/AAAAAAAAE48/p50H1aTbsxY/s400/297.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">xo</span></div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-73386248885245670672015-11-11T12:16:00.000-06:002015-11-11T12:16:48.572-06:00Getting A Grasp<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R2kdveXA59o/VkNQsy0dIpI/AAAAAAAAE28/lGhcKKz1HXk/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R2kdveXA59o/VkNQsy0dIpI/AAAAAAAAE28/lGhcKKz1HXk/s400/012.JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire Elise ~ 11.4.2015 during Occupational Therapy ~ #ballislife</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dictionary.com defines the word <i>grasp</i> as follows:</div>
<header class="main-header oneClick-disabled cts-disabled head-big" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"><div class="waypoint-wrapper header-row header-first-row" data-href="source-luna" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 13px;">
<h1 class="head-entry" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; float: left; font-size: 36px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 13px; padding-right: 20px;">
<span class="me" data-syllable="grasp" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 50px;">grasp</span></h1>
<div>
<span class="me" data-syllable="grasp" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 50px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="me" data-syllable="grasp" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 50px;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</header><div class="source-data" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">
<div class="def-list" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<section class="def-pbk ce-spot" data-collapse-expand="{"target": ".def-set", "type": "def"}" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><header class="luna-data-header" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="dbox-pg" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">verb</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">(used</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">with</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">object)</span></span></span></header><header class="luna-data-header" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="dbox-pg" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 20px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><br /></span></span></span></header><div class="def-set" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-bottom: 17px;">
<span class="def-number" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; float: left; padding-right: 5px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">1.</span></span><div class="def-content" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-left: 37px;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">to</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">seize</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">hold</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">by</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">or</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">as</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">if</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">by</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">clasping</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">with</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">the</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">fingers</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">or</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">arms.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="def-set" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-bottom: 17px;">
<span class="def-number" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; float: left; padding-right: 5px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">2.</span></span><div class="def-content" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-left: 37px;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">to</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">seize</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">upon;</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">hold</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">firmly.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="def-set" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-bottom: 17px;">
<span class="def-number" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; float: left; padding-right: 5px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;">3.</span></span><div class="def-content" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding-left: 37px;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">to</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">get</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">hold</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">of</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">mentally;</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">comprehend;</span> <span class="oneClick-link oneClick-available" style="box-sizing: border-box;">understand:</span></span><div class="def-block def-inline-example" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #979797;">
<span class="dbox-example" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">I</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">don't</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">grasp</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">your</span> <span class="oneClick-link" style="box-sizing: border-box;">meaning. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="def-block def-inline-example" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #979797;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</section></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lately I have been struggling with getting a grasp on the enormity and profoundness of my daughters' disabilities. While seeing seizures, reflux, sleep issues, tone issues, brain issues, dislocations, etc. on a daily basis around here is common; for the most part, I rarely "see" these many issues as things that are "wrong" with my baby girls. To me, it's THEIR NORM. It's become OUR NORM. I sometimes amaze myself with all that I can physically and emotionally deal with on a daily basis without letting it rattle me too badly or reduce me to tears out of the blue. <b> <u>I LOVE THIS LIFE</u>.</b> And yes, I did feel the need to put that cheerful disclaimer in here right now because the last thing in the world I want anyone reading this to think is that I don't. Scott, Cal, Claire & Lola (& my crazy, goofy, awesome, possibly homosexual dogs, Romeo & Cash) are my world, yo. They are my EVERYTHING, as cliche as that might sound.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But there are definitely days where <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2013/10/why-do-i-do-this-to-myself.html" target="_blank">that 1% negativity outweighs the 99% joy</a>, and I feel sadness for what my girls (and selfishly myself) must endure. During Claire's occupational therapy session last week, this happened...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B34cLvNBqv8/VkNQ2TlwMtI/AAAAAAAAE3M/8z1LvZTK4-I/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B34cLvNBqv8/VkNQ2TlwMtI/AAAAAAAAE3M/8z1LvZTK4-I/s400/016.JPG" width="373" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7m8q406BvM/VkNQzisj-mI/AAAAAAAAE3I/RrqpCQt1k-I/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W7m8q406BvM/VkNQzisj-mI/AAAAAAAAE3I/RrqpCQt1k-I/s400/015.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I finally saw it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Her poor thumbs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't get me wrong, <a href="http://www.thehartleyhooligans.com/2011/06/hands.html" target="_blank">I am obsessed with my girls' cute little hands</a>. I think they are dainty and precious and super expressive and literally PERFECT exactly as they are. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But today, for some reason, I felt heartbroken.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I felt heartbroken that it was almost impossible for Claire to grasp this tiny basketball. I felt heartbroken that her thumbs are tucked into her little fists/palms all the time. I felt heartbroken that because her thumbs are always tucked in, they function more like fingers and don't oppose. I felt heartbroken that her hand splints haven't helped. I felt heartbroken because her thumb joints have actually relocated over the past 14+ years so that they are now in completely different positions, thus rendering my daughter's hands almost unusable. Most of all, I felt heartbroken that the world might view her somehow as "less" because she has yet ONE MORE THING she cannot physically do. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iqcAo-ijb1w/VkNiqt7TGJI/AAAAAAAAE3k/yUnXKodmrEM/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iqcAo-ijb1w/VkNiqt7TGJI/AAAAAAAAE3k/yUnXKodmrEM/s400/013.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I felt heartbroken for about 4 minutes until I realized that this is MY issue. Claire loves her life, and SHE IS HAPPY! Claire doesn't care that she cannot hold things -- in fact, she doesn't even WANT to hold things. Holding things doesn't = more excitement for my girl. Holding things doesn't = increased worth. Being unable to hold things would be devastating for me, but Claire hasn't known anything different her entire life. Having hands that do not function properly doesn't impact JACK <strike>SHIT</strike> for my girl. Her happiness and joy are 100% completely independent of how her body is able to function physically.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, I will say, Claire <u>does</u> seem to find enjoyment working on optimizing all that she IS able to do physically. She has been working on standing, kneeling, crawling position, & tummy time (or, due to the hypertonia -- the 5 minute plank! I guarantee you that my girl could out-plank *anyone* on the freakin' planet. She's a beast! Thank you, spastic quad cerebral palsy. HA!). We are so incredibly proud of her for all she CAN do -- which is a whole lot, given her diagnoses & physical limitations. My girl's a bitty badass!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eRrQjHVX3Og/VkNlsTyLUxI/AAAAAAAAE3w/v6XcvEvR-1A/s1600/144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eRrQjHVX3Og/VkNlsTyLUxI/AAAAAAAAE3w/v6XcvEvR-1A/s400/144.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SElHx1N06II/VkNnLs6J1oI/AAAAAAAAE38/XDUwxoGiKnE/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SElHx1N06II/VkNnLs6J1oI/AAAAAAAAE38/XDUwxoGiKnE/s400/006.JPG" width="363" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMzN3Wt2gjQ/VkNoXIA-B8I/AAAAAAAAE4E/RJOsgmQI_UE/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMzN3Wt2gjQ/VkNoXIA-B8I/AAAAAAAAE4E/RJOsgmQI_UE/s400/005.JPG" width="252" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My new motto...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wkc9rrt-dww/VkNqw7lZCUI/AAAAAAAAE4Q/Wa3ZTl6Gt4s/s1600/have%2Bfaith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wkc9rrt-dww/VkNqw7lZCUI/AAAAAAAAE4Q/Wa3ZTl6Gt4s/s400/have%2Bfaith.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16472457.post-32402088276751626322015-11-03T14:13:00.000-06:002015-11-03T14:14:08.742-06:00Hartley Hooligans Hero Halloween!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
In typical Hartley fashion, we may or may not have gone a wee bit overboard on Halloween yet again this year. We like to blame it on peer pressure, as our neighbors all do the same damn thing, but in reality, we all just love this holiday. This year we opted for the ever-popular superhero theme, as it was one we hadn't rocked before. We often refer to our girls as our tiny superheroes anyway, so it seemed fitting. Any child who has gone through something beyond difficult and come out the other side even stronger is a hero in my book anyway. So without further ado (I have ALWAYS wanted to say that!), I present to you our 2015 Halloween festivities!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYg3mvV_5oM/VjeXc5FOrmI/AAAAAAAAE2A/1LAztlShMFI/s1600/H302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYg3mvV_5oM/VjeXc5FOrmI/AAAAAAAAE2A/1LAztlShMFI/s640/H302.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hooligan 7!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xky6VYcH-Q/VjeWVxGzMGI/AAAAAAAAE0M/mjR-6TY1XR4/s1600/H111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xky6VYcH-Q/VjeWVxGzMGI/AAAAAAAAE0M/mjR-6TY1XR4/s400/H111.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ambiguously_Gay_Duo" target="_blank">Ace & Gary</a>... I mean, Batman & Robin!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qiEnawv0qkE/VjeWWUZmX3I/AAAAAAAAE0Q/Y8R7WkmUEso/s1600/H122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qiEnawv0qkE/VjeWWUZmX3I/AAAAAAAAE0Q/Y8R7WkmUEso/s400/H122.JPG" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy smokes, Batman. I cannot believe they dressed me in this shit.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-11ZkomVZrlk/VjeWeJFEJLI/AAAAAAAAE0Y/sKv_91Hq64I/s1600/H134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-11ZkomVZrlk/VjeWeJFEJLI/AAAAAAAAE0Y/sKv_91Hq64I/s400/H134.JPG" width="340" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy strawberries, Batman! We're in a jam!<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Did you see where they tied my mask on? UNDER MY CHIN.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(Do our dogs have microcephaly, too?!?! HA!)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qbxlrmO6Ic0/VjeWmMhMPoI/AAAAAAAAE0o/zKW7T1lJZ4k/s1600/H137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qbxlrmO6Ic0/VjeWmMhMPoI/AAAAAAAAE0o/zKW7T1lJZ4k/s400/H137.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cal Kent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h6UG_xTbMPk/VjeW1RcKdvI/AAAAAAAAE04/8RvISbFWHEo/s1600/H159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h6UG_xTbMPk/VjeW1RcKdvI/AAAAAAAAE04/8RvISbFWHEo/s400/H159.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An unlikely coupling of Wonder Claire & Pocket Hulk have teamed up to protect & serve!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UfBWSXLNwxQ/VjeXCeS6S5I/AAAAAAAAE1Y/xZG3BPpl1bI/s1600/H217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UfBWSXLNwxQ/VjeXCeS6S5I/AAAAAAAAE1Y/xZG3BPpl1bI/s400/H217.JPG" width="308" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M1Vjo7dNBsc/VjeXIrL6sGI/AAAAAAAAE1g/jXWKOedAvCk/s1600/H251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M1Vjo7dNBsc/VjeXIrL6sGI/AAAAAAAAE1g/jXWKOedAvCk/s400/H251.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quite possibly my favorite picture of Claire <b><u>EVER</u></b>!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KLrkQN4dnt4/VjeXBzM9pyI/AAAAAAAAE1U/7uv_e2uJBrk/s1600/H233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KLrkQN4dnt4/VjeXBzM9pyI/AAAAAAAAE1U/7uv_e2uJBrk/s400/H233.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I spy Wonder Bok (Lola's tiny rubber chicken)...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G87w2jmgbd4/VjeXf0WLQnI/AAAAAAAAE2Q/hi5p1MJ263s/s1600/H329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G87w2jmgbd4/VjeXf0WLQnI/AAAAAAAAE2Q/hi5p1MJ263s/s400/H329.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hulk & Feta SMASH!<br />
(Those damn fists are bigger than Mrs. Pocket!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jvgn0nmx498/VjeWjrFi1lI/AAAAAAAAE0g/4xat5d7bzG4/s1600/H145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jvgn0nmx498/VjeWjrFi1lI/AAAAAAAAE0g/4xat5d7bzG4/s400/H145.JPG" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tracey & Mrs. Hulk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7blyghZPxE/VjeXBKrPmfI/AAAAAAAAE1Q/HSg-xBa7CXM/s1600/H246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7blyghZPxE/VjeXBKrPmfI/AAAAAAAAE1Q/HSg-xBa7CXM/s400/H246.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonder Feta to the rescue!!!<br />
(A big thanks to Tracey for decking out our non-feathered friend in matching Hulk attire! LOL)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0BM4aaayGw/VjeXSkybhAI/AAAAAAAAE1w/JTun3gUF_1c/s1600/H272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0BM4aaayGw/VjeXSkybhAI/AAAAAAAAE1w/JTun3gUF_1c/s400/H272.JPG" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mini-Hulk all tuckered out</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfKW5uJCYZU/VjeW2OChXpI/AAAAAAAAE1A/7lBveg0G_1E/s1600/H209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="350" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfKW5uJCYZU/VjeW2OChXpI/AAAAAAAAE1A/7lBveg0G_1E/s400/H209.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OMG. I love them sooooo much.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hV7_DCnJkK4/VjeXYgXYa1I/AAAAAAAAE14/UllwmaN3n_U/s1600/H287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hV7_DCnJkK4/VjeXYgXYa1I/AAAAAAAAE14/UllwmaN3n_U/s400/H287.JPG" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice wig, Madam.<br />
I am embarrassed to admit that Scott dressed up as "Amazing Scott," complete with a shirt stating this, red floral Hawaiian board shorts, and a blonde, poofy ladies' wig. W. T. FFFFFFF?!?!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7BudNG-K7Kg/VjeXQf_-2BI/AAAAAAAAE1o/H5JGsIQGi2s/s1600/H279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7BudNG-K7Kg/VjeXQf_-2BI/AAAAAAAAE1o/H5JGsIQGi2s/s400/H279.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A huge thanks to our awesome occupational & vision therapists, Stacey & Joli, for the awesome painted superhero pumpkins! This was a three week project that involved hand painting the bottom color the first week, the top color the second week & then adding the gold/white accents the third week.<br />
Scott used a black Sharpie to outline & create the final product. <u>SO AWESOME</u>!!!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9bkf50g27o/VjkPiheutUI/AAAAAAAAE2w/zQvyFP8aUBA/s1600/041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g9bkf50g27o/VjkPiheutUI/AAAAAAAAE2w/zQvyFP8aUBA/s400/041.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tezPc4bnX34/VjeXf-T_X7I/AAAAAAAAE2M/WHPk5gjHLVE/s400/H327.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="318" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-Halloween mood</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhwdrlqNT60/VjkGc_6qT2I/AAAAAAAAE2c/nlltiyc8yiI/s1600/hero%2Bovercome%2Bobstacles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhwdrlqNT60/VjkGc_6qT2I/AAAAAAAAE2c/nlltiyc8yiI/s400/hero%2Bovercome%2Bobstacles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
xoGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10963513665015373305noreply@blogger.com10