Saturday, May 3rd, 2008 ~ Dad & Mom Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Dad and Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a really good class and just what the doctor ordered. Melanie Comes To Do Cranial Sacral Therapy On Tracy This Afternoon ~ Melanie came to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. Melanie Gives Dad A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Melanie gave Dad a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. It really helps his shoulder and S-I joint, which have been pretty tight. Melanie Gives Mom A Swedish Massage This Afternoon Out By The Pool ~ It was the perfect day to spend outside by the pool getting a Swedish massage. After Mom's massage, Melanie gave Papaw a mini-session. He seemed to enjoy it very much! Everyone Watches The Kentucky Derby This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the events leading up to the Kentucky Derby today. It was so sad to see the only filly in the derby collapse on the track with two broken ankles. She finished in second place, and had to be euthanized at the end of the race! So sad! Mom Gives Luca A Bath ~ Mom gave Luca a bath this evening. He smells so much better now. She took Luca and Luna for a long walk this evening. They love going for walks, even in the dark. Mamaw & Papaw Watch The San Antonio Spurs Play The New Orleans Hornets ~ Everyone watched the Spurs play the Hornets in the playoff. Go Hornets! Daily OM: The Journey Of Commitment: Entering Into Commitment ~

Friday, May 2nd, 2008 ~ Mom Took The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga this morning. Dad took the day off from work and everyone hung out at home with Mamaw and Papaw. Tania Takes A Study Day Today ~ Tania took the day off from work to finish her research paper. She has her final exams next Wednesday and will be on summer break. We wish her luck on her finals and are cheering for her all the way! Dad & Papaw Take The Van For An Oil Change ~ Looks like the men can't sit still for long so they decided to take the van to get the oil changed. While they were waiting, they went to the Sea Ray dealer to check out some new boats. Guess men can dream, right? Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy This Evening ~ Mamaw and Papaw, Jeff, Dad, and Mom took Tracy to her Hippotherapy session at Bit By Bit in Parkland. Tracy had the best session to date, sitting up very tall and working really hard on her head control. We are all very proud of her! Mom Orders Baby Back Ribs From Bonefish Macs ~ Everyone wanted baby back ribs from Bonefish Macs for dinner this evening. They were really good. They have the best ribs. After dinner, they watched the Boston Celtics lose to the Atlanta Hawks. They are now tied 3 to 3! Go Celtics! Daily OM: Stepping Back From Anger: Argument ~

Phrase Of The Month: TAKING RISKS! Affirmation Of The Month ~"If you really want something than go for it! Nothing comes easy!" ~ Anita Allison Goal Of The Month: "Dare to dream and dare to have high hopes, and in doing so, take the courageous steps necessary to achieve them!" ~ Deb Anzalone Quote Of The Month: "It is only a beginning, always. The young must know it; the old must know it. It must always sustain us, because the greatness comes not when things go always good for you, but the greatness comes and you are really tested, when you take some serious knocks, some disappointments, when sadness comes, because only if you have been in the deepest valley can you ever know magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain." ~ President Richard Nixon in his final remarks to the White House Staff Poem Of The Month: Taking Risks by William Arthur Ward Song Of The Month: Headed In The Right Direction by India.Arie Lyrics: " I release all these disappointment, From my mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional body, 'Cause I know that spirit guides me, And love lives inside me, That's why today I take life as it comes." ~ India.Arie Book Of The Month: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Yoga Pose Of The Month: Dandaymana Bibhaktapada Janushirashana : Standing Separate Leg Head To Knee Featured Website of the Month: Mindfulness.Com : This is a great website on Mindfulness!

Thursday, May 1st, 2008 ~ Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a really good class and just what Mom needed today! Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Afternoon ~ Dee worked with Tracy on the massage table this afternoon. Today, he gave Tracy a much-needed massage and then sat her on the edge of the table to work on head and trunk control. He rocked her from side to side to work on balance and proprioception. Tracy Vomits About 6 To 8 Ounces This Evening ~ When Dee was done with therapy, Tracy vomited about 6 to 8 ounces, mostly mucus. She may have gotten dizzy from all of the side to side movement. She seemed a lot better after that! Mamaw & Papaw Arrive Safely From Louisiana This Evening ~ Mamaw and Papaw arrived safely from Louisiana this evening. Dad brought them home from Miami International Airport. It is so nice to have them visiting with us for the weekend. Tracy seemed really happy to see them. She was laughing most of the evening. Dad Cooks Boneless Pork Chops On The Grill For Dinner ~ Everyone enjoyed grilled boneless pork chops, corn on the cob, mixed green salad, and red beans and rice for dinner. Everyone Watches Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader & Greys Anatomy This Evening ~ Everyone relaxed and watched Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader and Greys Anatomy this evening. No one realized that a wolverine is not a canine but is a weasel! Guess none of us are smarter than a fifth grader! Daily OM: If Only: Locating The Underlying Cause ~

Wednesday, April 30th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Aunt Diane! ~ Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a very challenging class! Whew! Tracy's Congestion Is Improving ~ Tracy's congestion has improved and she is breathing a lot better. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love This Afternoon ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love this afternoon. They are enjoying their journey to the Ashram in India. Tracy Goes Into The Pool For Aquatherapy ~ Jeff and Greg came to work with Tracy in the pool this evening. Dad heated the pool to a toasty 88 degrees, however the wind picked up and there was a slight chill. Mom put Tracy's thin skinned wet suit on Tracy to help conserve the heat. Jeff and Greg gave Tracy a good workout! She was so tired that she went right to sleep and slept through the night! It was the best night's sleep she has had in a long time! Mom & Dad Catch Up On Paper Work ~ Mom and Dad caught up on some much needed office work this evening. Argh! Daily OM: The Weather Of Transition: Springtime & Teenagers ~

Tuesday, April 29th, 2008 ~ Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Mom Goes To Spinning This Morning ~ Mom went to Spinning this morning at LA Fitness in Deerfield Beach. It was a really good class and just what Mom needed today! Tania Shaped Tracy's Eyebrows This Morning ~ Tania worked on shaping Tracy's eyebrows this morning. She was way over due and Tania does such a good job on them. Tracy has such pretty eyes and long eyelashes. She looks beautiful! Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Afternoon ~ Dee worked with Tracy on the therapy mat this afternoon. He first started by ranging and stretching Tracy's major muscle groups such as her shoulders, her hips, her hamstrings, and her feet. Then he and Tania got Tracy prone on the mat to work on neck, trunk, and hip strengthening. Tracy still has some chest congestion, and Dee did some percussions to help loosen up some of the mucus in her chest. It must have worked because Tracy coughed up a large amount of mucus. Next, Dee and Tania sat Tracy on the peanut ball to work on more neck and trunk strengthening and balance. Tracy seemed a lot more comfortable on the ball than she did prone. Mom Takes Luca & Luna For A Long Walk ~ Mom took Luca and Luna for a long walk around the neighborhood this afternoon. Tracy Ranges Her Right Hip & Hamstring On The CPM This Evening ~ Mom and Tania put Tracy on the CPM this evening so she could range and stretch her right hamstring and hip. She tolerated about an hour and a half on her right leg. Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening while Mom, Luca and Luna stayed with Tracy. He really missed going to yoga over the past several month and is very happy to be back fully healed. Mom & Dad Grill Garlic Chicken Breasts For Dinner ~ Mom and Dad grilled some garlic chicken breasts for dinner this evening. They were really good. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Dancing With The Stars: The Results this evening. We were sad to see Shannon and Derek go home, and are still rooting for our favorites: Jason & Edyta and Kristi & Mark. Daily OM: Creating A Harmonious Home: A Home Of Love ~

Monday, April 28th, 2008 ~ Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class with lots of positive energy. Tania Takes A Study Day ~ Tania took the day off to work on her research paper and to study for her final exams next week! We sure do miss her. Felicia Gives Tracy A Manicure ~ Felicia gave Tracy a well-deserved manicure this morning. The color of the week is pale pink. Tres chic! Tracy's Congestion Is Much Better Today ~ Tracy had a good night's sleep and her congestion is much improved today. She continues to cough productively and her lungs remain clear. Mom Takes The Dogs For A Long Walk ~ Mom took Luca and Luna for a long walk this afternoon. They sure do love their walks. Tracy Spends Some Time On The CPM This Afternoon ~ Tracy ranged and stretched her left hamstring and hip on the CPM this afternoon. She tolerated an hour and a half. Mom Finishes Making Bows For The Wedding Favors ~ Mom finished tying 200 bows for Tiffany and Benny's wedding favors this evening. She is very happy to have them all done! Project wedding is coming along! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Dancing With The Stars this evening. It is getting to be a very close contest! Daily OM: Beyond Behavior : Defense Mechanisms ~

Sunday, April 27th, 2008 ~ Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Tracy Has Hippotherapy At 11 AM At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan this morning at Bit By Bit in Parkland. Tracy is still congested and the Hippotherapy session helped to break up some of the congestion in her sinuses and upper airways. It seems that the vibrations work to move things around in the respiratory system, not to mention the country fresh air and morning sunshine! All are very therapeutic for sure! Tracy did not do as well as she did during her session last Sunday, but that is to be expected with a head cold. We are hoping that she will be back 100 percent by Friday, and exhibiting her best trunk and head control ever! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg On The Therapy Mat Instead Of In The Pool ~ Mom and Dad opted for Tracy's therapy to be on the mat and not in the pool today, since she still is recoviering from a head cold. Jeff was out sick with a bad cold (it is really going around). Greg and Dad got Tracy from her chair to the therapy mat, and Greg worked on stretching and ranging her major muscle groups, especially her hips, hamstrings, and feet. Then it was time to get Tracy prone on her tummy on the mat. Tracy tolerated about 8 minutes today, which was cut short due to her upper respiratory congestion. While prone, Greg used the e-stim to re-educate Tracy's paraspinous muscles in her neck and shoulders. This helps Tracy to strengthen the muscles necessary for head control. She did a good job tolerating the e-stim, which can feel a little strange and uncomfortable. Mom knows what that feels like; she gets e-stim and moist heat to her neck and lower back every time she goes to the chiropractor. After lying prone, Dad and Greg got Tracy in long sitting and worked on balance and head control. Greg positioned Tracy so that she could weight bear through her hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders. Tracy was able to balance her head for about 5 or 6 seconds. Baby steps, baby steps, baby steps! She is getting a little stronger every session. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Meet The Family At Matte'os For A Surprise Birthday Dinner For Aunt Diane ~ Jeff arranged a surprise birthday dinner for Aunt Diane's birthday at Matteo's Italian Restaurant in Boca Raton. She was so surprised, the food and company was great, and everyone had a wonderful evening. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Desperate Housewives & Brothers And Sisters This Evening On TiVo ~ Thank goodness for TiVo. Everyone caught up on this evening's episodes of Desperate Housewives and Brothers And Sisters! Work Progresses On The Generator Installation Project ~ We are making progress on our generator installation project, which is about 80 percent completed. We are now waiting for the gas company to install the larger propane tank. LaMarca Construction Company did an awesome job with the installation. We plan to be as ready as possible for the upcoming hurricane season. Keep your fingers crossed that it is a quiet one like the past two seasons. Daily OM: Graceful Guidance : Working With Angels ~

Saturday, April 26th, 2008 ~ Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Dad went to Bikram Yoga this morning at 10 AM. It had been several weeks since Dad had been able to go with his last surgery 10 days ago. His incision site is healing well, and his shoulder seems to be about 90 percent recovered. Tracy URI/ Congestion Is Improved ~ Tracy's upper respiratory congestion seems to be much better today. She is coughing occasionally, which is helping to clear things up. Her lungs remain clear, and Mom continues to irrigate her nose with normal saline. She has been awake a lot than yesterday, and seems more comfortable today. Mom & Dad Spend Most Of The Day Catching Up On Paperwork & Wedding Planning ~ Mom and Dad spent the majority of the day getting lots of work accomplished. Mom has been working hard on wedding planning and Dad is getting caught up on paperwork. Argh! Mom & Dad Take Time To Relax In The Hot Tub ~ Mom and Dad took some time to relax in the hot tub after a very busy week. It was a picture perfect evening with lots of stars and a cool breeze! Daily OM: Interconnected Experiences : Noticing Synchronicity ~

Friday, April 25th, 2008 ~ Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Tracy Vomits 6 Ounces This Morning Around 6:15 AM ~ Tracy vomited about 6 ounces around 6:15 AM this morning. Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning at 9:15 AM. Lan taught a really inspiring class! After class, Mom went to get a manicure and a facial. It had been about a year since she had a facial and she was more than ready! Mom Goes To Shampoo & Style Nana's Hair ~ Mom went to shampoo and style Nana's hair this afternoon. She is getting pretty good with the round brush and blow dryer! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan this evening at Bit By Bit in Parkland. Tracy is still congested and the Hippotherapy session helped to break up some of the congestion in her sinuses and upper airways. It seems that the vibrations works to move things around in the respiratory system, not to mention the country fresh air and evening sunshine! All are very therapeutic for sure! Tracy did not do as well as she did during her session last Sunday, but that is to be expected with a head cold. Work Progresses On The Generator Installation Project ~ We are making progress on our generator installation project, which is about 80 percent completed. We are now waiting for the gas company to install the larger propane tank. LaMarca Construction Company did an awesome job with the installation. We plan to be as ready as possible for the upcoming hurricane season. Keep your fingers crossed that it is a quiet one like the past two seasons. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Grey's Anatomy This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching a new episode of Grey's Anatomy this evening. It was so nice to finally have a new episode after a very strange television season with the ever-enduring writer's strike. Daily OM: Letting Nature Work : The Silent Change ~

Thursday, April 24th, 2008 ~ Tracy Wakes Up Around 4 AM With Nausea ~ Thank goodness Mom and Dad were able to talk Tracy out of vomiting at 4 AM this morning. Mom and Dad emptied what little Tracy had in her stomach (through her tube) which helped to prevent her from vomiting. She finally went back to sleep and slept for the rest of the night. Mom & Dad Spend The Morning In A Meeting In Ft. Lauderdale ~ Mom and Dad left bright and early this morning for a meeting in Ft. Lauderdale. Mom Rereads Tracy's Essay: BLESSED ~ Mom had a few minutes to reread Tracy's AP English essay: BLESSED . It provides tremendous depth and insight into many of Tracy's beliefs and convictions! If you have not already read it, we invite you to do so! Progress Is Being Made On Our Generator Installation For Our Home ~ It took more than a year to get everything in place to install the new generator. No one knew it could be such a complicated process. The good news is the trench around the front of the house is gone and the drive way pavers are all back in place. In fact, you can't even tell that there was ever a trench across the front of the house. The last step is to install the propane gas tank. (Argh more digging!) The good news is that we will have everything ready for the upcoming hurricane season. Hopefully, now that we are prepared, we will not need to use it! Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania read to Tracy from the book: Eat, Pray. Love out by the pool in ths sunshine. They are still in the Pray section, which takes place in India. Tracy seems to be enjoying the book! Tracy Gets Physical Therapy This Evening With Dee ~ Dee came by to work with Tracy on her Physical Therapy. He went a little easy on her today, since she still is a little congested. He gave her a good massage, and did some chest physiotherapy to help with her congestion. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch A New Episode (Finally) Of Grey's Anatomy This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched a new episode (a long time in the making) of Grey's Anatomy this evening. Daily OM: The Mystery Of Transformation : The Butterfly Chrysalis ~

Wednesday, April 23rd, 2008 ~ Tracy Still Seems To Be Congested ~ Tracy is still congested and breathing a lot through her mouth. Her lungs remain clear, and Mom continues to irrigate her nose with normal saline. Her temperature has come down and she was sleepy most of the day. Tania, Felicia, Tracy, Luca & Luna Sit Outside In The Warm Sunshine ~ The girls and the dogs hung outside by the pool to catch up on their Vitamin D (sunshine). It was a beautiful day and the sunshine sure is healing. (Besides, the electricians turned off the power to work on the generator hook-up, so the best place to be at a time like this was outside!) Mom Picks Up Nana & Takes Her To Her Appointments ~ Mom picked up Nana and took her to the optician and to the comfort shoe store. It took a good part of the afternoon to get everything done. Tracy's Aqua/Physical Therapy Was Cancelled Because Of Her Head Cold ~ Mom decided to cancel Tracy's Aquatherapy session with Jeff and Greg because of Tracy's head cold. We hope she is feeling better by Sunday for her next session in the pool. Nana Comes Over For Dinner & Mom Cooks Italian Sausage Frittatas ~ Mom made Italian Sausage Frittatas for dinner. Everyone sure did like them! Daily OM: Analyzing The Path : Recognizing Happiness ~

Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008 ~ Tracy Vomits 8 To 10 Ounces This Morning Around 9:15 AM ~ Tracy vomited about 8 to 10 ounces around 9:15 AM this morning. Mom decided to give Tracy clear liquids (Pedialyte) and to hold off on the Jevity 1.2 for the remainder of the day. Tracy Vomits 3 Ounces Again At 10 AM ~ Tracy vomited about 3 ounces again around 10 AM. Mom gave Tracy some Extra Strength Tylenol around noon for a low-grade temperature of 99.1 degrees (Axiallary). Tracy Has A Head Cold ~ Tracy sounded pretty congested this morning and seems to have a head cold. Her lungs were clear when Dad and Mom listened to them with the stethoscope. Her congestion is limited to her nose and sinuses. Mom is treating it with normal saline nose drops. Mom Cancels Tracy's Physical Therapy With Dee This Morning ~ Mom decided to cancel Tracy's Physical Therapy session with Dee this morning, so that Tracy could rest and recuperate. She continues to irrigate Tracy's nose with normal saline nose drops. Work Progresses On The Generator Installation Project ~ We are making progress on our generator installation project, which should be 80 percent completed by the end of the week. We plan to be as ready as possible for the upcoming hurricane season. Keep your fingers crossed that it is a quiet one like the past two seasons. Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this evening at 6:30 while Dad and Tania stayed with Tracy. It sure did feel strange to practice Yoga at this time of day! Mom realizes that she is definitely a morning person! Stacy taught another great class! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Dancing With The Stars this evening. Go Kristi and Mark and Jason and Edyta! Daily OM: The Direction Of Happiness : Leaving A Relationship ~

Monday, April 21st, 2008 ~ Mom & Dad Spend The Day In Meetings In Miami ~ Mom and Dad left bright and early this morning for all day meetings in Miami. They returned around 6 PM. It was a very long day! Progress Is Being Made On Our Generator Installation For Our Home ~ It took more than a year to get everything in place to install the new generator. No one knew it could be such a complicated process. There is currently a large trench around the front of our house. Mom affectionately calls it a moat! The good news is that we will have everything ready for the upcoming hurricane season. Hopefully, now that we are prepared, we will not need to use it! Tracy Relaxes At Home After A Busy Weekend ~ Tracy was pretty tired after her busy weekend and relaxed in her chair. She seems to be catching a head cold and sounds congested. Mom gave her some Ocean nose drops, rubber Vicks on her chest, and put a mentholated Breathe Easy nose strip on her nose. She seems to be feeling a little better. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania read to Tracy from the book: Eat, Pray. Love out by the pool in ths sunshine. They are still in the Pray section, which takes place in India. Tracy seems to be enjoying the book! Tracy Ranges & Stretches On The CPM Machine ~ Tracy spent an hour and a half on each leg to stretch and range her hamstrings and hips. Tracy Vocalizes A Lot Throughout The Day ~ Tracy has been vocalizing a lot all day today, making new sounds and moving her mouth and tongue. Please pray that she starts to talk soon! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched this week's episode of Dancing With The Stars. Looks like their two favs, Jason and Kristi, are continuing their top spots on the leader board! Daily OM: The Mystery Of Transformation : The Butterfly Chrysalis ~

Sunday, April 20th, 2008 ~ Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan in Parkland this morning. She did a really good job demonstrating trunk control and also held her head for 2 to 3 seconds at a time. The Hippotherapy and Aquatherapy seem to be helping to strengthen Tracy's trunk. Once her trunk control is established, her head control should improve. Mom & Dad Meet With The Caterer For Tiffany & Benny's Couple's Shower ~ Mom and Dad met with Gary the caterer to plan Tiffany and Benny's couple's shower in July. He has so many great ideas! Tracy Has Aquatherapy In The Pool With Jeff & Greg ~ Tracy had a good session today in the pool with Jeff and Greg. Dad heated the pool to 88 degrees, but the air was a little on the cool side. Tracy did not seem to mind when the sun was shining, but when the clouds passed by, it was a little nippy! She really does love the water and seems to enjoy her pool therapy with Jeff and Greg. Dad Cooks Tilapia & Red Beans & Rice For Dinner ~ Nana and Uncle Johnny joined us for dinner this evening and Dad baked tilapia and red beans and rice. Everyone enjoyed dinner while they watched highlights of Pope Benedict XVI's visit to NYC on Fox news. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Desperate Housewives & Brothers & Sisters This Evening ~ We watched two new episodes of our favorite programs this evening: Desperate Housewives and Brothers & Sisters. Finally, with the writer's strike resolved, we are seeing some new episodes before the season finales and summer reprieve. Daily OM: Repressing The Inner Voice : Giving Away Power ~

Saturday, April 19th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom met Aunt Diane at Bikram Yoga this morning. Stacy taught a great class! Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Melanie came over to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon out by the pool. Tracy really relaxes and enjoys her sessions with Melanie. She was very vocal during her session, making lots of sounds. Melanie Gives Mom & Dad A Massage Outside By The Pool ~ It was Mom and Dad's turn to get a massage. Melanie gave Mom a Swedish massage and Dad a Cranial Sacral session. They were both very much overdue and in need of massages. We love Melanie! She sure does have a healing touch! Dad Grills Steaks For Dinner ~ Dad grilled steaks on the BBQ for dinner this evening. It was a full moon and a beautiful evening. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Movie I Am Legend With Will Smith ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched the movie I Am Legend with Will Smith on Blue Ray this evening. It was a really good movie, but a little more scary than everyone expected. Mom worked on the wedding favors while she watched the movie. Luna barked at one of the main characters in the movie: Samantha, a beautiful German Shepherd! Those shepherds sure do stick together! (Luna is a beautiful Australian Shepherd!) Daily OM: The Gift Inside: Life Packaging ~

Friday, April 18th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Pick Up Nana & Take Her To The Hairdressers ~ Mom picked up Nana bright and early and they headed up to Lake Worth to the hairdressers. Nana really likes the way Mom's stylist, Kerri, does her hair. Uncle Johnny surprised Mom and Nana with lunch: eggplant sandwiches! It was really good! Tania Reads Emails To Tracy From Her Guest Book ~ Tania spent some time reading Tracy her guest book entries on her website this afternoon. Tracy really enjoys getting emails from her friends and relatives. Tania Works With Tracy On Her Dynavox ~ Tania showed Tracy her new additions to her Dynavox that Dr. Lowe added to the touch screen. Tracy now has so many new categories to choose from: Feelings, Fieldtrips, Friends & Relatives, etc. Tracy resumes her Speech Therapy sessions on May 6th at Nova Southeastern with Aimee. She will take the summer off from FAU to explore some fun places in the South Florida area and to spend time with family and friends. Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy at Bit By Bit in Parkland this afternoon. Jeff, Aunt Diane's boyfriend, accompanied Tania, Mom and Tracy to her lesson. He has been such a big help as a side-walker, tag teaming with Tania. Mom is too short to be a side-walker, or maybe Breezy is too tall! Benny, Tiffany's Fiance, Has Arthroscopic Surgery On His Ankle In Hawaii ~ Benny, Tiffany's fiance, had arthroscopic surgery on his ankle today at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii. He is doing well, and will need intensive Physical Therapy, to rehabilitate his ankle. He will need another surgery later in the summer to stabilize his ankle joint. Daily OM: A Place For Worries : Surrender Box ~

Thursday, April 17th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was another of Lan's great classes! Mom Has An Appointment To Get The Van Serviced ~ Mom had a 1:00 PM appointment to get the remote ramp system repaired. Dee Comes To Give Tracy Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Dee came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this afternoon. He began the session stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups. Then he and Tania got Tracy prone on the therapy mat to stretch her hips, hamstrings, and shoulders. She tolerated 24 minutes on her stomach. Then Tania and Dee got Tracy in long sitting position to work on her head and trunk control. Dee sat behind Tracy and worked on neck strengthening and trunk rotation. Then it was time for Tracy's massage. Dad's Incision Is Healing Well ~ Dad was able to remove the dressing this evening and his incision is healing well after his surgery yesterday evening. Thank goodness he is not experiencing any pain from the surgery. Daily OM: Asking And Receiving: Prayer And Meditation ~

Wednesday, April 16th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga ~ Mom, Larry and Rene' relaxed and enjoyed the cooler weather this morning, as the cold front went through south Florida. Felicia Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Felicia gave Tracy a facial this morning. She sure does love her spa days! Tracy Has Her Last Speech Therapy Session With Melissa This Afternoon At FAU ~ Tracy had her last Speech Therapy session with Melissa at FAU. Tracy gave Melissa a silver Brightness of Life bracelet. These bracelets are made by Masai tribal women and are referred to as the Brightness of Life bracelets, not only because of the bright colors of the bracelets, but because of the brightness that lives in the hearts of these strong and dedicated women. (For more information, please visit the Give A Girl A Chance website). Mom Brings Dad To Imperial Point Hospital In Ft. Lauderdale For His Surgery ~ Mom brought Dad to Imperial Point Hospital for removal of a malignant melanoma (in situ) lesion on the back of his left arm this afternoon. He found a very suspicious pea-sized mole on the back of his left arm (the same arm where he had the rotator cuff surgery last January) about three weeks ago. He went to the dermatologist right away, and had it biopsied, and the report came back Malignant Melanoma In Situ. We are very lucky that we found it and had it removed right away. (Everyone should do a self-examiniation every month and see their dermatologist at least once a year.) Jeff & Greg Come To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Since the weather was too cool to go into the pool this evening, Jeff and Greg worked with Tracy on the therapy mat. They positioned Tracy in long sitting, focusing on head and trunk control. Jeff worked with Tracy's trunk while Greg worked with Tracy's hamstrings, stretching them through full range of motion. We are hoping that it warms up by Sunday so that Tracy can go in the pool for therapy. Larry Grills Pork Chops On The Grill This Evening ~ Larry grilled pork chops and mashed potatoes for dinner while Rene' made a garden and mini strawberry shortcakes. They are both such great cooks! Everyone Watches American Idol This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching American Idol this evening. There are so many talented contestants, that it's anybody's contest! Daily OM: Conscious Creation : The First Moments Of The Day ~

Tuesday, April 15th, 2008 ~ Tax Day! ~ Luca & Luna Go To The Groomers ~ Mom took Luca and Luna to the groomers this morning. They both were in need of a bath and a trim. They look so cute! (Don't tell Tiffany but Mom is getting very attached to Luna Duna! She is such a great therapy dog and could teach Luca a few things!) Mom & Rene' Go Spinning This Morning ~ Mom and cousin Rene' went to Spinning this morning at LA Fitness. They had a good workout! After Spinning, they went to check out the beach and then went for a manicure. Larry Takes Luca & Luna For A Long Walk This Afternoon ~ Larry took Luca and Luna for a long walk this afternoon. Luca managed to walk in a patch of hitch hikers which Mom and Rene' had to brush and pick off him! He is such a mess! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Dee spent some time stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscles before he and Tania got her prone on the therapy mat. She tolerated about 15 minutes (refluxing some) while Dee worked on stretching Tracy's hips and shoulders in this position. Then it was time to position Tracy in long sitting to work on trunk and head control. After that, Dee and Tania got Tracy seated on the peanut ball for some balance and vestibular training. Then it was time for Tracy's favorite part of her work out, her massage. Larry Grills Salmon Steaks On The Grill This Evening ~ Larry grilled salmon steaks for dinner while Rene' made a garden salad, sweet potatoes, and Key Lime pie. They are both such great cooks! Everyone Watches Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Dancing With The Stars: The Results this evening. Mom and Tracy are still pulling for Kristi Yamaguchi and Mark and Jason Taylor and Edyta. Daily OM: Potlatch : Encouraging Generosity ~

Monday, April 14th, 2008 ~ Tracy Vomits 3 to 4 Ounces This Morning At 7:30 AM After Her Morning Meds ~ Tracy vomited about 3 to 4 ounces this morning at 7:30 AM after her morning meds. Dad will try giving her stomach meds with food to see if this helps with her nausea. Mom & Rene' Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Rene' went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was Rene's first time at Bikram Yoga. She did a great job staying in the room and tolerating the heat. Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Tidwell In Miami ~ Tracy had an appointment with Dr. Tidwell to re-evaluate her left hip. Dr. Tidwell did an exam and an x-ray of Tracy's pelvis. She will have a follow-up visit next month. Tania Does Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania did a good job shaping Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. Mom Joins Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny At Spinning ~ Mom finally got to Spinning this evening with Aunt Diane and Uncle Johnny. It had been a month since she was able to go on Monday evenings with the family. Rene' & Larry Cook Dinner For Everyone This Evening ~ Rene' and Larry grilled chicken breasts and made yellow rice, garden salad, and mini strawberry shortcakes for dinner. It was soooo good. It is so nice to have guests who like to cook for us! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Rene', Larry, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching this week's episode of Dancing With The Stars this evening. Daily OM: Going Back By Going Within : Healing Childhood Wounds ~

Sunday, April 13th, 2008 ~ Hippotherapy Gets Rained Out As Mom, Dad, Eunice & Tracy Are On Their Way To Hippotherapy At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Hippotherapy got rained out this morning while Mom, Dad, Eunice and Tracy were on their way to Parkland for her lesson. Looks like we will have to have another make-up session soon. Tracy Goes Into The Heated Pool For Aquatherapy With Jeff & Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Aquatherapy this afternoon in the pool. The water was a toasty 90 degrees! Perfect for pool therapy. Jeff and Greg spent a lot of time stretching and ranging Tracy, using the buoyancy of the water to aid in her range of motion. They do a great job with Tracy and she sure does seem to enjoy the water. Cousins Rene' & Larry Arrive This Evening ~ We had a surprise visit from cousins Rene' and Larry this evening. They will be spending the week with us. Cousins Guy, Dawn, Sophia, and Isabella left bright and early today on their back to Alpharetta, Georgia. We sure do miss them and enjoyed their visit. The girls are so sweet and so well behaved! Daily OM: Feeding Your Spirit : Taking Time For Yourself ~

Saturday, April 12th, 2008 ~ Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ It was the first time Mom and Dad were able to go to Bikram Yoga together since the end of January when Dad got his shoulder surgery. It was nice to be able to share Yoga practice again. Felicia Gives Tracy A Facial & A Pedicure ~ Felicia gave Tracy a facial and a pedicure this afternoon. Tracy Spends Some Time Outside By The Pool With Mom & Felicia ~ Tracy spent some time outside with Mom and Felicia catching up on her Vitamin D and fresh air. It was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine and low humidity! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To 4:30 PM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to the 4:30 PM Mass at St. Paul The Apostle Church in Lighthouse Point. They gave Rico from the Greener Cleaners a ride to and from church. Mom & Dad Order Ribs & Chicken Wings From Bonefish Macs This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Sophia had wings and ribs from Bonefish Macs this evening. They were really good! Cousins Sophia & Isabella Come Over To Spend The Evening With Mom, Aunt Diane, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna ~ The girls came over to spend the evening with us while Guy and Dawn went to cousin Chip's 40th surprise birthday party at Cafe Max. Sophia and Aunt Diane helped Mom put together the favors for the wedding reception. They are such a big help. Daily OM: Solace In Service : Doing For Others ~

Friday, April 11th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Spinnig This Morning ~ Mom went to Spinning this morning at LA Fitness. It was a great class and just what the doctor ordered. Mom Picks Up Nana To Spend The Day With Us ~ Mom picked up Nana this morning to spend the day with us. The Videographer Comes To Show Mom A Sample Of His Work For The Wedding ~ Diego came by to show everyone some of his previous wedding videos. He does amazing work which captures the emotion. It brought tears to our eyes!Mom Gives Nana A Shampoo & Blow-Dry ~ Mom washed Nana's hair and blew it dry this afternoon. Mom, Nana, Felicia & Tracy Watch Tennis ~ Everyone watched the Bausch & Lomb Tennis Tournament taking place this weekend in Amelia Island. We were rooting for Maria Sharapova, who advanced to the Women's Semi-finals. Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy This Evening ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this evening with Susuan at Bit By Bit in Parkland. Jeff, Aunt Diane's boyfriend accompanied Mom and Nana. Jeff drove the van, while Mom sat in the back with Tracy. (Because she is prone to vomiting and an aspiration risk, Mom requires that someone who is trained to use the portable suction that we always bring with her sits in the back of the van.) Nana was very grateful to see Tracy on Breezy. It had been several months since she had seen Tracy on the horse. Dad & Mom Make Baked Tilapia, Spring Salad, & Four Cheese Ravioli For Dinner This Evening ~ Nana had dinner with us this evening, and Dad cooked her favorite: tilapia. Mom made a delicious salad and everyone had a nice time. Daily OM: Let Yourself Be Carried : The Flow Of The Universe ~

Thursday, April 10th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga this morning. Felicia Gives Tracy A Manicure ~ Felicia gave Tracy a manicure this afternoon. The color of the week is bright red! Beautiful! Tracy Spends Some Time Outside By The Pool ~ Tracy spent some time outside catching up on her Vitamin D and fresh air. It was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine! Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Dee ~ Dee came to work with Tracy on her Physical Therapy. He started by stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups. Then he and Mom got Tracy in long sitting position. Dee sat behind Tracy and worked on her trunk and head control. Then he leaned Tracy back on the peanut to get some trunk extension, opening Tracy's chest, and weight bearing through her hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders. Tracy did a good job tolerating this position. Then it was time to get Tracy seated on the peanut to work on more head control and lateral flexibility. Dee ended his session with a massage; Tracy's reward after working so hard! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch American Idol This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched American Idol this evening. They wait until the top twelve have been chosen, before they begin watching it. Mom is rooting for several of the Idol contestants. They sure are a talented bunch! Sheryl Crow was the guest musician this week. She is one of Mom's favorite artists! Daily OM: Fluid Like A River : Living Like Water ~

Wednesday, April 9th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a practice at Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a full class with lots of positive energy. Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy At FAU With Melissa This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Melissa at FAU this afternoon. She worked on Tracy's auditory skills with her switch, showing her various pictures. Melissa used some of the aromatherapeutic items that Mom brings in Tracy's Speech Therapy suitcase: lotions, lip gloss, perfume, etc. Tracy did a much better job with head control during today's session. Tracy was alert during the session, and vocalized sporadically Ah-Ha! Melissa took some short breaks between activities and played some of Tracy's CD, which included some of her favorite songs. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Jeff & Greg This Evening ~ Jeff and Greg came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. They did not get her into the pool, although the weather was perfect for aquatherapy. With Tania gone this week, and Dad on his way back from a day trip to New York, there was no one to help Mom with getting Tracy's swim suit on. So, they kept things simple and worked with Tracy on the therapy mat. Jeff spent most of the session working on Tracy head and trunk stretches, while Greg worked on Tracy's hip and hamstring flexibility. They sneaked in some vestibular exercises in the interim too. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Idol Gives Back This Evening ~ Everyone took it easy this evening, and relaxed and watched Idol Gives Back. Daily OM: People Who Don't Get It : Compassion For All ~

Tuesday, April 8th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class, very hot and humid! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Morning ~ Dee came by to do Physical Therapy this morning. He started with stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups. Then it was time to position Tracy on the peanut ball in a seated position to work on head and trunk control. Tracy tolerated 20 minutes in this position. Then Felicia and Dee got Tracy supine on the therapy mat to stretch her hamstrings and work on her hip flexibility. Dee placed small ankle weights on Tracy's legs to help promote stretching of her hamstrings. She tolerated about ten minutes in this position. Then it was time for Dee to give Tracy a massage. She really loves her massages! Tracy Spent Time Outside By The Pool With Cousins Dawn, Guy, Isabella & Sophia ~ The weather cooperated until the afternoon, and everyone enjoyed being together out by the pool. Even Isabella who is six months old, enjoyed the pool today! Sophia loves to swim and do hand stands and back flips in the pool. It is so nice to have family visiting us! Mom had to cancel Speech Therapy at FAU this afternoon because she did not have anyone to ride in the back with Tracy since Tania is out of town and Felicia has to leave at 4 PM. Tracy has a session Wednesday at 2 PM with Melissa. She has one more session next week and then will have a much-needed break. Dad Goes To His First Bikram Yoga Class Since His Shoulder Surgery ~ Dad went to his first Bikram Yoga class since his rotator cuff surgery in January. His orthopedic surgeon gave him the green light to return to Bikram Yoga. He will listen to his body and take it slow as he steadily regain stamina. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed Dancing With The Stars: The Results this evening. Go Kristi and Mark, Jason and Edyta! Daily OM: Learning To Trust Divine Guidance : Trial & Error ~

Monday, April 7th, 2008 ~ Dad Takes The Day Off To Spend Time With Family ~ Dad took the day off from work today to spend time with family and to help Mom take Tracy to the Cleaveland Clinic in Weston to get her Baclofen pump refilled. Tania is away for the week attending a conference in Baltimore. We sure do miss her! Cousins Guy, Dawn, Sophia & Isabella Spend Some Time In The Pool Today ~ While Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to the Cleaveland Clinic, cousins Guy, Dawn, Sophia and Isabella spent some time in the pool and hot tub today. We are really enjoying their visit! Sophia is such a sweet girl and a big help to Mom as Isabella's big sister. Isabella is adorable. She laughs alot and is such a good baby. Guy and Dawn are wonderful parents and have done a great job raising the girls. Dad Goes To Physical Therapy Session This Evening ~ Dad had Physical Therapy this evening at Atlantic Rehab. His PT progressed him to weight bearing this evening. He has an appointment tomorrow morning with the orthopedic surgeon. Hopefully, he will be given the green light to go back to Bikram Yoga! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Everyone watched Dancing With The Stars This Evening. Tracy and Mom are still pulling for Jason Taylor and Kristi Yamaguchi! Daily OM: Spiritual Diversification : Expanding Your Sources Of Growth ~

Sunday, April 6th, 2008 ~ Sophia Makes Her First Communion & Isabella Is Baptized By Father, Brother, Uncle John! ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy Gets Cancelled Due To A Severe Thunder Storm During The Night ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy session was cancelled this morning due to a severe thunderstorm during the night. The riding ring was pretty muddy so we are hoping to have a make-up later in the month. Tracy Has Pool Therapy This Afternoon ~ The weather made an amazing come back just in time for Tracy's pool therapy session this afternoon. Of course, Joan and Mom had already given Tracy a shower this morning, so she ended up getting two showers and a bath today! The pool temperature was a toasty 88 degrees, perfect temperature for pool therapy! After Tracy's session, Mom and Dad put Tracy on the lounge chair to get some rays. We all know how much Tracy LOVES the sunshine! After all, she is solar powered! Tracy Vomits 8 Ounces Of Jevity 1.2 This Afternoon ~ Tracy vomited about 8 ounces of her feeding this afternoon after her pool therapy and shower. Sophia Receives Her First Communion & Isabella Is Baptized By Father, Brother, Uncle Johnny This Evening ~ Everyone came over to celebrate Sophia's First Communion and Isabella's Baptism this evening at our home. Uncle Johnny said a beautiful Mass and distributed the sacraments of Holy Communion and Baptism to our two little cousins. We had thirteen family and close friends for dinner. We missed the rest of our famalies who were not able to be here to share in this special occasion! Guy, Dawn, Sophia & Isabella Spend The Night With Us ~ Guy and the girls spent the night with us this evening. We had another very severe thunder storm which prohibited everyone from going in the pool. There were some very severe electrical systems which passed through south Florida over the past several days, bringing with it some much-needed rain. Daily OM: Starting New : A Moment Of Choice ~

Saturday, April 5th, 2008 ~ Mom Meets Aunt Diane At Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom met Aunt Diane at Bikram Yoga this morning, while Dad, Felicia, Luca and Luna stayed with Tracy. It was a great class taught by Stacy. Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Melanie came to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. Tracy was very vocal during her session and seemed to enjoy it very much. Melanie Gives Mom & Dad A Much Needed Massage ~ Melanie gave Mom a Swedish massage this afternoon. She was well overdue! Dad opted for a Cranial Sacral Threapy massage like Tracy. His shoulder is healing well after his rotator cuff surgery last January. He has an appointment with the orthopedic surgeon this Tuesday. He is hoping to return to Bikram Yoga soon. Nana & Aunt Diane Come Over This Evening ~ Nana and Aunt Diane came over this evening to wait for cousins Guy, Dawn, Sophia and Isabella. Mom ordered pizza for dinner. Cousins Guy, Dawn, Sophia & Isabella Arrive From Georgia This Evening ~ Guy, Dawn, Sophia and Isabella arrived safely from Georgia this evening. The girls stayed with us while Guy and Dawn went out with Chip and Eileen and friends. It was the first time all of us met Isabella, since she was born six months ago. She is so cute! Sophia is the perfect big sister to Isabella. Aunt Diane, Sophia, Mom, Nana, Isabella & Tracy Sit Outside On The Patio This Evening ~ Aunt Diane and Sophia went in the hot tub this evening while Nana, Mom, Isabella and Tracy sat outside. It was a beautiful evening with lots of stars in the sky. So much for the stormy forecast predicted by the weatherman! We are sure glad the weather cooperated with us! Daily OM: Letting The Curves Take You : Control ~

Friday, April 4th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning at 9:15 AM. Vene' taught a really good class. Mom will be practicing Bikram Yoga for one year on April 5th! She really enjoys her practice. Mom Takes Luca & Luna For A Long Walk This Afternoon ~ The dogs are really enjoying their walks around Lighthouse Point and are becoming famous with the neighbors. Luna still misses Tiffany and Benny, even though she seems to have a crush on Luca! Felicia Gives Tracy Some Yogurt ~ Felicia gave Tracy some organic banana yogurt this afternoon. She tolerated about 18 ccs via oral syringe. Tania Stretches & Ranges Tracy's Hands, Wrists, & Fingers ~ Tania spent some time ranging and stretching Tracy's wrists, hands, and fingers this afternoon before her Hippotherapy lesson. Mom & Tania Take Tracy To Hippotherapy This Evening At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Jeff was feeling under the weather so Dad met us at Bit By Bit for Hippotherapy this evening. (We sure did miss Jeff!) His shoulder is feeling a lot better and he was able to use his good shoulder to support Tracy on Breezy. Susan, the Physical Therapist/Hippotherapist supported Tracy's other side while Debbie, another Physical Therapist lead Breezy. It is quite amazing to see Breezy and Tracy during their session. Tracy is demonstrating improve trunk support but still has a long way to go with her head control. "Slow and steady wins the race!" said the tortoise to the hare. Daily OM: Permission To Forgive Ourselves : Releasing Guilt ~

Thursday, April 3rd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Spinning This Morning ~ Mom went to a challenging Spin class taught by Stacy this morning. She got the last bike, whew, close call! Mom Goes To Shampoo & Style Nana's Hair ~ Mom went to Nana's this afternoon to shampoo and style Nana's hair. She is getting good at this hair stylist stuff! Mom Stops On The Way Home For A Manicure & Pedicure ~ Mom stopped off on her way home from Nana's to get a manicure and a pedicure. She was in dire need! Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy At NSU With Nadia This Afternoon ~ Tracy had her last Speech Therapy session with Nadia at NSU this afternoon. She has done such a good job with Tracy over the past two semesters. We are really going to miss Nadia. She will be starting her externship next semester. Tracy is very lucky because she will have Aimee as her student clinician next semester. Aimee has been sitting in on Tracy's sessions and came to visit her last Sunday with Nadia (and Jade, Nadia's yorkie). Aimee and Nadia spent some time during the session updating Tracy's Dynavox with pictures and new categories, including field trips, feelings, shopping, etc. Mom and Tania are planning some fun field trips next semester to Butterfly World, the zoo, the museum, etc. Aimee is planning to incorporate some of these places in Tracy's Speech Therapy lesson plan next semester. Tracy Does Not Have Physical Therapy With Dee This Afternoon ~ Dee could not make it for Physical Therapy this afternoon, so Mom, Tania and Tracy took advantage of the free time and stopped off at Starbucks for lattes on the way home. Felicia Gives Luca A Bath This Afternoon ~ Felicia gave Luca a much-needed bath this afternoon. He smells so good now. Look out Luna! Mom, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Two Hour Special Of Are You Smarter Than A Fifth GraderThis Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed a special two hour Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader this evening. It is one of Mom and Tracy's favorite game shows! Daily OM: The Gift Of This Journey : Why We Don't Remember ~

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning at 9:15 AM. Vene' taught a really good class. Mom will be practicing Bikram Yoga for one year on April 5th! She really enjoys her practice. Mom Goes To Her Chiropractor Appointment ~ Mom had an appointment with Dr. Colavito this morning for heat, e-stim and an adjustment. She feels a lot stronger! Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy With Melissa At FAU ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Melissa at FAU at 2 PM this afternoon. She continued with the same activity, this time using pictures of makeup, nail polish, eye liner, etc. Melissa added Tracy's Powerlink 3 to Tracy's switch this time, so that when Tracy hit the switch, she turned on the radio and was rewarded with music. Felicia Meets Mom, Tania & Tracy At Starbucks This Afternoon ~ The girls all met at Starbucks this afternoon for lattes after Speech Therapy. Tracy seemd to enjoy hanging out with the girls in the sunshine. Tracy Has Aquatherapy In The Pool With Greg This Evening ~ Mom and Greg, Tracy's Physical Therapist, got Tracy in the pool this evening for therapy. Mom heated the pool to a toasty 90 degrees. Even with it heated, Mom and Tracy wore their skins, shorts and vests made out of wetsuit material. They stayed nice and warm throughout Tracy's session. Mom Takes Luca & Luna For A Long Walk This Evening ~ The dogs are getting along well. In fact, Mom thinks they are in love! Is it puppy love or Spring fever? Mom, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch American Idol This Evening ~ Everyone watched American Idol this evening. There sure are some very talented singers in this season's group of contestants. Mom and Tracy are rooting for Michael Johns and David Archuleta (he is only 17)! Daily OM: The Road To New Beginnings : Completion ~

Tuesday, April 1st, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Bikram Yoga class this morning taught by Lan. It was very hot and humid in the Yoga room. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this morning. He started the session by ranging and stretching Tracy major muscle groups. Then it was time to get Tracy prone on her tummy. While she was in this position, Dee stretched Tracy's hips, adductors, hamstrings, and shoulders. Tracy tolerated about 20 minutes in this position. Then Tania and Dee got Tracy in long sitting position so that she could bear weight through her hands, arms and shoulders. Tania stretched Tracy's hamstrings, heel chords and feet, while Dee supported Tracy from behind. Dee placed some ankle weights on Tracy's legs to add an extra stretch. Then Dee worked with Tracy to strengthen her neck and trunk, also adding some vestibular training. Finally, Tracy was ready for her massage. Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy With Melissa At FAU ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Melissa at FAU this afternoon. She continued with the therapy goal of Partner Assisted Auditory Scanning, using Tracy's switch positioned to her right on the universal mount. She showed Tracy pictures of things you would find at a beach today, instructing Tracy to hit the switch when Melissa says the word which is displayed in the photo in a series of related words. For example, Melissa showed Tracy a picture of a sting ray. After several seconds, she took the picture away, and recited shark, starfish, sting ray, each spaced about 8 seconds apart. Tracy was to hit the switch when she heard the word sting ray. After several rounds of this activity, Melissa showed Tracy a music video of Sister Hazel (one of Tracy's favorite bands) on her lap top as a reward for her hard work. Then it was back to the activity again. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars: The Results ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched Dancing With The Stars: The Results this evening. Mom and Tracy are still rooting for Kristi and Mark, who are currently in first place! Daily OM: Setting A Limit To Sit With Emotions : How Long ~

Monday, March 31st, 2008 ~ Mom & Cousin Michelle Go To Spinning This Morning ~ Mom and Cousin Michelle went to Spinning this morning at LA Fitness. It was one of the most challenging classes that Mom has had in a very long time. She and Michelle had a great workout. Mom is planning on going to Spinning more often during the week. Mom & Cousin Michelle Go For A Walk On The Beach After Spinning ~ Mom and Cousin Michelle went for a long walk on the beach after Spinning today. It was a beautiful day with lots of wind and sunshine. Mom really enjoyed Michelle's visit and hated to see her go! Tracy Has Her Hippotherapy Makeup Lesson This Evening ~ Jeff came by and joined Tania and Mom for Tracy's hippotherapy lesson this evening at Bit By Bit. It was a beautiful evening, and Tracy did a good job sitting up with lots of support from Jeff and Susan, her Physical Therapist. She is still working on head control, and has a long way to go! Breezy is a very patient horse, and does a good job with Tracy on her back! Dad Goes To A Broward County Community Meeting With Cousin Chip & Eileen ~ Dad went to a Broward County community meeting with cousins Chip and Eileen this evening. Mom, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Mom, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched Dancing With The Stars this evening. They are still rooting for Kristi Yamaguchi and Mario! Daily OM: Words Of Wisdom : Affirmations ~

Word Of The Week: MINDFULNESS! ~ Affirmation Of The Week ~"Wherever you go, there you are!" ~ John Kabit Zinn ~ Goal Of The Week: “If you start by being aware of your breath, you know it comes and goes. It is like the end of one wave from among the endless ocean waves. They continue to come and disappear to be followed by another and another and another. They come. They disappear." ~ Mindfulness Website ~ Quote Of The Week: "First: Life is not a dress rehearsal. Second: In Life there’s no round trip ticket. So we are returned to the Here and Now…as we are now here." ~ Reuben Klamer from The Game Of Life ~ Poem Of The Week: Equipment by Edgar A. Guest and recited by Dr. George Washington Carver during his commencement address at Selma University, Selma, Alabama on May 27, 1942. ~ Song Of The Week: Healing by India.Arie ~ Lyrics: " I release all these disappointment, From my mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional body, 'Cause I know that spirit guides me, And love lives inside me, That's why today I take life as it comes." ~ India.Arie ~ Book Of The Week: The Power Of Now: A Guide To Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle ~ Yoga Pose Of The Week: Ardha Chandrasana with Pada Hastasana : Half Moon Pose With Hands To Feet ~ Featured Website of the Week: Mindfulness.Com : This is a great website on Mindfulness!

Sunday, March 30th, 2008 ~ Tracy's Home Health Aide From The Agency Does Not Show Up This Morning ~ Tracy's home health aide from the agency did not show up this morning. There must have been a miscommunication among staff. Eunice Comes From The Agency To Help Mom At 11:00 AM ~ The agency sent Eunice, one of Tracy's Sunday home health aides to help Mom at 11:00 AM this morning. It takes two trained professionals, Mom and another, to perform Tracy's morning routine. Mom Gives Tracy A Facial ~ Mom gave Tracy a facial this morning while she waited for Eunice to come. Tracy's Hippotherapy Is Cancelled ~ Tracy's hippotherapy lesson was cancelled this morning due to heavy rain. She will have a makeup session on Monday evening at 5:30 PM. Tracy Has Physical Therapy On The Mat With Greg ~ Greg came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy on the therapy mat. The weather was too bad to go in the pool today, with thunder, lightning, and terrential rain all day long. Greg and Dad did a lot of stretching with Tracy, concentrating on her hips, hamstrings, shoulders, and back. Then, Dad and Greg postioned Tracy prone on the mat to stretch her hips. Greg placed the electrodes on Tracy's neck muscles to help retrain the neuromuscular pathways. Tracy responded well to this e-stim and tolerated 15 to 20 minutes in this position. Next, Greg and Dad got Tracy seated on the peanut ball so that she could practice head and trunk control. Tracy's trunk is slowly improving but her neck still needs a lot of work. Aimee and Nadia, Tracy's Speech Therapy student clinicians from NSU, observed Tracy during her Physical Therapy session. Aimee, Nadia & Jade Come To Visit Tracy ~ Aimee and Nadia, Tracy's Speech Therapy student clinicians from NSU, came over to spend some time with Tracy today. Nadia brought her little Yorkie named Jade, to play with Luca and Luna. Jade and Luna got along well, but Luca was very jealous and snapped a lot at Jade. This is not very typical of :Luca, since he got along fine with Jade when she visited last summer. Mom thinks he is protective of Luna and showing more jealousy this time. Aunt Diane Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Aunt Diane came over to read a little to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love. She seemed to enjoy the book too, and might read it herself some day. Cousin Michelle Makes Her Famous Italian Meatballs & Sauce For Dinner ~ Cousin Michelle made her famous Italian meatballs and sauce this evening for dinner. Nana and Uncle Johnny came over and everyone had a nice dinner. Aunt Diane and Jeff were not able to make it this evening. Daily OM: Relating To The Negative : The Danger Of Repression ~