Monday, August 31st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was another one of Diane's challenging classes with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Mom is working on her head stand and arm balances! Will she ever be able to do them? Tracy Vomits About 8 Ounces Around 3:15 PM This Afternoon ~ Tracy vomited about 8 ounces this afternoon about 3:15 PM. We are not sure what the cause of her vomiting is. She has been vomiting since her vestibular treatment with Dr. Li last Wednesday. Tania Works On Tracy's Head Control Exercises This Afternoon ~ Tania took off Tracy's head rest and worked on her neck strengthening exercises this afternoon for fifteen minutes. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such an awesome job! Melanie Comes To Do Cranial Sacral Therapy On Tracy This Afternoon ~ Melanie worked with Tracy on her Cranial Sacral Therapy this afternoon. She was very relaxed and vocal throughout her treatment. Mom Gets A Swedish Massage By Melanie This Evening ~ Melanie gave Mom a Swedish massage this evening. It was just what her tight shoulders needed! Dad Gets A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session With Melanie This Evening ~ Next it was Dad's turn to get a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this evening. It was just what the doctor ordered! Tracy's Prefeeding Plan Is Postponed Due To Increased Vomiting ~ Unfortunately, we had to postpone Tracy's prefeeding plan due to increased vomiting. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. He is jumping a little higher each day, but still can't jump on his "throne", the ottoman!Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Moving In Real Time : Fast-Forward Button ~

Sunday, August 30th, 2009 ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To 11 AM Mass At St. Pauls This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu had a good Mass this morning at St Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. Monsigneur Brice gave a very good sermon. Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Make A Pitstop At Starbucks This Afternoon After Mass ~ Everyone enjoyed lattes and scones at Starbucks after Mass this afternoon. Mom, Dad, Tracy, & LuLu Go To The Ft. Lauderdale Museum Of Art At The Riverwalk This Afternoon ~ Everyone enjoyed the exhibits at the Ft Lauderdale Museum of Art this afternoon. They had some very unique abstract and 3-D pieces. Mom really liked the stained glass pieces. After the exhibits, they went for a walk on the Riverwalk. It was so hot and humid, you could fry and egg on the side walk! Tracy's Prefeeding Plan Is Postponed Due To Increased Vomiting ~ Unfortunately, we had to postpone Tracy's prefeeding plan due to increased vomiting. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. He is jumping a little higher each day, but still can't jump on his "throne", the ottoman! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Going Through The Opening : Contracting Before Expanding ~

Saturday, August 29th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! It was a great class! Tracy, Mom, & Wilmene Watch The Funeral Of Former Senator Ted Kennedy This Morning ~ Everyone watched the Funeral of former Massachusetts Senator Edward "Ted" M. Kennedy this morning from Boston. Chancellor Monan of Boston College, was the officiating priest of the ceremony. He was the President of Boston College when Mom and Tiffany were there. It was interesting to see all of the points of interest in and around Boston and the Cape. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. She sure does love her Spa Saturdays! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning ~ Dad enjoyed his practice this morning at Traditional Hot Yoga this morning. It was just what the doctor ordered (and needed)! Fritz Comes To Work With Tracy On Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy was not feeling like herself this afternoon, so Fritz worked with Tracy on the therapy mat instead of in the pool. Tracy's shoulders and pectorals were pretty tight, and she cried each time that Fritz stretched her arms. He did some gentle stretching with Tracy, and then sat her on the BOSU for some trunk strengthening and vestibular training. Hopefully, she will be feeling better by her next session. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. Mom continues to take him in the pool for his pool therapy, although not daily. He is still wiggling a little, but has improved markedly since his surgery. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Beyond The Physical : We Are All Beings Of Light ~

Friday, August 28th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! It was a great class! Mom Meets Nana @the Hairnet For Hair Appointments With Kerri ~ Mom and Nana had hair appointments with Kerri in Lake Worth this afternoon. She does an awesome job! We sure do love her. Tracy Vomits This Afternoon ~ Tracy vomited about 8 to 12 ounces this afternoon around 4:20 PM. Tracy Misses Hippotherapy This Evening ~ Tracy missed Hippotherapy this evening after vomiting. Tracy Vomits Another 8 To 10 Ounces This Evening ~ Tracy vomited another 8 to 10 ounces this evening around 9:30 PM. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. Mom continues to take him in the pool for his pool therapy, although not daily. He is still wiggling a little, but has improved markedly since his surgery. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Supporting & Inspiring : True Leadership ~

Thursday, August 27th, 2009 ~ Tania Feeds Tracy 2 Ounces Of Berry Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 2 ounces of Berry Yogurt Parfait this afternoon. She is doing a good job swallowing and daily feeding helps to strengthen her oral facial muscles. Tania & Tracy Watch The Biography Of Queen Latifah This Evening ~ Tania and Tracy watched the Biography Of Queen Latifah this evening. Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Applebaum, Tracy's Chiropractor, This Afternoon ~ Tracy had an appointment with Dr. Applebaum, her chiropractor, this afternoon. He worked with Tracy on some myofascial release and traction. He has healing hands, and Tracy seems to trust his healing techniques. Tracy Does Not Have Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy did not have Physical Therapy this evening with Fritz due to a work schedule conflict. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. Mom continues to take him in the pool for his pool therapy, although not daily. He is still wiggling a little, but has improved markedly since his surgery. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Going Through The Opening : Contracting Before Expanding ~

Wednesday, August 26th, 2009 ~ Mom & Uncle Johnny Go To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom and Uncle Johnny had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! It was another great class! Once again, they had to stop at Starbucks for lattes before returning home! Tracy's Botox Is Postponed Due To Botox Unavailability ~ Dr. Emery had to postpone Tracy's Botox administration due to lack of medication. Mom is working through the redtape to get Tracy's Botox through a pharmaceutical company in Tennessee. More on this later. Mom, Dad, & Tania Bring Tracy To Jupiter For Her Appointment With Dr. Li, Otolaryngologist ~ Tracy had an appointment with Dr. Li this evening, otolaryngologist, in Jupiter. Tracy had been seen by Dr. Li in 2007, and he treated her at the time for vertigo. After evaluating Tracy, he decided to treat her sequentially, once again for several weeks. The treatment is positioning Tracy in a gyro-type chair to counter the possible calcifications in Tracy's inner ear. After strapping Tracy into this special chair, the Physician Assistant, technician, and Dad protected Tracy as they spun her upside down. Tracy tolerated four spins in the gyro chair. Her nystagmus seemed to improve with each sequential spin. We plan to go back to Jupiter next Wednesday for several more treatments. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. Mom continues to take him in the pool for his pool therapy, although not daily. He is still wiggling a little, but has improved markedly since his surgery. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Putting Yourself First : Daily Self-Care ~

Tuesday, August 25th, 2009 ~ Tracy Goes To Her Appointment With Dr. Zingaro, Gastroenterologist, This Afternoon ~ Tracy had an appointment with her gastroenterologist, Dr. Zingaro, this afternoon. He ordered a Spectracell (nutritional analysis, last blood test was in 2007) as well as some other blood tests requested by Patricia Labella, Tracy's new Speech Therapist. We should have her results back within the next few weeks. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Dee came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. After stretching and ranging Tracy while in long sitting on the mat, he gave her a massage. Then he, Tania, and Dad got Tracy prone for fifteen minutes, so that he could stretch her hip flexors and hamstrings. She refluxed a little after 15 minutes, and Dee and Tania got Tracy in side lying for some additional stretching of her adductors and abductors. Tania Puts Tracy's Yoga Toes On Tracy's Feet To Stretch Her Toes ~ Tania put on Tracy's Yoga Toes this evening for twenty minutes, so she could get some toe stretching. It feels really good. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Living With It : People Who Don't Get It ~

Monday, August 24th, 2009 ~ Mom & Uncle Johnny Go To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom and Uncle Johnny had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was another tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! The type of class that Mom loves! Of course, they made a pit-stop at Starbucks for lattes before arriving home! Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such a good job keeping Tracy beautiful! Tania Feeds Tracy Yogurt & Carrots This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy an ounce of organic pureed carrots and an ounce of yogurt this afternoon. Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening With Aunt Diane ~ Mom and Aunt Diane had a great Spin class this evening with Emily. Paul, their former Spin instructor, has left and is no longer teaching the class. Emily taught a very challenging class! She is a tough cookie. Tracy Does Not Have Physical Therapy This Evening ~ Tracy does not have Physical Therapy any more on Mondays. When we can, we try to get Tracy on her CPM machine for stretching and range of motion. Tania Puts Tracy's Yoga Toes On Tracy's Feet This Evening ~ Tania put Tracy's Yoga Toes on Tracy's feet this evening for 15 minutes to stretch her toes out. Her feet are so tight. We are taking Tracy to see Dr. Galvez this week to increase her Baclofen dosage. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: The Friend We Want To Be : Evaluating Our Relationships ~

Sunday, August 23rd, 2009 ~ LuLu Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Flan This Afternoon ~ Tracy enjoyed 4 ounces of Flan this afternoon. She is doing a good job swallowing. Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, Jeff, Fr. Golzalo & Vincente Come Over This Afternoon ~ Everyone enjoyed the pool, the boat, the hot tub, and some delicious Chinese food for dinner. Thanks to Jeff and Aunt Diane, everyone enjoyed chocolate chip cake and peanut butter Goo Goo ice cream for dessert. Tracy spent some quality time with Nana outside by the pool. Even Luca got his 14 lengths in the pool this afternoon. It was a fun day for all. Luca Is Almost Back To His Old Self ~ Luca is running and jumping, and is almost back to his old self. Mom continues to take him in the pool for his pool therapy, although not daily. He is still wiggling a little, but has improved markedly since his surgery. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Miss Universe Pageant This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy enjoyed watching The Miss Universe Pageant this evening from Ths Atlantis Hotel & Resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. Everyone could not believe that Miss Venezuela won again! Never have they had two consecutive winners of the Miss Universe Pageant from the same country! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Taking Our Turn To Give : People In Need ~

Saturday, August 22nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! She did two cardio sequences, and Mom was in heaven! Great class! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. His fur is looking a lot better, especially after Mom got him groomed yesterday. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. She sure does love her Spa Saturdays! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure This Afternoon ~ Tracy got a much-needed manicure today by WIlmene. Her nails were so long, they sure do grow fast! Wilmene painted them pale pink with shimmery glitters! Very pretty! Aimee Comes To Visit Tracy This Afternoon ~ Aimee, Tracy's graduate Speech Therapy student from Nova Southeastern, came to visit us this morning. It was so nice to see her. She has finished her program and passed her licensing exam, and was just offered a job as a Speech Therapist Fellow in Philadelphia at MaGhee Rehab Hospital! We are so proud of her, but sure will miss her! Mom & Dad Go To The Riverwalk For The Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad took a ride to the Riverwalk in Ft. Lauderdale this afternoon. It was a hot and humid day, and there was no breeze to be found! There were lots of boats tooling up and down the Ft. Lauderdale River. Mom and Dad found a cute Key West style restaurant and they stopped to have some iced tea. They had a nice afternoon. Mom, Dad. & Tracy Go To Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church In Lighthouse Point This Afternoon ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy went to St. Paul Church in Lighthouse Point for Mass this afternoon. It was a nice Mass. Mom could not believe how the sun went down around 7 PM this evening. Looks like Fall is already on its way! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Self-Determination: Using Your Power ~

Friday, August 21st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! She had the class do hundreds of high and low push ups, jump back to planks, etc. It was so hot! Mom was in heaven. What an energetic class! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. His fur is looking a lot better, especially after Mom got him groomed today. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. She sure does love her Spa Saturdays! Mom Gets Luca & Luna Groomed This Morning ~ The dogs got groomed this morning after about 6 weeks. Mom had to postpone Luca's grooming because of his surgery and staples. He really needed a new style, especially since he had to be shaved up his back. Crystal did a good job blending Luca's fur so that he did not look weird. Luna was groomed, and Crystal thought she may have lost some weight. Mom has been trying really hard to feed both dogs fresh steamed veggies for their evening meal. Tania Feeds Tracy 2.5 Ozs Of Pureed Organic Sweet Baby Carrots This Afternoon ~ Tracy ate about 2.5 ounces of pureed organic sweet baby carrots. It is more difficult for Tracy to manipulate this texture to the back of her mouth, and takes her a little longer than the yogurt consistency foods. However, it is good practice for Tracy to strengthen her tongue and oral motor muscles with the various textures. Tracy Has An Appointment With A New Occupational Therapist This Afternoon For An Evaluation ~ Tracy had an appointment with Cindy at the Emery Neuroscience Center in Lighthouse Point. She is an Occupational Therapist who did many detailed measurements of Tracy's range in her upper extremities. The plan is for Cindy to meet with Dr. Emery to determine the specific muscles where Botox will be injected. This is the first time such detailed measurements have been taken on Tracy, prior to her receiving Botox. Then, Cindy will retake Tracy's measurements two and four weeks post-Botox injections. Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan At Bit By Bit In Parkland This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this afternoon at Bit By Bit in Parkland. It was so hot and humid, Mom, Tania and Tracy waited in the air conditioned car until the last minute. Dad came and helped transfer Tracy on to Breezy and then he and Susan supported Tracy. She was not holding her head up as well as last week, and her trunk did not look as strong today. Perhaps it was due to the heat. Tania Puts Tracy's Yoga Toes On This Evening ~ Tania put Tracy's Yoga Toes on her feet for fifteen minutes to stretch her toes this evening. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Shifting With Nature's Energy: Change Of Season ~

Thursday, August 20th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Elisa This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Elisa at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! She did Vinyasa flow with many options for increasing the difficulty of the poses. It was a lot of fun and very invigorating. Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Tania Feeds Tracy This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 2.5 ounces of flan and 1 ounce of pureed organic sweet potatoes this afternoon. She is doing a good job with her feeding sessions. Tania Puts Tracy's Yoga Toes On For 20 Minutes This Evening ~ Tania put Tracy's Yoga Toes on her feet this evening to stretch her toes. Mom tried them on and they feel really good! Mom & Dad Take Luca In The Pool For His Therapy ~ Mom and Dad took Luca in the pool for his aquatherapy this evening. He has progressed to 14 lengths and seems to enjoy his swimming sessions. Mom & Dad Relax In The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this evening after taking Luca in the pool for his therapy. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Consulting Heart & Mind: Making Choices From A Place Of Balance ~

Wednesday, August 19th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Tiffany! We Love & Miss You! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! The energy was electric and everyone had a great practice! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Tania Feeds Tracy 2.5 Ounces Of Organic Pureed Sweet Potatoes This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 2.5 ounces of pureed organic sweet potatoes this afternoon. Mom is trying a new organic baby food called Sprouts. Tracy seems to like it. Tania Puts Tracy's Yoga Toes On Her Feet This Evening For Twenty Minutes ~ Tania put Tracy's Yoga Toes on her feet to stretch her toes for twenty minutes. Fritz Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Fritz came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He stretched and ranged her major muscle groups while in long sitting and then put Tracy's e-stim on her quads for Neuromuscular Reeducation. Then Mom, Tania, and Fritz got Tracy prone in a Superman stretch for almost thirty minutes while Fritz put e-stim on Tracy's lats and perispinous muscles. This is the best position for Tracy, especially since Fritz can stretch and range Tracy's quads, hip flexors, shoulders, and pectorals. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Honoring Life Changes: The Wisdom Of Fear ~

Tuesday, August 18th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Palm Beach To Cycle With Uncle Johnny This Morning ~ Mom met Uncle Johnny in Palm Beach and cycled around the entire island, a twenty plus mile ride. It was beautiful but extremely hot and humid. They layered on the sun screen and Mom wore a long sleeved jersey to protect herself from the sun! They had a great ride! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Tracy Has Her Wellness Physical With Dr. Williams This Afternoon ~ Tracy had her annual physical exam with Dr. Williams this afternoon. Dr. Williams is such a good internist, and very gentle and compassionate. Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Evening With Dee ~ Dee came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He stretched and ranged her major muscle groups and then he and Tania got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball for trunk control and neck strengthening. Dee also works with Tracy's vestibular control while she is on the peanut ball. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Sharing Peace: Strangers In Our Sanctuary ~

Monday, August 17th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Veronica This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Veronica at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a challenging class, with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ It was already time for Tania to shape Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does a great job keeping Tracy looking beautiful. Tania Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Apple Banana Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy is doing a good job eating the nectar consistency apple flavored yogurt this afternoon. After the yogurt, Tania gave Tracy 5 teaspoons of thickened water to cleanse her palate! Tania Stretches & Ranges Tracy's Hands, Wrists, & Shoulders This Evening ~ Tania stretched and ranged Tracy's hands, wrists, and shoulders this evening. She took off Tracy's head rest and worked to strengthen neck as well. Tania Puts Tracy's Yoga Toes On Her Feet For Some Dynamic Stretching ~ Tania put Tracy's Yoga Toes on Tracy's feet to stretch and range her toes. She seems to enjoy her stretching session. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Self-Determination: Using Your Power ~

Sunday, August 16th, 2009 ~ Mom, Dad. Tracy & LuLu Go To The 11 AM Mass At St. Paul's In Lighthouse Point This Morning ~ Everyone enjoyed 11 AM Mass at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. Everyone Stopped At Starbucks For Chai Tea Lattes After Mass ~ Who could resist chai tea lattes at Starbucks after Mass this morning! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. His fur is looking a lot better, especially after Mom got him groomed yesterday. He continues his pool therapy and has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool. He is walking and running much, much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still a little weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. LuLu Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Chocolate Raspberry Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy enjoyed 4 ounces of chocolate raspberry parfait yogurt this afternoon. She sure does like this yogurt. Mom & Dad Take Luca Swimming In The Pool For Therapy ~ Mom and Dad took Luca in the pool this afternoon for his aquatherapy. He is doing so well, progressing to 14 lengths of the pool. They enjoyed the hot tub after Luca's session. Tracy, Mom, & Dad Watched Tennis & Golf This Afternoon ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched tennis and golf this afternoon. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Universal Awakening: Rippling & Tipping ~

Saturday, August 15th, 2009 ~ Dave Matthews Band Concert! ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. His fur is already growing back where it was shaved prior to surgery. We continue to take him swimming and he has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to regain his strength. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. She sure does love her Spa Saturdays! Dad Gets A Manicure & Pedicure This Afternoon ~ Dad finally got his much-needed manicure and pedicure this afternoon. He was so happy to be able to relax and be pampered for a change! Tracy Eats 4 Ounces Of Apple Banana Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy is doing a good job eating a minimum of 4 ounces a day of nectar consistency foods such as yogurt, flan, puddings, and parfaits. She is really enjoying her daily treats! Tracy Gets A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session This Afternoon ~ Melanie came to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy treatment session this afternoon. She was very vocal and made some strong sounds! She also did some laughing and crying! Mom Gets A Swedish Massage This Afternoon By Melanie ~ It was Mom's turn to get a Swedish massage by Melanie this afternoon. It was just what the doctor ordered. Melanie has such healing hands! Mom, Dad, Tracy & Melanie Go To West Palm Beach For The Dave Matthews Band Concert This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Melanie went to see the Dave Matthews Band this evening at the Cruzan Amphitheatre at the Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach. It was storming when everyone arrived at the venue, and then cleared up and was actually much cooler for the concert. Tracy's face lit up and she laughed when she heard Dave play Crush and Two-Step, two of her favorite DMB songs! Mom wanted them to play her favorites: Grey Street and Seek Up! The band was incredible and everyone had a great time. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Living Potential: Sharing Your Gift With Others ~

Friday, August 14th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his spinal surgery several weeks ago. Dr. Cook took out his surgical staples last Tuesday and he is walking a lot better. His fur is already growing back where it was shaved prior to surgery. We continue to take him swimming and he has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to regain his strength. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such a good job! Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Applebaum In Boca Raton ~ Tracy had an appointment with Dr. Applebaum, chiropractor, this afternoon. He uses various methods with Tracy; traction, myofascial release, Trager's, etc. to release some of Tracy's soft tissue and muscular restrictions. She relaxes and seems to enjoy her sessions with Dr. Applebaum. Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Breezy This Evening At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan at Bit By Bit in Parkland. She sat up straight on Breezy, demonstrating good trunk support. She also did a good job holding her head up for about half way around the ring. She controls to improve with every lesson. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Spiritualizing The Planet: Ascension ~

Thursday, August 13th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Elisa This Morning ~ Mom had her first experience with Hot Flow Yoga by Elisa this morning. It was a great class, very challenging and fun! It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. His fur is already growing back where it was shaved prior to surgery. He got his 25 staples out last Tuesday and did fantastic! Mom continues to take him swimming and he has progressed to 14 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to regain his strength. Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, Vincente & Father Gonzalgo Come Over For An Afternoon Of Fun In The Sun ~ It was a beautiful day and everyone enjoyed the pool, the hot tub, and kayaking. It was the first time that Vincente had been swimming in a pool and also kayaking. Mom picked up Subway foot long sandwiches and some pastry for dessert. She cut up some fresh melon and served some bing cherries. It was so good after an afternoon in the hot sun. Tania Feeds Tracy 3 Ounces Of Gerber Apple Banana Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy ate 3 ounces of Gerber Apple Banana yogurt this afternoon. She did not seem to enjoy this as much as the caramel yogurt parfait. Tracy Vomits About 2 - 3 Ounces This Afternoon ~ Tracy vomited about 2 to 3 ounces this afternoon after her yogurt. She coughed and then vomited. Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Evening With Fritz ~ Fritz came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He and Tania got Tracy positioned on the tilt table and wrapped her lower extrmeities with ace wraps. Then it was time to take her baseline vital signs. Tracy spent about twenty minutes at 30 degrees and then was elevated to 45 degrees. After 20 minutes, Fritz advanced Tracy to 55 degrees for another 20 minutes, and then he cranked Tracy up to 60 degrees fpr 10 minutes. Tracy's vital signs remained stable for the entire session. Good job Tracy! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Digging Deep For Healing: Rooting Down ~

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. His fur is already growing back where it was shaved prior to surgery. We continue to take him swimming and he has progressed to 12 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength.Tracy Eats 4 Ounces Of Caramel Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tracy is doing a good job eating a minimum of 4 ounces a day of nectar consistency foods such as yogurt, flan, puddings, and parfaits. She is really enjoying her daily treats! Tracy Goes To See Dr. Emery (Neurologist) This Afternoon ~ Tracy visited a new neurologist this afternoon to be evaluated for Botox. He interviewed Mom, who filled out about 30 medical forms with information about Tracy's past. He recommended that Mom make an appointment with Cindy, the Occupational Therapist for an evaluation. He also recommended that Mom make an appointment with Mary Ann Towne, DPT, for a Physical Therapy evaluation. Looks like this is the month for medical evaluations. Tracy Does Not Have Physical Therapy This Evening ~ Tracy missed another Physical Therapy session this evening due to a schedule conflict with Fritz. Looks like she gets to take another pass this evening. Mom Watches America's Top Model With Tracy This Evening ~ Mom hung out with Tracy and watched America's Top Model this evening. Dad Gets Home Around Midnight From His Meeting At Laguardia ~ Dad was stuck in New York and did not get home until after midnight this evening. He was held up at the airport in New York due to weather delays. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : One Way To Find Out: You Never Know Until You Try ~

Tuesday, August 11th, 2009 ~ Mom Takes Luca To Cooper City For Staple Removal With Aunt Diane This Morning ~ Mom and Aunt Diane to Cooper City to get his staples removed by Dr. Cook this morning. He was so brave and happy to get the 25 staples out after about two weeks! Dr. Cook was pleased with Luca's recovery progress and wants Mom to give him a monthly update on Luca's progress. His fur is already growing back where it was shaved prior to surgery. Mom continues to take him swimming and he has progressed to 12 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to regain his strength. Mom & Aunt Diane Do Some Serious Shopping ~ Mom and Aunt Diane go shopping this afternoon for birthday presents. They had a nice time! Tania Gives Tracy 4 Ounces Of Apple Butternut Squash This Afternoon ~ Tracy is doing a good job eating a minimum of 4 ounces a day of nectar consistency foods such as yogurt, flan, puddings, and parfaits. She is really enjoying her daily treats! Tania Massages Tracy's Hands & Works On Head Control This Afternoon ~ Tania massaged Tracy's hands this afternoon. She works on stretching her hands and wrists most every day. Next, she removed Tracy's head rest and had her hold her head up to strengthen her neck muscles. Tracy Does Not Have Physical Therapy This Evening ~ Tracy did not have Physical Therapy this evening due to a schedule conflict with her therapist. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Links That Last: Creating Community ~

Monday, August 10th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a tough class with lots of heat, humidity, sweat and energy! Tracy Eats 4 Ounces Vanilla Custard With Bananas This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy about four ounces of vanilla custard with bananas this afternoon. This thicker consistency provided a bit more of a challenge for Tracy, taking her longer to get the teaspoons to the back of her tongue for swallowing. This is the best therapy for strengthening Tracy's oral motor muscles. Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He still has his 25 staples, which will be removed tomorrow by Dr. Cook in Cooper City. Mom continues to take him swimming every day, and he has progressed to 8 to 10 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to fully regain his strength. Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening With Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny ~ Mom had a great Spin class this evening with Paul. It was his last night teaching at the Deerfield LA Fitness. He will be greatly missed! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Vomits About 8 Ounces This Evening ~ Tracy vomited about 8 ounces this evening after her evening feeding. (Mom thinks it may be the Cod Liver Oil that is making her nauseous.) Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : The Strength Of Compassion: Coming At Conflict With An Open Heart ~

Sunday, August 9th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Mom! ~ Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has an appointment with Dr. Cook Tuesday to remove his staples. We continue to take him swimming and he has progressed to 8 lengths of the pool! He is walking much better, although his muscular strength in his spine and hind legs is still weak. Dr. Cook believes that it will take about five months for Luca to regain his strength.Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go Out On The Boat This Afternoon ~ Everyone had a fun ride on the boat, cruising through the canals and intracoastal around Lighthouse Point. It was a lot of fun and the weather was perfect! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Meet Nana, Aunt Diane, Jeff & Uncle Johnny At The Holiday Inn Highland Beach For Her Birthday Dinner ~ Mom had a nice birthday dinner this evening at the Holiday Inn Highland Beach. They had a table with a view of the ocean and beach! So pretty! Aunt Diane brought a yummy carrot birthday cake with cream cheese icing. So good! It was a really nice evening. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Whole-Self Well-Being: How The Body Clears Energy ~

Saturday, August 8th, 2009 ~ Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) He is still on Strict Cage Rest, however, Dr. Loeser, the Rehab Vet, gave Luca the green light to go into the pool for therapy. Mom has been bringing Luca into the pool every day since Monday! He loves the water, and is swimming the length of the pool 8 to 10 times! Don't worry, Mom puts his life jacket on. She is also taking Luca for a walk over different terrain, where he has to step over PVC pipes, sand, river rock, and high grass. She also walks him in figure 8s and puts scrunchies on his hind legs to get the brain to coordinate his movement. He is moving a lot quicker, even though his hiney goes in the opposite direction from his front end! Dr. Cook said it will take several months for Luca to regain his coordination and his core strength! Do they have Pilates for doggies? Luca gets his staples out Tuesday! Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Veronica. It was a great class with lots of positive energy! What a great way to start the day! Mom Goes To Get A Pedi & A Mani At Boca Nails This Afternoon ~ Mom had a great pedi and mani this afternoon at Boca Nails. Unfortunately, they did not book Dad the appointment when Mom called last Thursday, so he missed out! We'll have to make him a rain check! He was not too happy! Boo! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Eats 4 Ounces Of Apple Banana Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy is doing a good job eating a minimum of 4 ounces a day of nectar consistency foods such as yogurt, flan, puddings, and parfaits. She is really enjoying her daily treats! Nana & Uncle Johnny Made It Back Safely From New Hampshire This Evening ~ Aunt Diane and Uncle Jeff picked up Nana and Uncle Johnny at the airport for their safe return from visiting Cousin Candy, Tania and the boys in New Hampshire for a week. They had a great time! We missed them and are glad that they are back! Mom & Dad Go Into The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this evening. It was so hot and humid, but the hot tub and pool were the perfect temperature!Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Power In Honesty: Staying True To Your Word ~

Friday, August 7th, 2009 ~ Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) He is still on Strict Cage Rest, however, Dr. Loeser, the Rehab Vet, gave Luca the green light to go into the pool for therapy. Mom has been bringing Luca into the pool every day since Monday! He loves the water, and is swimming the length of the pool 8 to 10 times! Don't worry, Mom puts his life jacket on. She is also taking Luca for a walk over different terrain, where he has to step over PVC pipes, sand, river rock, and high grass. She also walks him in figure 8s and puts scrunchies on his hind legs to get the brain to coordinate his movement. He is looking forward to getting his staples out next Tuesday! Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow practice this morning with Veronica. It was a great class with lots of positive energy! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Eats Four Ounces Of Apple Butternut Squash Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 4 ounces of Apple Butternut Squash Yogurt this afternoon. Tracy is doing a great job with swallowing yogurt and other pureed foods. We are so happy that she passed her Modified Barium Swallow study yesterday and is able to safely eat nectar consistency foods with no signs of aspiration! We will continue to feed her daily! Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy With Susan This Evening ~ Tracy had one of her best Hippotherapy sessions on Breezy this afternoon. She worked real hard to keep her head up and demonstrated good trunk stability. We are very proud of her! Mom & Dad Go Take Luca In The Pool This Evening & Then Go Into The Hot Tub ~ Mom and Dad took Luca into the pool this evening for his aquatherapy and then relaxed in the hot tub this evening. It was so hot and humid, but the hot tub and pool were the perfect temperature! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Head In The Clouds: Cloud Meditation ~

Thursday, August 6th, 2009 ~ Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (He gets his staples out Tuesday!) Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) He is still on Strict Cage Rest, however, Dr. Loeser, the Rehab Vet, gave Luca the green light to go into the pool for therapy. Mom has been bringing Luca into the pool every day since Monday! He loves the water, and is swimming the length of the pool 8 to 10 times! Don't worry, Mom puts his life jacket on. She is also taking Luca for a walk over different terrain, where he has to step over PVC pipes, sand, river rock, and high grass. She also walks him in figure 8s and puts scrunchies on his hind legs to get the brain to coordinate his movement. Mom Goes For A Long Walk With Luca & Luna This Morning ~ Mom took Luca and Luna for separate walks around the neighborhood this morning. It was really hot and humid! Luca is doing well walking, although his rear end saches behind him and swings a little to the right! Sometimes when he goes around the corner, his butt hits the wall! The vet said it would take several months to get his coordination and core strength back. We will continue with his swimming and home therapy program. Luna enjoys her walks. Mom has her on a diet. She needs to lose about ten pounds. She eats a half cup of Orijen six fishes for breakfast and steamed yellow squash for dinner. She does not like anything green! LOL! Tracy Has A Modified Barium Swallow Under Fluoroscopy This Afternoon At North Broward Medical Center ~ Tracy did a great job with Nectar consistency (pureed) trials with fluoroscopy this afternoon. We were so blessed to have Tracy's previous Speech Therapist (Anita Zatz) administering the swallow study. She is the best! She and Dad fed Tracy the various consistencies of barium. (Yuck)! Tracy did the best swallowing the Nectar consistency medium, swallowing within 5 seconds and completely emptying with no signs of aspiration. This is a marked improvement since her last test 18 months ago (also administered by Anita Zatz). Thin liquids pooled in the front of her mouth. Thick (honey) consistency distributed on the middle of her tongue was able to propel back and swallow. She is still having to work hard during her oral phase, and was much improved during her pharyngeal phase. Tania Reads Tracy Current Events From The NY Times Website ~ Tania has been reading current events from the NY Times website this afternoon. Tracy Does Physical Therapy With Fritz This Evening ~ Fritz came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He, Tania and Mom got Tracy on the tilt table and Fritz wrapped Tracy's lower extremities with ace bandages to facilitate venous return. Then they took baseline vital signs and cranked her up to 45 degrees. She remained at each interval for twenty minutes, with the final interval at 55 degrees for 12 minutes. Her vital signs remained stable during the entire treatment session. She is working very hard and getting stronger with each PT session. We are very proud of her! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Evening ~ Dad enjoyed his Traditional Hot Yoga session this evening. It was just what the doctor orderd! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Soulful Voyages: Travel Sensitivity ~

Wednesday, August 5th, 2009 ~ Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) He is still on Strict Cage Rest, however, Dr. Loeser, the Rehab Vet, gave Luca the green light to go into the pool for therapy. Mom has been bringing Luca into the pool every day since Monday! He loves the water, and is swimming the length of the pool 8 to 10 times! Don't worry, Mom puts his life jacket on. She is also taking Luca for a walk over different terrain, where he has to step over PVC pipes, sand, river rock, and high grass. She also walks him in figure 8s and puts scrunchies on his hind legs to get the brain to coordinate his movement. Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow practice this morning with Veronica. It was a great class with lots of positive energy, and it was Veronica's birthday, so everyone sang "Happy Birthday to Veronica." Mom, Tracy, & Wilmene Go To The Pompano Exchange Club Luncheon This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tracy and Wilmene met Susan and Kathi from Bit By Bit Therapy Inc. at the Pompano Exchange Club to accept a $500 check for Bit By Bit! This is the second year that the Pompano Exchange Club has donated to Bit By Bit Therapy, Inc. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tania Does Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such a good job and Tracy always looks so chic! Tracy Eats Three Ounces Of Lemon Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 3 ounces of Lemon Yogurt Parfait this afternoon. Tracy is doing a great job with swallowing yogurt and other pureed foods. She has a Modified Barium Swallow Study under Fluoroscopy tomorrow at 12:30 PM at the North Broward Medical Center to reassess Tracy's swallowing ability under fluoroscopy. Tracy Does Physical Therapy With Fritz This Evening ~ Fritz came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He stretched and ranged Tracy's major muscle groups and then he and Tania got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball for trunk strengthening and head control exercises. She is working very hard and getting stronger with each PT session. We are very proud of her! Mom & Dad Go Into The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this evening. It was so hot and humid, but the hot tub and pool were the perfect temperature! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Where You Need To Be: Timing Can Be Everything ~

Tuesday, August 4th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Her Last Physical Therapy Session This Morning ~ Mom was sad to finish her last Physical Therapy session this morning. She has seen a very significant difference in her hip stabilization with the 10 therapy sessions she received. She will continue these hip stabilization exercises at home. Luca Continues To Recover Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) Mom has been getting him in the pool every day to swim 8 to 10 lengths of the pool. He really is enjoying the pool, especially since it has been so hot and humid. Don't worry, Mom puts his life jacket on. She is also taking Luca for a walk over different terrain, where he has to step over PVC pipes, sand, river rock, and high grass. She also walks him in figure 8s and puts scrunchies on his hind legs to get the brain to coordinate his movement. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Eats Four Ounces Of Chocolate Raspberry Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 4 ounces of Chocolate Raspberry Yogurt Parfait this afternoon. Tracy is doing a great job with swallowing yogurt and other pureed foods. She has a Modified Barium Swallow Study under Fluoroscopy tomorrow at 12:30 PM at the North Broward Medical Center to reassess Tracy's swallowing ability under fluoroscopy. Tracy Does Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Dee came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He stretched and ranged Tracy's major muscle groups and then he and Tania got Tracy prone for 20 minutes. While she was prone, Dee massaged Tracy's shoulders, neck, hamstrings, and feet. Tracy really seemed to enjoy her massage and was very vocal, saying a lot of ahhs and mmms. Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Traditional Hot Yoga this evening. He had a great practice. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Soulful Voyages: Travel Sensitivity ~

Monday, August 3rd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Veronica at Awakening Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. It was really hot and humid with lots of challenging poses. Luca Update ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies Monday, July 27th, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) Mom and Aunt Diane tool Luca to see Dr. Loeser in Davie. She is a Rehab Vet who specializes in Physical Therapy. She was so pleased to see how well Luca is doing, walking, running, and jumping. He is still on Strict Cage Rest, however, Dr. Loeser, the Rehab Vet, gave Luca the green light to go into the pool for therapy. Mom Brings Luca In The Pool For Pool Therapy ~ Mom brought Luca into the pool this afternoon for therapy! He loves the water, and is swimming the length of the pool 8 to 10 times! Don't worry, Mom puts his life jacket on. She is also taking Luca for a walk over different terrain, where he has to step over PVC pipes, sand, river rock, and high grass. She also walks him in figure 8s and puts scrunchies on his hind legs to get the brain to coordinate his movement. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Eats Four Ounces Of Key Lime Whipped Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 4 ounces of Key Lime Whipped Yogurt this afternoon. Tracy is doing a great job with swallowing yogurt and other pureed foods. She has a Modified Barium Swallow Study under Fluoroscopy this Thursday at 12:30 PM at the North Broward Medical Center to reassess Tracy's swallowing ability under fluoroscopy. Tracy Relaxes On Her CPM Machine This Evening ~ Tracy relaxed and ranged her hips and hamstrings this evening on the CPM for an hour and a half on each leg. This therapy is a good substitute when actual Physical Therapy is not given. Mom & Dad Go Into The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this evening. It was so hot and humid, but the hot tub and pool were the perfect temperature! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM : Power In Honesty: Staying True To Your Word ~

Sunday, August 2nd, 2009 ~ Luca Is Recovering Well After His Spinal Surgery ~ Luca is recovering well after his five laminectomies last Monday, by Dr. Cook, neurosurgeron at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. He has 25 surgical staples up his back which is shaved! (Poor guy wouldn't win the cute dog contest this week!) He is on Strict Cage Rest, and is not able to climb stairs or get his incision wet. Looks like no bath for Luca for a couple of weeks! Mom took him for several short walks, and Luca is scheduled for Physical Therapy with Dr. Losier in Davie tomorrow afternoon. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Eats Five Ounces Of Coffee Yogurt This Afternoon ~ LuLu fed Tracy 5 ounces of coffee yogurt this afternoon. Tracy is doing a great job with swallowing yogurt and other pureed foods. Dr. Williams is going to order another Modified Barium Swallow over the next several weeks to reassess Tracy's swallowing ability under fluoroscopy. Mom & Dad Go Into The Hot Tub This Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this afternoon. It was so hot and humid, but the hot tub and pool were the perfect temperature! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Owning Your Tendencies: Understanding All Sides ~

Saturday, August 1st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Monica. Another great class! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. She sure does love her spa treatments! Luca Update: Luca is doing better today. He is walking a lot better and is eating his yogurt (with his medicine). He is sto;; walking with a swagger, and runs into things with his butt. Dr. Cook said it will take several weeks for him to redevelop his strength. Mom made an appointment for Monday with Dr. Losier, the rehab vet, in Davie. He will have a Physical Therapy session to train Mom on a home PT program. Melanie Comes To Do Cranial Sacral Therapy With Tracy This Afternoon ~ Melanie worked with Tracy on her Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. She was very vocal and laughing a lot throughout the session. Wilmene Gives Tracy 4 Ounces Of Chocolate Raspberry Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Wilmene gave Tracy 4 ounces of chocolate raspberry yogurt parfait this afternoon. She is doing such a great job swallowing. Dad Gets A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session This Afternoon ~ Dad enjoyed a Cranial Sacral Therapy session with Melanie this afternoon. His lower back and shoulder feel much better after the session. Mom Gets A Swedish Massage This Afternoon ~ Mom got a Swedish massage this afternoon by Melanie. She has such healing hands. Mom & Dad Go To The Navy League Dinner This Evening At The Tower Club In Fort Lauderdale ~ Tania and Gio stay with Tracy this evening while Mom and Dad go to the Navy League dinner this evening at the Tower Club in Ft. Lauderdale. They had a nice time, it was a very nice evening. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Life: Your Perfect Teacher ~