Thursday, January 31st, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is really enjoying his morning walks around Lighthouse Point. He lets Mom know when he wants to go out by coming to her and barking very loudly! Mom Takes Luca To The Vet For His Annual Well Puppy Physical ~ Luca went to see the vet this morning for his annual physical. He got all of his shots, yes, shots! He was not very happy with Mom for sneaking that one past him. He did not like the nose spray vaccine either. He weighs 8.7 lbs! Looks like he is going to start doing Bikram Puppy Yoga soon! He has one baby tooth that needs to fall out. It is loose, and the vet wants to keep an eye on it. If it does not fall out on its own, she is going to have to pull it! OUCH! Luca Goes To Pet Haven To Be Groomed ~ Luca got groomed this morning at Pet Haven in Lighthouse Point. He really was shabby chic (or is it scrappy chic?) Crystal cut his torso short and left his legs longer. He looks really cute and there is less fur for him to hide half of Lighthouse Point's hitch hikers! Mom & Dad Take Tracy To Speech Therapy At NSU With Nadia ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy at NSU with Nadia this afternoon. This was the first time that Dad was able to observe Tracy in Speech Therapy at NSU. Nadia gave Tracy a choice among three activities: Celebrity Fashion, Wedding Stuff, and Talking using the word board. It looked like Tracy selected Celebrity Fashion first. Nadia showed Tracy some pictures of the actresses from the new upcoming movie: Sex And The City. She asked Tracy which outfits she liked the best, or which one a bride would wear to a wedding, etc. Tracy seemed to enjoy the pictures. Next, it was time for Tracy to practice making vowel sounds. Nadia recorded A, E, O, U on the step by step sequential switch. She played it back for Tracy to mimic. Next, Nadia showed Tracy pictures of wedding and bridesmaid dresses, hair styles, jewelry, and shoes for the bride and the bridesmaids. Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this evening. First, Dee stretched and ranged Tracy while she was supine, prone, and in sidelying. He really worked her hip flexors, hamstrings, and psoas muscles using the foam roller. Then Mom, Tania, and Dee got Tracy positioned prone over the peanut ball so that she could weight bear through her hips, shoulders, and forearms. Dee rocked Tracy while she was on her knees to stimulate her vestibular system. Then, Mom, Tania and Dee got Tracy seated on the peanut so that she could practice head control. Then it was time for Tracy's massage. Tracy really enjoys her massages. Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watch The Democratic Presidential Debates This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched the Democratic Presidential Debates this evening. All this political stuff sure does get addicting! Dad Is Feeling Much Better After His Rotator Cuff Surgery ~ Dad is recovering well from his full thickness rotator cuff repair last Thursday. He is going to Physical Therapy three times a week at Atlantic Rehab right up the street in Lighthouse Point. Kurt has been doing a great job getting Dad's shoulder rehabbed. Today, Kurt let Dad do some pendulums after Dr. Yoldas gave him the green light. He is still using the Game Ready advanced recovery system and it is really making a difference. He still needs to wear the sling for six more weeks, but is able to take it off for a break to exercise his elbow throughout the day. Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: An Enlivening Force : Cultivating Inspiration ~

Wednesday, January 30th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is becoming the stud puppy of Lighthouse Point. He needs a haircut though, since he is taking home most of the tree branches in the neighborhood. Tomorrow, Luca has an appointment at the groomers for a haircut. Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning With Vene' ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning at 9:15 AM. Vene' taught a great class and it was just what Mom needed. Dad Is Feeling Much Better After His Rotator Cuff Surgery ~ Dad is recovering well from his full thickness rotator cuff repair last Thursday. He is going to Physical Therapy three times a week at Atlantic Rehab right up the street in Lighthouse Point. Kurt has been doing a great job getting Dad's shoulder rehabbed. Today, Kurt let Dad do some pendulums after Dr. Yoldas gave him the green light. He is still using the Game Ready advanced recovery system and it is really making a difference. He still needs to wear the sling for six more weeks, but is able to take it off for a break to exercise his elbow throughout the day. Tania Reads From Eat, Pray, Love This Evening ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love this evening. Tracy is really enjoying the part that takes place in Rome. (Of course it is the EAT part.) Elizabeth Gilbert talks about how good the pizza margherita is in Naples; one of Tracy's favorite things in the whole wide world. Yummy! Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy With Melissa At FAU ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Melissa this afternoon at 2 PM. Melissa, Lori (Tracy's supervisor), Dr. Freeze (swallowing expert and professor at FAU), Mom and Felicia did some brainstorming regarding Tracy's treatment plan. Dr. Freeze had some innovative ideas regarding some new activities to try with Tracy this semester. She would like to have Tracy get a current Modified Barium Swallow soon. If the test indicates, we could begin oral feeding trials with Tracy soon. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Jeff & Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Jeff and Greg this evening. They have really been working on stretching and ranging Tracy's left hip, which has internally rotated. First, Jeff and Greg got Tracy supine on the therapy mat and then Tania, Mom, Jeff and Greg got Tracy prone on the mat, with weight through her elbows and shoulders. Then it was time to stretch Tracy's hips and hamstrings in this position. Next, Jeff and Greg got Tracy in sidelying to stretch and range her hips in this position. They sure do a good job working with Tracy on the mat. Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watch The Republican Presidential Debates From The Reagan Library, Simi Valley, California ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched the Republican Presidential Debates this evening. It was quite a scene to see the four Republican Presidential candidates with the former Air Force One as the backdrop! Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: Create Time For Self-Compassion : Being Gentle With Ourselves ~

Tuesday, January 29th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is really enjoying his morning walks around Lighthouse Point. He lets Mom know when he wants to go out by coming to her and barking very loudly! Mom & Dad Run Errands This Morning ~ Mom and Dad spent some time this morning running errands this morning. Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga. She plans to return tomorrow morning. Dad & Mom Go To Vote In The Primaries This Morning ~ Dad and Mom went to vote this morning in the primaries. Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Morning ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this morning. First, Dee stretched and ranged Tracy while she was supine, prone, and in sidelying. He really worked her hip flexors, hamstrings, and psoas muscles using the foam roller. Then Mom, Tania, and Dee got Tracy positioned prone over the peanut ball so that she could weight bear through her hips, shoulders, and forearms. Dee rocked Tracy while she was on her knees to stimulate her vestibular system. Then it was time for Tracy's massage. Tracy really enjoys her massages. Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy With Melissa At FAU This Afternoon ~ Dad, Mom, Tania, Tracy and Luca went to Speech Therapy at FAU this afternoon. This was the first time that Dad was able to accompany Tracy to Speech Therapy at FAU in about a year. Dad was able to meet Melissa, Tracy's new student clinician. She began by letting Tracy smell some new perfume scents. Then she and Tracy looked at the new photo album that Uncle Mike made for Papaw for his birthday last week. Melissa was very interested in meeting all of Tracy's family. While they were looking at the pictures, Dad worked on loading all of the photos that Nadia gave Tracy from her thumb drive to her laptop. Nadia, Tracy's student clinician from NSU, made quite a few powerpoint presentations for Tracy to use on her laptop. Then Melissa asked Tracy her Yes/No questions, some including questions about Tracy's family. Tracy had a little trouble keeping her head up this afternoon. Mom thinks that Tracy was a little tired from her Physical Therapy session this morning. Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: An Enlivening Force : Cultivating Inspiration ~

Monday, January 28th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is really enjoying his morning walks around Lighthouse Point. He is really getting a kick out of meeting the other dogs in the neighborhood. Mom is enjoying meeting her neighbors too! Dad Is Feeling Much Better After His Rotator Cuff Surgery ~ Dad is recovering well from his full thickness rotator cuff repair last Thursday. He is going to Physical Therapy three times a week at Atlantic Rehab right up the street in Lighthouse Point. Kurt has been doing a great job getting Dad's shoulder rehabbed. Mom accompanied Dad to his therapy session this morning. They use a combination of passive range of motion, E-stim and heat and ice to keep the joints healthy and to slowing rehab his rotator cuff. Everyone at Atlantic Rehab is very knowlegeable, compassionate, and professional. Dad continues to use an advanced recovery system called the Game Ready System, which comnbines ice and compression for thirty-minute intervals. It is really making a difference to minimize pain and swelling and to maximize the healing process. Tracy Rests For Most Of The Day ~ Tracy was pretty sleepy today after her busy Sunday. She rested most of the day in her chair. Tania Massages & Stretches Tracy's Hands, Wrists, & Fingers ~ Tania worked on stretching and ranging Tracy's hands, wrists, and fingers this afternoon. Tania Reads From Eat, Pray, Love This Evening ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love this evening. Tracy is really enjoying the part that takes place in Rome. (Of course it is the EAT part.) Mom Surprises Dad With A Pedicure & Manicure ~ Mom took Dad to Boca Nails for a manicure and pedicure this aftenoon. It sure does help the recovery process to relax and be pampered a little! Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening ~ Mom went to 5:30 PM Spinning this evening at LA Fitness. The class filled up quickly and there was not a bike left by 5:15! Uncle Johnny arrived too late and was not able to get a bike for the second time in two weeks. Dad, Mom, Tracy & Luca Watch The President's State Of The Union Address This Evening ~ Dad, Mom, Tracy and Luca watched the President's last State Of The Union Address this evening. It was fun to watch all the spin pundits comment on both the President's address and the Democratic rebuttal. Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: Technology As Distraction : Choosing True Connections ~

Sunday, January 27th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is really enjoying his morning walks around Lighthouse Point. He is really getting a kick out of meeting the other dogs in the neighborhood. Mom is enjoying meeting her neighbors too! Dad Is Feeling Much Better After His Rotator Cuff Surgery ~ Dad is recovering well from his full thickness rotator cuff repair last Thursday. He is going to Physical Therapy three times a week at Atlantic Rehab right up the street in Lighthouse Point. Kurt has been doing a great job getting Dad's shoulder rehabbed. They use passive range of motion, E-stim and heat and ice to keep the joints healthy and to slowing rehab his rotator cuff. Everyone at Atlantic Rehab are very knowlegeable, compassionate, and professional. Dad continues to use an advanced recovery system called the Game Ready System, which comnbines ice and compression for thirty-minute intervals. It is really making a difference to minimize pain and swelling and to enhance healing. Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy went to Hippotherapy this morning at 11 AM in Parkland. Susan and David (and Dan) side walked with Tracy, stabilizing her on Breezy, since Dad will not be able to assist for several months. They did a good job helping Tracy balance on the horse. Tracy's trunk support looks a little better every lesson, however, she still needs to work on her head control. Tracy Has Aquatherapy In The Pool This Afternoon With Greg & Jeff ~ Tracy had aquatherapy in the pool with Greg and Jeff. Dad heated the pool to 84 degrees and Mom put on Tracy's wet suit to make sure that she stayed warm. The air was a little cool, but the water was just right. They worked with Tracy for an hour, stretching her major muscle groups and allowing her to weight bear through her legs with lots of support. They spun her around both clockwise and counter clockwise, for some vestibular stimulation. Tracy really enjoys her therapy in the pool. Mom & Aunt Diane Go To Bikram Yoga This Afternoon ~ Mom and Aunt Diane went to Bikram Yoga this afternoon. It was a really fun class with the perfect temperature. Mom Gives Tracy A Foot Massage ~ Mom massaged Tracy's feet with scented lotion (Tropical Passion Fruit). Tracy really loves getting her feet massaged. Uncle Johnny Treats Everyone To Chinese Food ~ Uncle Johnny and Nana had dinner with everyone this evening. Uncle Johnny treated everyone to delicious Chinese food for dinner. Everyone Watches Extreme Makeover Home Edition This Evening ~ Everyone watched Extreme Makeover Home Edition this evening. It was a touching story about a family who lost their home due to the floods last year in Manchester, New Hampshire, near Aunt Candy's home. Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: Growing Pains : Difficult Times ~

Saturday, January 26th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is really enjoying his morning walks around Lighthouse Point. He is really getting a kick out of meeting the other dogs in the neighborhood. Mom is enjoying meeting her neighbors too! Dad Is Feeling Much Better After His Rotator Cuff Surgery ~ Dad is recovering well from his full thickness rotator cuff repair last Thursday. He is going to Physical Therapy three times a week at Atlantic Rehab right up the street in Lighthouse Point. Kurt has been doing a great job getting Dad's shoulder rehabbed. They use passive range of motion, E-stim and heat and ice to keep the joints healthy and to slowing rehab his rotator cuff. Everyone at Atlantic Rehab are very knowlegeable, compassionate, and professional. Dad continues to use an advanced recovery system called the Game Ready System, which comnbines ice and compression for thirty-minute intervals. It is really making a difference to minimize pain and swelling and to enhance healing. Mom & Aunt Diane Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Aunt Diane went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class and just what the doctor ordered. Tracy Gets A Facial This Morning ~ Felicia gave Tracy a facial this morning after her bath. Tracy really loves being pampered as all girls do! Mom Gives Tracy A Foot Massage ~ Mom massaged Tracy's feet with scented lotion (Tropical Passion Fruit). Tracy really loves getting her feet massaged. Dad & Mom Play Suduko This Evening ~ Tracy hung out in her chair with Luca close by while Mom and Dad played a moderately difficult game of Suduko that Cousin Michelle gave them. It was pretty intense and a lot of fun. Mom Grills Steaks & Rosemary Potatoes ~ Mom grilled steaks and rosemary potatoes for dinner this evening. Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: Gathering Our Straying Thoughts : Centering Ourselves ~

Friday, January 25th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Luca is really enjoying his morning walks around Lighthouse Point. He is really getting a kick out of meeting the other dogs in the neighborhood. Mom is enjoying meeting her neighbors too! Dad Is Feeling Much Better After His Rotator Cuff Surgery Yesterday ~ Dad is recovering well from his full thickness rotator cuff repair yesterday. He had a postop appointment with Dr. Yoldas and he changed the dressing. He was very pleased with the way everything looked, and prescribed Physical Therapy three times a week for the next three months. He has been using an advanced recovery system called the Game Ready System, which comnbines ice and compression for thirty-minute intervals. It is really making a difference to minimize pain and swelling and to enhance healing. Dad Goes To His First Physical Therapy Appointment At Atlantic Rehab In Lighthouse Point ~ Dad had his first Physical Therapy appointment at Atlantic Rehab this afternoon. After completing and evaluation, they did some very minimal passive range of motion. Dr. Yoldas gave him a strict protocol for them to follow over the next three months. Looks like he will not be able to do any Bikram Yoga for at least three months. Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had her hippotherapy lesson this evening at Bit By Bit in Parkland. Jeff, Aunt Diane's boyfriend, assisted Tania with supporting Tracy on Breezy. Tania and Jeff tag-teamed so that they would not get fatigued. It is pretty taxing on one's shoulder and upper body to stabilize Tracy on the horse for thirty minutes. We really appreciate Jeff helping us out while Dad is recovering. Mom Made A Big Pot Of Pasta Fagioli For Dinner ~ Jeff and Aunt Diane stayed for dinner and a game of Suduko this evening. Suduko is a wooden board game that Cousin Michelle gave us. Everyone had a lot of fun learning the game. Mamaw & Papaw Send Dad A King Cake To Cheer Him Up ~ Mamaw and Papaw sent Dad a King Cake as a Get Well wish for him. King Cakes are in celebration of Mardi Gras and taste like a donut with sweet icing. They are really good. We'll let you know who gets the baby! Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watch Battlestar Galactica & Stargate Atlantis On Television This Evening ~ Friday is Sci Fi night on T.V. and Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched two of Dad's favorites: Battlestar Galactica and Stargate Atlantis. Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: Attitude Follows Perspective : Shifting The Mood ~

Thursday, January 24th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Dad To Imperial Point Hospital For Rotator Cuff Surgery ~ Mom took Dad to Imperial Point Hospital this morning to get his rotator cuff repaired. Dr. Erol Yoldas, surgeon for the Miami Dolphins, perfermed the surgery. He was able to do the repair using arthroscopy, and Dad is recovering at home this evening. He is using a advanced recovery system called a Game Ready which comnbines ice and compression for thirty minute intervals. It is really making a difference to minimize pain and swelling and to enhance healing. Tracy Goes To Speech Therapy With Nadia At NSU This Afternoon ~ Tania and Felicia took Tracy to her Speech Therapy session this afternoon with Nadia at NSU, while Mom stayed to take care of Dad. Nadia had planned a fun activity for Tracy to look at bridesmaids' dresses on the computer. She had a great collection of dresses picked out for Tracy's perusal. Tracy seemed to enjoy this activity, especially since Tiffany picked her and cousin Kathryn Jean to be co-Maids of Honor! Tracy Has Physical Therapy & A Massage From Dee This Evening ~ Dee came by to work with Tracy on her Physical Therapy this evening. He and Tania got Tracy transferred from her chair to the therapy mat, and then positioned her prone (on her tummy), propped on her elbows to weight bear through her shoulders. Dee worked with her hip flexors and psoas muscles in this position, concentrating on externally rotating her left hip. Then it was time to get Tracy in long sitting position, so that he could work with her trunk and neck muscles, in an effort to strengthen them. He stretched and ranged all of her major muscle groups, massaging them with scented massage lotion. He really does a great job and works Tracy very hard! Our girl is such a trooper! Mom Orders Pizza For Dinner ~ Mom ordered pizza for dinner this evening and our good friend, Ricky Henderson, surprised us with a visit. He and Dad have known each other since they were little kids, growing up in Independence, Louisiana. It was nice to visit and catch up with Ricky over pizza. Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watch The Republican National Debates Televised From FAU In Boca Raton ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched the Republican National Debates televised from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. It was exciting to watch, especially knowing that they were taking place less than five miles away! Tracy's Backyard Is Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Daily OM: Every Step Is Forward : No Going Back ~

Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008 ~ Tracy's Backyard Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He continues to sweep up the neighborhood debris with his fur! Mom has to give him a bath every other day now that he is a great outdoors puppy. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows ~ Tania spent some time shaping Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. Ouch! Why does it have to hurt to be beautiful? Tania Stretches Tracy's Upper Extremities ~ Tania worked on Tracy's stretching exercises, ranging her shoulders, arms, hands, wrists, and fingers. Tracy's right shoulder seemed a little more tight today, making her cry a little when Tania stretched it this afternoon. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Melissa At 2 PM At FAU ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy at 2 PM this afternoon with Melissa. Today, Melissa worked with Tracy's Yes/No questions, reminding Tracy to blink twice, head nod, or Ah-Haa for Yes and shake her head or Uh-Haa for No. She asked Tracy some questions about her family, her dog, and who brought her to Speech Therapy this afternoon. Then it was time to smell some new fragrance samples that Melissa collected from magazines. When she held up a new scent of Poison, Tracy made a funny face. It was a pretty strong scent! Whew! Next, Melissa read short phrases from her listening comprehension book and then asked Tracy questions about them. Then Melissa and Tracy looked at some pictures in Tracy's mini-photo album. She asked Tracy several times during the session for Tracy to take a deep breath from her diaphragm, and then to let out the air in an AHHH sound. The purpose of the deep breaths is for Tracy to improve her diaphragmatic breathing and to also warm up her vocal cords in preparation for phonation. Melissa is doing a really good job and we are looking forward to getting to know her better throughout the semester. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. First, Tania and Greg got Tracy on the therapy mat on her knees over the peanut ball. Greg positioned Tracy's hands in front of her on the wedge so that she could weight bear through her upper body. Then he worked with her hips and lower back, stretching her pelvis to straighten her spine. He encouraged Tracy to pick up her head to strengthen her neck muscles. Then it was time to get Tracy flat on her stomach (prone) on the mat. He worked with her hip flexors in this position, externally rotating her left leg. Next, Greg and Tania rolled Tracy supine (on her back) and Greg put leg weights above her knees to increase her hamstring stretch. He then worked with Tracy's feet and ankles, putting her muscles and joints through range of motion as tolerated. Last, Greg stretched Tracy's neck and shoulders. Tracy was pretty tired when her session was over, and ready to stretch out in her bed. Mom Makes A Tossed Chicken Salad For Dinner ~ Mom made a tossed chicken salad for dinner this evening. Daily OM: Attitude Follows Perspective : Shifting The Mood ~

Tuesday, January 22nd, 2008 ~ Tracy's Backyard Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He is enjoying his morning walks and lets Mom know when he is ready to go out! Tracy Goes To The Neurologist To Get Her Baclofen Pump Refilled ~ Tracy had an appointment to get her Baclofen pump refilled this afternoon. Her neurologist also lowered the Baclofen dosage by another ten percent, resulting in a total of 97.2 micrograms per day. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Melissa At FAU This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Melissa at FAU 4 PM this afternoon. This is Melissa's first time working with Tracy and her first semester doing her clinical rotation. She is doing a really good job with Tracy. Kristen left Melissa a great notebook with all of her notes, activities, and materials. Melissa is spending the first several sessions getting to know Tracy, her family, and all the things she likes to do. Today, Melissa started by going over Tracy's pictures in her photo album. Then she worked on some Yes/No questions with Tracy. After that, Melissa let Tracy smell some of the perfume samples that she had collected from various magazines. One of the scents that Tracy seemed to like was Beautiful, which is one of Mamaw's favorites. Next, Melissa worked on listening comprehension with Tracy, reading her several short stories and asking Tracy some questions about them. Tracy Spends Time On The CPM Machine ~ Tracy spent two hours on the CPM machine this evening to range and stretch her left hip and hamstring. She really enjoys her CPM sessions, and relaxed while watching House this evening on television. Mom & Dad Have Teriyaki Chicken For Dinner ~ Mom and Dad ate leftover Teriyaki Chicken for dinner this evening. Looks like we are on a roll with chicken now instead of soup! MMMM! Daily OM: Worth The Time : Meditating More When Our Plates Are Full ~

Monday, January 21st, 2008 ~ Tracy Vomits About 4 Ounces This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about 4 ounces this morning after her morning medications and before her first tube feeding. Tracy's Backyard Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! The National Wildlife Federation is working to pass an important new global warming bill in Congress called the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act. Log on to Change The Forecast to sign the letter to your senator, to do your part. Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He continues to sweep up the neighborhood debris with her fur! Mom has to give him a bath every other day now that he is a great outdoors puppy. Tracy Goes On The Tilt Table ~ Mom, Tania and Felicia put Tracy on the tilt table this afternoon. She tolerated an hour with about 10 minutes at 60 degrees. Mom erred on the side of caution when her diastolic blood pressure went below 65 mm Hg, and lowered her to 50 degrees. Her vital signs remained stable throughout her session. The plan is to continue tilt table exercises as much as possible throughout the week to increase Tracy's stamina in a vertical position. Tania, Tracy & Luca Watch A Special On Martin Luther King On Oprah This Afternoon ~ Tania, Tracy and Luca watched the special on Martin Luther King that was on Oprah this afternoon. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania read to Tracy from the book Eat, Pray, Love. She really seems to be enjoying this book. Mom is reading Mother Of The Bride that Liz sent her in preparation for Tiffany and Benny's wedding. Tracy Spends Time On The CPM Machine ~ Tracy spent an hour and a half on the CPM machine this evening to range and stretch her right hip and hamstring. She really enjoys her CPM sessions, and relaxed while watching Monday night television. She, Dad and Luca watched Two & A Half Men and How I Met Your Mother. Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening ~ Mom was lucky enough to get a Spin bike, but Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane missed the cut off. The gym was really croweded, most likely because it was Martin Luther King Day and the college kids were out of school. Mom enjoyed her class, but missed Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane. Mom & Dad Have Teriyaki Chicken For Dinner ~ Dad made Teriyaki Chicken for dinner this evening. Daily OM: Wildlife Around : Finding Nature In Your Neighborhood ~

Word Of The Week: WISDOM ~ Affirmation Of The Week ~"We do not see things as they are, we see them as we are." ~ The Talmund ~ Goal Of The Week: “Learn to do one new thing each day without fear or reservation." ~ Quotes Of The Week: (1) "Nothing Truly Good Ever Comes Easy." (2) "What Goes Around Comes Around." ~ Anita Allison from her book: Riding The Wave Inside Out ~ Lyrical Verse Of The Week By India.Arie: It's time to step out on faith, I've gotta show my faith ~ It's been illusive for so long, but freedom is mine today ~ I've gotta step out on faith, It's time to show my faith ~ Procrastination had me down but look what I have found, I found: Strength, Courage & Wisdom!" ~ Strength, Courage, & Wisdom by India.Arie ~ Book Of The Week: Riding The Wave Inside Out~ Anita Allison ~ Yoga Pose Of The Week: Dandayamana Bibhaktapada Paschimottanasanai : Standing Separate Leg Stretching Pose ~ Featured Website of the Week: Emil's Website! You will see a beautiful portrait of Tracy painted by Emil!

Sunday, January 20th, 2008 ~ Tracy's Backyard Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Way to go Tracy! She encourages everyone to do the same. Check out the National Wildlife Foundation website for more information on how you can make a difference! Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He LOVES his walks and has become the BMOC (big man on the canal!) He is so friendly and runs over to meet all his fellow dogs, even the great dane, who is ten times his size. Tracy's Hippotherapy Is Cancelled Due To Bad Weather ~ Tracy did not have hippotherapy this morning due to rain, wind, and cold! It was in the low 50's which is cold for south Florida. Tracy Goes On The Tilt Table ~ Mom, Dad, and Eunice put Tracy on the tilt table this morning. She tolerated an hour with 20 minutes at 60 degrees. Her vital signs remained stable throughout her session. The plan is to continue tilt table exercises as much as possible throughout the week to increase Tracy's stamina in a vertical position. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Jeff & Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a really good workout with Jeff and Greg this afternoon. They worked every muscle and joint in her body and then some! They paid particular attention to her hips, psoas, shoulders, pectorals, and lattisimis dorsi! In English that means that they worked her back, shoulders, chest, hips, and hamstrings really well. Mom & Aunt Diane Go To 4 PM Bikrim Yoga ~ Mom and Aunt Diane went to the afternoon Bikram Yoga class. It was Mom's best class ever! Everything came together and she was able to relax and stretch into the poses with lots of flexibility. She and Dad have been doing their yoga practice since (Good Friday) April 5th, 2007! Mom & Dad Have Tuscan Chicken Noodle Soup For Dinner ~ Mom made Tuscan Chicken Noodle soup for dinner this evening. Soup is good food, as the saying goes! Not sure if they meant five nights a week! It is just what the doctor ordered! Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watch The New England Patriots Win Their 18th Game & Their Way Into The Superbowl ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched the Patriots beat the Chargers on their way to yet another Superbowl! They will play the NY Giants in two weeks on Superbowl Sunday! Go PATS! Daily OM: Opening To Understanding : Willingness To Feel ~

Saturday, January 19th, 2008 ~ Happy Birthday Sister Goddess Sasha! We Love You! ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He is getting into a good routine and enjoys getting out in the fresh air. The only problem is that he takes half of the neighborhood home with him in the form of twigs, hitch hikers, and leaves! Most of these souvenirs stick to his fur and tail. Mom is enjoying her walks too! Tracy Vomits 8 To 10 Ounces This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about 8 to 10 ounces after her morning feeding. Mom, Dad, & Aunt Diane Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, and Aunt Diane went to Bikram Yoga this morning at 10 AM. It was like an adapted Bikram Yoga class; everyone was either injured or getting over the flu like Mom and Dad. Actually, Dad felt like he was trying to get it. He had stomach cramps! Mom felt pretty good and was pleasantly surprised that she felt relaxed, flexible, and a lot more energetic than she anticipated after her two-day bout with the GI bug. Amy, Her Mom & Dad, & Personal Assistant Adrian Come Over For A Visit ~ Tracy's new friend Amy came over to visit Tracy this afternoon. She brought Tracy some pretty picture frames for her bed room. It was nice to spend some time with her and her family. Amy was in a bad car accident three years ago on the Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys. It left her with a Traumatic Brain Injury, killing her boy friend. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To 4:30 PM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to Mass this evening. Mom Makes More Chicken Soup For Dinner ~ Mom made more chicken soup for dinner and she and Dad had a big bowl of it. It was just what the doctor ordered. Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watched Spider Man 3 On Pay Per Vue ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca rented Spider Man 3 on Pay Per Vue. It was pretty good, except Mom fell asleep and missed the ending, as usual. Daily OM: Witnessing Naure Through Meditation : Bird Meditation ~

Friday, January 18th, 2008 ~ Tracy's Backyard Certified As A "National Wildlife Habitat" ~ Tracy's backyard was recently certified as a National Wildlife Habitat. Mom planted lots of butterfly friendly plants and even a plant that attracts hummingbirds. Tracy recently joined the Leader Club and is taking an active stand to make a difference in support of nature and our environment. Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He LOVES his walks and has become the BMOC (big man on the canal!) He is so friendly and runs over to meet all his fellow dogs, even the great dane, who is ten times his size. Tania & Mom Clean Out Tracy's Room ~ Mom and Tania spent some time cleaning and organinzing Tracy's room for therapy. The plan is to do Tracy's therapy in her room so that she can get used to being in it. Eventually, when the time is right, Tracy will move into her own room. For now, she still shares a room with Mom, Dad, and Luca! Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy This Evening ~ Tracy had her hippotherapy lesson this evening at 5:30 PM. Dad meets Tania, Mom, and Tracy out at the riding stables in Parkland. This evening, Tania and Katie helped Susan with side walking. Dad is going to have his shoulder operated on this Thursday, to repair a rotator cuff injury. The plan is to get others trained to side walk with Tracy during his long recovery period. Tracy is exhibited increased trunk control during her lessons, but still needs to strengthen her neck muscles. Baby steps! Mom & Dad Have Lentil Soup For Dinner ~ Mom made Sicilian lentil soup for dinner this evening. Soup is good food, as the saying goes! Daily OM: Embracing Grief : Grief Is Important ~

Thursday, January 17th, 2008 ~ Fifth Year Anniversary Of Tracy's Anoxic Brain Injury! ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He is getting into a good routine and enjoys getting out in the fresh air. The only problem is that he takes half of the neighborhood home with him in the form of twigs, hitch hikers, and leaves! Most of these souvenirs stick to his fur and tail. Mom was feeling a lot better this morning too! Tracy Goes To Her First Speech Therapy Session Of The Semester At Nova Southeastern University With Nadia ~ Tracy had her first Speech Therapy session of the semester this afternoon at 3 PM with Nadia at NSU. She seemed happy to be back and stayed awake and alert throughout the session. Nadia gave her three choices to do from her Word Board. Tracy selected Fashion first and they looked at pictures of vintage and present-day celebrities wearing similar outfits. For example, there was a picture of Jackie O and Jessica Alba wearing similar outfits: black skirts, white blouses, and big sun glasses. They looked at a dozen comparison photos and then it was time to work on Tracy's second selection: Senses. This time, Nadia had pictures and real items of various aromatic objects such as a grapefruit, essence of warm vanilla sugar, mixed berry scented oil, etc. She also had a piece of sandpaper and a feather, and asked her questions about each of these. Last, Nadia recorded some phrases on Tracy's Step By Step about Tracy's winter break. Tracy Gets A Manicure ~ Tracy got a manicure this afternoon. Felicia painted her nails a shimmery ultraviolet. Wow, it sure is pretty! Mom Goes For A Pedicure & A Manicure ~ Mom went for a much-needed manicure and pedicure today. Although she was not totally up to speed after the flu, she decided that some pampering might do the trick! She felt a lot better after that! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With All Three Therapists This Evening ~ Tracy had a co-treatment session with all three therapists this evening: Jeff, Greg, and Dee. (Nothing like having three cute guys doting over you for an evening!) First, they positioned Tracy prone on the therapy mat and did some stretching of her hips, hamstrings, and feet. Then they worked with the E-stim on Tracy's major muscle groups in an effort to stimulate and re-educate the pathways. Then they got Tracy propped on her elbows so she could weight-bear through her shoulders. They worked on her scapula and shoulders while in this position. Then they positioned Tracy seated on the peanut ball and worked with Tracy's trunk, head, and proprioceptive control. After all that, Dee gave Tracy a massage. She will sleep very well tonight! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening. He worked real hard and had a good practice. Daily OM: Embracing Grief : Grief Is Important ~

Wednesday, January 16th, 2008 ~ Mom Is Still Down With The Flu ~ Mom is still feeling pretty bad with severe body and head aches, and the Big D. The vomiting has subsided thanks to the magic of medication. Tracy seems to be feeling much better today, thank God! Tania & Felicia Take Tracy To Speech Therapy At FAU This Afternoon ~ Today was Tracy's first day back to Speech Therapy at FAU. She has a new student clinician named Melissa who will be working with her for the semester. Mom hated to miss Tracy's first session back this year, but was still feeling under the weather. Thank goodness for Tania and Felicia! Today, Tracy met with Melissa's supervisor, Laurie, and they all discussed Tracy's upcoming Treatment Plan. It sounds like it is going to be a fun and very productive semester. Mom Has Some Chicken Soup ~ Tania made Mom some chicken soup and it was really good! It felt good to finally put something in her stomach after two days of emptiness! Dad, Mom, Tracy & Luca Watch Last Week's Episode Of Brothers & Sisters ~ Dad, Mom, Tracy and Luca watched last week's episode of Brothers and Sisters that they tivoed. It was really good. Daily OM: Healing Our Bodies : Touch ~

Tuesday, January 15th, 2008 ~ Five Years Since Tracy's Accident In Florence, Italy! ~ Tracy Vomits At 7 AM This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about 6 to 8 ounces around 7 AM this morning. Mom Is Down With The Flu ~ Mom had a whopping case of the flu, complete with nausea, vomiting and the big D! She was down and out with total body aches and pains! Dad came home from work to play doctor! It sure is nice to know that there are doctors out there who still make house calls. He took good care of his girls! Tracy Vomits Again At 9:05 AM ~ Tracy vomited again after her morning feeding at 9:05 AM. This time she vomited 8 to 10 ounces. Dad recommended that she have Pedialyte and Gatorade for the rest of the day! Mom Cancelled Tracy's Physical Therapy With Dee ~ Mom cancelled Tracy's Physical Therapy session with Dee this afternoon. She did not want to give anyone else her version of the FLU! Yuck! Cousin Michelle & Auntie Ann Head Back North ~ Cousin Michelle and Auntie Anna headed back to Boston this evening. We really enjoyed their visit and can't wait for them to come back! Daily OM : Miracles In Every Day : Joy Always ~

Monday, January 14th, 2008 ~ Happy Birthday Papaw! ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom took Luca for his morning walk. He is getting into a good routine and enjoys getting out in the fresh air. Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga Class ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was another great class. She bought a book which she highly recommends: Riding The WAVE Inside Out! She plans to include it in Tracy's reading soon! Cousin Michelle Goes To Pilates ~ Cousin Michelle went to Pilates this morning at LA Fitness! This afternoon, Cousin Michelle and Auntie Ann met a friend for lunch in Delray Beach. Mom, Tania, & Felicia Put Tracy On The Tilt Table ~ Mom, Tania and Felicia got Tracy up on the tilt table this afternoon. They started her out at 30 degrees for ten minutes and then up to 45 she went for 30 minutes. Next, they elevated her to 60 degrees for 4 minutes. Her vital signs remained stable throughout her session. She got a little clammy around the 4th minute and Mom and Tania lowered her down to 45 degrees. She tolerated about 70 minutes total on the tilt table. We plan to get her up on the tilt table several times a week as tolerated. Mom, Uncle Johnny, & Aunt Diane Go To Spinning ~ Mom, Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane went to 6:45 PM Spinning this evening at LA Fitness. Paul taught another great class! Great music and great energy! Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool in the sunshine where Tania read from Eat, Pray, Love. Tracy and Tania seem to be enjoying the book as much as Mom did. Cousin Michelle is also reading it, and everyone enjoyed discussing their favorite parts. Cousin Michelle Gives Mom & Dad A Sudoku Game ~ Cousin Michelle gave Mom and Dad a wooden Sudoku game this evening. They played a game and it was a lot of fun! Daily OM: Inner Hierarchy : Listening With Your Heart ~

Word Of The Week: COURAGE ~ Affirmation Of The Week ~"We do not see things as they are, we see them as we are." ~ The Talmund ~ Goal Of The Week: “Learn to do one new thing each day without fear or reservation." ~ Quote Of The Week: "With courage you will dare to take risks, have the strength to be compassionate and the wisdom to be humble. Courage is the foundation of integrity ." ~ Keshavan Nair ~ Lyrical Verse Of The Week By India.Arie: It's time to step out on faith, I've gotta show my faith ~ It's been illusive for so long, but freedom is mine today ~ I've gotta step out on faith, It's time to show my faith ~ Procrastination had me down but look what I have found, I found: Strength, Courage & Wisdom!" ~ Strength, Courage, & Wisdom by India.Arie ~Book Of The Week: Riding The Wave Inside Out~ Anita Allison ~ Yoga Pose Of The Week: Sit Up : Sit Up ~ Featured Website of the Week: Emil's Website! You will see a beautiful portrait of Tracy painted by Emil!

Sunday, January 13th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom and Cousin Michelle took Luca for his morning walk. They went to look at one of Mom's favorite houses, Casa Rosa. They also met some of their neighbors who live down the street and their dogs. They had several beautiful, big dogs which Luca also met. Tracy Gets A Cranial Sacral Massage By Melanie ~ Melanie came by to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this morning before her aquatherapy with Greg and Jeff. Tracy showed a lot of emotion during her CST session, and even cried a little. Melanie is so good with Tracy! Jeff & Greg Come To Get Tracy Into The Pool For Aquatherapy ~ Dad heated the pool to a toasty 90 degrees so that Greg and Jeff could get Tracy into the pool for aquatherapy. They transferred Tracy into the pool, after putting on her wet suit. The wet suit is a wrap vest and shorts which give Tracy some additional support and warmth. Then it was time to work with Tracy in the pool. They stood her upright with her feet firmly planted on the bottom of the pool to work on some weight bearing in the water. Then they did a lot of stretching, using the buoyancy of the water to their advantage. They both do a great job with Tracy in the pool. Mom & Dad Get A Much-Needed Massage ~ Melanie worked with Mom and Dad, giving them each a massage. Melanie gives Dad a Cranial Sacral Therapy treatment while Mom prefers more deep tissue work. Nana, Aunt Diane, Jeff, Uncle Johnny, Auntie Anna, Cousin Michelle, Ross, Mason, & Paticia Come Over For Dinner ~ Cousin Michelle cooked Italian gravy, meatballs, sausage and maccaroni for the entire gang this evening. It was so delicious! She is Rachel Ray in the kitchen! Aunt Diane made the salad and everyone enjoyed a great meal. Our friends Ross, Patricia, and their adorable son Mason, who is eighteen months joined us as well. We had so much fun with little Mason. He is soooooo adorable and has the prettiest smile! Such a cutie! Daily OM: Adorable Lessons : Five Cute Fuzzy Things ~

Saturday, January 12th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For His Morning Walk ~ Mom's getting to like her morning walks with Luca. Good thing the weather is usually pretty good, especially at this time of year. Mom, Dad, Cousin Michelle & Aunt Diane Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, Cousin Michelle and Aunt Diane went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class with lots of heat! Just what the doctor ordered. Everyone Enjoys The Sunshine Outside By The Pool ~ Everyone enjoyed the sunshine outside by the pool until the clouds came over and the wind picked up in the afternoon. Mom Takes A Hot Bath ~ Mom relaxed this afternoon in a hot bubble bath while Cousin Michelle went to visit friends in Deerfield! What a great way to destress! Everyone Watches The Patriots Game & Enjoys Chinese Food ~ Cousin Michelle treated us all to Chinese food while everyone enjoyed watching the Patriots beat the Jacksonville Jaguars! Go Patriots! Daily OM : Keeping Things In Perspective : Mountains ~

Friday, January 11th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's still resolving to take Luca for his morning walks! He is really growing accustomed to going outside as soon as he wakes up! He is on his way to getting trained to go outside and not on the pad (or under Mom's bed!). He is doing a good job letting Mom know when he is ready to go. He barks and then brings his leash to her! He is sooooo smart! Tracy Was Up Most Of The Night ~ Mom and Tracy were awake most of the night. Tracy was so tired that Felicia and Mirelle let her sleep an extra hour or so before giving her a shower. Mom & Cousin Michelle Go To Spinning ~ Mom and Cousine Michelle went to 9:15 AM Spinning at LA Fitness in Deerfield. Patricia taught a great class with lots of jumps and hill-climbing. After Spinning, they went to Starbucks for lattes and scones. Mom & Cousin Michelle Go To A Great New Little Boutique ~ Mom took Cousin Michelle to a cute little European boutique in Boca. They found some really cute things. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool in the sunshine where Tania read from Eat, Pray, Love. Tracy and Tania seem to be enjoying the book as much as Mom did. Cousin Michelle is also reading it, and everyone enjoyed discussing their favorite parts. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows & Waxes Her Lip (Ouch!) ~ Tania gave Tracy a spa day this afternoon, shaping her eyebrows and waxing her lip out by the pool! Ouch, does it have to hurt to be beautiful? Mom, Tania, Cousin Michelle, & Auntie Anna Go To Hippotherapy With Tracy ~ Tracy had the pleasure of Cousin Michelle and Auntie Anna accompanying her to hippotherapy. They were very excited to see Tracy up on Breezy! Breezy is doing a good job as a therapy horse, even though she has her moments, just like any other girl! Nana, Aunt Diane, & Uncle Johnny Join The Rest Of The Gang For.... Yup, You Guessed It, TILAPIA ~ Nana, Uncle Johnny, and Aunt Diane joined Auntie Anna, Cousin Michelle, Mom, and Tracy for dinner this evening. Michelle cooked up tilapia in the convection oven, and made some black beans and rice. Aunt Diane made the salad. We ate in the dining room. It was all very delicious! Dad Made It Home Safely From Italy Around Midnight This Evening ~ Dad arrived safely from his whirlwind trip to Florence, Italy around midnight this evening. We all really missed him and were really happy to have him home. Daily OM: Inner Hierarchy : Listening With Your Heart ~

Thursday, January 10th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad (or under Mom's bed!). He is doing a good job letting Mom know when he is ready to go. He barks and then brings his leash to her! He is sooooo smart! He is also learning how to be polite to his fellow neighborhood dogs when he meets them on the trail. May be he will make a good therapy dog for Tracy after all! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class with lots of heat! Just what Mom needed! Tracy Vomits 8 Ounces After Her Second Feeding This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about 8 ounces after her second tube feeding this morning. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool in the sunshine where Tania read from Eat, Pray, Love. Tracy and Tania seem to be enjoying the book as much as Mom did. Dee Comes Over To Do Physical & Massage Therapy With Tracy ~ Dee came over to work with Tracy this evening. He and Tania moved Tracy to the therapy/massage table and he placed her on the Versatube to stretch her shoulders and pectoral muscles. Then it was time for Tracy's massage. Dee worked every muscle group through range of motion. Tracy really enjoys her massages! Mom, Tania, Tracy & Luca Watch T.V. This Evening ~ Tania, Mom, Tracy and Luca watched a new episode of Grey's Anatomy this evening. It was so nice to finally see a NEW episode, especially with the writer's strike. Daily OM: Stoking The Inner Fire : Turning Inward During Winter ~

Wednesday, January 9th, 2008 ~ Tracy Vomits At 4:30 AM ~ Tracy woke up at 4:30 AM and vomited about 6 ounces. Her Pulse Ox went down to the low 90s, and Mom decided to give Tracy some oxygen and a breathing treatment. She thinks that Tracy may have a little cold, so she gave her some saline nose drops and rubber some Vicks on her chest, back and sinuses. Tracy seemed a lot better, especially after the breathing treatment. Good thing Mom is a nurse! Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad (or under Mom's bed!). He is doing a good job letting Mom know when he is ready to go. He barks and then brings his leash to her! He is sooooo smart! He is also learning how to be polite to his fellow neighborhood dogs when he meets them on the trail. May be he will make a good therapy dog for Tracy after all! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class with lots of heat! Just what Mom needed! Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool in the sunshine where Tania read from Eat, Pray, Love. Tracy and Tania seem to be enjoying the book as much as Mom did. Greg Comes Over To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy ~ Greg came over to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. Dad and Mom decided that Sundays would be Tracy's pool therapy day and that Wednesdays, Greg and Jeff would work with Tracy on the therapy mat and/or massage table. This evening, Greg used the E-stim again on Tracy's major muscles, in an effort to reeducate her muscular and nervous systems. He then ranged her lower extremities through range of motion. After that, Greg and Mom positioned Tracy on the Versatube, to stretch her shoulders and pectoral muscles and open up her chest. Greg also worked on stretching her shoulders, neck and arms. Tania, Mom, Tracy & Luca Watch Deal Or No Deal This Evening ~ Tania, Mom, Tracy and Luca watched Deal Or No Deal this evening. There wasn't much else on, especially with the writer's strike. Daily OM: Declaring Our Intentions : Ready For Change ~

Tuesday, January 8th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad (or under Mom's bed!). He is doing a good job letting Mom know when he is ready to go. He barks and then brings his leash to her! He is sooooo smart! He is also learning how to be polite to his fellow neighborhood dogs when he meets them on the trail. May be he will make a good therapy dog for Tracy after all! Mom Takes Tracy To The Gastroenterologist ~ Mom and Felicia took Tracy to see the Gastroenterologist this morning. He reviewed Tracy's results of her Spectrocell blood test, that measures vitamins and minerals in Tracy's blood. Tracy has an appointment to see the dietitian in early February. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love ~ Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool in the sunshine where Tania read from Eat, Pray, Love. Tracy and Tania seem to be enjoying the book as much as Mom did. Dee Comes Over To Do Physical & Massage Therapy With Tracy ~ Dee came over to work with Tracy this evening. He and Tania moved Tracy on to her knees over the peanut (in quadraped) so she could weight bear through her hips, shoulders, and knees. Then he and Tania transitioned Tracy on to the mat in long sitting. Dee sat behind Tracy and they worked on head control. Next, Dee and Tania got Tracy on a chair, and Dee sat behind Tracy. He put two chairs on either side of Tracy so she could weight bear through her wrists and arms. Finally, Tracy was ready to relax and get her massage. Dee worked every muscle group through range of motion. Tracy really enjoyed her massage, especially after all her hard work! Tania, Mom, Tracy & Luca Watched T.V. This Evening ~ Tania, Mom, Tracy and Luca watched television this evening. There wasn't much on, especially with the writer's strike. Daily OM: Stoking The Inner Fire : Turning Inward During Winter ~

Monday, January 7th, 2008 ~ Geaux Tigers! ~ Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad. He really does love his walks! He is learning to be much more polite to his fellow neighborhood dogs. He is also learning how to go outside. Mom is realizing that the snack size Ziplock bags work well for Luca! Mom Takes The Van In For Service ~ Mom took the van in to get it serviced bright and early this morning. Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was another great class! She walked home since the van was still getting serviced. Tania Finishes The Book: Letters For Sam ~ Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool in the sunshine where Tania finished the book that she was reading to Tracy: Letters For Sam. She started reading her Eat, Pray, Love, Mom's favorite book of all times! Mom wants to start reading Letters For Sam next. Mom, Tania & Felicia Get Tracy On The Tilt Table This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tania and Felicia got Tracy's lower legs wrapped with ace wraps and then up she went on the tilt table to 30 degrees where she remained for 15 minutes. Mom, Tania and Felicia monitor her vital signs every 5 minutes while she is on the tilt table. After fifteen minutes, they raised her up to 45 degrees where she remained for 30 minutes. Her vital signs remained stable, and she tolerated a total of 45 minutes. Tania Ranges Tracy's Ankles ~ Tania spent some time ranging and stretching Tracy's ankles this evening. She does such a great job and has magical massage hands! Mom Goes To Spinning With Uncle Johnny & Aunt Diane ~ Mom, Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane went to Spinning at LA Fitness in Deerfield Beach. Brian taught an awesome, high energy class! Cousins Chip & Eileen Come Over To Watch The LSU Tigers Beat The Ohio State Buckeyes ~ It was a great night for Tiger fans, a night that will be forever etched in the minds and hearts of LSU fans! Tiffany, Aunt Kathy Sue, cousin Kathryn Jean, and Uncle Mike were at the game in the New Orleans Superdome. Tracy wore her LSU football jersey that Tiffany sent her and everyone was bleeding purple and gold! Geaux Tigers! Daily OM: Offering Our Gift : Community Responsibility ~

Sunday, January 6th, 2008 ~ Epiphany! ~ Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad. He really does love his walks! He is learning to be much more polite to his fellow neighborhood dogs. He is also learning how to go outside. Mom is realizing that the snack size Ziplock bags work well for Luca! Mom, Dad, Tracy & Eunice Go To Hippotherapy In Parkland At Bit By Bit ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Eunice went to Tracy's 11 AM Hippotherapy lesson in Parkland at Bit By Bit. Tracy had a really good lesson, and was able to maintain her trunk tone for almost 28 minutes with assistance. She continues to struggle with her head control, even with the aide of a soft cervical collar. We will continue to work on neck and trunk strengthening exercises. Tracy Had Physical Therapy With Greg & Jeff This Afternoon ~ After a brief rest, it was time for Greg and Jeff to work with Tracy on Physical Therapy. Unfortunately, the pool was still a little cool, even though Dad turned the heaters on bright and early this morning. The water was still cool from all of the cold weather we had earlier in the week. So, Jeff and Greg decided to work with Tracy out of the pool today. They worked on electrical stimulation with Tracy's major muscle groups to re-educate her muscles to contract. Since muscle has memory, this is a passive approach to muscle stimulation. Mom & Dad Take Down The Christmas Decorations ~ Mom and Dad finished taking down the Christmas decorations today. Why does it take so much longer to take them down than it does to put them up? I ask myself this very same question every year about this time. Dad, Mom, Tracy & Luca Watch The Tennessee Titans Get Beaten By The San Diego Chargers This Evening ~ Another night of football! This time, they watched the Chargers beat the Titans! Mom, Dad, Tracy & Luca Watch Desperate Housewives This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched Desperate Housewives: The Aftermath Of The Tornado ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched Desperate Housewives this evening. It is the only show that is not in reruns due to the ongoing writer's strike. Daily OM: Words Of Wisdom : Affirmation ~

Saturday, January 5th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad. He really does love his walks! He is learning to be much more polite to his fellow neighborhood dogs. He is also learning how to go outside. Mom is realizing that the snack size Ziplock bags work well for Luca! Mom & Dad Meet Aunt Diane At Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, and Aunt Diane went to the 10 AM Bikram Yoga class at Lighthouse Point. It was a really nice class. Tiffany Arrives Safely In New Orleans ~ Tiffany arrived safely in New Orleans this afternoon. Mamaw and Papaw sent Tiffany an airline ticket so that she could come to see LSU vs Ohio State in the National Championship Bowl in the New Orleans Superdome Monday evening. Melanie Came Over To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Treatment ~ Melanie came over to work with Tracy this afternoon. She also gave Dad a Cranial Sacral Therapy session and Mom a Swedish massage. Everyone had a relaxing afternoon. Mom & Dad Take Down The Christmas Decorations ~ Mom and Dad were busy taking down the Christmas decorations this evening. They got half of the ornaments down and then it was time to go to church. Too bad Luca is not still into untrimming the tree. He could put all of his practice to good use now that it is time to take the tree down. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To 5:30 PM Mass At St. Ambrose Church In Deerfield Beach ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to Mass this evening at St. Ambrose Church in Deerfield Beach. After Mass they stopped at Starbuck for a chai tea. Then they visited Nana and Dad put some shorter cables on her new television in the kitchen. He is such a handyman! Dad, Mom, Tracy & Luca Watch The Jacksonville Jaguars Beat The Pittsburgh Steelers ~ Another night of football! This time, they watched the Jacksonville Jaguars beat the Pittsburgh Steelers. Daily OM: Starting New : A Moment Of Choice ~

Friday, January 4th, 2008 ~ Mom Take Luca For A Long Walk ~ Mom's New Year resolution is to take Luca for a walk every morning so that he can get trained to go outside and not on the pad. He really does love his walks! Tracy Vomits 6 To 8 Ounces This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about six to eight ounces this morning. Felicia was brushing her teeth and Mom thinks Tracy gagged and threw up! EW! It happens to all of us at least once! Mom Goes To Get A Manicure ~ Mom got a manicure this morning at Boca Nails. She was way over-due! She ran into Cousin Eileen at the nail salon. What a nice surprise! Mom Takes Luca For Another LONG Walk ~ Luca is on a roll today, as he frolics through the grass picking up hitch hikers. Dad does such a good job picking the thousands of hitch hikers out of Luca's fur! Tracy Goes To Hippotherapy This Evening ~ Mom, Tania and Tracy went to 5:30 Hippotherapy in Parkland. Dad meets us there and is one of the sidewalkers for Tracy. Susan, Tracy's Physical Therapist, is the other side walker. Kate is also learning to be a side walker so that she can fill in for Dad when he is away. She is tall and very strong. Mom, Dad, Tracy, & Luca Watch Knocked Up On Pay Per Vue ~ Now that the writers' strike is still not resolved, everyone decided to watch Knocked Up on Pay Per Vue. It was a cute movie! Daily OM: Now Is The Time : Bloom Where You Are Planted ~

Thursday, January 3rd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To 9:15 AM Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to 9:15 AM Bikram Yoga in Lighthouse Point this morning. It was soooooo cold that the 105 degree room felt really good for a change. It was a good size class, very manageable. Mom likes it when the class is small because everyone gets a little more individualized attention. The down side is that you can't get away with anything! Mom Run Errands After Yoga ~ Mom ran some errands after Yoga this morning. She hit the usual Bed, Bath and Beyond with her coupons in hand! Tania Works On Tracy's Neck Strengthening Exercises ~ Tania worked on Tracy's neck strengthening exercises this morning while Tracy was seated in her chair. Mom Takes Luca To The Groomer This Afternoon ~ Mom took Luca to Pet Haven to get him groomed. Thank goodness, they just trimmed him a half of an inch, and did not shave him like last time. It's too cold for a buzz cut! It was in the thirties this morning but at least it didn't freeze! Mom was worried that her orchids would freeze! So far, so good! Keep your fingers crossed! Tracy Gets Physical Therapy & A Massage By Dee ~ Dee came and did physical therapy with Tracy. He got her prone (flat on her tummy) and positioned her on her forearms for weight bearing. She tolerated about thirty minutes in this position, and turned her head from side to side with lots of coaching and some assistance. Next, Dee and Tania got Tracy on her knees in high kneeling and Mom helped position Tracy's hands on Tania's shoulders. Dee put the soft cervical collar on Tracy to give her some additional neck support. Next, Dee and Tania positioned Tracy straddled on the peanut so that she could practice head control. Dee sat behind Tracy and worked with her head and neck. Finally, it was time for Tracy's favorite part, her massage. Dee spent a lot of time massaging and ranging all of Tracy's major muscle groups. He does an awesome job with Tracy and we are very blessed to have him. Mom Takes Luca For A Very Short Walk ~ Mom took Tracy for a very short walk this afternoon around the neighborhood. It started to sprinkle, which cut their walk short. Luca does not like walking in the rain, and neither does Mom! Mom, Dad. Tracy & Luca Watch The Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Kansas University Jayhawks At The Orange Bowl In Miami ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca watched the Orange Bowl this evening. Mom got a surprise phone call from our good friend Kit, a Hokie in Northern Virginia. It was such a nice surprise to hear from him! Go Hokies! Daily OM: Suffer & Sacrifice : False Beliefs ~

Wednesday, January 2nd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To 9:15 AM Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga in Lighthouse Point this morning. It was a great way to say hola to 2008 and to honor the body, mind and spirit! The 105 degree room was a welcoming sight with the 40 degree weather that we experienced this morning! Class was pretty full, and Mom enjoyed the experience! Dad Goes Back To Work ~ Reality $#@*% ~ Dad returned to work this morning and life returned to normal (somewhat)! We are the only ones left on our street with our Christmas tree and lights still up! Dad plans to take them down this weekend! Mom Had An Appointment With The Chiropractor This Morning ~ Mom went to the chiropractor this morning for e-stim, heat therapy and an adjustment. She was much overdue. How do you spell RELIEF! Mom Goes To Nana's This Afternoon ~ Mom went to Nana's to shampoo and blow dry her hair! It is so nice to live so close to family! Tania Works With Tracy To Strengthen Her Neck Muscles ~ Tania worked with Tracy on her neck strengthening exercises for fifteen minutes today. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. Tania Massaged & Stretched Tracy's Hands & Fingers With Scented Lotion ~ Tania massaged and stretched Tracy's hands and fingers with scented lotion this afternoon. Mom Takes Luca For A Walk Around The Neighborhood ~ Mom took Luca for a LONG walk around the neighborhood this afternoon. She put on his ITALIA soccer jacket that Aunt Candy and the gang gave him for Christmas! It is so cute. It was also warm since the temperature never got above the mid fifties today! It is supposed to dip down in the low to mid thirties tonight! Mom actually has the heat on in the house! Tracy Has Therapy Out Of The Pool This Evening ~ Tracy had physical therapy this evening but it was too cold to go into the pool. Jeff and Greg got Tracy on the therapy table and worked with her trunk and head control. They were very pleased with her stamina and plan to return Sunday at 1:30. Hopefully, it will be warm enough to go in the pool for therapy! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening. He really does enjoy his practice and looks forward to it three times a week! Daily OM: You Are Beautiful : Seeing Ourselves ~

Tuesday, January 1st, 2008 ~ Happy New Year! ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Mass At 10:30 AM At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to mass this morning at St. Paul The Apostle Church in Lighthouse Point. It was a nice way to start the New Year! Nana, Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny Come Over For The Day ~ Everyone came over to spend the day in the pool that Dad heated to a toasty 88 degrees. Even Nana was planning on getting in the pool. Then, all of a sudden the big black cloud arrived and stalled over the Anzalone home! Just when Uncle Johnny and Mom were getting ready to don their life vests and embark on a kayaking adventure of a lifetime, it started to rain cats and dogs! (Well, not really cats and dogs... Luca would have loved that!) So, everyone aborted the plan and retreated to indoors for the remainder of the day! Dad Overdoses On Football Bowl Games ~ Dad overdosed on college football bowl games while Mom and Rose Marie worked in the kitchen. Rose Marie made cream puffs, pizza bread, and a delicious salad while Mom worked on the egg plant and lasagna. Dad insisted on some black eyed peas for good luck in the New Year (a Southern tradition). Anita brought Mom's favorite: Nonni's biscottis in a cute cookie jar! Daily OM: Loving Presence : Surround Yourself With Love ~