Tuesday, March 31st, 2009 ~ Mom Substitutes For Wilmene As Nursing Assistant This Morning ~ Mom helped Maude with Tracy's AM care this morning while Wilmene had a doctor's appointment. Mom discovered just how rusty her nursing skills are. Mom Goes To Swim Laps At The Yacht Club ~ Mom went to the yacht club to swim laps this morning. It was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine. Mom made it through 10 laps and then relaxed and read a book. Looks like it is back to square one with swimming. Tracy Has Her Final Speech Therapy Session With Jodi At NSU ~ Tracy had a good last Speech Therapy session of the semester with Jodi this afternoon. Jodi had created some new games and activities on the Dynavox Eye Max. Tracy is working so hard during her Speech Therapy sessions. Jodi is working hard too, and has agreed to work with Tracy again next semester. We are very excited to have Jodi back again next semester with Tracy, and are looking forward to more fun activities on the Dynavox Eye Max. Mom asked Dr. Lowe to explore a rental agreement so that Tracy can have her own Dynavox Eye Max to work with at home. Dee Comes To Give Tracy A Massage ~ Dee came by to give Tracy a massage and to work with her in Physical Therapy. He gave her a good massage, working on all of her major muscle groups. Then he and Tania got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball for some trunk and neck strengthening as well as vestibular exercises. Tracy really enjoys Dee's massages. Dad Makes It Back Safely This Evening ~ Dad made it back safely this evening after his conference in Northern Virginia. Everyone missed him and was happy to have him back home. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! 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: Journey Of The Senses: Incense Medicine ~

Monday, March 30th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Hard Body Yoga this morning with Diane. It was an amazing workout! It never ceases to amaze Mom that this stuff never gets easier, just better! Dad Goes To Dulles Airport In Northern Virginia To Give A Presentation At An Airline Conference ~ Dad left this morning for Northern Virginia to give a presentation to airline personnel. Tania stayed with Mom and Tracy overnight. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg worked with Tracy on her Physical Therapy this afternoon. First, he stretched and ranged Tracy on the mat, and then it was time to get her in long sitting on the BOSU for balance and trunk strengthening exercises. Then it was time to get Tracy straddled on the peanut ball for more trunk and neck strengthening exercises. Tracy was working so hard! She is doing such a good job in therapy. You go girl! Mom, Tania & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ The girls watched Dancing With The Stars this evening. Mom is still pulling for Shawn and Mark, Gilles and Cheryl, Lil Kim and Derek, and Melissa and Tony! Great dancing! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! 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: Complimentary Energies: Balancing Self With Family Life ~

Sunday, March 29th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Fanancy! ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To 11:30 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church ~ Everyone went to 11:30 AM Mass this morning at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church. It was a very nice Mass. After church, we made a pit stop at Starbucks (surprise) for lattes and scones! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch March Madness Elite Eight This Afternoon ~ Everyone watched more NCAA college basketball this afternoon. It will soon be down to the much coveted Final Four! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Jeff & Diane's For Chinese Food For Dad's Birthday ~ Jeff and Diane had a nice Chinese dinner this evening for Dad's birthday. Nana and Uncle Johnny came and everyone had a nice time. They had a yummy oreo cookie cake and ice cream, chocolate covered strawberries, little connolis, and Mom's and Tania's favorite cookies! It was all delicious and really fun! Thanks Diane and Jeff, Nana & Uncle Johnny! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! 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: Seasons Of Beauty: Aging Gracefully ~

Saturday, March 28th, 2009 ~ Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Dad had a great yoga practice this morning with Veronica at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. Mom skipped Hard Body Yoga this morning and saved her energy for the Inversion & Arm Balance Workshop. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. Her skin looks radiant. Mom Goes To The Inversion & Arm Balance Workshop This Morning With Monica ~ Mom had a great inversion and arm balance workshop with Monica at Awaken Hot Yoga. It was a great workshop with ten participants, requiring a lot of core strength and stamina. Tracy Was Pretty Vocal Today ~ Tracy was extremely vocal today, really exercising her voice with lots of Ahhhhs! Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Aimee This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Aimee this afternoon. She was very vocal and alert during her session. Aimee worked with Tracy on oral motor exercises. She used some honey on her chewy tube, which Tracy did a good job chewing on and moving her mouth, tongue and lips. Then Aimee worked on Tracy's voice, asking her to mimic Ahhh! Tracy did a really good job vocalizing Ahhh! It was Tracy's best session yet, with Aimee. Mom & Dad Go In The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this evening while Tracy hung out on the lanai with them. The dogs even enjoyed the beautiful weather. Greg & Lori Come Over For A Visit This Evening ~ Greg and Lori came by for a brief visit this evening. It was Lori's first time meeting Tracy, and Mom and Dad really enjoyed getting to know her. She has her doctorate in Physical Therapy, and works in the DC/NOVA area. Everyone enjoyed the visit. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch March Madness Elite Eight This Evening ~ Everyone watched Villanova beat Pitt this evening.At least one of the Jesuit colleges is in the Final Four! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! 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: Giving The Gift Of You: Serving Your Community ~

Friday, March 27th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Veronica! Veronica did a lot of core strengthening work today! Namaste! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed manicure this morning, using a pretty Spring pink shade that Aunt Candy sent her for her birthday! They look so pretty! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Afternoon With Susan At Bit By Bit Therapy In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this afternoon with Susan at Bit By Bit Therapy in Parkland. Giovanni, Tania friend (and our friend too) came with us to see Tracy on Breezy. He came out to the Winter Wonderland Horse Show last December to help Dad mount Tracy on Breezy. He was very surprised to see how much stronger Tracy is on Breezy since the show last December. It was very windy out there, and Tracy did not want to lift her head up. She does not like the wind at all. She sat up very tall on Breezy, just the same. Breezy was not very happy with the wind either (even though her name is Breezy!). Tracy Was Pretty Quiet Today Compared To Yesterday ~ Tracy was pretty tired and quiet today after her very vocal day yesterday (which continued until around 11 PM Friday evening!) It seems as though she wore herself out! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch March Madness Sweet Sixteen This Evening ~ Everyone watched Gonzaga get beat by UNC this evening. Tracy was rooting for the Zags, especially since did her junior year exchange program with the Gonzaga in Florence program! They were also pulling for Syracuse, who also lost, since they are Gio's alma mater. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! 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: Seasons Of Beauty: Aging Gracefully ~

Thursday, March 26th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hot Vinyasa Yoga practice this morning with Veronica. They must have done a million planks and chatturangas! Ouch!. Mom Takes Nana To Her Podiatrist Appointment In Lighthouse Point This Afternoon ~ Nana had a 1 PM appointment with Dr. D'Altilio in Lighthouse Point. She is really gentle and Nana likes her alot! She does an excellent job! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy on the tilt table and wrapped her lower extremities with ace wraps to facilitate venous return. Then it was time to get Tracy cranked up to 30 degrees for twenty minutes, until she could acclimate. Her vital signs remained stable throughout her session. Next, Greg cranked Tracy up to 50 degrees where she remained for twenty minutes, again maintaining stable vital signs. Once Greg cranked Tracy up to 58 degrees, Tracy did well for about 6 minutes, and then began to get clammy and ashen. So down she went to zero degrees (flat) where she recovered pretty quickly. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions. We are very proud of her! Dad Missed His Thursday Evening Traditional Hot Yoga Practice This Evening ~ Dad missed his 6:30 PM yoga practice this evening. He got home too late from work! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Divine Feminine Force: Shakti ~

Wednesday, March 25th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane. They must have done a million planks and chatturangas! Ouch!. Tracy Has Speech Therapy (Make-up) With Jodi At Nova Southeastern University This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a really good Speech Therapy session with Jodi this afternoon at NSU in Davie. It was a make-up session for the Tuesday that she missed due to her Botox appointment. Tracy was very awake and alert and working very hard on the Dynavox I Max with eye gaze. Tracy was determined to complete all of the activities and games that Jodi created for her on the Dynavox. She is getting better with continued practice! It seems that she has the most trouble focusing her eyes to the left upper corner of the screen. We'll continue working on different games and activities that strengthen and develop her eye and head control. Tracy has one more session nextt week, and then a semester break until the second week of May. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy on the therapy mat to stretch and range her major muscle groups. Then it was time to sit Tracy on the BOSU for some balance and vestibular training. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions. Next, Tania, Greg and Mom got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball to work on trunk and head control. Then it was time to get Tracy quadriped on the peanut, so that Tracy could weight-bear through her knees and her hands/wrists. Tracy tolerated 15 minutes on her knees in this position. Tracy Was Very Vocal During Physical Therapy & Was Mimicking Mom's Sounds ~ Tracy was making some really good sounds during Physical Therapy this afternoon. Mom told Tracy to take a deep breath and let out an AHHHHH! Tracy demonstrated this several times on cue! What was hysterical was when Luna mimicked Mom too! She makes a great therapy dog! (Oh by the way, Luca was snoozing on the ottoman while Luna was doing all the work! What a lazy %$#@-tzu!) Tania Massages Tracy's Hands & Wrists And Puts On Her Resting Hand Splints Yhis Evening ~ Tania massaged Tracy's hands and wrists and then put on her resting hand splints for the night. She was so tired and went to sleep right away. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Over And Over Again: Having The Same Experience ~

Tuesday, March 24th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Spinning At LA Fitness With Diane ~ Tracy Has Speech Therapy (Make-up) With Jodi At Nova Southeastern University This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a really good Speech Therapy session with Jodi this afternoon at NSU in Davie. It was a make-up session for the Tuesday that she missed due to her Botox appointment. Tracy was very awake and alert and working very hard on the Dynavox I Max with eye gaze. Tracy was determined to complete all of the activities and games that Jodi created for her on the Dynavox. She is getting better with continued practice! It seems that she has the most trouble focusing her eyes to the left upper corner of the screen. We'll continue working on different games and activities that strengthen and develop her eye and head control. Tracy has one more session nextt week, and then a semester break until the second week of May. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy on the therapy mat to stretch and range her major muscle groups. Then it was time to sit Tracy on the BOSU for some balance and vestibular training. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions. Next, Tania, Greg and Mom got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball to work on trunk and head control. Then it was time to get Tracy quadriped on the peanut, so that Tracy could weight-bear through her knees and her hands/wrists. Tracy tolerated 15 minutes on her knees in this position. Tracy Was Very Vocal During Physical Therapy & Was Mimicking Mom's Sounds ~ Tracy was making some really good sounds during Physical Therapy this afternoon. Mom told Tracy to take a deep breath and let out an AHHHHH! Tracy demonstrated this several times on cue! What was hysterical was when Luna mimicked Mom too! She makes a great therapy dog! (Oh by the way, Luca was snoozing on the ottoman while Luna was doing all the work! What a lazy %$#@-tzu!) Tania Massages Tracy's Hands & Wrists And Puts On Her Resting Hand Splints This Evening ~ Tania massaged Tracy's hands and wrists and then put on her resting hand splints for the night. She was so tired and went to sleep right away. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Spring Cleaning: In With The New ~

Monday, March 23rd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane. They must have done a million planks and chatturangas! Ouch!.Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Galvez At The Cleaveland Clinic For Pump Refill & Adjustment ~ After nearly an hour wait, Dr. Galvez refilled Tracy's Baclofen pump and also increased her daily dose (10%) from 206 to 226 micrograms per day. Greg, Tracy's Physical Therapist, is going to monitor Tracy's spasticity after her increase. Tracy's Physical Therapy With Greg Is Cancelled This Evening ~ Tracy did not have her scheduled Physical Therapy session this evening, after arriving home late from her appointment. Mom Is Elected To The Bit By Bit Board Of Directors This Evening ~ Mom attended her first Board Of Directors' meeting this evening for Bit By Bit Therapy, Inc. She is looking forward to working with the board on such a fantastic program. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: A Great Teacher: Living Like Water ~

Sunday, March 22nd, 2009 ~ Tracy Vomits 6 to 8 Ounces This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about 6 to 8 ounces this morning after getting her teeth brushed with the sonicare tooth brush. She is very sensitive to getting her teeth brushed, especially after her tube feeding. She vomited another 6 ounces an hour and a half later, after her medication. Tracy Rests In Her Bed After Her Shower ~ Mom and Dad decided to forego Mass this morning after Tracy was sick. Tracy was pretty wiped out after vomiting, and spent the majority of her day in bed getting some well-deserved rest. Mom & dad Watch Brothers & Sisters And The Unit This Evening ~ Mom and Dad tivoed Desperate Housewives while they watched Brothers & Sisters and The Unit this evening; two of Mom's favorite shows! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Passive Aggressive Behavior: Claiming Our Feelings ~

Saturday, March 21st, 2009 ~ Happy Vernal Equinox! ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning At 8 AM ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane. She has increased her hydration to 3 bottles per class! Very hot and humid!. ~ Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial & A Manicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a manicure and a facial this morning . Boy of boy, Tracy sure does love her spa days! ~ Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session This Morning ~ Melanie worked with Tracy this morning on her Cranial Sacral Therapy. She was very relaxed and Melanie thought Tracy's overall health was very strong. ~ Melanie Gives Mom A Swedish Massage This Afternoon ~ Next, it was Mom's turn for a massage. Melanie is so gifted. She has very healing hands! ~ Melanie Gives Dad A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session This Afternoon ~ Dad was up next for a Cranial Sacral Therapy session. He really feels his lower back release when Melanie works with him! ~ Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Dr. Lowe & Aimee This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Dr. Lowe and Aimee this afternoon. Dr. Lowe brought the new Dynavox Max so that she could have Tracy demonstrate how it works. Jodi had created several new features using some of the pictures that Dad had taken last weekend. Tracy has two sessions this week, one at her regularly scheduled time on Tuesday at 3 PM and the other on Wednesday at 2 PM. She only has two more weeks until semester break. This semester sure did fly by! Sessions will resume in early May! ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch LSU vs. UNC This Evening: .Looks like Mom's and Dad's favorite teams are out of the March Madness playoffs: LSU and Boston College! Boo! ~ Mom & Dad Order Pizza & Chicken Wings And Watch Indiana Jones & The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull ~ Mom snoozed while Dad watched the Indiana Jones & The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull movie which they rented. Mom sure does have a difficult time staying awake for some movies. ~ Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Remembering Who We Are: Brave Spirits ~

Friday, March 20th, 2009 ~ Happy First Day Of Spring! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning At 9 AM ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Veronica. Diane and Veronica had a special surprise at the end of class: LuLuLemon yoga clothing trunk show and even some frozen cold face cloths with armomatherapy infused throughout! They were so refreshing, it felt like we were flying first class! The class was really packed and totally awesome! Lots of fun!. Tania Uses Tracy's Chewy Tube With Mango Yogurt During Her Mealtime ~ Tania worked with Tracy on her oral motor exercises during her meal time, using her red chewy tube dipped in Mango Yogurtutella, one of Tracy's favorite flavored yogurt. Then, Wilmene fed Tracy 3 ounces of Mango Yogurt, which she swallowed in a very short time! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening With Susan At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had the absolute best session at Hippotherapy this evening. She sat up so tall and worked very hard to control her head. We are all so very proud of her, especially Breezy! Susan and Debbie have been working very hard to get Gypsy, their new horse, ready for Tracy. She is just the right height for Tracy! We can't wait for her to be ready for Tracy to ride! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles & The Mentalist This Evening: Thank goodness for DVR! Dad tivoed Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles and The Mentalist, which they watched this evening.. Mom & Dad Watch Fireproof This Evening ~ Mom and Dad highly recommend the movie: Fireproof for all married couples to watch. It was very good, and they really enjoyed it. For more information, please go to their website: www.fireproofyourmarriage.com. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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 Power Behind Us: Supporters ~

Thursday, March 19th, 2009 ~ Happy St. Joseph's Day! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning At 9 AM ~ Mom had a hot and challenging Hot Vinyasa Yoga practice this morning with Sheila. She did a lot of new poses that were exhilirating and challenging!. Tania Uses Tracy's Chewy Tube With Nutella During Her Mealtime ~ Tania worked with Tracy on her oral motor exercises during her meal time, using her red chewy tube dipped in Nutella, one of Tracy's favorite sweets! Mmmm! Needless to say, she was very motivated to chew! Yum! Tania Massages Tracy Hands & Wrists This Afternoon ~ Tania massaged Tracy's hands and wrists this afternoon. She really seemed to enjoy her hand massage, and was smiling and laughing. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. Thursday is tilt table day, so after Greg wrapped Tracy's lower extremities with ace bandages, and put on Tracy's Nike flip flops with the bumpy massage inner soles, it was time to transfer Tracy to the table. Greg took Tracy's baseline vital signs, and then cranked her up to 30 degrees for twenty minutes. Tracy's vital signs remained stable during the twenty minutes, and it was time to crank her up to 50 degrees for another twenty minutes. She did awesome, and Mom put on Planet Earth, the award winning Discovery channel DVD set about planet earth. She seems to really like this amazing work of photography! Next, Greg cranked Tracy up to 55 degrees for 15 minutes, where her vital signs remained stable. So, Greg cranked Tracy up to 60 degrees for 12 minutes, the highest she has been for a long time. Tracy did awesome, showing no signs of distress! This exercise is so good for her orthostatic system, as well as a major weight bearing/strengthening activity! Great work Tracy. Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga With Veronica This Evening ~ Dad had a great practice this evening at Traditional Hot Yoga with Veronica. It is similar (but not the same) as the 26 "Bikram" poses, pleasant (she plays music) yet still quite challenging. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Grey's Anatomy & Private Practice This Evening: Thank goodness for DVR! Dad tivoed Smallville, while they watched Grey's Anatomy & Private Practice this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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 Power Behind Us: Supporters ~

Wednesday, March 18th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning At 9 AM ~ Mom hsd a hot and challenging Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane. Diane's classes are always packed and she has the best music and sequences. Very challenging! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. He put Tracy's e-stim on each quadriceps while he stretched the opposite leg. Tracy tolerated ten minutes on each quad for Neuromuscular Reeducation. Then Greg and Tania got Tracy seated on the BOSU for stretching in long sitting and vestibular stimulation. Tracy tolerated about 15 minutes on the BOSU. Then, Mom, Tania and Greg got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball for more trunk strengthening. She tolerated 15 minutes in this position. Then it was time to get Tracy in quadriped (on her hands and knees) over the peanut ball. She did a great job tolerating this challenging position for about 25 minutes. This is so good for strengthening and weight bearing! Tracy is really working hard during her therapy sessions this week! Tania Worked With Tracy's Chewy Tube & Guava Yogurt During Her Mealtime This Evening ~ Tania worked with Tracy on her oral motor exercises during her meal time, using her red chewy tube dipped in Guava yogurt. Tania fed Tracy about 3 ounces of yogurt this evening. Good job Tracy (and Tania)! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga With Veronica This Evening ~ Dad had a great practice this evening at Traditional Hot Yoga with Veronica. It is similar (but not the same) as the 26 "Bikram" poses, pleasant (she plays music) yet still quite challenging. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Mentalist This Evening ~ Thank goodness for DVR! Dad tivoed The Mentalist and Mom and Dad watched it this evening. It has become one of their favorite shows! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: In Line With Spirit: Staying On Track ~

Tuesday, March 17th, 2009 ~ Happy St. Patty's Day! ~ Mom Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning At 9 AM ~ Mom hsd a hot and challenging Traditional Hot Yoga this morning with Veronica. It has been a while since she has done the traditional Bikram 26 poses, and it showed. Mom had some difficulty balancing today. What used to be second nature has once again, become very challenging. Tania Works On Tracy's Head Control & Neck Strengthening Exercises This Afternoon ~ Tania took off Tracy's head rest and worked on her neck strengthening exercises this afternoon. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Jodi At NSU In Davie ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Jodi at NSU Speech and Hearing Clinic. Jodi began the session calibrating the new Dynavox Max to Tracy's eye placement. This is always a little tricky, trying to capture Tracy's eyes in a little rectangle on the screen. Once Jodi lined up the machine with Tracy's eyes, she opened up some of the exercises that she had created for Tracy. The first one was a series of bright turquoise squares which Tracy had to look at to activate a conversation about Jodi and Tracy's weekend. Tracy is improving in her eye control, although she has her work cut out for her. Next, Jodi worked with Tracy on Yes/No graphic responses that she created on the screen. She asked Tracy some questions, such as "Are your eyes blue?" and Tracy would look at either Yes or No for response. When she looked at the appropriate response, the Dynavox would say Yes, or No, respectively. This Dynavox Max has amazing capability. Jodi is going to put some pictures that Dad took of Tracy's bedroom, therapy room, pool, dogs: Luna and Luca, etc. on the new Dynavox, to further personalize Tracy's therapy sessions. Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga With Veronica This Evening ~ Dad had a great practice this evening at Traditional Hot Yoga with Veronica. It is similar (but not the same) as the 26 "Bikram" poses, pleasant (she plays music) yet still quite challenging. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch DancingWithTheStars:TheResults This Evening: Thank goodness for DVR! Dad tivoed NCIS and The Mentalist to watch later this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Permission To Feel: Pushing Away Emotions ~

Monday, March 16th, 2009 ~ Happy B'Day Cousin Chip ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning At 9 AM ~ Mom hsd a hot and challenging Hard Body Yoga this morning with Diane. There was definitely great energy in the room, with lots of heat. Mom Goes To Two Dentist Appointments This Afternoon ~ Mom had her follow-up appointment with the oral surgeon this morning, and he was pleased with Mom's healing. He wants to see her back in five weeks, for one more check before she gets her crown. Next, Mom had her six month appointment with Dr. Camuccio for cleaning, x-rays, and routine exam. Everything looked good, except the Peridex definitely stained Mom's teeth. Bernadette had to work overtime to get the stains off Mom's teeth. Tania Works On Tracy's Head Control & Neck Strengthening Exercises This Afternoon ~ Tania took off Tracy's head rest and worked on her neck strengthening exercises this afternoon. Tracy, Tania, Wilmene, Luca & Luna Enjoy The Sunshine This Afternoon ~ The girls and dogs enjoyed the sunshine out by the pool this afternoon. Tania read to Tracy from Mutant Message Down Under. Mom Stops At Chip's Office To Wish Him A Happy Birthday ~ Mom stopped by Chip's office to bring him a card and some Starbucks for his birthday! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. After stretching all of Tracy's major muscle groups while she was in long sittting, he and Tania got Tracy straddled on the peanut to work on trunk and head control. Then it was time to get Tracy flat on her tummy on the mat. Tracy tolerated this position for twenty-five minutes, while Greg stretched Tracy's quads, feet, and ankles. He saw some improvement in her tone in Tracy's hips and abductors, especially her left leg.. Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening With Aunt Diane ~ Mom met Aunt Diane at Spinning this evening at LA Fitness in Deerfield. Charlie taught a very tough class with three huge hills with jumps. They both missed Uncle Johnny this evening. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch DancingWithTheStars:TheResults This Evening: Thank goodness for DVR! Dad tivoed NCIS and The Mentalist to watch later this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Emerging From The Grey: Ways We Numb Ourselves ~

Sunday, March 15th, 2009 ~ Beware Of The Ides Of March ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, & LuLu Go To 11:30 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and LuLu went to 11:30 AM Mass this morning at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Lighthouse Point. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Starbucks After Mass ~ Everyone enjoyed lattes and scones after Mass this afternoon. Then Dad rode by the beach at Deerfield and everyone got out to take a peek at the ocean. It was pretty rough with riptide warnings, but the beach was awesome. There was a delicious cool breeze and the water was aquamarine. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Enjoy The Sunshine By The Pool ~ Mom and Dad enjoyed the hot tub while Tracy relaxed in her chair by the pool. Mom even finished her book: Mutant Message Down Under. She highly recommends it. Dad Grills Some Steaks For Dinner ~ Dad grilled some delicious steaks for dinner and Mom made arugula salad and four cheese raviolis. Mmmm, it was good. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Unit and Brothers & Sisters This Evening: Thank goodness for DVR! Dad tivoed The Unit, Desperate Housewives, & Brothers & Sisters this evening. They ended up watching The Unit and Brothers & Sisters, Mom's favorite shows. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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 Wisdom Of Surrender: Resistance Equals Persistance ~

Saturday, March 14th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning At 8 AM ~ Mom went to Hard Body Yoga this morning with Diane. It was very hot and a tough, challenging class! Just the way Mom likes it! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga With Veronica ~ Dad had a great practice this morning at Traditional Hot Yoga with Veronica. It is similar (but not the same) as the 26 "Bikram" poses, pleasant (she plays music) yet still quite challenging. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. She really enjoys her spa days and her skin is glowing! Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Aimee This Afternoon ~ Aimee came by to work with Tracy on her Speech Therapy. It had been 10 days since Tracy has had Speech Therapy (due to Botox appointment and schedule changes) and Tracy was a little sleepy. Aimee began the session with oral motor exercises. Mom put some Nutella (Tracy's favorite) on Tracy's red chewy tube and Tracy chewed on it. She seemed to enjoy the yummy chocolate hazelnut spread (just like when she was in Italy). Next, Aimee got out the Dynavox for Tracy to hit the switch and scan through her topics. She was pretty sleepy and did not look very interested in it. Aimee added a vacation spot to Arizona to a posh spa! Mom was excited about that! Next, Mom got out the collection of teddy bears that Tracy had received over the past six years. She kept some of Tracy's very special ones, and then let Aimee pick some for her preschoolers. Aimee is going to do a special Share A Bear project with her preschoolers, sharing Tracy's story. Mom loaned Aimee Tracy's book written by Samantha Dickison about Tracy's accident. Aimee is going to read the story to the kids and then they will each get one of Tracy's Share A Bears! Aimee promised to take pictures to be posted on this website. Dad, Mom , Tracy, Luca & Luna Relax Outside By The Pool ~ It was a beautiful day and Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna relaxed by the pool. Mom and Dad even got in the hot tub, which was the perfect temperature. The pool was still pretty cool at 77 degrees. It should be perfect for Tracy to get in in another month. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Past Episodes Of The Mentalist, CSI, & Celebrity Apprentice This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy got caught up with tivoed episodes of their favorite programs this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Five Things: A Self-Esteem Exercise ~

Friday, March 13th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Papa John! We Miss You! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning with Veronica. It was a great class! Mom Picks Up Nana & Heads To lake Worth For Hair Appointments ~ Mom and Nana had their monthly hair appointments with Kerri @the Hairnet in Lake Worth this afternoon. Mom and Nana were way overdue! Too many white hairs! Argh! Tania, Wilmene, Luca, Luna & Tracy Relax Outside By The Pool ~ It was a beautiful day and the girls and the dogs hung outside by the pool to soak up the sun in the fresh air. They got their daily dose of vitamin D. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows ~ Tania does such a beautiful job shaping Tracy's eyebrows! They look so beautiful! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening With Susan At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan this evening at Bit By Bit in Parkland. This was Tracy's first session since February 19th, because Susan and the horses were away on Spring Break! Tracy demonstrated the best trunk control ever, and is working very hard on head control. She sat by herself for a second or two with no support! Way to go Tracy! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Past Episodes Of Desperate Housewives & Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy got caught up with tivoed episodes of their favorite programs this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Providing Support: Fathers ~

Thursday, March 12th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning With Sheila ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga this morning with Sheila. It is one of Mom's favorite classes! Sheila is such a good instructor. Wilmene Gives Tracy About 3 Ounces Of Mango Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Wilmene gave Tracy about three ounces of Mango yogurt this afternoon. She is doing a good job moving the yogurt to the back of her mouth and swallowing. She used the chewy tube to stimulate jaw movement. It seems to be working well. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. After wrapping her legs with ace wraps and putting on her AFOs and tennis shoes, Greg and Tania transferred Tracy to the tilt table for therapy. They took baseline vital signs, and then cranked her up to 30 degrees where she remained for 20 minutes to establish a base. Her vital signs remained stable, and after 20 minutes they cranked her up to 45 degrees for another 20 minutes. Then it was time to increase to 50 degrees for 24 minutes, where her vital signs remained stable. While she was on the tilt table, Mom put on the new Discovery DVD set: Planet Earth. Tracy really watched it and seemed to enjoy the segment on the Ocean! Beautiful photography! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga With Veronica This Evening ~ Dad enjoyed his Yoga practice this evening with Veronica. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Smallville, Grey's Anatomy, & Private Practice This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy enjoyed their favorite programs this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Giving Your Gifts To The World: Being Happy With Your Job ~

Wednesday, March 11th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning with Diane. It was very hot and a tough, challenging class! Just the way Mom likes it! Wilmene Feeds Tracy 3 Ounces Of Mango Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Wilmene fed Tracy around three ounces of Mango Yogurt this afternoon. She used Tracy's new red chewy tube, which helped with her chewing and jaw mobility. Tracy did a good job swallowing and moving the yogurt to the back of her mouth! She is working very hard! You go girl! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tania and Greg transferred Tracy to her therapy mat and got her in long sitting for some stretching and e-stime. Greg placed the electrodes on Tracy's quads for Neuromuscular reeducation. Then it was time to get Tracy straddled on the peanut for some trunk strengthening and vestibular/balance training. Tracy did a good job with trunk control and then it was time to transfer to the mat flat on her tummy. Greg stretched Tracy's quads, lower back and hips while Tracy was in this position. She tolerated 25 minutes in this position. Dad Returns From His Day Trip To NYC/LaGuardia Airport ~ Dad was up at the crack of dawn for his 6 AM flight to NYC/LaGuardia International Airport for his monthly meeting with the pilots. He got back about 6:30 PM and was pretty tired! It was an early night for everyone! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The O'Reilly Factor, Hannity, and Greta Van Sustern This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy got a full dose of Fox News this evening. There was nothing new on TV! Looks like it is time to turn off the news chatter! Yuck! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Set Yourself Free: Letting Go Of Perfection ~

Quote Of The Month ~ "Be the change you want to see in the world." ~ Gandhi ~ Word/Phrase Of The Month: SEEK THE TRUTH IN ALL YOU DO! ~ Goal Of The Month: "Look within and without to seek the TRUTH in all you do!" Quote/Prayer Of The Month: "I think, therefore I am." ~ Rene' Descartes ~ Song Of The Month: Viva La Vida by Cold Play ~ Book Of The Month: The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer ~ Yoga Pose Of The Month: Virabhadrasana II: Warrior II Pose ~ Featured Website of the Month: Pray The Rosary

Tuesday, March 10th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes Back To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had her first day back to Traditional Hot Yoga this morning. It was tough, but she is glad she made it through the class! It was a truly humbling experience. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Pedicure & Manicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a pedicure and manicure this morning. The color of the week is clear with sparkles in it! Very Spring-like! Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Rubin At The University of Miami Miller School Of Medicine For Botox & Baclofen Pump Adjustment ~ Mom and Tania brought Tracy to UM Miller School of Medicine for her Botox appointment with Dr. Rubin. He gave Tracy over 40 shots of Botox in her pectorals, wrists, hands, fingers, and arms. Dr. Rubin also adjusted her Baclofen pump from 172 to 206 micrograms per day (a 20 % increase) to help reduce the tone in her lower extremities. He was very pleased with Tracy's level of alertness and improved upper extremity tone. Tracy Has The Day Off From Speech Therapy With Jodi Due To Her Botox Appointment ~ Tracy had theday off from her Speech Therapy session with Jodi at NSU to attend her Botox appointment. Dee Cancels Tracy's Physical Therapy Session This Evening Due To Schedule Conflict ~ Tracy missed Dee and Physical Therapy again this week due to schedule conflict. Tracy is looking forward to Dee coming next week! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Traditional Hot Yoga this evening. He really appreciates his practice. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch NCIS And The Mentalist This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched NCIS and The Mentalist this evening. They are two of their favorite shows! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: You Deserve To Have Your Dreams Come True: Personal Power ~

Monday, March 9th, 2009 ~ Mom, Aunt Diane, Guy & Isabella Go For A Walk This Morning ~ Aunt Diane, Guy and Isabella came over to spend the morning with Mom and Tracy before they had to leave for their flight back to Alpharetta. Isabella is so adorable. She is perpetual motion personified! Sophia, Dawn and Eileen went shopping at the mall. We really enjoyed visiting with them, and wish they could stay longer. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Greg came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy. He and Tania got Tracy on the mat for stretching. Greg stretched Tracy's major muscle groups while she was in long sitting. Tracy's left shoulder was a little tight and she grimaced when he stretched it. She has an old evulsion fracture, from a rowing injury prior to 2003. Soemtimes it bothers Tracy when it is ranged and stretched. Tracy is working very hard during her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars And 24 This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched Dancing With Ths Stars and 24 this evening. They are two of their favorite shows! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Influencing The Tone Of Your Life: Color ~

Sunday, March 8th, 2009 ~ Tracy Vomits This Morning ~ Tracy vomited about two ounces this morning . Her stomach seemed to be a little upset, so Dad decided to forego Mass this morning. Tracy rested in the bed for several hours this morning berore Mom and Dad got her up in her chair. Nana, Aunt Diane, Jeff, Guy, Dawn, Sophia, Isabella, Chip, Eileen & Uncle Johnny Come Over For Dinner This Evening ~ Everyone had a nice evening together while Dad barbecued marinated chicken, corn on the cob, baked beans, and a birthday cake and ice cream for Chip (his birthday is March 16th). Sophia swam in the pool while Isabella ran everywhere. They have both gotten so big! Sophia swims on a swim team in Georgia and has great form and flip turns. We are so proud of her! It was great to spend some time with everyone. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Brothers & Sisters And The Unit This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched Brothers & Sisters and The Unit this evening. They are two of their favorite shows! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Capturing Life's Flavor: Taking A Field Trip ~

Saturday, March 7th, 2009 ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Yoga To Let Her Jaw Heal ~ Mom is recuperating from dental surgery yesterday. She is feeling a lot better today and the swelling is slowly subsiding. Dr. Logue did a very good job. Now that she has the implant in place, she has to wait six weeks for it to heal. Then she will be ready for the final phase: the royal crown. HAHA! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning ~ Dad went to Traditional Hot Yoga this morning. He had a great practice! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. Her complexion is looking so beautiful; she is glowing! Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session This Afternoon ~ Melanie came to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. She set up the massage table outside by the pool and waterfall! It was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine and a cool breeze! Melanie Gives Mom A Swedish Massage ~ Then it was Mom's turn to get a massage. Mom prefers a Swedish massage. Melanie has such healing hands! Melanie Gives Dad A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Dad was next with a Cranial Sacral Therapy session. He really feels the difference in his lower back and shoulders with CST. Tracy Has The Day Off From Speech Therapy With Aimee ~ Tracy had the day off from Speech Therapy with Aimee. She is visiting with her brother and his girlfriend who are in town for Spring break. Tracy sure does miss it when Aimee doesn't come! She'll be back again next week! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Brothers & Sisters And Private Practice That Was Tivoed Last Week ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched prerecorded episodes of Brothers & Sisters and Private Practice from last week, which Dad missed when he was away. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This evening, she made a very loud and long sound! 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: Embraceable You : Comparing Yourself To Others ~

Friday, March 6th, 2009 ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Yoga To Prepare For Her Oral Surgery This Morning ~ Mom had to skip Yoga today to prepare for oral surgery. As it turned out, the surgeon was running behind so Mom could have gone to 9AM Yoga and still made her appointment on time. Oh well! The procedure went well under local, and now the six-week healing process begins. The last step is a crown! WooHoo! Tracy Has Been Very Emotional & Vocal All Day ~ Tracy spent the day crying and vocalizing. She displayed a lot of emotion, making very loud sounds all day until about midnight. Guess she is entitled to her day as we all are! Mom Spent The Afternoon Chilling Out On The Couch ~ Once the local anesthestetic wore off, Mom spent the afternoon on the couch with an ice pack to her left lower jaw. It was a little sore, nothing that two 8 hour Tylenol couldn't cure. Tracy Has The Evening Off From Hippotherapy ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy was cancelled this week due to the therapists and horses being away for Spring Break! Lucky dogs (no horses!) Dad Makes Mom Tilapia & Four Cheese Raviolis For Dinner This Evening ~ Dad cooked some delicious tilapia and four cheese ravioli for Mom this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This evening, she made a very loud and long sound! 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 Energy Of An Embrace : Hugs ~

Thursday, March 5th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning With Sheila ~ Mom had a great yoga practice this morning with Sheila. She teaches Ashtanga and is a great instructor. It is one of Mom's favorite classes. Robert From Hill-Rom Comes To Repair Tracy's Bed ~ Robert, the technician from Hill-Rom came over to repair Tracy's bed this morning. We are very thankful that her bed is still covered by the warranty. Mom is looking into getting an extended warranty for the bed. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg came to work with Tracy on the tilt table this afternoon. After wrapping Tracy's lower extremities with ace wraps to facilitate venouse return, Greg and Tania transferred Tracy to the tilt table. They took baseline vital signs and then cranked Tracy up to 30 degrees where she remained for 20 minutes. The plan is to spend 20 minutes at each incline to build a reliable base, before advancing her. Tracy's vital signs remained stable throughout her session and she advanced to 58 degrees for five minutes; the highest she has stood in a very long time. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions. We are so proud of her! Tania Massages Tracy's Hands & Wrists While They Watch Cash Cab ~ Tania spent some time massaging Tracy's hands and wrists while they watched one of their favorite game shows: Cash Cab! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Evening ~ Dad really looks forward to his yoga practice three times a week! It sure does make a difference! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Sustenance For The Soul : Taking Time For Yourself ~

Wednesday, March 4th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom had a great yoga practice this morning with Diane. It was so awesome, she decided to stay for Power Hour with Diane at 11:00! Tiffany Leaves This Morning For Hawaii! ~ We sure hated to see Tiffany leave this morning for her return to Hawaii! She spent nearly a month with us and we really enjoyed her visit! Thank you Benny for sharing Tiffany with us! We had a great time with her and miss her already! Tracy's New Wheelchair Is Back Again ~ Hopefully It Will Fit Her This Time ~ Gene from TD Medical brought Tracy's new wheelchair after one year of measuring, ordering parts, etc. The head rest still does not fit her well and we are waiting for the correct arm rests. It is such a process! Argh! Why do companies discontinue parts when they are still working for patients? The brilliance of Corporate America! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg came to work with Tracy on the mat. He spent the first fifteen minutes stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups while he had e-stim on her quads. Then it was time to get her straddled on the peanut ball. Still did real well sitting with support while Greg worked with e-stim on her back muscles for muscle reeducation. Then Tania, Mom, and Greg got Tracy prone lengthwise on the peanut ball. This was a huge stretch for Tracy and the first time she was prone in quadriped lengthwise over the peanut! (She has been in quadriped over the peanut but widthwise!) She tolerated about 5 minutes in this position! Then, Mom, Tania and Greg got Tracy flat on her tummy on the therapy mat. She did an awesome job in this position, tolerating about 25 minutes, while Greg stretched her quads and hips. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions! Way to go Tracy! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Two-Hour Special Of 24 This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy caught up on the two-hour special of 24 that they tivoed Monday evening. It is getting really intense! WOW! Great show! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: Unlimited Vision : Everything Is In Divine Order ~

Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a great yoga practice this morning with Veronica. It had been a month since she went to Traditional Hot Yoga, and she could feel the difference. Some of the poses that were almost second nature were so hard again! Mom Has A Massage With Fern In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom had a great deep tissue massage with Fern this morning. Even though it was painful at times, it was very effective! Tracy Has Speech Therapy At Nova Southeastern With Jodi This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tiffany, and Tania brought Tracy to her Speech Therapy session with Jodi at NSU. Jodi created some new topics for Tracy on the Dynavox Max with eye gaze capability. Tracy has improved quite a bit since the first time she used this machine. She is getting much better with eye control, but still needs a lot of practice and repetition. Jodi is going to create some games such as Memory for Tracy to work with next. We are so proud of Jodi! She is working really hard to learn all the nuances of the Dynavox Max. Tracy's Physical Therapy With Dee Is Cancelled This Evening ~ Tracy's Physical Therapy with Dee was cancelled this evening due to a scheduling conflict. Mom, Tiffany, Tracy and Tania took full advantage of the free time and went to eat at Anthony's Coal Fire Pizza in Pompano. It was delicious! Dad Returns This Evening From His Overnight Trip To Dallas ~ Everyone was happy to have Dad home after his overnight trip to Dallas! Mom, Tiffany, & Tracy Watch The Bachelor: After The Final Rise Part 2 This Evening ~ The girls enjoyed watching the second half of The Bachelor: After The Final Rose Part 2 this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Quiet Please : Taming Monkey Mind Meditation ~

Monday, March 2nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom really enjoyed Hard Body Yoga this morning with Diane. It was so awesome, she was able to progress to 2 pund weights! Tiffany, Mamaw & Papaw Leave This Morning ~ We sure hated to see everyone leave this morning after such a great visit for Tracy's birthday! They were flying stand by, and spent the day at Miami International trying to get out. The snowstorms that pummeled the east coast over the weekend created a huge backlog of flights, making it impossible for them to get a seat. Mamaw and Papaw finally got back to New Orleans around 2 AM! Tiffany came back to Lighthouse Point and stayed until Wednesday, to let the airport chaos calm down a bit. Gina, Speech Therapist Who Specializes In Oral Motor Dysfunction, Comes To Evaluate Tracy This Morning ~ Gina, a Speech Therapist who works at Broward Children's Cneter, came by to evaluate Tracy for possible oral motor dysfunction therapy. Her specialty is in oral motor dysfunction, so we are looking forward to Gina sharing her expertise with Tracy. She spent an hour and a half reading some of her previous evaluation and treatment reports and tried some different things with Tracy. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy on the mat this afternoon. He spent the first fifteen minutes stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups while she was in long sitting. Mondays are super stretching days for Tracy because she does not have any therapy for three days! She is usually pretty tight after the long stretch without therapy. After stretching, Greg and Tania got Tracy on the BOSU for more stretching and vestiblular stimulation. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions! Way to go Tracy! Mom, Tania, Tracy, Aunt Diane, Uncle Johnny, Nana, & Rose Marie Go To See Our Lady Of Fatima Statue & Rosary At St. Paul's Church This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed seeing the Our Lady Of Fatima stautue and praying the rosary this evening at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. It was such an awe-inspiring experience! Tiffany, Mom, & Tracy Watch The Two-Hour Finale Of The Bachelor This Evening ~ Mom, Tiffany, & Tracy watched the two-hour finale and After The Final Rose Special this evening! Wow! What a big surprise when Jason proposed to Melissa and then took the ring back in the The Bachelor: After The Final Rose Part 1! It was such a twist! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. 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: That Which Sustains You : Home & Land Meditation ~

Sunday, March 1st, 2009 ~ Mom, Dad, Tiffany, Tracy, Mamaw & LuLu Go To Mass This Morning ~ Everyone made it to 11:30 AM Mass (a little late) this morning at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. Dad & Mom Stop By Starbucks For Lattes After Mass ~ Mom and Dad drove through Starbucks after church to pick up some Lattes! MMM good! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany, Mamaw, Papaw, & LuLu Go To Dog Days In The Park This Afternoon ~ Luca dressed up in his monogrammed overalls that Aunt Candy sent him, and his Burbury boots and cowboy hat for the Doggie and owner look-alike contest. Luca wore her LSU football shirt, LSU bandana and visor. Luca dressed up like Mom, who wore the overalls that Aunt Candy gave her and a cowboy hat to match Luca. Dad wore his LSU shirt and hat to match Luna! They won first prize for the doggie and owner look-alike contest! Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, & Jeff Come For Dinner This Evening ~ Mom and Tiffany made appetizers: chicken spring rolls, gouda cheese, and fresh shrimp cocktail. Nana brought eggplant and Dad grilled Italian sausage! Aunt Diane made a mixed green salad and Jeff made a delicious desert of fresh strawberries and vanilla ice cream! Everything was delicious! Everyone had a great visit! Mom & Tiffany Watch The Two-Hour Brothers & Sisiters Episode This Evening ~ Mom and Tiffany watched one of their favorite shows: Brothers & Sisters this 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 even stuck her tongue out three times on command. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This evening, she made a very loud and long sound! 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 Messages : Signs ~