Christmas

Christmas 2007 is in the memory bank. We spent time with family, friends, all insane people, by the way.

Diego and Joe received a Nintendo Wii for their big gift. I don't think Joe has been on it at all, Diego logged almost 6 hours on Christmas day! We're limiting the time per day usage after that first day. He's mastered, for the most part, Cars and Shrek the Third games.

Eric, our older son, visited us for the day. We haven't seen him in about a year and a half. It was good to see him and spend some time with him. I discovered that I miss that kid, not that he could ever live under our roof again but he's a unique individual and he always makes me laugh.

Oh, and Joe (aka Santa) ordered an iPhone for me. It will be here tomorrow! I'm so spoiled.

I hope you had a great Christmas.

This is so sweet!

Check out this youtube video, it's very touching. I can hear Diego doing something like this.

Incredible!

Project Share: Food. Love. Hope. happened today.

About all I can say is INCREDIBLE!

God... beyond incredible!

Volunteers... incredible!

Team leaders... incredible!

People who gave money toward the cost of the project... incredible!

The blessings... incredible!

Hey, Would You Pray?

If you follow my blog or others from Crossroads in Adrian, MI you know that we're doing a huge outreach called Project Share: Food. Love. Hope. and it happens this Saturday, December 15.

We have 400+ volunteers ready to serve. Pray for their stamina in unloading 1600 boxes from 2 semis. Pray for the details that must be done on each box before they are re-loaded onto pick-up trucks for delivery. Pray for the safety of our drivers in traveling the roads Saturday to deliver boxes of food and personal care items.

865 people (yes, there are 65 more than a previous report on my blog states) will receive the boxes and bags of food and personal care items on Saturday. Pray they will realize that it's not only important to feed their physical hunger but that they will have a spiritual hunger that can only be satisfied by a relationship with Jesus Christ.

2 semis loaded with food and personal care items are expected to roll in at 10 a.m. They are coming from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Now, if you have been watching the national news/weather, you know that Oklahoma has been hard hit with an ice and snow storm this week causing massive power outages and a state of emergency there. Pray for the safety of the semi drivers and that our trucks arrive on time.

Pray for the Project Share team leaders - they have all worked extremely hard to make this project a successful outreach to the community. Some have already put in countless hours and are weary. Pray for health and safety for these incredible folks.

Pray that God will receive ALL the glory for what happens during this project... after all, it is His.

How Amazing Is This!

On this cold, icy Sunday we took the offering for Project Share: Food. Love. Hope.

Crossroaders - you are incredible!
God used you to do an amazing thing today, you brought it! You showed the stuff you're made of - love, compassion, sharing.

Check out Scott's blog for today's total. He does tease a little so be patient and wait for it. You won't be disappointed.

800

800. Why 800?

800 is the number of families we set out to help feed this Christmas time through Project Share at church.

800 is the number of boxes loaded onto each of two semi trucks due to arrive December 15 for distribution. (that's a total of 1600 boxes!)

800 seemed like an unreachable goal when we committed to the project in October.

800 was downright frightening until...

Last Friday when we received word that -
800 is the number of people who have signed up to receive those boxes, in just under 4 weeks!

God is beyond amazing. He has assembled an incredible team to put hands and feet to this task. I can hardly wait to watch Project Share unfold as Crossroaders hit the streets to share the food, demonstrate the love, and provide a means for hope in this community!

What A Kid

I received a call from Diego's school this afternoon. Usually when I see the school number on the caller ID I expect to hear a frantic secretary on the other end of the line tell me Diego has run away and the police have been called. Not today.

It was the principal. She wanted to tell me about something good and honest Diego had done today. See, Diego was having some trouble in Art class and needed to go out of the room for a break. On his way back to the Art classroom, he found a $10 bill on the floor. His substitute teacher saw him pick up the bill and immediately turn to tell an adult what he had found without even the slightest movement to put the money into his pocket.

The teacher decided to put the money into the his desk and instructed Diego not to tell anyone that he had found it. If no one mentioned the money, in a few days it could be Diego's.

Not long after, one of Diego's good friends said he had lost his lunch money. Diego asked, "How much was it?"

The boy said, "Ten dollars."

So, Diego said, "I know where it is," and took his friend to the teacher to retrieve the money.

The typical 8 year old would have shoved the money into their pocket and never said a word about it. I find Diego's honesty to be refreshing and his loyalty to his friends speaks for itself. What a kid. My special kid.

Just some stuff

*So, Thanksgiving was a week ago... we had dinner at my sister's house in Temperance, MI and had a good time. Anytime the sisters get together under the same roof there is just too much fun to write about.
*Friday and Saturday I spent with my sisters shopping... what happens with the sisters, stays with the sisters!
*On Sunday, the announcement came about our new Pastor of Students! Yeah! Welcome Milan and Jen Bittenbender to the Crossroads family. I am confident under this new leadership our students will experience God in a way they've never thought possible.
*We had an incredible meeting for the Project Share team leaders on Monday night. I appreciate every one who has stepped up to help reach our community through Food. Love. Hope. Only 16 days before the event, I can hardly wait to see how the community will be impacted for eternity!
*Diego was student of the week last week, even though he ran away from school on Monday afternoon and the police had to find him and bring him back.
*I am going flower shopping this morning with the bride whose wedding is 6/7/08. It's gonna be fun!
*I don't have my Christmas shopping done, it's started but no where near finished. I really don't know when I'm going to get to it either.
*At this time of year especially, I miss my parents. They are both in heaven sitting at the feet of Jesus. I am blessed to have had such incredible, Godly influences in my life through them.
That's about all the random stuff floating around in my head today.

Contributing to the Delinquency...

Those who know me and who have been in my home know I have a rather large Coca-Cola collection... no Pepsi, seriously it doesn't fit into my collection. Its taste is far inferior to Coke.

This past Sunday night we invited the small group that recently launched from ours to come over for a fun night and Mexicana Thanksgiving. Through the years of doing life with this group of insane folks, I have been the recipient of various, slanderous Coca-Cola comments, empty Pepsi bottles left behind hidden in the most unusual places, and if I didn't purchase Diet Coke to drink we would, at times have had only Pepsi products to serve.

We had a wonderful time, as always. As people were leaving, one of Diego's favorite babysitters (she's just turned 13, this is where the delinquency comes in) asked if I had perhaps already found the Pepsi bottle she had placed in my living room. Now, understand that her father, who serves on the Safety team at church with me, is usually the person who leaves behind the empty Pepsi bottle. He had taught her an unthinkable act... that of strategically placing the contraband somewhere to be found at a later time by the unsuspecting, trusting Coca-Cola collector.

I had not seen, nor did I as I turned to look at that moment, the Pepsi bottle in question. I knew I would find it sooner or later and hopefully before the deposit on it was out of date.

Well, Monday arrived and I got up with my usual 6 a.m. alarm to trudge downstairs to take a shower. As I pulled back the shower curtain my still glazed eyes noticed something sitting on the shower bench... anyone care to hazzard a guess as to what I found? Tom? Michele? Hanna?

Contraband found... an empty, 2-liter Pepsi bottle staring at me, startling me, waiting for me to scream at the sight of it. I must admit I looked for a hidden camera somewhere in the shower. Thankfully, I did not find one!

Food For Thought...

This blog posting about church signage is cynically, sarcastically hilarious!
Check it out.

My boys got elfed

Watch my boys bust a move!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9517061652

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9514896514

And my boy with his friend... watch out Dancing With The Stars!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9517061652

Customer Service

In a previous life I worked in the customer service field. I dealt with people all of the time, nice ones and mean ones.
Today I became one of the mean ones. May I just ask why it takes an act of Congress to get what I need? Seriously, when something is legally mine, why is it so ridiculously difficult to take possession of it?
I'm told by a representative of this office to come in to pick something up, it will be ready in an hour. Okay, I take their word for it and drive several miles to the office. I am met by an inept woman who has no clue what to tell me about my request. However, she did produce the folder I needed but wouldn't allow me to have it. She said someone had just left for lunch and I would have to wait for their return.
In the meantime, the inept woman carries my folder around with her like it's public property and left it on the counter.
Now, I could have been bad and picked it up and walked out the door with it without anyone even noticing it was missing. But, I was still giving the benefit of the doubt that I would walk out in possession of said folder.
An hour later, I was confronted with yet another woman, rude and distasteful as she was, and told there is no way I can have the folder, she may be able to get to it by Wednesday or Thursday, if not then, next week some time.
I told her that wasn't good enough, I needed it today before I left. Now, hold on to your ears folks, because this is exactly what she told me... ready?
"You must realize we're doing you a favor by even copying this folder and there is no way you can have it this week."
I demanded to talk to her manager - you know, the one who had left for lunch an hour and a half previously.
Then, this is good, I was escorted to a private room where I had to wait for this manager. Must be I was causing a scene in the lobby or they thought I was going to anyway.
The manager is someone I have known for some time. She was not nice to me at first, I explained the situation and demanded that she do something about getting my personal property to me. She explained her plight of being understaffed. I must had had my "Who cares" look on and she told me, "I know that's not your problem."
Okay, I could have the pages I need faxed to the office it needs to go to this afternoon and she would do that personally.
I left without the folder but with that promise. Guess what, she called to explain yet another problem that I need to attend to.
Doctor's offices can be so frustrating.

I'm To Be Crowned!

My dentist is a great guy (pun intended, his last name is Guy). He is a very gentle dentist, I've been a patient of his for nearly 20 years.
My first experience in his chair was to have a tooth extracted. Eventually I began to keep regular 6 month check-up appointments with a few visits in between for more extensive work. I've got decent teeth despite heredity.
About 2 weeks ago I visited my dentist's office for one of those regular 6 month check-ups. I expected to walk out after hearing the usual, "Everything looks good, see you in 6 months." No such luck. X-rays showed a stress crack in a back molar that needs to be crowned. What fun.
So, today I went back to the dentist's office for the first round of grinding, chipping, drilling, slobbering, painful excitement. Three shots of happy juice and my entire face was numb... for hours! That was fun. Temporary crown on, can't chew anything except my cheeks and tongue.
The happy juice is worn off now. Pain is my friend and I'm not so sure I want to go back for a repeat to have the permanent crown put on. Maybe my memory will fade by then - yeah, right.

They're Out There

We've all seen them, passed them in a store or on the street. Perhaps you've chosen to ignore them. I'm not pointing a finger or trying to place blame. I'm simply saying they are everywhere and may easily be overlooked.
See, they don't fit a certain description or class.
I'm talking about hungry, hurting people who are going to sleep tonight without enough to eat. Little kids, babies, elderly grandparents, moms and dads. Poverty stricken and once well to do, some have never known anything else. Hunger knows no boundaries.
Crossroads Community Church has just launched a project which will reach out to those who are hungry, searching, and feeling as though no one cares about them. We're calling it Project Share: Food. Love. Hope.
We're bringing 2 semi loads of food and personal care items to the community for distribution to impoverished families...800 to be exact.
Project Share is about much more than food. It's about reflecting the love of Christ with those who receive a box of food and sharing the hope that can only be found in Him.
Obviously this isn't a long term solution to the problem of physical hunger but it just might cause someone to take their next step toward Christ... and that's eternal.

A Chip Off The Ol' Block

Need I say more?

New Pants

Suddenly Diego has grown taller. His jeans were all very short on him and I had been trying to delay the inevitable pants shopping thing that most boys hate to do... Diego is no exception.
While in a local department store yesterday I discovered a very good sale on jeans. Despite the fact that my son could care less about wearing 'high water' pants I decided to venture into the boy's department to find some pants for him.
He was literally doing cart wheels in the aisles while I scoured the shelves for his size. Success! I found a pair of size 8 boy's jeans with the adjustable waist (I love those, by the way), and handed them to Diego to hold onto.
My child, with all the innocence that an 8 year old, short pants loving, cart wheel rolling kid could muster, held the jeans up near his neck, looked at me and said, "These aren't my size, Mom. They won't fit me because the legs are too long. I don't want new pants, what's wrong with these?" And he pointed to his very short jeans which revealed more than a couple inches of his white socks.
We bought the jeans, 2 pair.

BIG News!

We've got BIG, God-sized news!
After nearly 30 years at Adrian Steel Company, Joe has answered God's call to serve Him full-time. Joe is the new Executive Pastor at Crossroads Community Church in Adrian.
This is huge for our family. It's an amazing journey, Joe will share the entire story at church on October 28. Listen to Scott's blog on "From VP to XP".
I'm still trying to figure out the thing about Joe being in the same office after all, I was there first :) I suppose we could look at it this way: we'll save money on gas by carpooling to work or he could buy my lunch every day.
I've joked about Diego having the DNA to be a pastor's kid (PK). I wonder if there's a class or something to learn how to be a pastor's wife?

A Good Day... Finally

Diego had a great day at school today! Probably one of the best so far this year.
I am very proud of how brave he is.
Here's this 8 year old special needs boy basically starting his school year over with a new teacher, classroom, and friends. He was very excited to get to school this morning. He was up about an hour and a half before he needed to be and was ready to go in record time. Diego never ceases to amaze me with the way he is able to function in a world that is foreign to him most days.
It's been a difficult, to say the least, several weeks. I've had to remind myself repeatedly that he just can't help the way he responds in many situations.
I hope with the services that will soon be in place that Diego will once again have a successful school year. I know there are no guarantees for him, but are there for anyone?
Keep praying for this little wonder, he's amazing.

FASD

FASD = Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
Alcohol consumed during pregnancy = brain damage
I had a stark reminder about FASD today as I watched my son interact with several other kids in the waiting room of a clinic in Ann Arbor.
Beautiful toddlers with many of the same facial anomalies, various tell tale signs of disabilities, and frightened parents anxiously waiting to meet a doctor, nurse or therapist, holding out hope for a diagnosis and perhaps, a cure.
FAS knows no racial or class boundaries, it promises no cures.
A couple of the little ones were adopted as babies from Russia. One little girl was with her biological mom and younger brother. A 17 year old FAS girl came into the clinic in full meltdown mode, she was 5 months pregnant and can't deal with it.
I watched Diego going from one item to another oblivious to differences in the children around him, that naive spirit, if only it were contagious and could last.
One mom of a 3 year old toddler was searching for answers, hope and solutions to issues she is dealing with right now. I gave her a few brief "try this" statements before her child's turn to leave the waiting room.
As we drove home I thought about one thing people need to understand... FASD is not the child's fault. I mean, if a kid or adult with this disorder could change their circumstances I am sure they would. They didn't choose to be brain damaged. But remember they are a special gift of God, maybe a little more special for having FASD.

Run, run as fast as you can...

Diego decided to walk to school today. Understand that school is not close to our home, therefore it is not within walking distance that's why I drive him to school. Thankfully Diego used the overhead garage door to leave the house and I heard the sound of the door (something I've complained about being too loud since we had it installed). When I got outside there was no sign of Diego on the sidewalk or in yards close by.
I took off in my car, cell phone in hand to begin the search. I frantically called Joe, voicemail. I then called "Aunt Za-Za" who works nearby, she would come from the opposite direction and search our school route while I drove the neighborhood scouring bus stops. I then had to call the police who began to search as well.
20 minutes into the ordeal Za-Za called and said she had him. He was quite a distance from the house and really didn't want to get into her van but she was able to convince him he needed a ride. (There was a slight incident where a kind woman may have believed Za-Za to be a child abductor.)
A very nice police officer arrived shortly to talk to Diego about not walking away from home or school. She explained how important it is to be safe and that walking that far to school is not a safe thing to do. She made him promise not to walk away again. An uneventful day at school ensued.
Well, believe it or not when I arrived after school to pick Diego up from the latchkey program, I was met by a little girl who told me Diego wasn't there, he had run away. She was followed by an extremely distraught childcare worker. It seemed Diego had become upset and ran into the building locking the group outside. He grabbed his backpack and ran through the building to the front exit door.
I began to search around outside the building after a quick check inside. No sign of Diego. I met the principal and a teacher who had been searching the neighborhood. There was a football game and a soccer game going on in the area too!
The police were already looking for Diego. A patrol car pulled up in front of the school and the officer inside said another officer had found Diego at the Tim Horton's... a very long way from school and a dangerous route for him to travel on foot.
Soon the other patrol car pulled up with Diego in the front seat clutching his backpack, no worse for the wear.
He acted as though walking home shouldn't be an issue for me or the others looking for him and told his principal he really wasn't afraid to be that far away from school by himself.
I'm considering the purchase of a child monitoring system but the only ones I've found will work just 500' from the base and he would have to wear the 'indestructible' wristband at all times. There is a GPS available but it can take quite a long time (up to 20 minutes) to alert the base of a problem. Anybody have a suggestion for monitoring the boy? I'd love to hear it.

Disappointed...

You know how the television networks have been priming us for their great new fall season line-up. Well, I fell for the marketing concept that Cavemen was going to be a funny show. Shame on the ABC network for placing that show in the 8:00 time slot, or any time slot for that matter.
Not only was the show not funny, it was extremely offensive with the language and innuendos.
I'm glad Diego's bed time is 8 p.m. and I had to chase him back to bed several times.
Oh, and by the way, I changed the channel before the show was 10 minutes old.
I think I'm going back to the oldies on TV Land!

Me Too!

Some people can keep a secret while others just want to tease you with what they know.
However, she is right... there is something BIG in the works, something we've never done before as a church. It will change lives, challenge people to get out of their comfort zone, and generally excite the snot out of anyone who gets involved!
Stay tuned, it's coming, you won't be disappointed.

Maximus

Diego was the ultimate dog sitter this past weekend; we had a house guest named Maximus.
Diego walked the dog, fed the dog, flicked the dog's ears, chewed the dog's toy hamburger (seriously), and at times got tired of doing all those things for the dog.
With Diego's memory being what it is, he reminded me earlier in the week that Maximus was coming to our house on Friday. Okay, where did that come from? He can't remember what day it is on any given day but he could remember when the dog was coming for a visit... classic Diego.
Here's a pic of Diego with Maximus, poor little dog was being held against his will in his bed.
Joe also converted Maximus to a U of M fan... GO BLUE!

The Maid

So, Saturday Diego and I were on our own since Joe was at a Michigan game in the afternoon (U of M beat Notre Dame, by the way). I took Diego to Wal-Mart, our 'favorite store in the whole wide world'.
Diego wanted to know why we couldn't stay and shop longer. I explained that we needed to get home to clean the house for Sunday night when our small group was coming over.
His next question was, "Mom, what's a maid?"
I explained a maid is a person who cleans, does the laundry, cooks, and gets paid to do those things for people.
Diego's next statement took me quite by surprise.... "Oh, Mommy, then you're a maid."
What is a mom, ah, a maid, to say to that??

I've Been Tagged!

I posted about the drama of Diego just a few minutes ago and decided to check out my friend's blog. SHE TAGGED ME with 50 things you need to know about me. Okay, I'm up to the challenge, here goes...

1. I am the fourth of five girls (and have one 'adopted' sister)
2. I have no brothers
3. I turned 47 this past August
4. I have been married for 25 years (okay, you knew that one if you read my blog)
5. I was a grandmother at 39
6. I am now mom to the child who is my grandchild (go figure that one out)
7. I bite my fingernails
8. I once won a talent contest playing the violin
9. In 1978 I got paid to play my violin in the summer musicals at the Croswell Opera House in Adrian
10. Yes, I color my hair
11. I have a fear of heights
12. I hate bugs and snakes
13. The furthest I've been from home is Aruba
14. Diet Coke is the drink in heaven, I'm convinced!
15. I served on the Sheriff's Department in my County for 6.5 years
16. Both of my parents are in heaven
17. Two of my children are in heaven
18. I don't like to read
19. I love old movies and sitcoms
20. I am a certified wedding and event planner
21. I spend too much money
22. I hate sticking to a budget (see #22)
23. My favorite color is blue
24. I can't swim
25. I am 6' tall
26. I was spoiled as a child (some would argue as an adult as well)
27. I was somewhat of a tomboy growing up
28. I had a German pen pal when I was 17 and actually met him when he traveled to the US one summer, he was a jerk in person
29. This list is hard to write
30. I understand that I snore
31. I usually have to have the TV on to fall asleep
32. My favorite sport to watch on TV is baseball - go Tigers!
33. I like watching live football - go Blue!
34. I am a shy person
35. I love chocolate
36. I have a very weird sister, she's the oldest one
37. I believed I was adopted when I was young (see #37)
38. I like to play volleyball but my knees won't take it anymore
39. I've broken both of my ring fingers (twice) playing volleyball
40. I graduated 53 in a class of 365
41. I did not go to college
42. I once managed a fast food restaurant
43. My favorite musical groups are the Newsboys, Casting Crowns and Mercy Me
44. My favorite song right now is "When I Get To Where I'm Going" (not by any of the groups in #43)
45. My favorite flower is the Gerber Daisy
46. My youngest sister and I were caught walking on the porch roof of our house when I was 5 years old, she was 4
47. The purse I carry is 7 years old
48. My sisters lovingly call me "Imelda" because of the number of shoes I own
49. I'm addicted to my email, can't wait to check to see who has sent me a message when the number pops up in my dock
50. I am terribly impatient when I have to wait for someone to do their part of a project I'm working on

There, that's 50! I am tagging Michele. Go for it!

A Close Call

I received a call this afternoon from Diego's para pro; Diego had run away from school and was missing, the police were on their way to the school. She wanted to know if I would drive around the school area to help look for Diego.
I don't know about anyone else but, hearing that my child was missing sent a pain similar to what I imagine a spear through the heart would feel like.
Praying as I sped to the route I felt Diego would take running from school, checking out a putt-putt golf course across the street and heading to Diego's favorite store, Wal-Mart. Just as I was turning toward the extremely heavily traveled road leading to Wal-Mart, my phone rang. "We have him."
Relieved? Beyond words.
Diego met a nice police corporal, we met the new principal and were able to establish a safe place to run to inside the school building.
Once Diego settled down he told me had decided to run home via our Lowe's and Wal-Mart route (another very busy stretch of road), he just knew our house is close to those stores (it is not). He said he turned back to the school because he was thirsty and needed a drink - thank you, God for making him thirsty! Thirst is a sensation that's always been very strong for Diego.
I believe Diego actually ran into a field near the school that is fenced and couldn't find his way out. If he had... well, I don't even want to consider what could have happened.
Tonight I'm very thankful that Diego is sound asleep in his nice, warm bed. I will say a prayer for the kids who have gone missing and not been found and the parents whose hearts have not been relieved of the pain of a spear through it.

25 Years

And they said it wouldn't last...
Joe and I have been married today for 25 years.

He can still surprise me and make me smile. Like today, I received a single red rose at work with a note that said, "See you later. Love, Joe". He arrived home from work before I did and there were 24 red and pink roses waiting for me on the kitchen counter. I had received a rose for every year of marriage. (can I hear an awwwww?)

And the sentimentality there is sweet too... I received a single yellow rose just before my dad walked me down the aisle 25 years ago tonight. The card on that rose read, "See you at the altar. Love, Joe" (another awwwwww)

Here's Joe at the Grand Canyon - another surprise. He also gave me some beautiful diamond jewelry! He's a keeper... for at least another 25 years.

Wow!

Joe and I visited the Grand Canyon this past weekend... the occasion? Our 25 Wedding Anniversary on September 11.
Neither of us had ever been to the Canyon and it is/was on my list of places to visit in my lifetime.
Words can not begin to describe the splendor and beauty of God's creation, the Grand Canyon. You can't look into its depth or watch the California Condor soaring above head and believe that "Mother Nature" dreamed this up, you just can't.
Here's just one pic from my favorite view (Grandview Point).

First Day of Second Grade

Diego went back to school this morning; he was bummed. He wanted to go to day camp instead. He tried every trick he knows to prevent the inevitable trip to school... from not getting dressed to the age old "stomach ache".
I was finally able to snap a quick pic before we had to run out the door to arrive on time for school.

I felt sorry for Diego having to wade through the crowd of kids and parents, hearing the sounds of school that set him off, the sounds most people don't even know are there like the buzz of the fluorescent lights and the hum of the window fan. Even the parent of one of his friends speaking to him was enough to make Diego retreat into his protective shell.

I warned his para pro about a high gag reflex lately and some butterflies in the stomach, kissed Diego on the cheek and realized he had already completed a word search page the teacher had placed on all of the desks in the classroom.

I walked out of school with some butterflies of my own but whispered a prayer for protection and comfort for my special little boy. I know he'll learn and grow so much this year; he's gonna be alright.

The biggest Oreo I've ever seen

Our life group was over Sunday evening for our every other week gathering. One of the group members had a HUGE cake made for the August birthdays. Thank the Lord that my birthday is in August because the cake was incredible! Two layers of chocolate cake, a middle white frosting filling, topped with chocolate frosting.... oh my! We've got cake for days but I'm going to enjoy it!
That's Sarah on the right, her birthday was August 21, mine was August 24. As you can tell, I'm the older one in the pic... Now that I think about it, I'm probably old enough to be Sarah's mother!
Yet another reason to eat more cake :)

Wedding Bells

Chloe went to a wedding with us yesterday afternoon. I've mentioned Chloe in previous entries; she is one of Diego's best friends and definitely one of my favorite peeps.

After the wedding and a short stop at the reception we came back home so we could change clothes before we went out to get something to eat. Since the wedding ceremony was fresh in their minds, these two crazy kids decided they wanted to get married too.

Here's a pic of the ring ceremony, the "I Dos", and one of the kiss after I pronounced them "Diego and Chloe". Then there was a dance complete with a dip at the end but I can't show you that one :)



These two bring so much fun and laughter into my life!! Ah, to be 7 and 8 years old again... the age of innocence.

Eye Opening

Diego and I had a rough night last night. He started complaining about well, you name it and he didn't like it, as soon as he got into the car when I picked him up from day camp.

Things got progressively worse when I told him he wasn't going to be able to watch a movie while I fixed supper because he had lost the privilege in the morning due to the fact that he wasted so much time, wouldn't listen, and generally made things difficult. Needless to say, that didn't set well with him and he turned into the little monster he portrayed a few months ago at church (that's Godzilla in the picture).

Short version: he had a meltdown, I sent him to his room, another meltdown, back to his room, dinner, sound asleep (at 5:50 p.m.).

This morning Diego was up bright and early, cooperative and ready to leave for day camp long before I was ready. I allowed him to watch some TV in my bedroom while he waited for me and he chose "Dora, The Explorer". I asked him if perhaps Dora's cousin, Diego was on today and he said, "Yes." I told him, "I am sure my Diego is better looking than Dora's cousin," and he replied with, "Yes, because I'm real."

Hmmm, kind of got me thinking about my friend's recent blog entry where she poses the question: "Am I who I say I am?"

Once again God has used my FAS kid to cause me to soul search. Today I have to ask myself, "Am I real?" Not in the sense of being alive, touchable or beyond 1 dimensional cartoon characters but real in the sense of am I who I say I am and does the outside world see the real me?

A Little Powder, Please

So, this morning Diego and I were in the middle of our morning routine. He had gotten out of bed on his own without having to be prodded and threatened. We had a brief conversation about what he needed to do to be ready to leave for Day Camp and off he went to do those things while I finished getting myself ready to go to work. (Incidentally, this is all very unusual behavior.)

We've been having talks about personal hygiene lately and must be today was the day Diego determined to take the smelly hair situation into his own hands. Usually he wets his head and only pretends to wash his face. Not today, he emerged from the bathroom with his hair dripping. On closer look the substance dripping from his locks was a cloudy-white liquid.

Diego said, "Smell my hair, Mommy." As I bent to sniff, I noticed the tell-tale signs of a white powdery substance (no, not Anthrax) on the collar of his shirt. I immediately looked to the counter where there is a basket which contains his toothpaste, toothbrush and, you guessed it, a container of baby powder. Diego asked me if he smelled good and I told him he did. Of course the closer I inspected his head, the more powder I found.

I remember making "glue" from a 5 pound bag of flour when I was about Diego's age; the globs of goo in his hair resembled that gluey concoction.

I didn't have the heart or the time to wash his hair. All I could do was comb it and try to brush some of the powder away with my hand... again, and again, and again. By the time we arrived at Day Camp about 25 minutes later, most of his hair was dry, and very white.

I didn't get a pic but believe me, this was one true FAS moment brought to you by my loving little boy.

God's Watching Out For Him

I received a call this evening from Barb, the woman who has been Diego's para-professional for the past 2 years. GREAT NEWS... she has been assigned to be with Diego again this coming school year! Here's the funny thing, she even selected him from a list of students.

Barb is an amazing woman. Not only that but she is a Christian too. And another thing, she's a preacher's wife.

Barb works so well with Diego, she has learned to understand his needs and he responds to her techniques.

The news takes a huge weight off my mind and proves that God is always watching out for Diego providing him with just what he needs. Thanks, God.

Speaking of God watching out for Diego... check out Wendy's blog posting about Diego ("Loving Diego")... grab the kleenex box first!

Makin' Contacts and Takin' Names

Last Friday evening and Saturday I exhibited at a Bridal Expo where I was able to talk to potential clients, give them information on my consulting services, sign brides up for my consultation giveaway, and meet other wedding service vendors. My mind is still trying to process some of the conversations I had and I'm working on follow up with potential clients and my "prize winner".
A vendor from Toledo called today to see if I'm interested in networking with her and several of her contacts, that's an incredible opportunity for my business. It could also open up a market in a large city where the services I offer would be in high demand.
I must admit, I'm a little scared because of my shyness but I'm really excited about the opportunity. This could be the break I've been searching for and I can't wait to see where it takes me.
Here's a pic of my display... and no, I wasn't selling the KitchenAide products you see in the background.

Random Thoughts About A Road Trip

I went to a town called Granger, Indiana yesterday for a conference today. Cute town, lots of things to do... just not on a Sunday evening. That's okay though. The company I had was terrific, the hotel where we stayed was nice. We ate at a restaurant I've never been to... something about chicken and buffalo and barbecue, I think.
The conference today was at Granger Community Church. These people have customer service down to a science. We were greeted by no less than 4 volunteers by the time we had registered at the kiosk, which was only about 20 feet inside the doors. The food was great, the facilitators were engaging and knowledgeable about the subject... can you say that about the last conference you attended?
There was a volunteer seated in the back of each class area (incidentally, there had to be several hundred people attending several different conferences on the campus today) who was there to assist anyone who walked in late or someone who was looking for a restroom.
A volunteer even appeared during breaks to clean the class rooms while we were out getting free snacks and checking out the bookstore.
The facility is state-of-the-art and clean - clean means SO much to me.
The area where I was probably most impressed was a corner room on the lower level of the building called "Special Friends". I recognized a swing suspended from the ceiling, it was identical to the one Diego uses at school in the OT room.
This church places so much concern on kids with special needs that they actually have volunteers (doctors, nurses, special ed teachers) who meet with families before they ever attend a service to investigate their child's need and make sure the needs are addressed so the parents may go into a worship experience. From the GCC website: (For children with special physical or mental challenges who need individual assistance in order to fully participate, every effort is made to connect each child with a Special Friend who will assist him or her during a weekend service. This is a deliberate process, taking into consideration the needs of the child and concerns of the parents in order to make the best match between each child and Special Friend.)

Two people held the door for us as we left; I noticed these folks there greeting earlier in the day, serving snacks throughout the day and ensuring everyone they came into contact with received their eye contact and a warm, friendly smile. Here they were after what I am sure was a long day for them, telling us thanks for coming and have a safe trip home. Wow.

Impressive. Absolutely impressive.

Tea Party Anyone?

So, the friend I mentioned taking to the ER (in a previous blog) gave her 7 year old daughter a Garden Tea Party on July 14. (Yes, the day after she was in the ER all night!)
Diego was the only boy to receive an invitation and he was thrilled! It was the social event of the summer for him.
He selected what he was going to wear days before the party and talked about going ("What day is the party, what day is today, how many days until the party...") all week. He had no worries about being the only boy there. I told Joe he certainly will know where and how to pick up girls some day; he had them all captivated and arguing over which one would get a turn jumping on the trampoline with him.
Even though in this photo Diego appears to be bored, he definitely was not. He had an awesome time! Thanks for asking us to be a part of your Garden Tea Party, Chloe! We love you!

Busy, Busy, Busy

I've been pretty busy getting ready for a wedding expo on August 3 and 4; this will be my first official show/expo so I'm excited about it. Here's a project that I did about 20 hours of "mind labor" on, it actually only took a couple of hours to complete once I had all the materials and a clear picture in my head of what I wanted it to look like.
I plan to use the "cake" to put registrations for a free 2- hour consultation into.
One more big project to go so forgive me if I'm not here for a while :) I'll upload pics of that one when I'm finished (if it works out that is!).

That's What Friends Are For

Remember the song, "That's What Friends Are For"?
Last Friday, 10:30 p.m., local ER with a friend.
Waited for doctors and tests and her husband.
Prayed nothing serious would show on the test results.
Prayed a reason for her pain would be evident.
Laughed until my head hurt.
Played with the monitors and blood pressure cuff... yes, while it was hooked up to her, duh.
Laughed some more.
Waited some more.
Hugged my friend in the parking lot after her discharge from the ER, 2:15 a.m. Saturday.
Would I ever do that again? That's what friends are for!

Where Ya Been?

Okay, so I've been told it's been over a week since my last post. I have half a mind to post nonsense and see who responds to it. Of course, there are several people who would agree wholeheartedly that I only have half a mind, hmmmph.
I've been busy, just busy. My usual day of the week for posting this week was full of "Diego stuff". We started the day with an eye exam for him. He doesn't remember much with his 'Swiss cheese memory' but he did remember his last eye exam 2 years ago, especially the eye drops the doctor used to dilate his eyes. He informed me he would not have drops put into his eyes this time. I knew I was in for some 'fun' after that comment.
The technician and doctor are both extremely patient people, they're wonderful with Diego. The only time I had to go into the exam room was when Diego escaped as the doctor tried to put the drops into his eyes. I had to practically lie on top of the kid to keep him even semi-still. This doctor's a pro... no drops on the cheeks or forehead... right into the eyes.
The good news is that Diego's eyes have actually gotten better. That means no need for the 'wear your glasses' fight, at least for the time being. More good news, we had a credit on our account so I didn't even have to contribute our co-pay. And there will be some of the credit left for a future visit with Diego.
Maybe in 2 years the doctor will have more advanced technology so he won't have to use drops. Could someone invent something like that for us, please?

Yum!

My friend went on vacation through Hershey, Pennsylvania... and we all know what Hershey is famous for (or at least you should know!). She brought me a sampling of their infamous chocolate as a souvenir. The expiration date stamped on the back of the bar is July 08 - like it's going to last that long! You'll notice the foil is a bit crinkled on the right side, I've already checked it for proper expiration date...Yummy!!!
She also brought me an adorable Coca-Cola 'can' with a Boyd Bear sticking its head out of the side to add to my collection. I didn't have one of those, it has taken a special place with the rest of the collection.
Thank you, Wendy, you're AWEsome!!

Spell Check

The boys and I took off on Monday for a few days in the northern part of the lower peninsula... if you're a Michigander you'll understand that we were north of the thumb, on the index finger, first knuckle :)
I am a spell checker, everything from signs to anything in print. It's a curse, I know.
I have to share some of the typos I saw on various signs on our journey -
- Dinning room open July 20 (a Taco Bell under construction)
- Video tapes on premises (at a Burger King)
- poopycredit.com (an auto credit company)
- Your Home Maintance Conection (a construction company)
- Grage Sale (translation, garage sale)

I did see some good ones though -
- "On the run since '31" (automotive and radiator service)
- Waigy Tails (a dog groomer)

If you're traveling this summer and have an eye for typos, let me know, I'd love to read them!

My Little Entrepreneur

Our neighbors have an annual summer tradition... a yard sale every weekend.
Not to be outdone, Diego decided to sell his "baby" toys yesterday in his own yard sale. He wanted to earn money to spend on new Cars toys... like he needs more of those!
Diego started out strong but dwindled after about 2 hours when there had been no interest in his (very few) treasures. His signs said, "Pay here thank you", "Yard sale today", and various prices. I couldn't help but snap his photo as he waited for customers. He even went out to the street and tried waving people into the driveway.
I wanted to load the items into my car while he wasn't looking and leave some money on his pay station but Joe told me I couldn't do that, there was a lesson here for Diego to learn...
I say, anybody want to buy some great stuff???
:)

I Got To See 13!

I got to see Ocean's 13 all by myself! It is, for the 'Ocean's' series fan a GREAT #3.
If you've seen 11 and 12, go see 13.
If you haven't seen 11 and 12... rent them and then go see 13. George Clooney is worth it ;)

Spoiled

We had an awesome party last Wednesday evening! We celebrated the volunteers at Crossroads, the incredible people who work so hard every week to create an impressive experience for our guests.
While I was helping with the Volunteer Celebration, my sister and brother-in-law stayed with Diego (Joe left for a business trip to Canada that morning). Diego's friend, Chloe, came to our house so her mom could work the party as well.
In typical fashion, my sister and brother-in-law spoiled Diego even further and began the spoiling process with Chloe! These kids were treated to dinner at Burger King, played on the Slip-n-Slide, walked around the block (actually rode in the back of the wagon), watched a movie complete with popcorn and snacks, and were just about to play on the bouncer in the basement when I arrived home.
The old adage, "A good time was had by all..." was certainly true for everyone of us that day. Although tired and ready for bed was a good description too!

Where are you going?

I read a quote a long time ago that goes like this:

"If you always do what you've always done, you'll always be where you've always been."

Not sure why I thought that was "blog worthy" today but it's been running through my head lately and perhaps if I write it somewhere it will stop ringing in my ears.

Go out and do something different, you'll quite possibly find yourself in uncharted waters.

Amazing

We had a 'Night of Praise' at our church tonight. It's a chance for us to come together for music, communion, and prayer as a church community. Diego joined me in the auditorium since Joe was involved in a part on stage.
One of the elements of worship was an opportunity to write a note, draw a picture, etc. on newsprint that had been placed on the walls. Diego was curious about what some people were doing at this point in the experience so I explained that they were writing a note to God or Jesus. He said, "I want to write a note to God!"
I was leery of allowing him to go to the wall since one never knows what he might write or draw given the paper and crayon. I reluctantly let him go...alone.
When Diego didn't come back after what I felt was a reasonable amount of time, I went to find him and determine whether or not I would need to tear the paper from the wall before anyone else could see it.
What I found brought me to tears. Here was my 8 year old engrossed in writing a love letter to our Creator. It went something like this: "Hi God. I love you because you love me. I love you because you let me go to second grade. I love you because you are good.... Diego"
He even went back to write more near the end of the experience.
I just want to say, thank you, God for the gift of your little angel, Diego. He brings me great joy!

Friends

We had the opportunity to have a sweet little girl at our house this past Sunday. Chloe and Diego are pretty good friends. In fact, they were married at their daycare last summer! No honeymoon though because they were soon 'divorced'.
Here's a picture of them taking a break from the Slip-N-Slide after trying to get the photographer wet.
Chloe, I'd be proud to have you for a daughter-in-law 'for real' some day.

Last Day of First Grade

Today is Diego's last day of First Grade. I have to say I am sad and relieved at the same time. Sad because my little boy is growing up too fast. It seems like only a day or so ago that I was cradling him in my arms and singing "God Still Moves" to him as a lullaby (incidentally, still his favorite).
Relieved that the year was successful, he learned so much, grew an incredible amount physically and emotionally, and is still my little darling (I know he'll not want to be called that one day). I thank God for giving Diego to us. With all of his special needs come an extra measure of love. What an amazing blessing!

Be Amazing

I read this in a magazine recently, cut it out and put it on my bulletin board in my office. I have read it several times since I first saw it and today want to share it.

Let yourself be as amazing as you were meant to be!
So often, we hold back; we downplay our gifts and postpone our dreams.
But you're so much more capable than you give yourself credit for!
So cast aside that self-doubt and live life to the fullest!
You can acheive anything you set your mind to, as long as your heart is in it!

Hotel Stay

We had to stay in a hotel on Saturday night after we had driven for around 5 hours through the course of the day and attended a wedding and reception.

Arriving in our room exhausted at 10:30 p.m., I set out to prepare Diego for bed. He was excited to have the chance to sleep on a hide-a-bed in a hotel (he had no idea what a hotel was before Saturday) and had his stuffed animals lined up for snuggling. After putting Diego into bed, Joe and I readied ourselves for a good night's sleep in a King-sized bed.

Lights out. Ahhhh, drifting off to what I hoped would be mindless slumber... and then it started... armpit noises from the hide-a-bed!

My initial reaction was to yell and go into a lengthy explanation about Dad and Mom being tired and needing a good night's sleep before we could travel more the next morning. However when my eyes adjusted to the darkness and I saw Diego lying in just his underpants on top of the blanket I could do nothing but laugh. Laugh until tears streamed down my face. Joe began to laugh which only fed my giggles. Diego asked, "What's funny?" He honestly didn't know that he had become our comedic relief.

Yet another FAS moment brought to you by Diego, my wonder-boy.

A Wedding Worth Waiting For

My family and I went to a wedding last Saturday in Grand Rapids, MI. It was the wedding of a very special young man in my life. His name is Brad, his bride's name is Bethany.
Brad is someone I met as a pre-teen, trouble child. He appeared one morning in my Sunday school class. Brad always had a toy of some sort to occupy his hands, he wanted to be a magician. Brad eventually grew into a great teenager. He took a lead part in the youth group's "Human Video" drama group, named the group "Take A Stand Ministry" and traveled to various locations presenting the gospel through dramatic reenactments.
I am incredibly proud of the fact that Brad went to college to become a youth pastor. He has recently been promoted to a department manager's position in a new office supply store in Traverse City, MI. I am praying that he will pursue his passion of working with teenagers there.
Brad gave me a nickname that he still calls me to this day - Tree. He seemed to think because of my height and hairstyle (at the time) that I resembled a tree. I didn't like the name at first but it grew (HA!) on me and I learned to accept it and even answer to it. When I met his bride after the ceremony on Saturday, she exclaimed, "So, you're Tree! I'm so glad to meet you, I've heard so much about you!" I bet she has.
There were rough times with Brad, it wasn't all grins and giggles. He grew closer to the Lord and learned some incredible life lessons while I worked with him. I'm not bragging on myself, but I am bragging on Brad. He was one of my success stories... some time I'll write about some of the others.
At the age of 16 or 17, Brad became attached to a baby named Diego who had come into our lives quite unexpectedly. When it came time for us to make the decision about adopting Diego or giving him up to someone else, Brad came forward and told us that if we didn't adopt Diego, he would. He said he loved him more than he ever thought he could love another human being and was willing to give up his dream of going to college to raise this little boy on his own.
Brad regularly appeared on our doorstep to spend time with us and Diego. He came over on all of his important dates like prom or sub-deb to have his photo taken with Diego.
I couldn't be happier for Brad or more pleased that he found his life's partner in Bethany. At the risk of sounding cliche', I must say that they complete each other. I can't wait for the children to come along, he's in for a run for his money if the kids are anything like him :)
Best wishes, Brad and Bethany and may God bless you with all the good things He has in store for your life together.

Discipline Slip

Diego has been "off" for a couple of weeks now... until Tuesday this week. I really thought he'd be worse due to a field trip to the police department, fire department and public library in downtown Adrian. Well, he has been really good since then. He's been getting up and ready for school without being told to do so... that's HUGE for him.
He did have some difficulty at the fire station, he wanted to talk during the presentation but he assured me that he knew the firefighter and wanted to ask him a question. His teacher said he pointed out where his mom :) works as his class walked by the building that houses the office I work in (Diego said his friends thought it was cool).
With the end of the school year and change in routine I fully expect Diego to have some struggles. The thing that bothers me is that his teachers act surprised by problems. Their expectations are higher since the school year is almost over. I mean after all, he's been taught all these wonderful things for over 9 months now and he should have them committed to memory.
Wow! Sometimes I wonder whose brain is more like swiss cheese... the teacher's or Diego's.
For instance, the art teacher wrote a discipline slip on Diego yesterday. He put his things away at the end of class and took out some clay to play with. She told him to put it away and he didn't want to. Eventually he put it away (without incident) but she wrote a note that went something like this: "At the end of class today Diego took clay out of a tub when the rest of the class was cleaning up to leave. He had put his things away already but shouldn't have taken the clay out. Please talk to Diego about the rules and following directions."
Are you kidding me? It's not like taking clay from a tub is the worst thing he could have done. He could have thrown it, eaten it, ground it into the carpet (yes, the art room is carpeted), put it into someone's hair... get my drift? I can think of 100 different things he could have done in a classroom full of items hanging from the ceiling, protruding from the walls, written on the windows, flashing on a computer screen, etc... I'm surprised this is the first time he's had problems in that classroom! The stimulation is enough to make a 'normal' child bounce off the walls. I think I would have problems focusing in that room.
Maybe the teacher is just ready for summer vacation? I know I am.

Mother's Day & Staples

I had a GREAT Mother's Day! Diego is the sweetest little boy (most of the time) and my husband is very thoughtful and considerate about "my day"... he didn't even mow the lawn (some day I'll post something about that).
The day started pretty early for me with responsibilities at church, ending around 1:00. I went home to find my boys napping in the living room. Diego was waiting anxiously for me to get home so he could present me his hand made cards, all 4 of them (the best kind, by the way). Joe gave me a beautiful card, inside was a gift card from Staples.
Now, to some, a gift card from Staples isn't terribly Mother's Day-ish but to me it is the perfect gift! Call me strange but I love to shop at office supply stores.
We went out for lunch at Pizza Hut, drove to the cemetery to visit the graves of my dad and mom, went back home and drove to my sister's house in Temperance, MI for a late afternoon rest on the deck in the warm sunshine. We even had some really good ice cream for supper. Yes, supper. Ice cream is part of a basic food group, you know, dairy?
My Mother's Day ended with a relaxing evening watching my favorite Sunday night TV dramas; it is almost the end of the season so it's crucial that I not miss those shows!!!
My only regret about the day was that I didn't get to spend my gift card! Alas, a shopping venture I can take alone, spend as much time as I desire (right Joe?) and as much money as the gift card holds.

Before I Was A Mom

I became a mom through the wonderous miracle of adoption; this poem pertains to those of us who share the bond of motherhood through birth or adoption. Celebrate and love the moms in your life this weekend!

Before I was a Mom -
I slept as late as I wanted and never worried about how late I got into bed.
I brushed my hair and my teeth everyday.

Before I was a Mom -
I cleaned my house each day.
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom -
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on. Spit on.
Chewed on.
Pottied on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom -
I never held down a screaming child so that doctors could do tests. Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom -
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.

Before I was a Mom -
I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body. I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby. I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom -
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much love or so much pain before I was a Mom.

I never knew I would love being a Mom. — Author unknown.

Pet Peeve

Okay, I just have to vent about the way people drive. I mean, how do some people pass the tests at the DMV? Seriously, lately I have to drive more defensively than ever before. The words of my driving instructor keep ringing in my head, "Watch out for the other guy because they usually aren't watching out for you."
School is no exception, in fact, I wonder if it's the reason he used that expression all the time. People double park on both sides of the street in front of Diego's school leaving only close to a car's width to pass between them. What's that about?
Then they actually get out of their vehicles to put a child onto the street in front of a passing vehicle without regard for moving cars. "I don't think they went to Safety City school, mom!" exclaims my child from the back seat.
Turning into the parking lot is a bit like trying to avoid bugs on my windshield; adults and kids darting from between cars without even looking for moving vehicles.
And don't get me started on school buses. Do they think they own the parking lot? I know the law about stopping for a stopped school bus, waiting for the lights to stop flashing and the driver to pull in the little stop sign on the side of the bus. But really, once a bus is empty of children, are the driver's that relieved to be rid of their cargo of screaming darlings? Maybe they're just in a hurry to be the first to arrive at the coffee shop? Either way, the bus drivers appear to believe because they are larger than most vehicles in the lot, they actually do own the road.
Of course there is the mom with the big, old, honkin' pick-up who takes up 4 precious, limited parking spots. Or the dude with spinners on his wheels who refuses to share the drop off area. And the grandmother who regularly stops in the middle of the drive forcing anyone stuck behind her car to wait through a lengthy conversation with the child in the back seat.
I could go on and on but won't.
End of vent, thanks for reading :)

What's This Way?

Diego has a way of getting to me in the mornings... he's chronically late, a quality that just drives me crazy. This morning was no exception.
I've started tallying minutes that Diego wastes, writing the total on our fridge board and making him go to bed that many minutes early. He even decided he would try to write the minutes himself this morning; he obviously knows how to write the number 30... yet another way he pushed my buttons.
By the time we loaded his stuff into the car, he knew I was ready to blow a gasket. I was so frazzled I turned the wrong way out of the driveway.
I'm not sure where Diego thought I was taking him when he asked, "What's this way, Mom?" I responded with, "My mind."
Of course he didn't get it (one of those FAS moments) and a lengthy conversation ensued about why I had turned the wrong way and had to turn around in a neighbor's driveway.
Did I mention it is only Monday?

Uncle David

I received a call from my grandmother yesterday morning. Her message was spoken through tears and heartbreak. Her oldest son, David, died the night before from an aneurism. As we spoke later that day, she shared some of her recent memories of Dave with me. She assured me that David knew the Lord and he is in His presence today.
Death has a profound way of making me think about people I know and who cross my path each day who do not know Christ. See, until my grandmother told me Dave was saved, I wouldn't have known that, I never asked him about eternity. I didn't really have a relationship with him.
I can count on one hand the number of times throughout my life that I've met Dave face-to-face.
I don't really remember seeing him until my grandparent's fiftieth wedding anniversary party many years ago. He sat between my mother and me and held our hands at my father's funeral 12 years ago, I hugged him at my grandfather's funeral a couple of years later. He flew here 2 years ago from Tennessee for my mother's funeral and watched over my sisters and me to make sure we were being cared for. He even spoke highly of "the girls" to someone who was a stranger to him in a strange place; that person knew me and later shared his kind words.
I knew of him, I even knew his phone number, email address and where he lived. But that's just information. It made me think about how there are other people in my life with whom I have the same type of relationship. I think of the urgency with which I need to build a relationship to the point of asking if someone knows where they will spend eternity. Because everyone is going to die and everyone will spend forever someplace. I want to know that people I have relationships with are going to be spending their eternity with Christ.
This weekend at my church our pastor will be talking about heaven and hell. It's a lesson you won't want to miss if you're within driving distance of Adrian, MI. I'm inviting you and I'm asking you, do you know where you'll spend eternity? Make sure you do because you never know when you will be taken there.

What a weekend!

Wow, what a weekend!
The weather was perfect, the bride was beautiful, the music was incredible, the ceremony was short and sweet. What more could you ask for?
Well, I, for one, could ask for a more personable photographer. I refuse to stoop to her level or allow her to ruin my experience with this wedding. But I certainly won't recommend her to any of my clients. Too bad. She's pretty good at what she does, she just seriously needs to get a personality.
I am eager to get going on my next wedding and it's going to be great!

Here Comes The Bride

This weekend is my first 'official' wedding event; it's going to be so much fun!
Several people have told me they wouldn't do weddings for anything and ask me why I would consider going into this line of work. On the other hand, I've been surprised by the number of people who have told me doing weddings would be their dream job (dream, not nightmare!).
The most common question I hear is, "Oh, like the movie, The Wedding Planner?" No, not like the movie. Do I look like J-Lo? Is the groom Matthew what's-his-name? No, no.
I've heard horror stories of the evil "Bride-zilla" or wicked MOB (mother of the bride). Or how about the fainting groomsman... oh wait, that was in my wedding :)
I'd like to thank you for your antecdotes but bear in mind, movies and TV really do not do this job justice.
See, this isn't my first wedding event, it's my first since receiving my certification as a Wedding and Event Consultant. My prior experience has even allowed me to once be called a "Wedding Boss" by a bridesmaid who thought she was in charge. Imagine that, a bridesmaid who thought she was in charge!
We're ready for this wedding. It's going to be a great time with or without remarkable stories to tell later. I'll let you know how it goes.

Lights on... Lights off

I was walking down the frozen food aisle this morning doing my usual Monday morning grocery routine at the local Wal-Mart. No one else was in the frozen section; the place was empty. I thought it strange when I saw that the lights weren't on in the cases.
Until... they started coming on as I pushed my cart down the aisle. Approaching each case, the lights flickered on. How cool is that? Must be Wal-Mart is conserving energy, or trying to freak me out.
Like a little kid, I couldn't resist turning to look over my shoulder to see if the lights were going out when I was half way down the aisle...they weren't off yet! I didn't want to look as foolish as I felt so I didn't stand at the end of the aisle waiting to see how long before the lights would go off.
I came home and checked my email to find a daily devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries; the verse of the day is Psalm 139:5 "You both precede me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on me."
Okay, so maybe you'll think this is a stretch but again I ask, how cool is that? I thought immediately of my experience with the lights in the frozen food cases. I'm a visual person; it was like God had provided a visual foreshadowing for my reading this verse today!
There He was in a simple thing like lights; going on before me, staying on after me. I didn't understand the lights and there are lots of times I don't understand God's ways either. All I need to do is trust that He's ahead of me, behind me, all around me, with His hand of blessing on me.
I encourage you to look for the blessings in front of you and behind you today!

Senior Discount

So, it's Sunday and we typically do some sort of fast food for lunch after church. Today's choice was McDonald's for Diego (what's new?) and Arby's for Joe and me.
Funny thing is, we ordered at Arby's drive-thru and pulled around to the "Please Pay Here" window. Joe had the correct change and placed it on the tray. The cashier pulled the tray in, placed our food on the tray and pushed it back toward the car. As she did so, she told Joe to be sure to take his change; she had given him the "Senior Discount".
I've called Joe my "Old Man" before, he plays a grandfather in our church's family worship experience and his hair is admittedly a bit on the whiter than darker side these days. But I found it hilarious that he was given the Senior Discount for lunch! What's next an AARP card?
Joe wasn't thrilled that he was taken for a much older man; he even failed to see the humor in me laughing about it all the way home...I guess the sense of humor is one of the first things to go!

April is Autism Awareness Month

Diego has FAS (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome) but also has many autistic tendencies. My sister who works with handicapped adults sent the following article to me last week. I find Diego in nearly every numbered item. He's such a cool kid, we are blessed to call him our son.

10 things every person with autism wishes you knew.

1. I am a person with autism. I am not "autistic." My autism is one aspect of my total character. It does not define me as a person. Are you a person with thoughts, feelings and many talents, or are you just fat (overweight), myopic (wear glasses) or klutzy (uncoordinated, not good at sports)?

2. My sensory perceptions are disordered. This means the ordinary sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touches of everyday life that you may not even notice can be downright painful for me. The very environment in which I have to live often seems hostile. I may appear withdrawn or belligerent to you, but I am really just trying to defend myself. A "simple" trip to the grocery store may be hell for me. My hearing may be hyper-acute. Dozens of people are talking at once. The loudspeaker booms today's special. Muzak whines from the sound system. Cash registers beep and cough. A coffee grinder is chugging. The meat cutter screeches, babies wail, carts creak, the fluorescent lighting hums. My brain can't filter all the input, and I'm in overload! My sense of smell may be highly sensitive. The fish at the meat counter isn't quite fresh, the guy standing next to us hasn't showered today, the deli is handing out sausage samples, and they’re mopping up pickles on Aisle 3 with ammonia. ... I can't sort it all out, I'm too nauseous.

Because I am visually oriented, this may be my first sense to become over-stimulated. The fluorescent light is too bright. It makes the room pulsate and hurts my eyes. Sometimes the pulsating light bounces off everything and distorts what I am seeing. The space seems to be constantly changing. There's glare from windows, moving fans on the ceiling, so many bodies in constant motion, too many items for me to be able to focus - and I may compensate with tunnel vision. All this affects my vestibular sense, and now I can't even tell where my body is in space. I may stumble, bump into things, or simply lay down to try and regroup.

3. Please remember to distinguish between won't (I choose not to) and can't (I'm not able to). Receptive and expressive language are both difficult for me. It isn't that I don't listen to instructions. It's that I can't understand you. When you call to me from across the room, this is what I hear: "*&^%$#@, Billy. #$%^*&^%$&*" Instead, come speak directly to me in plain words: "Please put your book on the shelf, Bill. It's time to go to lunch." This tells me what you want me to do and what is going to happen next. Now it's much easier for me to comply.

4. I am a concrete thinker. I interpret language literally. It's very confusing for me when you say, "Hold your horses, cowboy!" when what you really mean is "Please stop running." Don't tell me something is a "piece of cake" when there is no dessert in sight and what you really mean is, "This will be easy for you to do." When you say, "It's pouring cats and dogs," I see pets coming out of a pitcher. Please just tell me, "It's raining very hard." Idioms, puns, nuances, double entendres and sarcasm are lost on me.

5. Be patient with my limited vocabulary. It's hard for me to tell you what I need when I don't know the words to describe my feelings. I may be hungry, frustrated, frightened or confused, but right now those words are beyond my ability to express. Be alert for body language, withdrawal, agitation, or other signs that something is wrong.

There's a flip side to this: I may sound like a professor or a movie star, rattling off words or whole scripts well beyond my developmental age. These are messages I have memorized from the world around me to compensate for my language deficits, because I know I am expected to respond when spoken to. They may come from books, television or the speech of other people. It's called echolalia. I don't necessarily understand the context or the terminology I'm using; I just know it gets me off the hook for coming up with a reply.

6. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Show me how to do something rather than just telling me. And please be prepared to show me many times. Lots of patient repetition helps me learn.

A visual schedule is extremely helpful as I move through my day. Like your day planner, it relieves me of the stress of having to remember what comes next, makes for smooth transitions between activities, and helps me manage my time and meet your expectations.

7. Focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can't do. Like any other human, I can't learn in an environment where I'm constantly made to feel that I'm not good enough or that I need fixing. Trying anything new when I am almost sure to be met with criticism, however constructive, becomes something to be avoided. Look for my strengths and you'll find them. There's more than one right way to do most things.

8. Help me with social interactions. It may look like I don't want to interact, but sometimes it's just that I simply don't know how to start a conversation. If you can encourage other others to invite me to join them, I may be delighted to be included.

9. Try to identify what triggers my meltdowns. This is termed "the antecedent." Meltdowns, blowups, tantrums or whatever you want to call them are even more horrid for me than they are for you. They occur because one or more of my senses has gone into overload. If you can figure out why my meltdowns occur, they can be prevented.

10. If you are a family member, please love me unconditionally. Banish thoughts such as, "If he would just ..." and "Why can't she ...?" You didn't fulfill every last expectation your parents had for you, and you wouldn't like being constantly reminded of it. I didn't choose to have autism. Remember that it's happening to me, not you. Without your support, my chances of successful, self-reliant adulthood are slim. With your support and guidance, the possibilities are broader than you might think. I promise you I'm worth it.

It all comes down to three words: Patience. Patience. Patience.

Work to view my autism as a different ability rather than a disability. Look past what you may see as limitations and see the gifts autism has given me. I may not be good at eye contact or conversation, but have you noticed I don't lie, cheat at games, tattle on my classmates, or pass judgment on other people?

You are my foundation. Think through some of those societal rules, and if they don't make sense for me, let them go. Be my advocate, be my friend, and we'll see just how far I can go.

I probably won't be the next Michael Jordan, but with my attention to fine detail and capacity for extraordinary focus, I might be the next Einstein. Or Mozart. Or Van Gogh.

They had autism too.



Adapted from the works of Ellen Notbohm. Freelance writer and consultant Ellen Notbohm is a columnist for Autism/Asperger's Digest and co-author of 1001 Great Ideas for Teaching and Raising Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders (Future Horizons). She favors "common sense" approaches to raising her sons with autism and AD/HD. She lives in Oregon.

I recently read a blog posting by Holly Furtick, a pastor's wife in Charlotte, NC. Holly wrote about her son being a parrot for anything she says, even the bad stuff.
I also have a friend who wrote about her daughter being a sponge and picking up all kinds of things she would say.
Well, I have this habit lately of saying, "Ya think?" when someone states the obvious. I didn't realize how much I used the phrase until this morning at 8 a.m. when I was trying to convince Diego that we should have been downstairs eating breakfast by then. He turned to me and said, "Ya think?" Yes, wise child, I think.
I think I need to watch those phrases that roll around my head and not let them spill out so frequently.
I think I need to develop a "Ya Think" jar, kind of like the "Cussing Jar" I heard about from a friend who was trying to stop swearing. (He would put a quarter in the jar every time he swore and he made anyone else in the house pay if they happened to have a slip of the tongue.)
I think this child is responsible for the gray hair I keep finding.
I think it's time to close this posting.

The Last Word

The last word is something I have always believed I need to have. I have long struggled with that issue. If either of my parents were alive to agree, they would. I know my sisters and husband are nodding in agreement at this very moment.
Even though Diego is adopted he has somehow 'inherited' the last word gene from me. The child absolutely has to have the last word. He doesn't even realize he's doing it but he does seem to gain pleasure from watching my blood pressure rise and pushing me to my limit.
I try to not show him my frustration but usually end up telling him it's best to be quiet before "I pull this car over" or "make him sit in time out" or some other motherly threat that I know he isn't falling for.
At times like this I find some of the last words my own mother gave me echoing in my head: "I hope someday you have a child who acts just like you." Hmmmm... What did she know that I don't? Could she see into the future or something?
I can at least have the last word here, in my blog where I can say whatever I want and that's that.... well, unless someone posts a comment...