One thing I've learned is that Goldie is not a performer. She does not like to be tested on what she knows. A couple nights ago, Goldie got out her alphabet letters, so I grabbed the camcorder on the off chance that she would show off for me. I got lucky! Her are a couple videos of her identifying the letters of the alphabet. Part 2 includes some lowercase letters. You'll notice that instead of naming a couple of the vowels she tells me what sound they make.
Warning: the lighting is poor, her pajamas mismatched and the slip cover for our couch was in the laundry, but this is real life with 4 kids!
Showing posts with label Firsts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Firsts. Show all posts
Friday, March 18, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Happy Birthday! Goldie is 4
Goldie had a birthday last week! If you ask how old she is she will proudly hold up four fingers and say "four". After some practice she is even able to get her little thumb against the palm of her hand instead of behind her fingers. I never thought I would enjoy life's little details so much!
My favorite moment from her birthday this year: Goldie had done something she's not allowed, I don't remember what, and I was explaining why when out of nowhere she says, "Birthday. Four." and rooooolls her eyes. Like "Hello Mom, it's my birthday, I can't be in trouble. I get a free pass today!" Of course I cracked up after that, probably reinforcing whatever behavior I was trying to correct.
The last year has brought some big accomplishments! I'll list a few that I can think of off the top of my head.
- looking out for her brother (she was yelling "hurt" at him tonight as the went after an electric cord!)
- learning all the letters of the alphabet, upper and lowercase!
- asking and answering questions
- dressing herself
- beginning to sight read
- she can identify 9 different shapes and 10 colors
- growing tall enough to sit on the swing without help
- potty training, it has been over a month since we quit the pull-up habit!
- blowing bubbles
- turning door knobs
Wow! Just looking at this list has me excited for what the next year may bring!
Monday, February 21, 2011
So Smart!
Goldie was folding laundry today and came across a dress with little hearts all over it. One of the girls at Children's Hour has the same dress and wore it on Wednesday for the Valentine's Party. Goldie wore a different dress, but I still pointed out what her friend had on.
Sooo, I asked Goldie, "Who has the same dress and wore it to Children's Hour?"
Goldie replied, "Sydney, Sydney!"
Heck yeah! I always wonder how much she can remember. It's sooo hard to tell when a child has a speech delay and isn't able talk about their day and events like a typical child. So nice to have a little peak as to what she is taking in.
Sooo, I asked Goldie, "Who has the same dress and wore it to Children's Hour?"
Goldie replied, "Sydney, Sydney!"
Heck yeah! I always wonder how much she can remember. It's sooo hard to tell when a child has a speech delay and isn't able talk about their day and events like a typical child. So nice to have a little peak as to what she is taking in.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Inchstones
Goldie has met some little milestones, some call these inchstones, that I need to document before I forget the details. She is 3 1/2 and moving full steam ahead toward 4!
- Goldie can dress and undress herself, even in her brother's clothes. She mastered this skill completely on her own, all I did was leave baskets of laundry around for her to practice. BTW, she can also fold washcloths, handtowels, and diapers.
- Last night, upon noticing that her sisters were dressed for bed, she walked upstairs, got her pajama top and matching bottoms out of her drawer, came back down and threw them at me.
- At dinner, she served everyone salad, with tongs. Weeks of climbing on the table to get second helpings has finally paid off.
- At Children's Hour, they ran out of tiny plastic cups for snack time. So the kids had to drink out of regular styrofoam cups. I just knew that Goldie would need help. She told me to go away and drank two servings of apple juice without spilling or choking!
- Before snack, they had a visit from the fire department. When they asked for a volunteer to demonstrate "stop, drop, and roll" Goldie walked up to the front of the group, dropped to the ground and rolled. She was saying roll the whole time, then she stood up and clapped for herself. All the volunteer fire fighters knew her name before they went home. ;)
- Wishes do come true, I have another little girl who loves Madeline. My oldest was all about Madeline, so I've been saving all the dolls and books hoping they would get some more love.
- When I was reading "line", as Goldie calls her new favorite story, I stopped several times (leaving off the last word) and she was able to complete the rhyme! Another first!
- Goldie is really into learning her colors. She loves to sign and say them. She can sort red, blue, yellow, and green.
- Goldie can dress and undress herself, even in her brother's clothes. She mastered this skill completely on her own, all I did was leave baskets of laundry around for her to practice. BTW, she can also fold washcloths, handtowels, and diapers.
- Last night, upon noticing that her sisters were dressed for bed, she walked upstairs, got her pajama top and matching bottoms out of her drawer, came back down and threw them at me.
- At dinner, she served everyone salad, with tongs. Weeks of climbing on the table to get second helpings has finally paid off.
- At Children's Hour, they ran out of tiny plastic cups for snack time. So the kids had to drink out of regular styrofoam cups. I just knew that Goldie would need help. She told me to go away and drank two servings of apple juice without spilling or choking!
- Before snack, they had a visit from the fire department. When they asked for a volunteer to demonstrate "stop, drop, and roll" Goldie walked up to the front of the group, dropped to the ground and rolled. She was saying roll the whole time, then she stood up and clapped for herself. All the volunteer fire fighters knew her name before they went home. ;)
- Wishes do come true, I have another little girl who loves Madeline. My oldest was all about Madeline, so I've been saving all the dolls and books hoping they would get some more love.
- When I was reading "line", as Goldie calls her new favorite story, I stopped several times (leaving off the last word) and she was able to complete the rhyme! Another first!
- Goldie is really into learning her colors. She loves to sign and say them. She can sort red, blue, yellow, and green.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Ka woop
Ka woop is how Goldie asked for more cantaloupe at dinner tonight. She even put a little pause in between syllables. It was so cute, we kept coaxing her to say it. Twice was all we got.
Her speech therapist has been working on vocabulary with her. To be honest, I'm not sure why. Well, not really, I do know Goldie has to understand words before she can begin to use them. But, I don't know if the ST realizes how many words Goldie knows. I had also hoped to see more oral motor activities being done. I asked for a copy of the treatment plan so I can get a better understanding of what strategies she's using and the goals they are working towards. For what its worth, I really like the ST. I've been very impressed that she has high and appropriate expectations of Goldie.
In the mean time, I decided to start keeping track of just what words Goldie can say. I started yesterday counting only spoken words, no matter how hard they were to understand. I was blown away that she used 87 different words!! I had no idea she was using that many. Today we weren't as diligent, but I noticed a bunch of words that she didn't say yesterday, so tomorrow we are going to keep track again. I also think its important that most of these were said without prompting. She either initiated the conversation or repeated them after I used them in a sentence. Goldie is not a "performer" so the best way to know where she is developmentally is to watch and interact with her during normal family routines.
Her speech therapist has been working on vocabulary with her. To be honest, I'm not sure why. Well, not really, I do know Goldie has to understand words before she can begin to use them. But, I don't know if the ST realizes how many words Goldie knows. I had also hoped to see more oral motor activities being done. I asked for a copy of the treatment plan so I can get a better understanding of what strategies she's using and the goals they are working towards. For what its worth, I really like the ST. I've been very impressed that she has high and appropriate expectations of Goldie.
In the mean time, I decided to start keeping track of just what words Goldie can say. I started yesterday counting only spoken words, no matter how hard they were to understand. I was blown away that she used 87 different words!! I had no idea she was using that many. Today we weren't as diligent, but I noticed a bunch of words that she didn't say yesterday, so tomorrow we are going to keep track again. I also think its important that most of these were said without prompting. She either initiated the conversation or repeated them after I used them in a sentence. Goldie is not a "performer" so the best way to know where she is developmentally is to watch and interact with her during normal family routines.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
The Morning After - Receiving Goldie's Diagnosis
We just celebrated Goldie's 3rd birthday. She certainly got the better end of the birthday deal. While she was busy licking icing and tearing open gifts, I began climbing Mt. Transition. Instead of snow, its covered in paperwork. I still haven't reached the top.
Last year, I posted Goldie's birth story, but didn't go into any detail about receiving her diagnosis. This year, I feel better able to talk about it. I can look back and see the best and the worst of myself. I've forgiven myself for the worst and let go of the guilt.
During my pregnancy there was some concern that Goldie wasn't growing well. I measured small for my dates and had to have another ultrasound. This was the 2nd level II ultrasound for that pregnancy. They were able to get some great pictures of her heart that they didn't get the first time. The tech thought she was in the 50% and would be about 7+ pounds. Maybe if she had hung out another 2 weeks, but instead she was only 6lbs 1oz and 18 inches long. Her head circumference was so small it wasn't on the growth chart.
I had the quad screen and it came back negative for an elevated risk of having a baby with DS. At the time, I didn't know it only screens your risk level and is not a definitive test. After working with breastfeeding mothers, I wanted to be able to anticipate any feeding difficulties or know if my baby would need extra attention after birth. We thought this test would meet that need. Turns out it didn't.
During my pregnancy I had a feeling that something wasn't right. I couldn't shake it and just kept telling myself it was anxiety. I spent the better part of my pregnancy in funeral homes, so it made sense to me that I was just being over anxious.
If I close my eyes I can still feel the first time I my skin met Goldie's. She was purple and spongy. The only thought I could form was "Why does my daughter have saggy skin like an elephant?" Out loud I said, "What's wrong with her skin. Doesn't she have enough fat on her? Were my dates wrong? Is she too early?" Down syndrome was the furthest thing from my mind.
The nurses kept reassuring me, telling me her Apgars were 8 & 9.
"Really?" the doctor said.
I stopped asking, distracted by the automated blood pressure cuff cutting off the circulation in my arm. My hand would curl into a ball while everyone just stared. I took it off, threw it on the floor and explained they would have to take my blood pressure the old fashioned way. (I'm not a good patient.) It was about this time our friendly nurse, Ann, clammed up. She wouldn't even look make eye contact with me.
Then it was time for Goldie to meet her sisters. Well, one of them, the other one was having a rough time.
I spent the night hiding Goldie under my nightgown, keeping her warm and hoping I could convince her to nurse. Hospitals in my neck of the woods still don't have rooming in. The nurse's aid came twice to bring Goldie to the nursery. No dice lady. Then a nurse who tried to help Goldie latch on. She asked if Goldie looked like my other babies. Finally, she patted me on the back and left.
Morning came and, again, the wanted Goldie in the nursery. This time the pediatrician was there to do the newborn health assesments.
"Great, I want him to come to my room to see my baby," I said.
"We don't do that."
"Ok. Then come get me and I'll bring her to the nursery."
"But, there's other babies in there. No ones ever asked to do this before."
"Your choices are he can check my baby here or I can bring her there. I don't send my 8 yo to the doctor alone. I'm not sending my newborn."
I let Goldie go to the nursery, so I could get a shower before seeing the doctor. But first I called my husband. That was the first time I cried. I planned on going home that evening, so he wasn't rushing in that morning. The plan was to wait until afternoon, then we could all go home together.
So, he wasn't there when I went to the nursery. Goldie wasn't with the other babies. She wasn't swaddled anymore. I could see a little gold bear on her chest to take her temperature, her stomach was bulging out in the center where the muscles didn't come together.
"I'm glad you asked to be here. Is you husband with you?" the doctor asked.
"No."
"I wish he was. Your daughter is showing some of the physical characteristics of Down syndrome."
The words echoed in my head for a few seconds. Then I knew I had to listen very carefully to everything he said because my daughter's health depended on it. The only things I could remember about Down syndrome were that it was an extra chromosome and it was forever.
The doctor and I, mostly I, formed a plan to get some nourishment into Goldie. Then I had to call her daddy. I still feel like crap for giving him such life changing news over the phone.
The next day we got our wish and were able to go home as a family.
It would be a week before we got the results of the bloodwork. A loooong week of crying, swearing, laughing and loving.
Our family pediatrician saw Goldie that day. I requested him that day because he is so compassionate and has a quietness about him that I enjoy. The room was filled with our family of 5, the doctor and at least on medical student.
"The results of the genetic testing came back and they show a triplication of the 21st chromosome."
After converting that to English in my head, I lost it. I bawled. I cried like I have never cried in front of so many people. Including my own children. I wish they hadn't been there. I was still crying when our van pulled out onto the main road. Finally, my husband said something that made me stop.
"You know, she's still our little girl. She's just like any other kid. She's going to take her first steps, say her first words and learn to ride a bike."
"Oh, yeah."
Last year, I posted Goldie's birth story, but didn't go into any detail about receiving her diagnosis. This year, I feel better able to talk about it. I can look back and see the best and the worst of myself. I've forgiven myself for the worst and let go of the guilt.
During my pregnancy there was some concern that Goldie wasn't growing well. I measured small for my dates and had to have another ultrasound. This was the 2nd level II ultrasound for that pregnancy. They were able to get some great pictures of her heart that they didn't get the first time. The tech thought she was in the 50% and would be about 7+ pounds. Maybe if she had hung out another 2 weeks, but instead she was only 6lbs 1oz and 18 inches long. Her head circumference was so small it wasn't on the growth chart.
I had the quad screen and it came back negative for an elevated risk of having a baby with DS. At the time, I didn't know it only screens your risk level and is not a definitive test. After working with breastfeeding mothers, I wanted to be able to anticipate any feeding difficulties or know if my baby would need extra attention after birth. We thought this test would meet that need. Turns out it didn't.
During my pregnancy I had a feeling that something wasn't right. I couldn't shake it and just kept telling myself it was anxiety. I spent the better part of my pregnancy in funeral homes, so it made sense to me that I was just being over anxious.
If I close my eyes I can still feel the first time I my skin met Goldie's. She was purple and spongy. The only thought I could form was "Why does my daughter have saggy skin like an elephant?" Out loud I said, "What's wrong with her skin. Doesn't she have enough fat on her? Were my dates wrong? Is she too early?" Down syndrome was the furthest thing from my mind.
The nurses kept reassuring me, telling me her Apgars were 8 & 9.
"Really?" the doctor said.
I stopped asking, distracted by the automated blood pressure cuff cutting off the circulation in my arm. My hand would curl into a ball while everyone just stared. I took it off, threw it on the floor and explained they would have to take my blood pressure the old fashioned way. (I'm not a good patient.) It was about this time our friendly nurse, Ann, clammed up. She wouldn't even look make eye contact with me.
Then it was time for Goldie to meet her sisters. Well, one of them, the other one was having a rough time.
I spent the night hiding Goldie under my nightgown, keeping her warm and hoping I could convince her to nurse. Hospitals in my neck of the woods still don't have rooming in. The nurse's aid came twice to bring Goldie to the nursery. No dice lady. Then a nurse who tried to help Goldie latch on. She asked if Goldie looked like my other babies. Finally, she patted me on the back and left.
Morning came and, again, the wanted Goldie in the nursery. This time the pediatrician was there to do the newborn health assesments.
"Great, I want him to come to my room to see my baby," I said.
"We don't do that."
"Ok. Then come get me and I'll bring her to the nursery."
"But, there's other babies in there. No ones ever asked to do this before."
"Your choices are he can check my baby here or I can bring her there. I don't send my 8 yo to the doctor alone. I'm not sending my newborn."
I let Goldie go to the nursery, so I could get a shower before seeing the doctor. But first I called my husband. That was the first time I cried. I planned on going home that evening, so he wasn't rushing in that morning. The plan was to wait until afternoon, then we could all go home together.
So, he wasn't there when I went to the nursery. Goldie wasn't with the other babies. She wasn't swaddled anymore. I could see a little gold bear on her chest to take her temperature, her stomach was bulging out in the center where the muscles didn't come together.
"I'm glad you asked to be here. Is you husband with you?" the doctor asked.
"No."
"I wish he was. Your daughter is showing some of the physical characteristics of Down syndrome."
The words echoed in my head for a few seconds. Then I knew I had to listen very carefully to everything he said because my daughter's health depended on it. The only things I could remember about Down syndrome were that it was an extra chromosome and it was forever.
The doctor and I, mostly I, formed a plan to get some nourishment into Goldie. Then I had to call her daddy. I still feel like crap for giving him such life changing news over the phone.
The next day we got our wish and were able to go home as a family.
It would be a week before we got the results of the bloodwork. A loooong week of crying, swearing, laughing and loving.
Our family pediatrician saw Goldie that day. I requested him that day because he is so compassionate and has a quietness about him that I enjoy. The room was filled with our family of 5, the doctor and at least on medical student.
"The results of the genetic testing came back and they show a triplication of the 21st chromosome."
After converting that to English in my head, I lost it. I bawled. I cried like I have never cried in front of so many people. Including my own children. I wish they hadn't been there. I was still crying when our van pulled out onto the main road. Finally, my husband said something that made me stop.
"You know, she's still our little girl. She's just like any other kid. She's going to take her first steps, say her first words and learn to ride a bike."
"Oh, yeah."
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
New Words
After Hank was born, over 5 weeks ago, Goldie pretty much stopped talking. She resorted to whining and only using the words Mama and Dada. Because she needed to get our attention before she began whining at us.
This week she has been amazing me with the words. Not only is she saying more words, but her speech is getting clearer. This blog also serves as my record of her milestones, so I'm going to bore you with the details.
Goldie refolded some laundry for me and I asked her "What happened here?" She replied very carefully, "I did that."
At lunch we ate "am" (ham) Her shoes are "white"
Tonight she was dividing her time among several baby dolls. Then I noticed that she was making one of them wave his hand while she said "bye". A lot of her words sound like "bah", but it was cute to see her bending the baby's arm.
She gives her little brother fist bumps and was blowing raspberries in his face today. If he is crying and you don't get him settled down fast enough, Goldie will find a binky for him.
Another thing that I noticed, she stopped looking at her books after he arrived. She also wasn't very keen on letting me read to her. The last couple of days she has resumed emptying the bookshelf. I found her engrossed with her books, pointing at the pictures and signing to herself. Its so nice to see that she has made progress beyond what she was doing when Hank was born.
This week she has been amazing me with the words. Not only is she saying more words, but her speech is getting clearer. This blog also serves as my record of her milestones, so I'm going to bore you with the details.
Goldie refolded some laundry for me and I asked her "What happened here?" She replied very carefully, "I did that."
At lunch we ate "am" (ham) Her shoes are "white"
Tonight she was dividing her time among several baby dolls. Then I noticed that she was making one of them wave his hand while she said "bye". A lot of her words sound like "bah", but it was cute to see her bending the baby's arm.
She gives her little brother fist bumps and was blowing raspberries in his face today. If he is crying and you don't get him settled down fast enough, Goldie will find a binky for him.
Another thing that I noticed, she stopped looking at her books after he arrived. She also wasn't very keen on letting me read to her. The last couple of days she has resumed emptying the bookshelf. I found her engrossed with her books, pointing at the pictures and signing to herself. Its so nice to see that she has made progress beyond what she was doing when Hank was born.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
When I Wasn't Looking
New babies are such a savory distraction from "life as usual". And while this mama was staring at new gray eyes and enjoying the aroma of milk breath her little girl learned some new tricks.
In the last two days I have found Goldie inhaling spices from opened jars and tonight we cleaned up a bottle of A1 sauce. It seems somebody has taught herself to unscrew lids.
While nursing Hank last week, I look over to see Goldie walking up the steps, unassisted. Her daddy swears she's been doing this for a while now.
The puzzle she insisted she wasn't ready for last week, it was completed with perfection today. Just for her OT.
When I ask "Who took Goldie's clothes off?" The answer is Goldie.
And when I say "Hey, thanks for putting Goldie's boots on." The response is "I didn't. She did."
But, I haven't missed everything. While I was watching my oldest spin around with Goldie hanging over her shoulder, I heard "I want down!"
Yesterday, while we were rolling playdough she said "Grace", her big sister's name, for the first time.
And when I look at this picture, Im reminded that "3" is just around the next bend.
In the last two days I have found Goldie inhaling spices from opened jars and tonight we cleaned up a bottle of A1 sauce. It seems somebody has taught herself to unscrew lids.
While nursing Hank last week, I look over to see Goldie walking up the steps, unassisted. Her daddy swears she's been doing this for a while now.
The puzzle she insisted she wasn't ready for last week, it was completed with perfection today. Just for her OT.
When I ask "Who took Goldie's clothes off?" The answer is Goldie.
And when I say "Hey, thanks for putting Goldie's boots on." The response is "I didn't. She did."
But, I haven't missed everything. While I was watching my oldest spin around with Goldie hanging over her shoulder, I heard "I want down!"
Yesterday, while we were rolling playdough she said "Grace", her big sister's name, for the first time.
And when I look at this picture, Im reminded that "3" is just around the next bend.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Who Stole the Apple from the Apple Bag?
Goldie!
She snagged this right out of the bag on the counter. I took it back long enough to wash it. I figured it would keep her busy for about 15 seconds and was a little doubtful that she had the jaw strength to bite off a piece. I buy the very crunchiest apples I can find. She, of course, showed me that even the crunchiest apple is no match for her!
This has already proved to be an easy snack to give her on the go. I'm notorious for not remembering to bring snacks when we go out. I blame it all on breastfeeding. I always had food on hand when they were babies and it got me into a bad habit of not packing snacks. Anyway, after we went on a nice, long hayride this week I was able to buy Goldie an apple to eat. How convenient? Too bad I can't do that when her drink runs out! (I've been caught without "Think-It" more than once this week.)
She snagged this right out of the bag on the counter. I took it back long enough to wash it. I figured it would keep her busy for about 15 seconds and was a little doubtful that she had the jaw strength to bite off a piece. I buy the very crunchiest apples I can find. She, of course, showed me that even the crunchiest apple is no match for her!
This has already proved to be an easy snack to give her on the go. I'm notorious for not remembering to bring snacks when we go out. I blame it all on breastfeeding. I always had food on hand when they were babies and it got me into a bad habit of not packing snacks. Anyway, after we went on a nice, long hayride this week I was able to buy Goldie an apple to eat. How convenient? Too bad I can't do that when her drink runs out! (I've been caught without "Think-It" more than once this week.)
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Electric fences
For 3, maybe 4, months a year our property borders an electric fence. It is about 8 feet from our chickens and the garden. It is so beautiful to get up and have coffee while watching a newborn calf nurse from his mother. I love it here. My children are growing up in the same house I did and playing in the same yard I did. Hank grew up on a small farm, so this property was a good fit for him.
I slowly feel we are becoming our own small farm. There is always something that needs done. Like yesterday. I took Goldie outside to swing. While we were out I noticed the walnuts on the ground needed to be picked up so Hank could mow the grass. I walked over to get a wheelbarrow to put them in. While getting the wheelbarrow I see that the chickens need water. I take the bucket back to the house. While I'm dunking it in the rain barrel I turn to check on Goldie. She is headed toward the cow pasture. Despite my running and screaming, she beat me to it. By a mile. I felt like I was in a race against the electric current. This time we won. The fence wasn't working. (FYI, they don't deliver a continuous shock, it travels around the fence, which is very long. I've been shocked and it hurts, but it isn't dangerous, kwim?) The neighbor called later to see if everything was ok. She was outside and heard me yelling. I told her Goldie was fine, but I was very sore and would be spending the afternoon on the couch. I'm 29 weeks pg, not a good time to start sprinting.
I really believe inclusion begins at home, but I struggle with including Goldie and keepingmy sanity her safe. She usually stands and watches the chickens while I get the water. Hank taught her to pull grass and feed it to them. This is very cute, but she's gotten her fingers pecked already.
I slowly feel we are becoming our own small farm. There is always something that needs done. Like yesterday. I took Goldie outside to swing. While we were out I noticed the walnuts on the ground needed to be picked up so Hank could mow the grass. I walked over to get a wheelbarrow to put them in. While getting the wheelbarrow I see that the chickens need water. I take the bucket back to the house. While I'm dunking it in the rain barrel I turn to check on Goldie. She is headed toward the cow pasture. Despite my running and screaming, she beat me to it. By a mile. I felt like I was in a race against the electric current. This time we won. The fence wasn't working. (FYI, they don't deliver a continuous shock, it travels around the fence, which is very long. I've been shocked and it hurts, but it isn't dangerous, kwim?) The neighbor called later to see if everything was ok. She was outside and heard me yelling. I told her Goldie was fine, but I was very sore and would be spending the afternoon on the couch. I'm 29 weeks pg, not a good time to start sprinting.
I really believe inclusion begins at home, but I struggle with including Goldie and keeping
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Monday, July 13, 2009
Little Things
Goldie's done some really cool things this today and yesterday. They actually aren't so "little" to us.
1. She can not only climb the ladder to the slide and go down by herself, but she climb the slide. It was hysterical! She made the funniest noises as she worked her way up and we cheered. I got the camcorder and of course the battery was dead.
2. We went for a walk tonight and ran into the neighbor (about 30 ft from her house- this is important later) whose little boy also has DS. Goldie has not been to their house since fall. We decided to walk with her back out to the end of the road, almost a mile. On our way back, when we reached her house, Goldie looks at her and starts waving and telling her bye-bye. She knew it was her house! The thing is, she wasn't stopping at her house, so there was no talk of good-byes. Either Goldie knew we were in the general area where we met her or she has picked up on who lives where from our conversations in the van. Makes me wonder what else is going on in her head that I don't know about!
3. She put 2 signs together for the first time. I started teaching Goldie her letters by using the Starfall website. B is her favorite. I like the large, easy to read type for her. I knew the letter C had some nice big pictures that would be easy for her to see. Well, the cat page has a little cat that runs around the screen at the end and she just couldn't get enough of it. She kept signing "more cat"!
1. She can not only climb the ladder to the slide and go down by herself, but she climb the slide. It was hysterical! She made the funniest noises as she worked her way up and we cheered. I got the camcorder and of course the battery was dead.
2. We went for a walk tonight and ran into the neighbor (about 30 ft from her house- this is important later) whose little boy also has DS. Goldie has not been to their house since fall. We decided to walk with her back out to the end of the road, almost a mile. On our way back, when we reached her house, Goldie looks at her and starts waving and telling her bye-bye. She knew it was her house! The thing is, she wasn't stopping at her house, so there was no talk of good-byes. Either Goldie knew we were in the general area where we met her or she has picked up on who lives where from our conversations in the van. Makes me wonder what else is going on in her head that I don't know about!
3. She put 2 signs together for the first time. I started teaching Goldie her letters by using the Starfall website. B is her favorite. I like the large, easy to read type for her. I knew the letter C had some nice big pictures that would be easy for her to see. Well, the cat page has a little cat that runs around the screen at the end and she just couldn't get enough of it. She kept signing "more cat"!
Friday, July 3, 2009
Cha-Ching!
Just a short post to brag on my little girl! Today, during Vision Therapy, Goldie put coins into a piggy bank. Real pennies, dimes and nickels into her sister's piggy bank. Wow, we were blown away! She was even able to find the coins on our beige, brown, green carpet. I'm starting to think she may not qualify for the diagnosis of legally blind anymore!
I'm off to make raspberry jam. I'll be back later with a post about Goldie's sleep study this week, with pictures. :)
I'm off to make raspberry jam. I'll be back later with a post about Goldie's sleep study this week, with pictures. :)
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Last Week of May
Well, I've gone from feeling blech to throwing up morning, noon, and night. Lovely. I was sick like this with my oldest, but I don't remember the middle two being so bad. I had to tell the speech therapist no more 9 am sessions. I would love to take a month off, but I would feel to guilty if I did that to Goldie. Then again, she seems burnt out herself some days.
On Wednesday the big girls had dentist appointments. (No cavities!) While we were there I mentioned that the DS Center suggested Goldie start being seen by a dentist. They suggested letting her take a ride in the chair and not upsetting her by trying to actually clean her teeth. So she had a good time sitting in the chair and playing with all the tools they use. The hygenist was great and really talked to Goldie just like she would any 2 year old. She has an appointment to go back in 6+ months with her sisters. Since I wasn't expecting them to actually look at Goldie's teeth, I didn't bring my camera.
On the sleeping front, things continue to improve. In the last week, Goldie has slept through the night, 4 times. I still wake up now and then and I've seen Goldie sitting up in her sleep a couple times. So, I think she is still waking up, but is having an easier time falling back to sleep. I scheduled her sleep study this week. I asked to wait until July, hoping I will feel better. I can't imagine taking her if I am still throwing up this much.
I'm off to sew Girl Scout patches, tomorrow's the big picnic!
On Wednesday the big girls had dentist appointments. (No cavities!) While we were there I mentioned that the DS Center suggested Goldie start being seen by a dentist. They suggested letting her take a ride in the chair and not upsetting her by trying to actually clean her teeth. So she had a good time sitting in the chair and playing with all the tools they use. The hygenist was great and really talked to Goldie just like she would any 2 year old. She has an appointment to go back in 6+ months with her sisters. Since I wasn't expecting them to actually look at Goldie's teeth, I didn't bring my camera.
On the sleeping front, things continue to improve. In the last week, Goldie has slept through the night, 4 times. I still wake up now and then and I've seen Goldie sitting up in her sleep a couple times. So, I think she is still waking up, but is having an easier time falling back to sleep. I scheduled her sleep study this week. I asked to wait until July, hoping I will feel better. I can't imagine taking her if I am still throwing up this much.
I'm off to sew Girl Scout patches, tomorrow's the big picnic!
Monday, May 25, 2009
Must be the pajamas
I woke up at 5:45 to the sun trying to peek through the clothes-pinned curtains and I realized Goldie hadn't made a peep ALL NIGHT. I checked to see if she was still breathing. Twice.
Then I spent 15 minutes trying to figure out what I did "right" the day before. The only thing I could come up with was I brought Goldie's summer clothes down from the attic, so she was wearing her "new" summer pajamas. I felt bad, her skin was cold when she woke up because she won't keep a blanket on.
She finally woke up at 6. We cuddled and went back to sleep until 8:30!
Then I spent 15 minutes trying to figure out what I did "right" the day before. The only thing I could come up with was I brought Goldie's summer clothes down from the attic, so she was wearing her "new" summer pajamas. I felt bad, her skin was cold when she woke up because she won't keep a blanket on.
She finally woke up at 6. We cuddled and went back to sleep until 8:30!
Trying to get the camera.
"Mom, no more pictures!"Saturday, April 11, 2009
How to get your sister's Easter candy
Goldie has become a problem solver extraordinaire. I put things up where I think she can't get them, but Goldie has figured out how to outsmart her mama.
The stool she is carrying came from the bathroom to her right. She carries it from one crime scene to the next.
This looks like a good spot.
Peeking.
Reeeeach.
He he he!
I should also add that Goldie has figured out how to climb onto the fish tank using her stool and up on the kitchen table with a chair. She lost her stool privileges several times today. Goldie also managed to climb onto the back of the couch while trying to get her bubbles down.
The stool she is carrying came from the bathroom to her right. She carries it from one crime scene to the next.
This looks like a good spot.
Peeking.
Reeeeach.
He he he!
I should also add that Goldie has figured out how to climb onto the fish tank using her stool and up on the kitchen table with a chair. She lost her stool privileges several times today. Goldie also managed to climb onto the back of the couch while trying to get her bubbles down.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Playgroup
Occasionally, I get surveys from our EI agency or the county. I always write in the comments section that I would like them to sponsor a playgroup. My mom ran a playgroup at our church when Mini Me and Swatcho were younger. She had an art center, water or rice table, housekeeping area, puzzles, circle time and snack time. It was fabulous. She has since moved on and I haven't found anything comparable.
Then in October Goldie's Service Coordinator gives me a call to say that she has been invited to join a playgroup once a month. She thought I would have already heard since the agency my mom is working for is organizing the playgroup. So, I called Mom to get the scoop. She tells me that the playgroup is for Early Head Start families and the county asked them to allow 5 families from EI to participate. Not everyone wanted to collaborate with EI, but Mom told them they would do it as long as Goldie was one of the 5 kids. So here's how it went:
Week One: Circle time, free play with toys, craft, more free play in gym area, eat lunch, read a story
Week Two: Circle time, free play with toyswhile listening to immature mother brag about how advanced her 5 month old is because he can pull to stand and crawl, play with balls in gym, eat lunch, read a story
Week Three: Kids have free play while parents learn how to plan a meal, eat lunch, read a story
But, I was really looking forward to the one on one time with my Goldie Girl.
The Good:
~ Goldie played with some toys we don't have a lot of, like cars. She even imitated the boys crawling and pushing the cars, which is something we've been working on in PT.
~ It was great to see how much progress Goldie made from month to month
~ Lunch was free and they were very accommodating of our food allergy
~ This month Goldie had a blast running around the gym (I skipped the story and let her run loose, setting a bad example for all the other parents and children)
~ One week, she ate off of a paper plate and even tried to use utensils
~ I got to play with my baby and just my baby :)
The Not So Good:
~ Immature mothers. They were just annoying. Even when I was a young, new mom, I never was a baby bragger. People can see my kids, I don't need to point out that they are walking or talking. Those things are kind of obvious and don't define my self worth. I decided I would go in with blinder on, ignore them and just focus on being with Goldie.
~ Hank has to watch Swatcho because she isn't allowed to come. It is also in the morning and sometimes Swatcho ends up not doing school that day because we also have PT that afternoon.
~ I'm the only mom who went consistently and I think the only one whose child has a diagnosis. I think the other EI kids just have delays because I couldn't tell who they were. I wonder if they would have chosen Goldie if her grandma hadn't made them?
~ Its really just a government sponsored parenting class disguised as a play group. Reading a book, planning a meal...Don't. waste. my. time. Goldie's book collection rivals that of our public library and I don't care what they say the breading on chicken nuggets is not a substitute for potatoes! I want her to have experiences I don't always provide at home, like the gym, water table, circle time, and crafts.
I called the Service Coordinator the next day to say we wouldn't be back. Then I signed up for Family Kindermusik through Swatcho's school.
What has Goldie been up to?
Her new thing is to pretend she's holding a camera and saying "jeeze" when I try to take a picture of her. She will also walk around with my camera in front of her while she repeats jeeze, jeeze, jeeze.
Hiding from therapists
and learning to blow her nose.
Then in October Goldie's Service Coordinator gives me a call to say that she has been invited to join a playgroup once a month. She thought I would have already heard since the agency my mom is working for is organizing the playgroup. So, I called Mom to get the scoop. She tells me that the playgroup is for Early Head Start families and the county asked them to allow 5 families from EI to participate. Not everyone wanted to collaborate with EI, but Mom told them they would do it as long as Goldie was one of the 5 kids. So here's how it went:
Week One: Circle time, free play with toys, craft, more free play in gym area, eat lunch, read a story
Week Two: Circle time, free play with toys
Week Three: Kids have free play while parents learn how to plan a meal, eat lunch, read a story
But, I was really looking forward to the one on one time with my Goldie Girl.
The Good:
~ Goldie played with some toys we don't have a lot of, like cars. She even imitated the boys crawling and pushing the cars, which is something we've been working on in PT.
~ It was great to see how much progress Goldie made from month to month
~ Lunch was free and they were very accommodating of our food allergy
~ This month Goldie had a blast running around the gym (I skipped the story and let her run loose, setting a bad example for all the other parents and children)
~ One week, she ate off of a paper plate and even tried to use utensils
~ I got to play with my baby and just my baby :)
The Not So Good:
~ Immature mothers. They were just annoying. Even when I was a young, new mom, I never was a baby bragger. People can see my kids, I don't need to point out that they are walking or talking. Those things are kind of obvious and don't define my self worth. I decided I would go in with blinder on, ignore them and just focus on being with Goldie.
~ Hank has to watch Swatcho because she isn't allowed to come. It is also in the morning and sometimes Swatcho ends up not doing school that day because we also have PT that afternoon.
~ I'm the only mom who went consistently and I think the only one whose child has a diagnosis. I think the other EI kids just have delays because I couldn't tell who they were. I wonder if they would have chosen Goldie if her grandma hadn't made them?
~ Its really just a government sponsored parenting class disguised as a play group. Reading a book, planning a meal...Don't. waste. my. time. Goldie's book collection rivals that of our public library and I don't care what they say the breading on chicken nuggets is not a substitute for potatoes! I want her to have experiences I don't always provide at home, like the gym, water table, circle time, and crafts.
I called the Service Coordinator the next day to say we wouldn't be back. Then I signed up for Family Kindermusik through Swatcho's school.
What has Goldie been up to?
Her new thing is to pretend she's holding a camera and saying "jeeze" when I try to take a picture of her. She will also walk around with my camera in front of her while she repeats jeeze, jeeze, jeeze.
Hiding from therapists
and learning to blow her nose.
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