tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90402188782345901542024-03-12T22:10:51.212-04:00Prairie Dawn's WorldDawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-51273256555319654082021-05-13T22:35:00.003-04:002021-05-13T22:38:03.482-04:00Austin will be ok...<p>Wow no blog post from me in years....</p><p>Tomorrow is Austin's last day of high school - it's been a bit of an emotional day and few weeks for me which is kind of rare but alas it is what it is. You take yourself back to those days when he was a baby and you didn't think he'd make it...Then the brain damage realization...The CP diagnosis...Oh so many unknowns. </p><p>Tonight I was thinking I'd like to see if I could find some pictures of him on this blog. One of my earliest entries (July 27, 2007) was a 3 AM post about Austin's early life struggles and I had a moment earlier that day where I had said "it's nights like tonight that I think Austin will be ok." Almost 14 years after that post I am in awe thinking that he's graduating and during a global pandemic to boot. </p><p>One thing that has been a constant since October 2003 - worry - worry about my Austin. The words the docs used "severe retardation, severely handicapped" they jar you forever. Would he talk? Would he walk? Could he function in this big, blue world? And yes he did - and I'm thankful he's done so amazing. I remember thinking he'd never even go to a regular school and my goodness he is going to take his last high school exam tomorrow. Thursday night I will be at that football field watching him graduate and I know I will for sure be emotional. And you know what I do not care. He's fought through so much. He goes without so much. This week was a week of fun - bike to school, tractor to school, TP the school, so many things he'd love to participate in but physically he can't. Poor kid never ever complains though. I don't know how I got so lucky with him. He's still a little worry wart - and I know he is terrified about college. He cried the first day of school every year forever - even in some of his first days of high school - he'll probably cry his first day of college. But like he keeps doing over and over - he'll persevere through it. Will he graduate college? I don't know. High School was supposed to be a stretch but his wonderful teachers and staff got him through it. And honestly - he didn't just survive - he thrived. He loves those teachers and I love them too - the administration and office staff as well. Everyone has done amazing things for my Austin and I'm so thankful for that. It helps that he genuinely is a very nice boy. He'd never be mean to anyone and does try very hard.</p><p>His next goal for the summer is to find a job - which jobs are a plenty right now but again what can you do with one arm? I guess we will just have to wait and see. I just know that wherever he ends up - there isn't a doubt in my mind that he will work hard and do it the best of his abilities. </p><p>Finally - Austin will probably never ever read...this but if he does here's some special words for him...</p><p>Austin Joseph Papesh - I love you and am proud of you. You've brought so much joy to our family and have taught others so much. I can't wait to see what the next step in your journey takes you. It's a short walk across that graduation stage but wow it comes after the end of super long and sometimes tiresome and agonizing journey. You are a model to look up to! Again I love you so much. I am so excited to take you to Disney in August with our family - it grew quite a bit didn't it? haha. Don't just be "okay" my sweet Austin - BE AWESOME my sweet boy - Austin from Boston the Elephant Stingray. You are capable of more than you know and I love you so, so much! Your world is waiting for you and your family will be here with you every step of the way cheering you on! *blue heart!</p><p>PS - Take God on that journey with you too - you've been a Blessing to me and to many others and I thank him every day for you! </p>Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-7361211870884496512016-07-12T05:52:00.001-04:002016-07-12T06:17:38.303-04:00Homeostasis <div class="vk_ans" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif-light, sans-serif; font-size: xx-large !important; font-weight: lighter !important; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<span data-dobid="hdw">ho·me·o·sta·sis</span></div>
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<span class="lr_dct_ph">ˌhōmēəˈstāsəs/</span></div>
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<i>noun</i></div>
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the tendency toward a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, especially as maintained by physiological processes.</div>
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The word homeostasis was recently used to describe the living scene here at my new house by Tommy. It took a while but the family has seemed to adjusted well to the new normal, though I know there will still be hiccups along the way. </div>
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<b>"While it's happening it seems as if things will never get better...but they always do." - Coach Lou </b></div>
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Tommy had to endure things over the past 3+ years that no child should have to endure. There are wounds, there are scars, there is grieving; but there is also forgiveness and healing with time. </div>
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For me and my son...my beloved Thomas Andrew...we have found a new understanding and stability. He is still the arrogant, smart, funny, athletic, always wanting perfection, overachieving golden boy. I had lost the loving boy that I held so dear for so long. I missed him so much but now he is back. We have a changed relationship, one that I pray will grow and thrive for many years. I am happy that he has a wonderful girlfriend, a loving and strong bond with his brother and sister, and a good relationship with his father. For he and I, there will continue to be highs and lows but for right now I am going to be thankful for what we have most recently found...Homeostasis</div>
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<i>For Tommy - I love you honey - and I know you read this blog sometimes to remember the good old days so I hope this post isn't shocking or upsetting to you. I am thankful for every today I am given and every yesterday that I have known even though so some were so, so painful... So to steal from Oasis' his song from 1995..."don't look back in anger...at least not today." :)</i></div>
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Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-51817712375874480512012-03-01T21:13:00.000-05:002012-03-01T21:13:32.270-05:00Ashley praying the Hail Mary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dya4buKiRsVJ3dJT1wEBBpoGtJt8eTCNXJrBNYNFHFcvcSo5oVOMVncN7K620LAu5h8Vt9-KUX1rbFrLRNt4g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>I know she doesn't understand what she's saying but I was impressed at how well she did this on her own. I guess she does listen to me at bedtime. :)Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-87022805590475340342012-02-26T20:30:00.000-05:002012-02-26T20:30:44.971-05:00Geez; another month off.It's been a month. I come on the blog and leave, wanting to write but never knowing what to write. I just need to do one of those crazy 30 day daily posting deals and see if I can get back into it. For now, I think I'll just do a life update Happy/Crappy style.<br />
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Happy - Austin continues to do well with hockey. He's had a four or five games recently. At the one game they "orchestrated" a penalty shot because he was barely able to get to a puck as most of the kids have gotten pretty good and honestly though he's better the other kids are moons ahead of him. Well today he had a game and they simply had him cherry pick and he got two goals and I think they were legit but after hearing about the convo Austin had with the goalie I don't know. One dude is awesome and just did all the work and Austin banged them home. He was pretty proud. He said later that the goalie told him, "stay right here and when the puck comes shoot." Oh well, we'll take it.<br />
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Happy - Tommy's hockey team continues to win in the Little Caesar's playoffs and are going back to the Joe Louis Arena for the finals on March 13th.<br />
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Crappy - Tommy's hockey coach from the last four years is leaving the team after this year. This may be Tommy's last month as a member of the Blizzard as we look at where he wants to go from here. We're exploring making the leap to AAA. Time will tell if he's ready for the long travel and good enough to make a AAA team. This week will tell a lot as he could be playing out of town three times this week. <br />
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Happy - Tommy turned 11 on February 4th.<br />
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Happy - Tommy and his buddy Kyler cantered the Psalm at mass for Catholic Schools Week and Ash Wednesday. They did a beautiful job and I heard so many compliments about them.<br />
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Crappy - Tommy does not like singing. :( He's says it's nerve wracking and some kids say singing isn't cool. Pray he can continue to live above the influence and would rather please his mom and teachers versus his friends for a little while longer.<br />
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Happy - Jeff & Shannon's bridal shower; what a lovely event. <br />
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Happy - Another Memorable $100 Dinner Dance for school. Fun, fun even if we didn't win any money.<br />
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Happy - My dear friend Amy turned 40. Her hubby threw her a little surprise party at the Olive Garden and then some coworkers and I <strike>destroyed </strike>decorated her room for her. She loved it and so did her students. <br />
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Crappy - A lot of people I know have friends/family who have died recently. Last week in particular was really bad. <br />
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Happy - Tommy's basketball team got 2nd place in their school league.<br />
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Happy - I went to private confession for the first time in many, many years. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Heck it was good for me. Very therapeutic. <br />
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Happy - Tommy got Bishop's Honor Roll in the 2nd Marking period which is a perfect 4.0. He is the only student in the school who has been perfect all year so far.<br />
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Crappy - Austin continues to seriously struggle in school and I am really getting complacent about helping him. Some days I just don't think I have the strength and thankfully Joe is usually there to pick up the slack. But I'm working on it (see about trip to confession).<br />
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Happy - Austin's potty scene is getting better.<br />
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Happy - Ashley is doing great in dance class; i.e. she doesn't cry when we go anymore and dances all the time at home. I got to watch her at a midterm "recital" and I just LOVED it!<br />
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Happy - Ashley continues to overachieve in Honeybees. She's making those little babies look really bad. <br />
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Crappy - Ashley is getting kicked out of Honeybees. :( Time to move on to Tumblebees. No more Mom and Me gymnastics class I've got to stay on the sidelines. I know she's ready. Me, I's be thinking "where me baby go?" She'll be three in a couple weeks.<br />
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Happy - Our spring vacation plans are really taking shape and I see it coming quickly. We leave for Florida for a Non-Disney vacation on March 30th. We are doing one character dinner at Chef Mickey's and I bet we ride the monorail around too. Nothing like torturing ourselves. Honestly though I've been dying to see the Harry Potter park at Universal so hopefully it lives up to the hype. We're also spending a day with our Detroit Tiger's in Lakeland. Yeah! They're winning it all this year; I'm calling it. <br />
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Happy - Tommy & I mastered mini-jumps on the ski hill at Apple Mountain. Who said this old dog couldn't learn a new trick? <br />
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Happy - My hockey is still going well. I even had a tin league hat trick a few weeks ago. Two goals in one game. Boo Yah!<br />
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Crappy - Our cleaning lady is going to be gone for a whole month. Don't plan on visiting until April!!! I'm only half kidding.<br />
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Well I suppose I've rambled long enough and thankfully as always the happy's definitely outweigh the crappy's. Thanks for reading those of you that are still with me. Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-66248541268290976512012-01-22T12:00:00.000-05:002012-01-22T12:00:58.288-05:00Austin and the UMDM Rockets!Austin is still playing hockey and doing quite well with it I should add. He is coming right along and has improved dramatically since we started back up in October. Next weekend he'll play in his first special hockey tournament. There are five teams coming in for it and we're looking forward to seeing him play in some real games. I'm sure he'll be a nervous wreck. Joe will tell you that the team is really starting to look like a team. They'll be doing line matching for sure which is good because the spectrum of our team is so huge. We have some really good players that can skate well and shoot well and some that are still really struggling just to stand up out there. That is Austin's biggest struggle is he needs help getting back up when he falls down or gets bumped over. I'm sure a coach will be there to assist him. Joe believes he is getting really close to being able to get up on his own. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyvddkIvEut71_FyG1KOvfGNgorJqxFreaTBEsFrGOxCiieaJ_b8zvgU5a_2OM871D5fPKvCZhZnFlaJCgi4w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Bless Joe's heart because when we haven't had to be somewhere else because of Tommy's hockey he has taken Austin down. I so appreciate not having to leave the house at 7:00 so he can be on the ice at 9:00. I have to give Joe kudos; Austin too. He sent me this video today and I was so impressed, Tommy even gave it an "oh my gosh" when he saw it. So proud! We're excited for next weekend. We'll be down in Frasier and Livonia - rinks we're already familiar with thanks to Tommy. Who's the travel hockey player now? Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-66814125434047336012012-01-19T18:42:00.003-05:002012-01-19T20:28:24.437-05:00A Pet Peeve RevisitedI wrote about the National Anthem back in July you can read it <a href="http://saintprairiedawn.blogspot.com/2011/07/new-national-anthem-thanks-but-no.html">HERE</a> if you've forgotten what I had to say back then. Well once again I'm back touting my love of our National Anthem and just how crazy it makes me when people disrespect our anthem. I find that the best spectators are at the Saginaw Spirit games. If you have a good singer (and they often have a regular performer) then the crowd will sing along proudly with both the Canadian and American National Anthems. No one tries to get to their seats, they simply stop where they are at and show respect to the countries not to mention the folks performing. The Red Wings games are also very nicely done for now, until the whole lets scream the word RED when "rocket's red glare" craze finds it's way here. See the Washington Capitals if you want more on that. Or Dallas for their screaming of "whose broad stripes and bright STARS!" <br />
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I won't dwell on and on about people driving me crazy during our anthem because it simply will not do any good. But what does make me feel better is this clip from Slap Shot. What a classic hockey movie; be warned that they drop the F-bomb in this clip. And I loathe the very overused and pretty much desensitized F word but I thought it was pretty funny during this part of the movie. And for the record my kids will not be watching this movie anytime soon; they can stick with The Mighty Ducks series. <br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1vcCbwVmuBc" width="640"></iframe>Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-47243073542151760052012-01-15T12:37:00.000-05:002012-01-15T12:37:06.093-05:00And the Oscar goes to...Thomas Andrew - Oh my dear boy whose life is full of drama. Joe and I always joke after basketball games that we're glad we can't see his face on the ice during hockey games because I'm sure he plays with as much if not more emotion in hockey than he does in basketball. He'll scowl during botched shots, roll his eyes, stare in disbelief with his arms wide apart, I think sometimes he even growls. It's embarrassing. On the flip side Tommy will also say to us he's glad he can't hear us in hockey because we're "embarrassing." ;) *snickers* He has turned to me on the basketball court and actually conversed with me during a game "MOM, I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING!" I know I'm not supposed to but it's hard not to coach from the stands. I'm working on it.<br />
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Yesterday Tommy had two games and he found himself in foul trouble early on in both games. They had won the first game pretty solidly but the 2nd game they were behind pretty much from the start but kept it close. At one point before halftime he was boxed in tight and is pivoting trying to protect the ball and he couldn't get rid of it and his opponent was all over him and finally Tommy stiff arms him getting called for his 3rd. Off the court in tears he goes and he was still sulking on the bench all through halftime when we finally pulled him over to talk him through it. He played with less emotion in the 2nd half but did finally foul out with about 2 minutes to go in the game. The team only lost by 4 and I'm proud to say Tommy did not cry when he fouled out. <br />
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All this to say, he's almost 11 years old, I know the real stormy days are coming. But these little blips of emotional craziness while I laugh at them a bit, they also scare me. So the drama.Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-70974188349543607022012-01-01T16:49:00.001-05:002012-01-01T16:49:38.554-05:00Happy New Year!It's that time of year again. The Top 11 Events of 2011! I'd have to rank 2011 a 9 out of 10 stars. Nothing outrageous happened but it was a great year with more ups than downs that is for sure. I guess it was a pretty typical year. We continue to be blessed with a nice home with wonderful neighbors, good jobs, good friends, our health (minus some Aus issues), and a great life. <br />
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11. Ashley's extracurriculars - She's still doing great in Honeybees but also started taking jazz and ballet. She's in the big girl room at school now and is definitely not a baby anymore. <br />
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10 - Austin made his altar serving debut. I was so proud of him and Tommy was so great helping him out not to mention our wonderful priest Fr. Tipton making him feel comfortable. I still get nervous when he's up there. <br />
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9. Cedar Point & Michigan's Adventure - We bought season passes this year and spent many days in Sandusky, OH and Muskegon, MI riding such thrills as the Millennium Force, Top Thrill Dragster and that corny tilt-a-whirl. We also soaked up some sun in the water parks there. I can't wait to go back!<br />
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8. Reese Rocket Baseball - Tommy & Austin both played Little League and did well. Tommy played for the 10U travel team and were 1st place champs in 3 of the 4 tournaments they entered. Tommy had some struggles at the plate initially but finished the season well. Austin did great not ever needing the tee. Next year will be interesting when they start counting outs, keeping score, and he faces live pitching from the players.<br />
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7. Tommy started playing the trumpet. He's following in his parent's footsteps. :) Jury is still out on how it's going. Some days he loves it other days he wishes he could quit. After spending $700 on a trumpet I'm hoping he sticks it out for a few years. Spoiled beast, Joe's hand me down cornet just wasn't cutting it. <br />
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6. Austin's hockey - After a slow start he is doing pretty good with his little team in Ann Arbor. These kids (and some young adults) all have some sort of difficulty be it CP like Austin, or Down's Syndrome, many are on the autism spectrum it's just a mixed bag. I can't thank the good people that have given Austin and those other kids this wonderful opportunity to play the sport we love so much.<br />
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5. Jeff & Shannon got engaged - And I'm so excited I get to be a bridesmaid! The big day is April 28th I can't wait and I wish them many, many years of wedded bliss. <br />
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4. Dad's 60th birthday party - He knew that our little family was going to the Tiger game with him to celebrate but he didn't know that 25 more of his friends and family would also be joining him. I think he was very surprised and it wasn't too over the top for the shy guy.<br />
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3. Joe's job switch- He made the jump to Dow Chemical in August and seems to be happy he made the move. <br />
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2. Tommy's hockey - Yup, it still ranks pretty high up there but only because this year the Bay County Blizzard won the MAHA State Title. That's right a State Title, granted it took some luck as they started out 1-1-1 in pool play but somehow they came out on top. Tommy's hockey also took us to Chicago for a AAA tourney which was fun. <br />
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1. Austin's 1st Communion and Confirmation ~ My little boy is growing up. We had a fabulous event with Bishop Cistone celebrating his Confirmation and Tommy got to altar serve. Then the following week we had Fr. Bill give Austin his 1st Holy Communion. We had a nice party at the house with over 60 people visiting. <br />
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Honorable Mention<br />
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Katie & Adam's wedding<br />
St. Elizabeth Golf Outing - Team JoDa & KeMi took home the toilet paper. We so suck at golf.<br />
Theresa K's 40th birthday party - So awesome, especially when we toilet papered their house with the above TP winnings.<br />
Grandpa Moon died :(<br />
Austin started SE basketball & Tommy played another Bball season<br />
K of C Bingo<br />
$100 Dinner Dance<br />
My hockey! I still love it.<br />
Very happy holidays.<br />
No Disney vacation - Unbelievable!<br />
We said goodbye to Fr. Bill & hello to Fr. Prentice<br />
Numerous parties (I need a vacation after this Christmas vacation)Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-86017073051171234012011-12-22T18:26:00.000-05:002011-12-22T18:26:23.362-05:00Merry Christmas 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FGScXnD7hfA/TvO6yppkPjI/AAAAAAAAC7w/qcbbXSIeDvA/s1600/kids2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FGScXnD7hfA/TvO6yppkPjI/AAAAAAAAC7w/qcbbXSIeDvA/s320/kids2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I know you all love our junk holiday pics. This year was extra stressful getting a good picture. We started Sunday night trying to get a decent photo. Between Joe and myself we must have taken 100 pics and they were all wrong, wrong, wrong. Austin is the worst when it comes to a forced smile. He's just so stinking goofy and the other two weren't looking much better. Joe already deleted all those photos so I don't have the exciting crummy photos to show you darn it! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjuIh1SUd_s/TvO72RwvdLI/AAAAAAAAC78/Puz43n0BqJA/s1600/DSC_6779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjuIh1SUd_s/TvO72RwvdLI/AAAAAAAAC78/Puz43n0BqJA/s320/DSC_6779.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Monday, I was so ticked at Austin that I told him I wanted a nice picture with a nice smile like the one that is currently on our living room wall and he wasn't playing until I got it. Well my first picture I took is the official Papesh card. He knows how to perform when I mean business. <br />
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But speaking of official cards, they'll be late. Monday, I quickly ordered from Sam's hoping to pick them up that night even. Well due to printer problems I didn't get them until today but got a decent discount. Guess I'm writing out cards tonight, impressive as I didn't get them out at all last year. Kudos to me!! And again, MERRY CHRISTMAS to YOU! Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-91830436068382221582011-12-02T18:20:00.000-05:002011-12-02T18:20:28.852-05:00Ok - A postIt's been almost three months. I guess my love affair with the great blog has fizzled. I really feel like I blinked and December was here. My absolutely favorite time of the year. I love the lights, the trees, the snow, the different songs and such at mass. I just LOVE the holidays.<br />
Tommy - He has played in four tournaments since my last post including one in Chicago. The miles are really piling up on the van. Two of them were AAA invitational tourney's and the team played well though they didn't bring home any hardware. He'll start basketball next week and continue with the hockey. I'm especially proud to say that he made the Bishop's Honor Roll which means he got a perfect 4.0. He was the only student to achieve that in the 1st marking period so to say we are proud is an understatement.<br />
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Austin - He's had a momentous few months. He started altar serving at church in a limited capacity. It's great to see him go up there but I think everyone is always just a little bit nervous for him. I know that first mass I think the whole congregation held their collective breaths hoping he would do okay. He also got to play on his school coed basketball team. He has one more game tomorrow. He runs up and down that court and tries really hard. It's a learning league and I'm thankful he's gotten the chance to play. This Mama who sometimes thinks winning is everything (though I know that it's not) has learned a lot. He's actually touched the ball maybe 3 times and only made one significant play, the ball squirted out and rolled to him, he picked it up and being you can't full court press in the league he actually got to throw the ball to his guard off the turnover. He got so much applause. It was sweet. <br />
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Austin has been having some med issues though with his bladder and bowels. We're on meds and trying to get him fixed up but it might take a while. It's been rough at times but thankfully we haven't had any public accidents that we haven't been able to discreetly take care of. Our new Priest Fr. Tipton surprised the heck out of me today. Last night I was telling him a bit about Austin's current struggles and today after communion during mass he had called me up and asked me if we could do an "Anointing of the Sick" for Austin. After mass he called Austin up, Tommy and I also joined him and I don't think the kids in the school have ever been that quiet for so long as Father did his prayers and anointing. It was very special, I was of course tearing up and Tommy was having a bit of trouble too. As much as he drives us crazy, it hard to watch him go through so much continually. And I know overall he is one of the lucky ones. Anyhoo, it was very special today but selfish me when I was up there with was praying that maybe this would do the trick and together with the medicine and the doctors, and the power of prayer maybe he will be fixed up once and for all. <br />
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And shame on me and this blog fail. He had his 8th birthday in October. My how time certainly flies.<br />
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School's been another struggle for Austin. He's a big 3rd grader now, though the youngest in his class. I'm really regretting not holding him back in kindergarten now. His comprehension is just so bad. Joe and I work with him every night and no doubt he would quite possibly be failing in just about everything if we didn't. We study and study and study and he just doesn't remember. I don't think he's in danger of not passing 3rd grade but I just wish he was doing better. I guess I need to be thankful that he likes school and does his homework without too many complaints and hopefully he'll get better. <br />
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Oh and a quickie on hockey. He's started up again and isn't doing great but isn't doing terrible either. He hasn't cried as much as last year but he's still not making much progress. Some of these kids are just flying now. Of course many of these kids have different issues and not CP. One Mom said once that if we put all the kids diagnosis' and struggles in a hat and passed it around we'd probably all still choose to deal with what we have been dealt. Good point. <br />
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Ashley - Ashley is still doing well in school. She also is doing great at Honeybees. We started her in dance classes on Tuesday's and it seems like she never gets a nap on Tuesday's and will sleep all the way there then flip out when it's time to go. Some days she does better than the other days but usually it's a lot of crying and clinging "I don't wanna go dance class." But she'll go with her teachers and always seems happy when she gets done. We aren't allowed to stay and watch but the ladies always say she does awesome and she will then show off her moves at home throughout the week. Jazz and ballet are her classes. I can't for the recital, she'll look beautiful but I doubt she'll perform. Maybe she'll surprise me. She's definitely a lot of fun that is for sure. <br />
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So there is the recap of life in our home for the past three months; it's a tribute to all three of the Papesh kids but mostly Austin. ;) Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-58806754997531388692011-09-11T17:37:00.001-04:002011-09-11T17:37:47.812-04:00School SurvivalAfter the best summer ever we all have headed back to school. Everyone is doing great! We all worked hard last week and are being extra lazy this weekend. Every kid moved on this year as we are in odd years, Tommy in 5th grade, Austin in 3rd and Ashley has moved on to the big kid room in the daycare. Tommy likes his teacher and Austin is happy to have his teacher he had in kindergarten again (Tommy was a bit sad to have to move on but he's cool and will do great). Tommy has also told me he is enjoying Science (with me) so kudos to me. Austin will crack me up telling me very seriously about DEAR time how they have to stop whatever they are doing and read. Ashley lets everyone know that she is not a baby anymore, she's a big girl. And that was ever apparent as I spotted her in the room using SCISSORS!!! And properly I should add. My oh my! <br />
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2nd day of school; it pained me to erase my snoopy and woodstock. </div>
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<br />Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-47315187502156571072011-09-03T09:39:00.001-04:002011-09-03T09:39:33.838-04:00Conversation T-shirts ~ Love em or Hate em?As far as the braggy ones go I hate them. No really, I LOATHE them! I'm happy I teach in a Catholic school and only have to see a few of them on our beloved jean days. And apparently there was enough bru-ha-ha about <a href="http://www.mlive.com/education/index.ssf/2011/09/too_pretty_for_homework_jcpenn.html">this shirt</a> that JCP has pulled it from it's stores. I personally don't like the shirt but I'm kind of in the camp of "if I don't like it I don't buy it." I can think of A LOT WORSE that people wear. <br />
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Some shirts I despise more than others and they're mainly aimed to kids Tommy's generation. The sporty braggy shirts that might say "I'm so good even your Mom cheers for me," or "my better is better than your better." <br />
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I just don't like them!
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Granted some are funny, back in the day I desperately wanted to find an "I'm with Stupid" t-shirt with the arrow pointing towards the person you're with. I never did get one and I think I don't want one anymore. So don't go getting any ideas!<br />
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My Grandma got me a sweatshirt when I was in high school that said "not only am I perfect but I'm a red head too." I thought it was pretty dorky but wore it to school one day and I think one person (a blonde) called me a beast and said "darn, I can't wear that." Thanks Grandma :)<br />
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Braggy bibs??? Ashley has two bibs she still uses. The one says "My Mom is Hotter than Your Mom!" and I laugh but I cringe because chances are, I'm not hotter than the new Mom who's only 24. I hate that bib. Her bib that says, "I'm the Princess we'll do things my way" absolutely adorable and truthful. Her shirt that says "brothers 4 sale" with the writing all preschool, eh sad to say I find it cheesy and tacky. Why did I buy it?? <br />
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I think that I know what my issue is with these conversation pieces.<br />
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Are you trying to brag?? "It's not bragging if you can back it up." I take a little issue with Austin wearing a basketball shirt that says "I'm big time" when he obviously can't play basketball, heck I'd take issue with Tommy wearing that because we're not "big time ballers." <br />
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Are you being vulgar trying to be funny?? I found a hilarious t-shirt online but it's too inappropriate to post on this PG blog. I might like your shirt if you're at the bar, I'll hate it and YOU if you wear it to Cedar Point which is filled with children. The FCUK craze; DROVE ME BONKERS so glad that seems to have fizzled! <br />
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Are you just trying to demonstrate who you are?? I have a few Math t-shirts that officially push my geekness into the stratosphere. Do you <3 fishing? Is Your Boss A Jewish Carpenter? I'm not opposed to these again if they're not bragging but gosh darn are they cheesy! <br />
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I did find this shirt today when doing research for my post and those of you who know me personally will find it absolutely hilarious.You can click on it to go to the site and buy it for me. haha<br />
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I guess I have to chalk up another victory to free speech. I'm glad you can buy whatever nutty shirt you want and can usually wear it wherever you like. I do worry though when kids are wearing these shirts though that might not be so nice, untrue, or too mature for their youthful selves. But I think it's again something that should be left up to the parents. I can just see it now, warning labels on clothing. Must be 18 or accompanied by an adult to buy this shirt. My goodness what would I have done in 7th grade if I hadn't been able to buy my "Don't like my attitude? Dial 1-800-EAT-SHIT" key chain at Spencers. Yeah, I thought I was cool.
Happy Holiday Weekend Everyone!
Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-63747873753183751462011-08-25T21:46:00.000-04:002011-08-25T21:46:49.965-04:00Papesh Summer SchoolIT'S TORTURE!!!!<br />
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Those are the words I often hear from Austin when it's time to sit down and do the work I give him. I just don't get it. Some days he'll whip right through it, other days it's a lot of crying, whining, and maybe even an all out freak out. It's like the kid has a crazy switch that math seems to trigger. I don't know. But after daily lessons he is pretty proficient in addition and getting there with subtraction, he also can read larger numbers now, but writing them is still difficult. A bit scary as it took all summer to get here. His reading is better which is HUGE and for that I am thankful but I didn't even try working on the writing (not penmanship, but actual writing down ideas, stories, etc which he really struggles with.) I just didn't have the emotional strength to get through his writing block, my apologies to his 3rd grade teacher, and to Austin, I probably should have tried harder. <br />
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Tommy did well with his work but would also show some frustration at times on more difficult topics. He learned so much this summer, from fractions, to geometry, order of operations, I think we hit the basics in every math topic. Time to get that kid in some algebra! <br />
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On the weekends even Joe would get in on the action. He of course loved math/science so anytime Tommy was doing something that he could easily jump and help with he would and he would also help me with Austin too (sometimes even a few battles). It was cool watching Joe go back and channel his former mathleticism. <br />
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This year I will have Tommy in my classroom for Science. I am very excited. I've also decided that I will not be helping him at home with any of the homework, studying, or project work. No my friends that will be left to his Dad, who I know is up to the task. I just don't want Tommy having too much of an edge because his Mom is teaching the class. It'll be a big prep for when I have him for more classes in the coming years. YIKES! <br />
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Only a few more days "of torture" and then the kids and I will be back in school and their new teachers can continue the excruciating task of educating my kids. Cheers to a new school year which is only about 10 days away. <br />
Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-54550845757166671712011-08-16T21:23:00.001-04:002011-08-16T21:25:58.966-04:00Flash Mobs - Good, Bad, UglyWell, I have to say I'm a sucker for the dancing/singing flash mobs and I've seen a ton of them on the net and love them. Of course that is no shocker since I'm a fan of the hokey. Last winter I had my students do a flash mob dance at lunch and it was a big surprise to the younger students and they had a lot of fun with it! I have yet to be anywhere when a flash mob is taking place and I'm afraid with the negative publicity now in Philadelphia with the flash mob violence and the flash rob of 7-11 the other night flash mobs will be fizzling and I probably never will. <br />
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I got to participate in one before the lizard fair concert last weekend with Amy and her daughter Emily through Emily's dance studio. It was very cool and I'm glad I did it. For those of you who didn't see it on Facebook here it is. Funny while we were waiting in line we talked to the girls behind us as they had brought pizza and when the gal who started the dancing got to going the girls were like "OMG, what is that girl doing??" and then we got to join in. I wonder what they were thinking then?? Probably something like "I wondered why those old dinosaurs were here for a teen concert." <br />
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And yes I screwed up and you can see it!! I thankfully hid in the back behind the young, beautiful, and much more talented dancers so you only see me a little bit. But I was there! And today at therapy one of the nurses in the kids adjoining pedi's office saw me and asked "how we liked lizard fair?" she had seen me dance while waiting in line to get. You've gotta be kidding me! I'm a star! ;) <br />
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And speaking of the Lizard Fair it was the boys first concert experience and they had an awesome time. We went with a couple other Blizzard Families and saw a ton of people we knew there. Performing that I can remember were Runner Runner, Jay Sean, Flo Rida, and Big Time Rush. So this week we've been all about Big Time Rush it seems. I was sure sore and tired from all the jumping around I did. Lots of fun! <br />
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P.S. - I of course love the flash mob fail commercial for AT & T! WE ARE!!!! Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-53618279324545877502011-08-09T21:25:00.000-04:002011-08-09T21:25:14.578-04:00Another Wedding AnniversaryToday Joe and I celebrate 14 years of wedded bliss. But I'm really looking forward to next year's big 15th bash. I will almost certainly be in sunny Florida. We decided earlier this summer to forgo a trip this year, and we haven't missed Florida since 2001, but have promised each other a bigger and better trip next year. I can't believe I'm already looking forward to it. Nothing like wishing my life away.<br />
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Every year on August 9th we look at going somewhere to eat that's "non-chain" but we just haven't found a place that we can agree on so back to the Outback Steakhouse for us. It was scrum-diddly-umptious! A quick trip to Lowe's for a grill cover, then to Kohl's to pay my charge card (I went in with blinders and did good not buying anything else), a drive through Drapers New Car lot so we can dream and then back to Reese to get the kids. Not a saucy anniversary, but a nice night with my hubby nonetheless. <br />
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And the biggest thrill of the night for us...Laughing about how MY MOM FORGOT! She left a message on our machine tonight just wondering how things are going, I called her back and we talked about a Cedar Point Trip for her birthday on Thursday and not a word of JoDa Anniversary XIV. HAHAHA! I'm just waiting for her to realize it and call back. LOL Eh, no biggie deal. <br />
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And I did make it through dinner without crying which is somewhat rare. Of course I only had one glass of wine versus the whole bottle this year. I usually end up reminiscing about how different life was 14 years ago and it always turns towards Austie and his struggles. Not tonight though, however, when we got back to Dad's house for some reason he had his 2003 diary laying out on the table and I went ahead and read about his birth. One thing that I often forget when thinking back to those days is sure I had a baby that was very sick and we weren't sure he was going to make it, but I also had a 2 year old who was being shuffled all over the place and that had to be hard on him too. I saw a lot of writings like "picked up Tommie from so and so" (usually Sherri or Joe's Mother, and he wrote Tommy's name like that back then), "dropped off Tommie to so and so," "Tommie spent the night and had to go potty three times and fell out of bed"...Lol. <br />
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I just am so thankful that we have such a great family & friend support system. Austin wouldn't be doing as well as he is if we didn't have help carting him to therapies, doctors appointments, watching the other kids for us, or just giving us a break so we can enjoy each others company and talk about how far he's come, and how far we've come in 14 married years and 19 years together. I love Joe with all my heart, and Tommy, Austin, and Ashley too. I could only dream on August 9, 1997 how rich my life would be and maybe, just maybe, the best is yet to come. Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-76294151267669750362011-08-03T13:40:00.000-04:002011-08-03T13:40:57.425-04:00Earth's OdditiesSo a critter is ruining my outdoor adventures. <br />
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Yesterday we got home from our running and I went to go water my hanging baskets. I start walking down our little walk in front of the porch and see a dead something laying on the edge of the walk and the landscaping. I figured it was a baby bird that had been dropped by a Mama bird. Upon closer inspection I find it is the head of a skunk. And with no trail of blood or sign of the rest of the carcass it left me thinking what the?? It was thankfully not smelling but I was seriously perplexed and nervous and stayed inside the whole darn day. <br />
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Joe got home late and took care of it, in the rain no less; thanks hubby. But it's still on my mind. How on earth did it get there?<br />
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Some theories:<br />
<ul><li>An animal dropped it off, but why was there no trail of blood?</li>
</ul><ul><li>A student or maybe a not student is pulling a prank on us? This would be pure evil, I hope it's not this. How sinister. </li>
</ul><ul><li>A bird of prey accidentally dropped it while flying by. This seems the most logical. </li>
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I'm just afraid that there are more skunks maybe living under our porch or something. Not cool. But I have to get brave or I'll never have any outdoor fun at all. It's been a rough week in the yard for the Papesh's. My thumb got skinned up doing yard work, Tommy got stung by a bee and got a bunch of briars in his feet, I had a large splinter find it's way into my foot about a centimeter deep that took Joe forever to dig out, and now we have animal heads making their way to our yard. Again, what the ? Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-75987947063265126772011-08-01T22:42:00.000-04:002011-08-01T22:42:05.121-04:00Woah SummerPlease slow down. <br />
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It's August - which is like Sunday if you compare summer vacation to a weekend. But at least it's early Sunday morning when you're just waking up and you have the whole day ahead of you. <br />
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It's been a very different summer for the family. But it's been a good summer I guess I can say 2/3 of the way in. <br />
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There was no hockey camp to cart Tommy to this year which he won't complain about. Since he was 4 years old he's been allergic to hockey camp. <br />
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We said goodbye to Fr. Bill our priest of 12 years and welcomed Fr. Tipton.<br />
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We are not going to Florida this summer and really aren't taking any extended vacation at all. This will be only the third time since we've been married we have not gone. 1998, 2001, and now. <br />
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We've soaked up some fun and sun with a few trips to Cedar Point and Michigan's Adventure. You know your kids are spoiled when they don't want to go to the fair. Talk about desensitizing. <br />
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Our yard has never looked better and I've got more ideas brewing in my head for future years. Just need financing. ;)<br />
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Joe just accepted a new job at Dow Chemical so get ready for more change. I hope he likes it and does well. <br />
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We've biked a bit, walked a bit, and watched a lot of baseball! The Tiger's are in 1st place and I keep waiting for the mid-season collapse to happen. And I can't believe I'll admit this but I am rooting hard for Boston and New York to beat up on Cleveland and Chicago this week!<br />
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So hello August, time to really allow myself the okay to think about back to school, which really doesn't happen until after Labor Day. 10 years ago I had a 6 month old and was looking at student teaching and I remember the first day of school was August 20th! At least I have five solid weeks left! I'm sure the kids are thankful too!Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-83718840469522652562011-07-28T22:37:00.000-04:002011-07-28T22:37:07.890-04:00Ashley's First HaircutSo I really didn't want to get her haircut. I know with the boys Tommy was just over 2 years old and Austin was about 18 months old. With boys you go in with babies and come out with little boys. I wasn't ready for Ashley to look so different. Well Joe was feeling like neglectful parents by not having her haircut yet; and honestly if you don't put it up everyday she does look like a little ragamuffin. I went ahead and scheduled an appointment with my beautician and we just did a little trim and left the bangs long. I really didn't want to deal with bangs. So it honestly doesn't look much different and Joe can feel better about having it done. <br />
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Both the boys did okay with their 1st haircuts; Austin was pretty good, Tommy was a bit more nervous but they both got through it on the first try. Ashley though was absolutely geeked to be getting her hair done; I don't know why I even worried at all. What can I say the girl loves beauty and loves people fussing over her. I told her we'd get a new nail polish after if she was good. And she was just great throughout the whole thing! My baby girl is growing up way too quickly. And I'm pretty sure that everyday I'll be asked to blow dry and curl her hair just like at the salon. <br />
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<embed flashvars="host=picasaweb.google.com&hl=en_US&feat=flashalbum&RGB=0x000000&feed=https%3A%2F%2Fpicasaweb.google.com%2Fdata%2Ffeed%2Fapi%2Fuser%2F117889148120607989035%2Falbumid%2F5634594284046115777%3Falt%3Drss%26kind%3Dphoto%26hl%3Den_US" height="267" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" src="https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400"></embed>Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-48337328963087774072011-07-28T17:24:00.000-04:002011-07-28T17:24:21.159-04:00The last baseball post - loving it!It's always hard to win a tournament when you lose your first game. We were killed by Elba Friday night but won our final three games. Then will help from Lake Orion and Cass City we ended up winning 1st place again. Poor Cass City; they just can't get by us when it matters. We just barely nudged them 6-5 and are 2-2 with them on the season. Very even; I'll only feel sorry for them a little bit. This tournament was pure round robin style which I do not like. I believe there should always be a championship game. It's very hard for every team to win every game. But once again the Reese Rockets came out smelling like a rose. <br />
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We played our two games on Sunday and didn't even stick around to see how it would end because we were all but mathematically eliminated. Elba had the most colossal collapse late in a tournament since Boston came down from 3-0 to take four straight against the Yankees on their way to winning their first World Series since the curse. (Ok, I'm exaggerating a bit here) Anyways, it was Elba's to lose and they did. We had to meet up at the park Monday night for the boys to get their final trophies. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjWKHbZv1_U/TjHRk3iw0wI/AAAAAAAACww/f3b-axTcyqk/s1600/IMG_0978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjWKHbZv1_U/TjHRk3iw0wI/AAAAAAAACww/f3b-axTcyqk/s320/IMG_0978.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>Tommy played fairly well; not as great as in North Branch but better than the other two tournaments. He hadn't struck out since the Beaver tournament so we are happy he finally conquered those demons. We did have a scary moment on Saturday when he took a pitch to the face. He was thankfully okay. Dumb thing was the pitch before his teammate was given the steal sign so he was fake bunting and when he pulled back on a ball high he jumped out the box and the ump signaled strike saying "stay in the box, I'll always call a strike if you jump out of the box." Well the next pitch he stayed in the box and BOOM. I was probably more shook up then Tommy and Joe had a few words for the umpire and craziest thing of all was the Cass City coach gave the ump some grief saying it was all his fault Tommy got hit and you should never tell a kid to not get out of the box. The ump did ask Joe the next inning how Tommy was doing and I'm sure he felt bad. I guess it was the coach's kid who was pitching and I'm sure that kid felt terrible. Tommy's coach called that night to see how he was doing which was nice too. Thankfully the next couple games the little pitchers weren't throwing too hard and Tommy did fine getting some decent hits. Overall a good way to end a great summer season! <br />
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Way to go Reese 10U Rockets!!! Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-5791557779767048942011-07-25T08:01:00.000-04:002011-07-25T08:01:45.502-04:00Port-A-PottysBleh, can't believe I'm making a post about this. I hate port-a-johns but sometimes you're just desperate and need to use them. We've seen a lot of them recently at Tommy's ball tournaments. Thankfully there was only 1 tournament where that was our only option. However, often the regular bathrooms were a long walk away so the porties were it.<br />
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Friday night, our potty was fresh and new. I swear Ashley's was the first pee deposited there and it wasn't too bad of an experience. But by yesterday you couldn't even walk by the one at our field without gagging. On a hot and humid weekend the flies are buzzing around and you can almost feel the gasses in their trying to attack you. And another thing you will find is that shit in a portie is always diarrhea. Oh the agony. <br />
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Ashley went fine on Friday when the potty was fairly empty. Saturday afternoon, it was filled with all kinds of nastiness and had a huge mountain of toilet paper forming topped with piss and shit. She refused to go. I tell you with the TP mountain I don't think you had to worry about back splash but it was enough to freak her out and she wouldn't go and guess who later pissed her pants? Ugh! I almost can't blame her.<br />
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I guess I just need bring a portie of our own. (I did do this a couple weeks ago when there was NO real bathroom and the porties were especially nasty, I think those got emptied maybe once a year. However, mid-tournament the shit truck came by and emptied it, who would like that job?) Men are so lucky that they can just whip it out and go on the ground behind a tree. And just in case you're wondering the portie was for Ashley not me. ;) I just hold it for hours and hours and hours. I'm so glad I wasn't born over 100 years ago when pit toilets were a way of life. And did you know that porties are the number one place that lost cell phones go un-rescued? No shocker there.Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-1870830417914975302011-07-18T11:36:00.000-04:002011-07-18T11:36:48.953-04:00Loving Baseball!The title should say it all! Tommy's team went 4-1 this weekend winning the North Branch Tournament. Tommy had his best weekend hitting wise and did well defensively too. He's finally hitting on all cylinders. He had some great hits this weekend and a ton of RBI's. And best of all he didn't strike out once!!!! It's been a huge battle for him. Now if only poor Brandon Inge could bust out of his slump. <br />
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This weekend wasn't only great for Tommy but all the Reese kids were hitting. It was great to see these kids get some confidence at the plate. Of course the pitchers weren't flame throwers like we had last weekend in Beaver. Plus, that tourney was major league style; you could run on a passed ball third strike, could steal home, and could lead off before the ball was pitched. I personally don't like that at this level. I think hitters should have to put the ball in play (or be walked home with bases loaded) to be able to score. It just put a lot of pressure on the catchers and pitchers. This tournament was more of a recreation style, you could steal but not lead off, and you couldn't steal home. Our team is really in the middle trying to find our right place. We are too good for rec but not quite ready for elite travel status. However with this weekend I saw some good things and maybe the team could make that leap soon. Too bad the travel season is ending after this week. <br />
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Of course this all was possible because before the tournament Tommy went to the barbershop and got all his beautiful locks chopped off. All that beautiful hair; GONE! But I'm the only one sad about it. Eh, he'll probably be more comfortable now anyways.<br />
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Next weekend we are in Mayville and that my friends will be the end of baseball. But it's been a long journey; he's been going to weekly open gyms since January. No rest for the wicked. Go Rockets! <br />
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<embed flashvars="host=picasaweb.google.com&captions=1&hl=en_US&feat=flashalbum&RGB=0x000000&feed=https%3A%2F%2Fpicasaweb.google.com%2Fdata%2Ffeed%2Fapi%2Fuser%2F117889148120607989035%2Falbumid%2F5630711579295676065%3Falt%3Drss%26kind%3Dphoto%26hl%3Den_US" height="267" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" src="https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400"></embed>Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-73786378324573541912011-07-12T21:22:00.000-04:002011-07-12T21:22:23.274-04:00Going Nuts for Free Stuff<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtzFhIRk7Qg/ThzyGGTPyTI/AAAAAAAACvA/9UYS9uwEEzU/s1600/free_stuff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtzFhIRk7Qg/ThzyGGTPyTI/AAAAAAAACvA/9UYS9uwEEzU/s320/free_stuff.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>People have tried to explain it to me but I just don't get it. Why do people go nuts for free things? Yesterday was 7-11's birthday and they were giving away free 7.11 oz slurpees. Do you know how dinky that is? You'll have that drank before you're in your car to go back home. I heard one gal on Facebook say that she and her kid went numerous times yesterday for free slurpees! Seriously, a giant slurpee might cost you a little over a buck? Why do people go so nuts for free?<br />
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We went one year to the 7-11 event and they didn't even give you a lid! Plus, I spent a boatload in snacks while there. 7-11 knows what they're doing. Just gotta reel the people in. <br />
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How about the crazy people that stood in line at Buffalo Wild Wings for hours in the cold during their grand opening hoping to get 6 free wings a week for a year? You're saving $6 a week but how much are you spending on the drinks and other food when you go? <br />
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I'm all about getting a good deal but all this borderlines on ridiculous! I am very happy for those people who seriously can't afford to drop a buck or two on occasional slurpees. I'm sure the indulgence was a welcome treat. And kids, you go ahead and bike up there 5 times if you want on July 11th, but adults I ask don't you know any better? Go ahead and get your one freebie, but anything after that and you just look like a cheap glutton. And think about the other 999 people that might be wanting a free slurpee at the 7-11 too. <br />
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Me personally I usually steer way clear of any place claiming free, free food, free concert series, free movies, you get my drift. Free just too often seems to bring out the freak in people and try to avoid that if at all possible. I'm sure there are many events/items that are awesome that are indeed free but it sure seems like there is often some sort of opportunity cost involved that makes me leery of the whole free scene. <br />
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Am I crazy here? Am I really missing out on some primo deals? Am I a lone soldier in thinking free is not always fabulous?Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-14035001165566817972011-07-10T22:37:00.000-04:002011-07-10T22:37:13.318-04:00I guess I'll *like* baseball this weekend.We had a great weekend up in Beaver for another ball tourney. It was extra nice because one of Tommy's hockey buds Kyle got to play with us because we were short players. We enjoyed the time with our "winter friends" and we'll spend another weekend together in North Branch next weekend as we battle again on the sandlot.<br />
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Tommy did better this weekend finally ending his No-for streak with some good clutch hits and RBI's. I'm so thankful he is out of that slump and hopefully for good! They ended up losing today in the semi's in the last inning after working hard to tie it up in the 5th. We were down from the first inning on but were never out. We only lost 4-3 which is a low score at this level of ball. The pitching and defense are just getting so much better. We finished 2-2 on the weekend. Not bad. <br />
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So I love that Tommy got out of his hitting funk; but he had a rough time on field. If we can just get him to fire on all cylinders then I'll really be loving baseball. And by that time it will be over and then we can get to the real fun...HOCKEY!! Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-66806214394285661942011-07-07T21:56:00.000-04:002011-07-07T21:56:16.871-04:00A New National Anthem? Thanks but No ThanksSo since reading <a href="http://www.parade.com/news/intelligence-report/2011/07/03-new-national-anthem.html">this article</a> in Parade Magazine on Sunday the thought of a new national anthem keeps coming back to my mind. I remember in high school in band being asked to practice the national anthem for probably the thousandth time in my life and piping up to my band teacher about being sick and tired of playing this song again and again and couldn't we play something else like God Bless America before the football games. Well it's still embarrassing to me today that she pretty near ripped me a new one in front of my classmates about when she hears the song she feels pride and yada, yada, yada keep my crazy unpatriotic opinion to myself, shut up and play. I also probably feel bad that Joe even later said something to me probably along the lines of "why do you have to start stupid shit like that?" I don't know; I was just being belligerent I suppose.<br />
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I don't think I meant any malice towards our country's anthem but I also don't think I understood just how meaningful the song was until I reached the ripe maturity of adulthood. I will tell you now that one of my biggest pet peeves is people being disrespectful during it's play. Kids at sporting events are the worst but adults are sometimes no better. Just stand there and shut up for one minute people! Drives me insane.<br />
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Anyways, I guess I was only 20 years ahead of the masses when I questioned my band director about this. However, as much as I love God Bless America and America the Beautiful, The Star Spangled Banner is what I want to hear even if million dollar celebrities or school choirs continue to butcher it. Since I don't have to play it everyday in band class I've grown to love it and love the way it makes me feel when an assembly sings along. <br />
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What do you think? Is it time to retire Francis Scott Keyes version? BTW, I teach a student who is related to said author. And who doesn't swell with pride when they finally get to "o'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave" when we do get an excellent singer to deliver it? Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040218878234590154.post-27937239925219558092011-07-02T21:06:00.000-04:002011-07-02T21:06:22.355-04:00My Love/Hate Relationship with BaseballOh America's favorite past time. Everyone knows of my love for the Tiger's however there is another team that I love even more. The 2011 10&Under Reese Rockets. Big Tommy has been playing for this coach on this team for the past two seasons and we really like it. We love going to games and the families are all wonderful people too. We of course simply love the game and now that the kids are older it's getting more exciting with stealing bases (or attempting), spectacular plays in the field, and some really monstrous hits! <br />
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Last weekend they won the Reese Tournament which was unexpected but sweet. We won our first game of pool play but then lost the next two figuring we'd be out. It was powerhouse Clio who'd gone 3-0, and the other three teams all with one win a piece. We lucked out as we won the tie-breaker by giving up the least amount of runs. Yay for excellent defense! It was like we'd channeled the Bay County Blizzard as we won the Championship game after nearly not even making it to advance. I guess you have to take the good breaks along with the bad. It's just been working out. <br />
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Now why I hate baseball. It's such an individual sport! All eyes are on the batter or pitcher. Who ends up being the hero? Who ends up being the goat? Tommy is slumping at the plate in the worst way and I try not to let it get to me but if it's bugging me so bad, I can only imagine how bad it's making Tommy feel. He's always been known more for his defense as the catcher (he can also play the field) but he can hit and I hate to see him struggle so badly! In the regular season he was able to snap out of some funks by bunting. He hasn't been able to try that yet. Sunday after the game was over he said to make sure I blog about how he didn't have a hit all weekend. Seriously kid? He did get on base a few times with walks and getting hit by a pitch once. But it's just not like a beautiful base hit. <br />
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The low point for us in the weekend was the Saturday night game. We were winning 2-0 for most of the game (against pesky Clio of course) but gave up 3 runs in the top of the last inning. We are now down 3-2, have two outs, two on and Tommy is up to bat. Oh he could be the hero! At this point I'm just praying for contact, even if he gets out at least let it be because a fielder had to make a play. However it ended dismally, he didn't even swing and watched three straight strikes go by. I kept hearing the final words of "Casey at the Bat" in my head. Oh agony. No heroics from Tommy and that my friends was his 3rd strikeout of the game. It was just not his night. But winning the whole thing the next day definitely softened the blows of his dismal batting. The next day was thankfully better as he did put the ball in play he just couldn't get that elusive hit. <br />
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Being an individual game but not quite an individual game, you thankfully can't blame an entire loss on one player. We also see the other poor kids booting ground balls, misjudging fly balls, and of course striking out. It's just hard when it's your kid out there; you hope and pray that his teammates aren't thinking oh here's an easy out. If I can find a silver lining in this whole business is that I am being humbled a bit (him too). Out on the ice I have total confidence in Tommy and feel like the team is in good hands when he is out there. Sure he makes bone head moves sometimes but he also plays some fantastic defense and always helps his team more than hurts it. I'm a proud Mama in the rink and want him out there during sudden death overtime. In baseball I'd rather have someone else with their neck out on the line bases loaded, two outs, bottom of the 9th. <br />
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Thankfully we have three more weekends of tournament ball. Hopefully Tommy will get out of his slump and by August I will love baseball more than hate it. I'll keep you posted. And when it's all said and done, it really is just a game. A game that every kid should LOVE and play for the love and not the glory. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aq0Aa0n2Y3M/Tg-_rJtR7bI/AAAAAAAACuI/QKow6uJcXT8/s1600/262630_10150237722782383_758817382_7017190_5331147_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aq0Aa0n2Y3M/Tg-_rJtR7bI/AAAAAAAACuI/QKow6uJcXT8/s320/262630_10150237722782383_758817382_7017190_5331147_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Dawnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14600361913851978373noreply@blogger.com2