Dianne's Butterfly Dreams

Merry Christmas eve eve

2009-12-23T14:12:00.002-06:00

Or in other words Merry 2 days before Christmas! The girls and I do this every day. I know, we're weird around here.

No Christmas cookies at our house. I sent Dennis to buy some of the frosted cookies from WalMart and he came home empty handed because he says the cookies are $6. What?
DJ called to say he had picked up two containers of the cookies at the WalMart near his store. I asked him how much they were, and he said $2.75. We are thinking that Dennis looked at the wrong cookies. I couldn't bake cookies because I have no flour. Last year I baked dozens of cookies, but not this year. No candies either. =(
Oh well, we don't really need any of that stuff, do we........

We are expecting a bad winter storm to arrive here overnight as the temperatures fall into the 30's and 20's. I'm not happy. I don't want a white Christmas! It's cloudy out today with really wet feeling air. The rain will be moving in shortly so the girls are being held captive in the house!

I'm getting tired of the tree. I would like to take it down the day after Christmas. And I'd like to have the mantle back, too. I want my pictures of my family back up there. Guess I'm really strange. I love Christmas, but I get so tired of all the decorations.

Four more days!

2009-12-21T23:43:00.002-06:00

First day of winter, and it was 60 out today, and sunny. Looked more like spring.
But the weatherman is saying rain for Wednesday and colder temperatures in the evening then falling temperatures overnight and snow is likely. I'm praying no snow, no ice, no sleet, and no freezing rain. I want to go to Dana's house for Christmas Day!!

Cheyenne is loving her new birthday bike. Today was an excellent day for bike riding.

Brianna took pictures tonight. I think she did a good job. Dana, you might need an assistant some day, and I can reccomend one!

Cheyenne tells me she isn't sure whether or not to believe in Santa because some kids called her a baby for believing there is. I think that's mean. I told Cheyenne that she has a right to believe whatever she wants to, but to not ever ruin the magic for someone else. I hate that someone took it upon himself to ruin the magic for Cheyenne. She was the last of the three girls to say she isn't sure anymore about Santa. These girls all know that Christmas is Jesus' birthday, but I don't see anything wrong with believing in Santa bringing presents to all children. If you choose to not have Santa at your house, please make sure your children don't ruin the magic of Christmas for children who do have Santa at their house. And don't assume your kids won't tell it, because they have already!

2009-12-20T10:22:00.001-06:00

1 Corinthians 13 Christmas Style

©By Sharon Jaynes

If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family – I’m just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals, and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family – I’m just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family – it profits me nothing.

If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties, and sing in the choir’s cantata but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband.

Love is kind, though harried and tired.

Love doesn’t envy another home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens.

Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of your way.

Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can’t.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

Love never fails. Video games will break; pearl necklaces will be lost; golf clubs will rust. But giving the gift of love will endure.

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, that starry night in Bethlehem. Like the Shepherds, I am still amazed at Your great love. May I not lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas, but celebrate Jesus’ birthday with joy!

In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Cheyenne is 9

2009-12-20T09:18:00.002-06:00

It was a day of celebration in our home yesterday as Cheyenne turned nine! She was such a happy little girl all day. She asked me dozens of times if her daddy was going to be home from work, if she was going to open her gifts that day, would she have her birthday cake. To every question I answered "what did your daddy tell you?"
You see, every birthday around her is celebrated on a different day because of DJ's work schedule, and this year Cheyenne's birthday came at a time when DJ could leave work earlier than usual. But Cheyenne wasn't sure of that, thus the questions all day. How happy she was to see her daddy walk in the door! Let the celebrations begin! After a trip to WalMart to pick up the cake, and get the new bike, we celebrated a birthday at our house. Happy 9th birthday, darling Cheyenne!

DJ also bought a kit for making a gingerbread house. I'm not the highest kite in the sky and the directions don't make any sense to me, but DJ said he will help me.
I'll take and show pictures if this thing really happens!

Christmas and stuff

2009-12-19T00:34:00.002-06:00

Tis the season to be jolly....fa la la la la la la la la! We are finished with shopping, and wrapping. Everyone I met while out shopping was in a jolly mood, and very friendly. I met a lovely woman over in the foot care department. We discussed broken appendages; you know, like fingers and toes. She was looking for something to splint two of her fingers. All we could find were things to seperate toes. She wasn't sure that would work. She was very friendly, and I'm glad we talked for this short while. Next it was over to the electronic department. I was looking at the $5 movies. All the "old" stuff that the young people don't remember. I love "old" movies, and especially some of the old black and white classics. There I met another lovely, friendly woman about my own age....you know, ?2 or something. Anyway, I called my daughter to discuss a movie I had found that had some children's movies...like Little Mermaid, The Princesses, etc. I was wondering if my beautiful grand daughter would enjoy this. The woman next to me said she had overheard what I was saying, and did I think that a 2 year old would also enjoy that movie. Then we discussed movies that young children might enjoy. Wonder what happened to me that I suddenly have such an urge to talk to anyone and everyone I meet?! I just have to say something to them. And I've found that people are nice. I haven't met even one sour faced person who didn't respond with a smile when spoken to with a smile. But I've always been so shy. I wouldn't talk to a stranger if he/she stepped on my toe. And now I can't help myself...I have to speak. I'm noticing people now. I mean really noticing their facial expressions and their eyes. We are all in this together, and I've noticed that some people aren't very happy. And some people look so angry. So then I wonder what put that expression on their faces. Do you ever wonder about people? I didn't used to, but I do now.

I have fibromyalgia pretty bad (never met anyone who it "pretty good". It's terribly painful) and the wrapping of presents yesterday was really painful for me. I have discovered that I don't enjoy wrapping gifts anymore. Does Santa use gift bags?

I'm loving our Christmas tree this year. I love the colored lights, and the dark garland vs the white garland we've always used. I love putting some of my angel collection on the mantle. I used to do that, then stopped because it just became more work. Now I find it beautiful to look at. Dennis put some sparkly white garland in between the different figurines and then put some tiny blue lights on the garland. It's really calming and peaceful. The lights never get hot, so we never turn them off. DJ bought the new LED lights for the tree, and they never get hot like the old fashioned lights used to.

Hope you are enjoying your Christmas as much as I am. And it isn't even here yet! It's all about the children, you know. I love their shining eyes, and their pink cheeks as they get all excited at something to do with Christmas. I hope I never again forget what it's all about. It's all about GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY SON (JESUS). THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES ON HIM (JESUS) SHALL NEVER DIE (SPIRTUALLY. ETERNITY WITHOUT GOD) BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2009-12-11T14:52:00.002-06:00

This is probably the earliest we've put up a tree at our house, but I have felt so well and strong this year. I'm so thankful to God for sparing my life, and I love to celebrate Him and His birthday.

The tummy bug visited our house and all three girls were so sick. Not at the same time though, you know how that is. Brianna got sick first, throwing up and running a fever. She did that for two weeks........off and on. Then Cheyenne got sick in the middle of the night Friday night. Poor baby was constantly in the bathroom throwing up. Then the fever started, and she slept all day on Saturday. Then Saturday afternoon Ally got sick, and ran a fever. By Monday all three girls were well again and back to school. *sigh*

Our weather has been really cold and windy. Below freezing during the day, and below zero wind chills overnight. So thankful for a good work furnace!!

Had a phone call from a long time friend. I love that. Betty and I have been friends for more than 34 years, and I have missed her since we moved here to Okla.
She is one of those people that whenever we get together it's like no time has passed at all....you know that kind of friendship. Betty is such a blessing in my life, and I'll bet she doesn't even know it. Wish she was on the computer.....

Today would have been my mom's 85th birthday. I just know she would have been the most beautiful 85 year old woman in the world. She was a beautiful woman. I've sure missed her.

Today is my youngest grandchild's 4th birthday. How can 4 years have passed so quickly? She is such a beautiful little girl, and I love her so much. Hope her special day is as special as she is! Happy birthday, Brooklyn!

Enjoying my Monday

2009-11-23T12:11:00.003-06:00

The girls are at school, and the house is quiet. mmmmmmmmm. Nice. They had such a loud morning this morning. Lots of bickering over everything. That's life with young girls, I think. They will have 5 days to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday. Should be interesting.......

Weather is changing as we speak. Cloudy and windy when we got up this morning. But the wind has picked up, and now the sun is trying to take over control of the sky. With the front moving in overnight, we should get colder and maybe some rain.

We had an unplanned treat yesterday. All nine of the grandchildren were here at one time! First Dana and her family came by after church to see the new couch. They had been here maybe 20 minutes, and Denise and her kids came over. We all visited for maybe an hour. Always fun when we all get together.

Dennis and I were shopping at the Dollar Store this morning. I saw some really cute, but cheap tablecloths with snowmen on them. I bought two of them. One I plan to put on the front door, and the other one I'll put on the table in the kitchen. I also bought some really cute large stickers of snowmen and I plan to give them to Ally's therapist to decorate her office. I like the snowmen to decorate with because I can leave it up after Christmas, just to celebrate the winter cold weather.

My heart is very sad with the passing of Pastor Billy Joe Daughtery. Billy Joe and his wife, Sharon, are the co-pastors and founders of Victory Christian Center. They founded Victory Bible Institute where Dennis and I attended Bible school in 1981/82.
Billy Joe was a wonderful, caring, funny man. I'm glad I have lots of his tapes. He had the very best laugh in the world, and now Heaven is blessed with it.

Oh my goodness it's November

2009-11-20T13:53:00.003-06:00

Don't know what happened, but I seem to have gotten lost somewhere between Oct 30th and now! Blogging doesn't seem to be my strong suit!

It's cloudy and cool today. Kind of moist out, too, without being rainy. You know the type of day........dark, dank, and dreary. (to quote my mom) I much prefer sunny and warm days, but they don't come around much in the fall and winter in Oklahoma.

This time two years ago I was recovering from kidney failure, and didn't have any strength, and walked with the aid of a walker. Now, two years later, I have energy and strength and don't know where I put the walker. Thanksgiving is important to me, and I'm doing a happy dance this year. I give God all the praise and glory.

The girls are all doing well in school. I had to resort to bribery for their spelling though. (Will you teachers please forgive me??) See, spelling didn't seem to be important to them and their tests were so bad every week. I worked with them, but with three girls studying for spelling tests it just got too much for me. I wanted to want to know those words. So, after one more bad spelling test, I said "if you make a 100% on your spelling test, I will give you a candy bar of your choosing". The first 100 came from Ally. Seeing her eating her candy bar made the other two kick it into gear! Now they are consistantly bringing me spelling tests with 100 on them! No paper for proof, no candy bar. And no, missing one won't get you anything.....sorry.

Ally's therapist said Ally has met and gone beyond the goals set for her. I'm thrilled. What makes the difference, do you think?? I think it's love, because the Bible says "Love never fails". I have no other idea on what it could be. Ally has Asperger's, but she is NOT Asperger's. She is Ally. I love her so much. It is what it is. I love her unconditionally. She can not make me not love her anymore. I love her through every meltdown, every tantrum, every screaming fit, every night of no sleep (and there have been many of those). Is it because Dennis and I have walked down this parenting road before? I don't know. For me, it's just easy to love her. She's mine. I chose her (well, actually God chose her for me!!).
She wants to please us. She works so hard in school to make good grades, and she wants to excel. I was thrilled with her progress report yesterday...three A's and one B. The B being in Math....her hardest subject. She doesn't understand the concept of borrowing and carrying, but it's coming along. Ally loves school. She loves her teacher (so do I!!) and she has made friends this year. She is getting social! That was one of the goals we had that she has met. Go Ally, Go!!

It's a sad time.....

2009-10-30T15:57:00.003-05:00

Isn't that the cutest face?! That's our Sassy. I named her Sassy Pants because from the time she was born until she was about 8 months old she was a growly kind of girl. She used to growl at her brother, A.J., then attack him! This was so cute, and we all enjoyed her doing that. Remember in the movie Lion King when Nala said "I pinned you again"? That's what I always thought of when Sassy would growl at A.J. then pin him down!

Last week sometime we noticed that Sassy had a limp. She would lay out in the sun in the backyard and didn't play with A.J. as much. I didn't think a whole lot of it because our Rottweiler, Emmett, used to be that way, too. Since Sassy was an outside dog we didn't notice that she didn't feel well. She didn't look like she was losing weight, and she still came to the back screen door for her lovin' from me. But last night when Alexandar kept banging the screen door, I opened the door thinking maybe they had dumped their water over. But there on the garage floor was my sweet Sassy Pants. She had died. I am just heart broken over her loss. Sorry to be such a downer, but the loss of a furry family member is a big deal at our house. The girls are so sad about it. It's hard to explain it to them. We still have Alexandar and A.J. but Sassy's passing is a huge loss to me.

No school for the girls today. It's teacher's conference or something. I'm glad it's a nice (although cool and windy) sunny day so the girls can go play with their friends. It's also a big painful fibro day for me. I hurt from my head down to my feet, and my brain is so foggy I can't concentrate. It'll all be better tomorrow!

Don't you just love Autumn??

2009-10-27T11:18:00.002-05:00

The trees this year are just especially beautiful. On the way to Ally's therapy this morning I noticed that some trees are mixed with gold, yellow, and orange. Now that is glorious! Some were purplish with red, and I liked that, too. See? God never worries about mixing colors like I do. I would never put purple with red in the same place. But on a tree, it's really beautiful. Why do some trees turn yellow, and some turn red? I've always wondered that. Our neighbor has a maple tree that has turned orange, red, and yellow while our maple is just green and yellow. Two maple trees but different colors. It's interesting, and really pretty at the same time.

My health insurance has changed, so I've had to change my primary care doctor. I've had the same doctor for 25 years. Anyway, I saw the new doctor yesterday. She was very thorough, and easy to talk to. I felt like she was listening to me, and I need that reassurance. I have a lot of scary health issues, and I want to be sure any doctor I see is listening. The nurse called this morning with results of lab work done yesterday. My choleserol is up (again), and the triglycerides are over 500. (not good). My A1C is 7.1, which isn't too bad. It should be below 7. Considering that in April 2008 it was over 17, I'll take 7.1.

Ally is continuing with asthma problems. She is needing more assistance from her inhaler and nebulizer than she has needed in a long time. We all had the seasonal shot in September. The H1N1 vaccine has not arrived at the Health Dept as of this date, so we have decided that by the time it makes it here, we have all be exposed anyway. I do have a huge concern about Ally, her asthma, and the H1N1 flu. But I trust God. He has shown me that when the Isrealites were preparing to leave Eygpt, they were told to kill a lamb and dip a hysop in the blood and put the blood on the door posts so that the angel of death would see the blood and pass by that house. Well, God says Jesus is the lamb, and His blood covers our home. I am not to worry about flu or any other pestilance because by His blood we are healed.

Therapy was really good today. I feel like it was very educational for me. The therapist went to class last week to learn about the brain, and she brought that learning to us today. She showed us some brain excercises to "wake up" the brain. I sure need that! She told us better ways to defuse breakdowns before they become full blown. Words make a huge difference! Instead of saying "no", say "I need to think about that and get back to you. If you continue to ask me, the answer will be NO". I like that. That puts the responsibilty of action on Ally instead of on me. She will learn that there are consequences and she is the one that has to make the choice. Ally wants to go play at a friend's house every day after school, and I want homework done first. There is a power of wills going on every day because of this. Joan (the therapist) says tell Ally "I need to think about that. If you mention it again, then my answer will be no". It'll be hard at first, but she will learn. (and so will I)

Am I the only one who thinks that Facebook is a hurtful place? It hurts to be "unfriended" by someone, especially if that someone is a family member. And you have no idea what you said or did..... I thought that Facebook would be a great way to keep in touch with my family (who all live in other states). But it hasn't turned out that way at all.

Just a little catching up

2009-10-18T10:24:00.002-05:00

I see it's been a while since I've been here. Too many things trying to get/keep my attention! Ok, you try being ?2 years old, in questionable health, and raising three kids!! It's not like it was when we were younger, in good health, and raising three kids. But I probably wouldn't change anything (except our health!).

The weather has been really dark, dank, and dreary around here. Thirteen days in a row with clouds, drizzle/rain, and cold temperatures. Finally on Friday we had sunshine, and it's been shining since. But the colder temps are still hanging around. It was only 39 this morning at 7:30.

Ally was sick from the end of August until the middle of October. Two different ear infections, then flu like symptoms that led us to take her to the doctor again. But the flu test came back negative. With the high fever, and rash (especially on her cheeks) the doctor diagnosed Fifth Disease. Ally was sick for maybe 3 days, but the asthma attacks were worse during this time. She had a treatment on Friday night, but has been ok since then. We are hoping she is finally well. Also praying that the H1N1 flu stays away from here. We have all had a seasonal flu shot, but the H1N1 shot. Still trying to decide what to do about that.......

Brianna has joined the Challenger Dance Team at school, and she loves it. She was made for dancing! This is a perfect fit for her. They are selling candles to afford the uniforms, and Brianna has already sold 10. Alright, go Brianna!

I have discovered a new author, and I really love her books. Right now I am reading a book based on the Biblical book of Hosea called Redeeming Love. I can hardly put the thing down! It's very well written and sucks you in on the first page. (or it did me, anyway)

Hopefully my computer woes are behind me, and more time spent with my cyber friends is ahead of me. I learned just addicted I am to my computer! But I'm not planning to lessen my time on here. This is where all my friends are!!

Watch the whole thing!

2009-10-01T10:52:00.000-05:00

Just click on the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=518XP8prwZo

It's worth it to watch the whole thing!!

The more things change, the more they stay the same

2009-09-28T23:21:00.003-05:00

Today was my big acting debut. The day began as any other day, except I had butterflies in my stomach. What does one wear to their acting gig? Well, if one is to be a tree, I guess one should make sure all their leaves and bark are clean and in proper order. So, I took a warm shower. I then chose to wear my jeans and a dark shirt. I forgot I was wearing my sandals. And it was brought to my attention at a later time that I should have worn my gym shoes. Ah, well, live and learn.

Ally was all excited about my acting as a tree, and she tried to get me to allow her to stay home. When that failed, she tried coughing.....a lot.....and loudly. I ignored that, so she chose to nag me some more. I decided to just ignore it. She did end up going to school. But more on that in a minute.....

We drove to Denise's house where she gave me my costume which consisted of beautiful golden leaves, a brown tunic, and a green turtle neck shirt. We followed Denise, and Melanie to Hunter Park. It's a really nice park! Lots of playground area, a water pad, lots of green open space, a dog bark park, covered picnic tables. But I digress........

We met other homeschool families from Faith and there was much laughing and making of tree jokes (you know what YOU would be saying, "barking up the wrong tree", etc), spraying for bugs and ticks (ewwww, but that's so necessary!) I was the oldest tree there. The other trees were mere saplings, but so cute! I loved them all. They were so good to an older tree with lots of bark missing and leaves falling off.

Denise and Melanie have produced a movie before, so they are professionals. They made my acting debut a pleasure. They were both so relaxed and calm about what they wanted. They allowed much laughing and joking, but still got what they wanted to be in the finished product. Thanks, ladies, for such a pleasurable and memorial day.

Back to the wearing of sandals. They are really comfortable, brown, leather sandals and I wear them so often it's just a part of what I put on in the morning. I don't even give it any thought. But I should have thought about it today. We were in the woods. Real woods. With real poison ivy, and stuff. *sigh* Hope I didn't bring home any souveniers of my first acting gig.....

Back to Ally....yes, she did go to school. She didn't want to go because she knew what I was going to be doing, and she wanted to be with me. But I didn't want her to miss any more school. We got back home around noon. We ate lunch, and I decided to get on my computer while Dennis opted to have a nap. While I was computing, my phone rang. It was the school nurse saying that Ally was in her office because she said she threw up her lunch. (Well, maybe not her lunch. She didn't eat lunch. She only drank some milk) I asked if Ally had any fever (remember, we've been such a time with Ally being sick and running fevers) and Nurse Natalie says, no, no fever. But I decide Ally should come home anyway....just in case. I woke up Dennis. He went and got Ally. Ally walks in the front door and says "did you go be a tree already?" Well, what do you think?

Steady month of sick

2009-09-27T00:04:00.002-05:00

Ally has been sick since August 27th. I know that because she is sick still/again and the doctor recounted yesterday the length of time Ally has been sick. *sigh* Trust me, Doctor Oglesby, I know every second she has been feeling bad. Because Ally has asthma and requires breathing treatments, we try very hard to get and keep her well. But some years it's just nearly impossible. It's been one ear infection after another one, and now this past illness was a virus called Fifth's Disease. It made Ally's body hurt very badly, she ran a fever of 102 for almost two days. She had chills, and just an overall feeling of YUCK. When Ally doesn't want to be on the computer, she is sick. When Ally doesn't want to eat pizza, she's sick. She just wanted to sit up in her daddy's recliner wrapped in a comforter (to ward off the chills) and do nothing. Nope...she didn't even want the t.v. on. But Ally isn't a big t.v. fan anyway.

But that was then, this is now! Ally has taken her temperature every hour today and given me a report. Finally tonight she was able to tell me her fever was over, gone, kaput. It's "normal" now, she says. This is a big deal because our grandson, Chandler, will be baptized tomorrow, and we are invited to be there. Ally (and the other two girls) has been so excited to attend Dana's church (and oh yeah, see Chandler be baptized). So now they know we are going because Ally's fever is gone!
Fifth's Disease is contagious, so I'm hoping the germs will lay low until after we go to Dana's church. I'm concerned about Brianna, Cheyenne, and myself getting sick.
I was concerned about the flu that is in the school, and never considered we could get something else.

Monday is my big acting debut. Our oldest daughter's homeschooling group is making a movie and I asked to be cast in a small roll. I will be a tree. Hopefully, I don't have to move, and I won't be speaking. It isn't Oscar winning, but I have to start somewhere..........

Saturday

2009-09-19T15:00:00.002-05:00

Well, it's been a while since I've blogged. But school is now in session, and it's extra busy around here. Homework is not fun now that the girls are in the upper grades of elementary school. If you are a teacher reading this, I make no apologies. It's really hard to try to do algebra at my age, when I couldn't do it when I was in the NINTH GRADE. Who said kids in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades should be doing this stuff when they can't even do multiplication and division!!! And who came up with a spelling contract?? No more writing words 5 times each, and use each word in a sentence. *sigh* I'm tired of a 4th grader and a certain 5th grader crying on me because they are having such a hard time making a game out of their spelling words!! My computer doesn't want to make a blasted cross word puzzle out of 20 to 25 spelling words!! Brianna has 2 to 3 hours of homework a night! And I'm trying to keep some kind of schedule going here. And my family expects me cook them food every night. Maybe your kids eat at MacYuck every night, or maybe you order a pizza most nights. My budget doesn't allow for that, and I have to cook. It's simple fare, but I cook it. (thank God, I can now cook! Remember when I couldn't leave the chair???)

I am so sorry. But this is really grating on my nerves. With my health issues, my age, and other 'things' going on, it's hard to keep track of homework for three kids.If I didn't have other things going on, maybe I could handle it. But right now, I just get angry! =(

It's very stressful for Ally with her school work this year. We have seen two full blown Asperger's meltdowns in two days. The one was at WalMart. During the busy time of the afternoon. And she ran screaming from me. And it seemed that everyone in the store came to watch the disabled old woman trying to run and catch the screaming kid. *sigh* When I caught her, I took her to the car, with her kicking and screaming the whole way. Brianna right on our heels. She said "Momma, she is really embarrassing me". She is really embarrassing me too!! When we got inside that car, I had a meltdown of my own. I'm still crying, ladies. This morning, Ally had another meltdown. This one was over some homework she didn't understand. First she couldn't find it, then she didn't know how to understand it. I asked her if her teacher had explained it to her in the classroom, and she said "I don't remember". I told her to put it away. Dennis and I have a meeting with the teacher tomorrow at 11:30, and I will be asking about this! The therapist gave us a list of questions to ask the teacher. I've since added some of my own. Like, why does the progress report say Ally is getting A's and B's when Ally doesn't know simple stuff....like adding, subtracting, multiplying, and division?? How does she make an A when she doesn't know how to do it?

Well, on another note, it's stopped raining here. At least for today. It's been sunny and warm today. It feels muggy with the moisture in the air, and no breeze. But the sunshine is so nice after so many dark days. 14 in a row.....

Freaky Friday

2009-08-28T15:55:00.003-05:00

School is going great this year. The girls are so happy with their teachers and their activities. Brianna is a safety patrol, and one of her duties is holding the door open for people to pass through. Another duty is lowering the flag, removing it from the flagpole and folding it up. As you can plainly see from the picture, Dennis has to help with the folding! Brianna ran off with one of her friends......
As I was observing, and taking pictures, I realize that the kids don't know flag equiette. You know, the flag is not supposed to touch the ground. *sigh* I said that about twenty times, but that poor flag was drug all over the place. I kept saying things like please think of the people who died for this flag. Ok, I'm old fashioned I guess. But I think of my dad at Omaha Beach, and my Uncle Dan at Iwa Jima, and the many of other service people fighting for this flag and to keep our country free. (right now the biggest battle is right here on our home soil...but that is another post)

Hope blogspot puts these in the order that I put them in........

Back to school week

2009-08-14T11:02:00.002-05:00

The girls returned to school on Wednesday the 12th. So we have had a very busy week making sure everyone had everything they would need. Every year the list is longer, and more challenging. But Dennis managed to tackle that problem for Ally and she has everything. DJ even managed to find all the stuff on his girls' lists.

Since this is back to school and we are used to not having a schedule, I'm having the girls find their clothes at night so there won't be this mad scramble trying to find what they want. *sigh* Well that doesn't work here. They get up in the morning, and change their mind!!! Now there is a mad scramble anyway, and clothes are flying in the air. Literally. I'm not joking here. (Picture the janitor sweeping up with his big wide broom) This morning Cheyenne came walking into the kitchen with what Brianna said she was going to wear. I just stood there with my mouth open. Then I said "what are you doing? Brianna wanted to wear that.". Cheyenne says "Brianna isn't wearing this. She is wearing something different." I go into the living room and yep.....there is Brianna wearing something different. Why do I even bother? But in the whole scheme of things, who cares?

The Meet the Teacher was Monday night. Ally is in the fourth grade, and her teacher is Mrs Loepp (don't pronounce the "o" and you have it). Mrs Loepp is really a beautiful woman, and has the face of an angel. Her voice is so soft (wonder how soft it would be around here at bedtime??) and so sweet. (hmmmm. I used to be like that) Brianna is in the fifth grade, and she has Mrs Thomas. I have known Mrs Thomas for several years because she was Ally's special reading teacher. When she saw Ally, her face lit up like a Christmas tree, and she hugged and hugged my Ally. Such a sweet moment. Then she said "I know these Snyder girls. I'm going have a great year having Brianna in my class." Brianna relaxed against my arm, and finally smiled. She had been so nervous. More nervous than I realized. Cheyenne is in the third grade, and has Mrs Lee. I've heard some really good stories about Mrs Lee, and I know she will be wonderful with our Cheyenne. I pray for the teachers our girls have. I want God's very best for each girl. And this year, we have hit the "mother lode".

Smoke, burning, and water

2009-08-02T23:32:00.003-05:00

Dennis bought us some really beautiful pork chops for our meal following church today. I've been just so fatigued that I don't attend church anymore. I've really missed it, but it's nice to be able to have a hot meal on the table for Dennis and the girls when they return home. Except for today that is. I prepared the sour cream and chive (uh-uh, don't ask for my recipe! It's in a box....) potatoes to bake in the oven while the pork chops did their nice "Shake N Bake" thing. Directions said 450* oven for 30 minutes. Good thing I didn't follow the directions or our house would have burned down!! =( I set the temp to 400*, put everything into the oven, closed the oven door, and set the timer for 20 minutes. I thought, "I'll just check on everything when the timer goes off". I then went into the living room, and proceeded to watch Danika ( suspencful, sit on the edge of your seat movie) The character in the movie had visions where she became a part of the vision, and during one of her visions, I thought "how realistic this is"...it was so smoky looking. Then, I noticed that the air all around me seemed smoky, and I could smell something. The timer on the stove hadn't gone off yet, so I didn't know what the smoky, smelly thing was. I ran into the kitchen, and there I saw smoke pouring from the oven!!! =( I turned the oven off, and went into the livingroom to open the front door. Dennis and the girls were just pulling into the driveway, and my cell phone rang. I was yelling into the phone "the house is full of smoke!". It was Dana on the phone, but I wasn't listening to her because Dennis had opened his car door, and the girls were pouring out of their side of the van. All at the same time the girls said "what's that smoke? And what's that smell?" Dennis went to the kitchen and pulled the food from the oven. (yep, Dana was still on the phone...waiting for me). The pork chops were all burned. =( I was crying. I finally went back to Dana who was waiting for me on the phone, and told her what had happened. She said she had called to say they would be here at our house in about an hour. I hung up the phone, sat in my chair, and tried to make some sense out of what had happened. I still haven't figured it out yet. Dennis and DJ were so sweet. They ate the burned chops anyway. The girls tried, but they couldn't do it. Ally usually likes pork chops, but not today. Wonder what was wrong?!

The visit with Dana and her family was very sweet. We don't see them very often, and it's easy to see how fast her kids are growing. I was amazed at how tall the two boys have gotten, and what sweet young men Austin and Chandler are. Brooklyn even allowed me to hold her. We watched My Little Pony together, and I loved that. She is such a beautiful little girl.

After everyone left, the girls went into the pool for a swim. It was 93 out this afternoon and the pool felt good to them. Abby and Shane came over and then Emily came, too. Gary and Denise drove over for a visit, too. That was fun. So I saw all 4 of our kids, and all 9 of our grandchildren!

Our Saturday

2009-07-25T23:49:00.002-05:00

It's been a pretty good Saturday in spite of starting the day off very sick. Didn't feel well when I got up, and was ill until about 3:00 this afternoon. Then Dennis said he didn't feel well. He took a short nap, and felt better when he woke up.

The girls enjoyed making chocolate muffins. We added to the yummy by icing them with chocolate frosting. I had some chocolate covered girls for a time! Don't ask for the recipe.....they come in a box from Aldi's. They are chocolate chocolate chip muffins. The box makes 12, so we bought two boxes. One really would have been sufficient because we seem to have muffins all over the place.

Thursday July 23rd was our friend, (Irene), birthday. I think she turned 83. We just love her so much. She is from Germany and speaks with a delightful accent. She brought us her birthday cake (homemade white sponge cake!!) and some wonderful cookies. I think her family made all the goodies, and Irene was afraid it would all go to waste if she kept them at her house. Nothing yummy goes to waste at our house! I should take a picture of Irene and post it here. She really a lovely lady.

Dennis took the girls to the Glue Dobbers model airplane show. They came home very excited about it all. Dennis said some of the planes were huge.

It was terribly humid today, with a chance for storms. I think that chance will build as the temps go back higher, and more moisture is in the atmosphere. I hate storms.

I've been reading Romans this past week. It's pretty heavy stuff, but I'm really enjoying it. I have to re-read things until my poor brain can take it in. What it's saying is that while we were yet sinners, God loved us and sent His son, Jesus, to die for us. My most favorite part, however, is when we are told that we can rejoice when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--- they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love. (Romans 5 3-5) I use the New Living Translation of the Bible. I think it doesn't matter which translation we use, as long we find one that we can understand, and read it. I used to struggle with King James until I found the New International Version. Then I was given The New Living Translation free from the P.T.L club ( I was the first to call and request it!). And now I'm totally hooked on it. Find a translation you can understand and read it!

Our Ally and Asperger's

2009-07-23T12:02:00.002-05:00

We have had our Ally since she was 7 weeks old. She was a beautiful baby. She had very large brown eyes that looked at the world, and us, with fear and suspicion. That such a young baby could have these feelings bewildered me. And boy! could that child scream! I wanted to hold her, and comfort her. You know the hold...up on your shoulder while you lovingly rub the head and shoulders, and coo soft words into their ear. Well, that only made Ally very angry! And she would look into my eyes like she was telling me she was the boss of the world, and there wasn't anything I could do about that. I didn't know anything about drugs or their effect on infants in and out of the womb. We were told that Ally was a drug exposed baby, but we were not told how to handle that. Everything we did came straight from the heart of the Heavenly Father. He told me, He guided us, He lead us, He directed us. And it worked. I used lots of love and lots of holding. And I became Ally's "comfy". You know, some kids have blankets, some have dolls, some have teddy bears....Ally had ME. Whenever Ally meets a situation she can't handle, she comes to me. Whenever Ally is afraid of anything, she comes to me. And whenever Ally is in trouble, she comes to me. I hold her, I comfort her, I love her, and I tell her about what she did and why it's wrong behavior. Love never fails. My Heavenly Father says so, so it's true. The first thing I do is love Ally. The next thing I do is explain why it's wrong.

I posted yesterday about Asperger's. That's what the "experts" say about it. I just wanted you to understand what the experts say Asperger's is. The neurologist explained it better to us just this past Monday. He said Asperger's is born and lives in the brain stem. It's conceived there when the infant is in the first trimester of growing in the womb. In the brain stem is where involuntary things are done that we can not control...like our heartbeat, our brain activity, our breathing.
Things that we do all the time without ever thinking about it. So, our Ally has an activity going on in her brain stem that she can NOT control. So when she does something that you don't like, or she says something that you don't like, she doesn't have a clue in this world that what she said or did is not right. In her world it's all about HER, and she doesn't understand when something bothers YOU. Our Ally is the most loving, compassionate, giving person in the world. But she is not always the most considerate, because she doesn't understand YOUR feelings. But as soon as I explain it to her, she will feel real remorse. But by then the YOU have moved on, and YOU have formed an opinion about Ally, and about ME and the way I handle Ally. Well, it's about Ally!!! My job as her mother is to teach her, guide her, direct her into adulthood. And her neurologist and her therapist both say we are doing a great job. Ally has come a long way. Just ask anyone who knew Ally way back when she was under a year old!!

I thank God every day for Ally. She is teaching me patience, and more about myself than I ever could have known without her. I love you, Ally!

Asperger's

2009-07-22T11:13:00.001-05:00

Aspergers Symptoms

Aspergers Symptoms

Aspergers symptoms are commonly described in children as:

-Problems with eye contact, body postures, facial expressions and other nonverbal communication.
-Often regarded by other children as weird or strange.
-Difficulty in, or inability to develop peer relationships.
-Repetitive body movements such as finger flapping, twisting or awkward body movements.
-Hard time empathizing with or understanding others’ feelings.
-Difficulty in understanding humor or “reading” other people.
-Obsession with one or two subjects such as cars, baseball statistics or weather, and engaging in one-sided, almost continuous conversations about these subjects without regard to the listeners’ responses.
-Has an odd posture or gait, moving clumsily and with poor coordination.
-Speaking in a voice that is monotonous, rigid or unusually fast.

Asperger Syndrome is considered to be one of the five pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), more often referred to today as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This is one of a distinct group of neurological conditions characterized by a greater or lesser degree of impairment in language and communication skills, as well as repetitive or restrictive patterns of thought and behavior.

The autism spectrum disorders can often be reliably detected by the age of 3 years, and in some cases as early as 18 months. Asperger Syndrome is named after an Austrian pediatrician, who in 1944, observed several children who had difficulty integrating social activities.

These children lacked nonverbal communications skills, were physically clumsy and had little or no empathy with their peers. They also had an all-absorbing interest in a single topic which dominated their conversations, and their speaking was either disjointed or overly formal.
Asperger described this as a personality disorder marked by social isolation, and termed the condition “autistic psychopathy”.

Researchers still do not understand the cause of of Asperger Syndrome, however there does seem to be a genetic component. There also seems to be structural abnormalities in several regions of the brain in those people with Asperger’s Syndrome. Some doctors refer to Asperger’s Syndrome as High Functioning Autism (HFA), although there is little consensus that there is a direct relation between the two.

The condition appears to be more common in boys than in girls. While some people with Asperger Syndrome have above-average intelligence, they typically have difficulty in social situations. As adults, many are able to have careers in fields like computer programming or science. There does not appear to be a language development delay, although normal social interactions are challenging.

Treatments

Children with Asperger’s symptoms, generally benefit from early specialized interventions focused on behavior management and social skills training. There is no single best treatment package for all children with AS, but most professionals agree that early intervention is best.

Because Asperger’s symptoms vary widely, making a diagnosis can be difficult. If you see signs of symptoms in your child, you should contact your doctor. A comprehensive evaluation by a team of professionals is needed to conclusively determine if your child has Asperger Syndrome.
Typically your child will be observed and you will be asked a number of questions about your child’s social interactions and communications skills. Tests can reliably assess your child’s level of speech, language, emotional and behavioral functioning.

Ideally, treatment for AS will coordinate therapies that focus on the three core symptoms of Asperger’s.
These are: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines and physical clumsiness. Building on the child’s interests and offering a predictable schedule are necessary for effective treatment. Actively engaging the child’s attention in highly structured activities helps reinforce acceptable behavior.

Successful therapy for Asperger Syndrome typically involves:
Social skills training—teaching children skills to interact more successfully.
Cognitive behavioral therapy—to help children to manage their emotions better.
Occupational or physical therapy—to help with poor motor coordination.
Specialized speech or language therapy—to teach normal conversational skills.
Medication—for conditions such as depression or anxiety.
Parent training and support—to teach parents behavioral techniques to use at home.

For more information and resources on Asperger’s symptoms and treatments, contact the National Institute of Mental Health, and the Asperger Syndrome Education Network.

Yay!!

2009-07-17T21:09:00.002-05:00

The van is again running!

Dennis called the guy back this morning,and was told that he was waiting for someone else to call him. Then he said that it was going to be a lot of hard work, and would take some time.

I told Dennis he should go take a nap to de-stress. The phone rang and it was DJ. He asked me if the van was running, and I said no. He said "tell Dad to go in my room and get my van key, and go see if it will start the van. I thought of that last night as I was falling asleep, but didn't tell you this morning because I thought you might think it was dumb". So after I hung up the phone, I thought "I can't drive anymore, but no one said anything about starting a car". I went out to the van, got in, inserted the key, and it started right up!! I believe it was God Who told DJ about using his key. I'm excited that it came from DJ because it shows me that God is busy in DJ.

Life with a running vehicle is sure different from life without a vehicle. I like the feeling of independence and freedom. But thank you to our wonderful son-in-law who drove Dennis around everywhere he needed to go on Wednesday. That was really appreciated, Gary.

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-16T23:49:00.002-05:00

It's Thursday, and I am thankful to be able to say that God sent someone here today to (look at the van. The guy used to own his own repair shop, but after 7 heart attacks,he has decided to retire, and just use his talents for repairing cars to help people. A wonderful family friend sent him here to us, and I am so grateful.(remember, Bonita, I said God would send someone here to us?) I called our church office this morning to ask if they have a directory of church members who will help people with various repairs. She said no, but that's a good idea. She said she would have one of pastors give us a call. He did call, but by then the first man had already come and was busy out front testing things under the hood. He ruled out the starter and the fuses. He thinks it's something to do with the ignition and the part would only cost $18.
A "cold" front moved through here last night, along with storms, and lowered our temps from 102 to 91. Of course, the humidity was way higher, but with the wind that was blowing all day, it felt pretty good. It's supposed to rain again, and the temperature tomorrow is supposed to be in the mid 80's. Supposed to be below 100 every day next week. Yay!

Didn't plan this.....

2009-07-15T00:32:00.002-05:00

This week hasn't been exactly what we had planned. Yesterday morning Dennis got up early to get the lawn mowed, trimmed, and edged before the heat hit full force. The yard looks very nice. But when Dennis wanted to start the van and put it back in the garage, it wouldn't start. The horn worked, the windows worked, the lights worked, but the van wouldn't start. He called a friend, who came over and took a look at it. Friend said he thought it was the battery because he could see some battery acid on the outside of the battery. Dennis keeps under the hood of the van looking like new, so I was surprised that battery acid would dare to spill out of the battery! With no money and no car, it was hard to go to leave here to shop for new battery. We have a fantastic friend (Grandma Doris to our girls) who came over here and loaned us the money for new battery. We thought we had a ride to WalMart, so Grandma Doris drove Dennis to the grocery store, came back here to bring Dennis back home, and she left. But our transportation to WalMart for a new battery didn't materialize. Then our daughter's husband called to say that he would take Dennis to the store for the battery, and bright and early this morning he came for Dennis. The two of them went to WalMart, and came home with a new battery, and high hopes.
*sigh* New battery wasn't what the van needed, I guess, because it still will not start. So with no way to go pay bills, or shop for groceries we sit here. I don't know yet what we will do, but I do know that God says "many are the troubles of the righteous, but the Lord God delivers him from them all". We are doing our part, and we are knowing that God is doing His part. That van doesn't stand a chance! It will be doing what it's created to do, because we are doing what we were created to do.....praise God!!

Last Friday Dennis took our three girls, along with grandchildren Emily, Abby, and Shane to the traveling Titanic museum. It was really hot outside...over 100, and there was a line waiting to get into the exhibit. Dennis said the exhibit people were handing out umbrellas so people could make shade while waiting to enter the exhibit, but it was still hot. But Dennis said it was cool inside the trailer, and the exhibit was really nice. Everyone came home all excited. Cheyenne kept telling me that "the captain always goes down with the ship". She said that to me at least a dozen times, then she got right in my face and said "you should google that because the captain always goes down with the ship". Today she said it again, then said "I wonder why he would go down with the ship and die when he could get off and live". Why indeed...........

Sunday cooking

2009-07-12T23:29:00.002-05:00

First of all, HAPPY 11th BIRTHDAY TO MY GRANDSON, CHANDLER!! I love you!

It's really busy around here now that the girls are out of school, and fun summer classes. And it's really hot every day. It was 103 today. Now I don't care who you are, that's HOT!! You can imagine, the girls are swimming every day.

Today I got brave and decided to let whatever girls were interested help me cook. Brianna was the most excited. First we made sour cream and chives potatoes. (don't ask me for the recipe....it comes from a box!). Then we made green bean casserole.
That's something easy for beginner cooks, and was easy for Brianna, too. (lol!) Then Cheyenne wanted to get in on the fun, too, so I let her do the adding of the onions. When they wouldn't eat of the food, I said I wanted to know what yucky thing they put in it if they wouldn't eat their own food!! So they decided to try some of the casserole, and they actually liked it! Ally didn't join in the fun of cooking, she was on the computer. She's going to grow up to be a lady Bill Gates! That girls loves to compute.