Uncategorized – Page 26 – Coffee and Inclusion

Close One!

For the first time since 1/1/14, I almost forgot to post.

We had another busy day, and Andrew is refusing to go to bed, so I would guess that blogging is just not high on my mental to-do list.

I’ll get my thoughts organized and (hopefully!) come back with a substantial post soon.

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First Saturday of Summer

Busy day! Baseball, dance, ice cream, shopping. Very tired.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzz…..

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Last Day of School

What a day.

As of 1:30pm today, all three kids began their summer break. Once again, I amazed myself by squeezing in a whole day of errands into two hours.

I popped into the kids’ school to spend a bit of time at their class parties, then we took off to check off some items on my To-Do list. Mission accomplished.

I am desperate to get my house in order this weekend, so we can get on a summertime chore schedule and not waste all kinds of time playing catch up with housework. It will take a small miracle to get this place in shape, so wish me luck there.

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5K

I’m not a runner. I don’t enjoy running. What possessed me to register for the Down Syndrome 5K? No idea.

But, after thinking about it, I realized that I ask Alex to do things that are difficult for him all the time. He often doesn’t get a choice; he has to try. If I make him do all these things and expect that he’ll try, then I should be open to doing the same.

Plus, participating in an event which raises money for the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio is always appealing.

Tonight’s event was fun, and I’ll plan to return next year. Maybe I’ll even train for it.

We’ll see how much pain I’m in tomorrow before I start making grand plans, though.

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Alex Strikes Again

Being the last week of school, I’ve been busy gathering gifts for all the teachers, aides, and support staff that help my kids at their schools. Andrew’s last day of preschool was today, so I had him sign the cards for his teachers last night. Alex threw a fit, because he wanted to sign the cards, too. I tried to explain to him that he would sign the cards for his teachers, but not Andrew’s. He was not a happy camper. Andrew signed his name, I put the cards away, and we moved on.

At least, I thought we did.

When I went to get the cards this morning, I found this:

There’s an extra name on this card!

Alex, my ever determined little stinker, apparently waited until I was busy with something else last night and then went back and added his name to Andrew’s cards. You’ve got to give him credit for not giving up, I suppose.

I’m sure that Andrew’s teachers got a kick out of seeing Al’s signature on their cards, as they were his teachers several years ago. What a long way he’s come since those days!

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Off Schedule

It’s amazing to me how one small change in my schedule can confuse me to the point where I don’t even know what day it is.

I took yesterday off work so I could attend Pioneer Day, and worked today instead, so all day long I thought it was either Monday or Wednesday (my typical work days). Since I’m working on Thursday rather than Friday, so I can be off for all the last day of school hoopla, my confusion will only grow. Imagine my utter state of bewilderment come next week, after I’m off for the Memorial Day holiday.

I’m puzzled just thinking about it. I better make sure I have lots of sticky notes so I can easily remind myself where to go, who to take, and what to do for the next week or so.

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Pioneer Day

Today was the third graders’ Pioneer Day. I was fortunate enough to juggle my schedule so I could volunteer at the event. I’m so glad I did!

Alex was a little apprehensive about wearing a pioneer costume, but he ultimately skipped off happily to the bus. I, on the other hand, was maybe a little too excited about wearing an authentic outfit; my mom was kind enough to sew a skirt, coordinating apron, and bonnet for me to wear (yes, volunteers have to dress the part, too!).

We make great pioneers!

The students visited many different stations, where they got to make butter, dip candles, stamp leather, play games, and experience several other activities. Al’s favorite, though, was square dancing. Anyone who knows my Alex knows how much he adores dancing. He has been practicing his square dancing steps for the last couple of weeks, and today I got to see him in action.

He was amazing! I thought he would be able to keep up, but I was impressed with his dancing. He looked like he was having such fun, too, which made it even better! All the kids in his class did a fantastic job with their dancing. It was fun to watch!

Bow to your partner!

I can’t think of a better way to spend a day off. Only four days of school left until summer break!

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Lovely Sunday

What a great day! Beautiful weather and time spent with family; can you ask for a more perfect Sunday?

We began our Sunday at church, and then spent the rest of the afternoon and evening celebrating my dad’s birthday. It was so nice outside (sunny but not hot) that the kids played in the backyard all day. They were able to spend some time with their cousins, and this evening they put together a “show” for the adults. It was so fun to watch them work together, and they really did a nice job.

As long as Alex will easily head off to bed, Mark and I can watch last week’s episode of Mad Men before we tune in to tonight’s installment. I honestly can’t think of a better way to wrap up our day.

Wishing you a great week!

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Tiny Dancer

Addie began the audition process today at her dance studio, hoping to join their Company for the upcoming season.

This girl is working hard, smiling through it all, and is showing a determination and maturity that far exceeds my expectations for her.

Obviously, there is no guarantee that she will be offered a spot in the Company, but if she isn’t, she already has a plan in place: continue to study dance, with new goals in place to help her reach Company for the next season.

Have I mentioned that she isn’t even eight years old yet?!?

No matter the outcome, this is such a fantastic experience for her. She is excited to practice for the next phase of auditions.

We are beyond proud of our beautiful ballerina.

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Hugs

In the last two days, I’ve heard of three deaths affecting those around me. One family member, one community member, and a former AVON client. All somewhat unexpected, their loved ones are now left to begin the mourning process this weekend.

It makes you stop and think; as difficult as it is, we should not get so caught up in our own daily drama. Hug you family, your friends, those who are important to you. Make every day count.

Thoughts and prayers going out, with hopes of strength and peace for these loved ones.

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