tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21435200025031276562024-02-07T12:59:56.864-08:00You are the smile to my faceYou are the smile to my face, you are the cheese to my macaroni, you are the horizon to my sky, you are the bacon to my eggs, you are the jelly to my peanut butter, you are the cookie to my milk...Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-61889265362466695872014-11-01T18:11:00.001-07:002014-11-01T18:11:24.822-07:00CraftshopThis blog has seen better days, folks. I've been busy. Raising kids and all. But I've come back with good news. Big news. Exciting news.....I'm NOT pregnant.<br />
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So, about a month ago, I was, <strike>stalking,</strike> on Instagram and I came across a profile that cause a light bulb to go off in my head. What if Tara and I hosted crafting workshops? We both LOVE to craft and are always texting each other our craft project outcomes. One text from me to her asking her if she was in and everything changed. We should do this. We COULD do this. We ARE doing this.<br />
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Craftshop is a crafting workshop. We will walk you through 3 craft projects, from beginning to end. Our first session is Saturday, January 17th at 1:00. You can find more information out on our website <a href="http://craftshop2.weebly.com/">http://craftshop2.weebly.com</a>.<br />
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We are just 2 friends who met in high school and came back together a few years ago after having kids. We bonded over many many things....but Craftshop is the ultimate collaboration.<br />
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We hope you can join us!<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-46526982277007499032014-01-14T19:26:00.003-08:002014-01-14T19:26:35.925-08:00Down syndrome and usI started writing this blog more than 2 years ago because Harper was born with Down syndrome. I haven't written much in general, let alone Down syndrome because I've been busy growing a human in my belly, delivering and caring for said human all while chasing around a crazy-active 2 year old. <div>
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Truth is that despite how busy I've been, Down syndrome has been in the front of my head more than ever. I know it shouldn't be. I should be preoccupied with Brooks...and I am but meanwhile I'm spending more time with Harper. Harper is only going to school while I'm on leave 2 mornings a week. Yep, she went from going approximately 50 hours a week to 10. She <i>needs</i> to go back full time but that isn't happening until I go back to work in February. I constantly struggle with trying to let her be a kid but also trying to teach her words, signs, and how to walk.</div>
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Since Harper's diagnosis we knew that we wanted her to have a sibling close in age to help push her etc. Harper is almost 2 1/2 but is no way comparable to other 2 year olds. She hasn't her her milestones like a typically developing 2 year old. </div>
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She is still not walking. Until I was in the hospital having Brooks, she would not like to stand on her feet or even think about taking steps while holding your hand. Now she is asking for you to help her walk. I think she needed the time away form school (and maybe me) to get motivated. Thanks to my parents for helping her.</div>
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She speaks her own language. Don't get me wrong, she has plenty of distinguishable words and signs she uses to communicate. "No," being her favorite. She understands what you are saying and can, usually, answer your question correctly with a yes or no.</div>
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She remembers what some animals say: dog and cat for sure. We are working on sheep, cow, bear, and snake. </div>
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People tell me that when she starts walking I'm in for a world of pain. What those people don't understand is Harper gets into a lot, and I mean A LOT, of trouble even though she isn't walking. She can quickly get around our house and find something to pull up on that she isn't supposed to. She also knows to do it while I'm feeding the baby. She is a handful now and walking is not going to change that. She is working so incredibly hard at everything that I can't wait for the day she speaks in complete sentences and can run to me because I will know the struggle it was for her to reach those milestones.</div>
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Back to my point: even though I am not comparing Harper to other 2 year olds daily like I would be at work, I do realize that Harper is behind her peers. It's hard on me but not for her. I've written in the past that it's my job as her mother to get over this. I'm trying. I'm trying to let her do things at her own pace. When I do (and I have) she starts to excel and meets her next milestone. This will always and forever be my problem and my struggle. </div>
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Down syndrome sucks. It really does. I know that without Down syndrome Harper wouldn't be the same girl but really it sucks. But Harper is loved and accepted by pretty much anyone she crosses paths with so I know I need to let my hatred for Down syndrome go. But it's easier said than done. </div>
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At the end of the day, I am sitting here in my bed blogging because my 2 favorite kids are fast asleep in their cribs and I'm drinking a glass of wine in my pjs. I am a proud mama to 2 great kids who will grow up to be the best of friends and it doesn't matter if Harper has Down syndrome. </div>
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-13301350712934034372014-01-08T07:23:00.001-08:002014-01-14T19:26:57.649-08:00Being a mom of 2I know there are lots of moms who read this blog. I have one question. What the hell were we thinking? My friend Becky and I had a quick conversation about this last week. She had 2 under the age of 2. I have 2 under 2 1/2. I know the lack of sleep, clean floors, endless diaper changes, and clean clothes (hell, who am I kidding, I'd take any shirt/robe/sweater that hasn't been spit up on and wear it out on a fancy date), is worth it. Wow that was a long run on sentence. I apologize but these 2 kids have decided to gang up on me. One is sleeping...the other is awake. One is eating...the other one is taking her newly independent stair climbing on her own, then falling. Both yell at the same time while the dog is barking outside at a leaf floating by. We are definitely in crazy town and have brought toddlerhood on the train ride with us. When both are asleep I try to either: sleep, clean, or last night I chose to drink a glass of wine.<br />
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Yep, booze. Booze and coffee is how I am surviving. Oh and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and the occasional Doc McStuffins.<br />
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All kidding aside, we are doing fine. Brooks is a great baby and a great addition to our family. He is starting to smile and giggle which makes my heart happy. He is pretty laid back, which is good because his sister IS NOT right now!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best we could do. </td></tr>
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-34150889434728158772014-01-03T19:39:00.000-08:002014-01-14T19:28:35.449-08:00Two years ago...Two years ago today was a hard day, we were preparing for Harper's open heart surgery. I remember that day like it was yesterday. I remember our pre-op appointments were terrifying. The lab techs couldn't find a vein to get enough blood work so they sent us home. Hours later the hospital called and told us we HAD to have blood done so we went back in. Tears streaming down my face. It was terrible lead up for what the real procedure was about.<br />
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I remember what Harper wore that day. I remember cuddling with her when we got home. I remember crying. I remember not being able to cry enough. I remember my friend Kristin coming to my house to hand deliver me a necklace that brought us so much luck. I remember taking a shower so I could fall to my knees to cry and pray. </div>
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Just like last year, I took Harper (and this year Brooks) to visit the PICU staff at AFCH. We brought them a basket of goodies to show our appreciation. We even got to see one of the nurses that helped take care of her. It was great to show our love and appreciation to the many who helped take care of our baby. </div>
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We were lucky that Harper recovered so quickly. We have been lucky that we haven't been back to be admitted. Many kids with Ds are frequent visitors to their local children hospitals and (knock on wood) we have avoided it. </div>
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Tomorrow we will celebrate. Between diaper changes, bottle feedings, and a crazy 2 year old screaming at me. But by gosh, I will make time to hold H a little tighter. </div>
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-56902635279227789672013-12-09T15:15:00.000-08:002013-12-09T15:15:26.486-08:00Brooks is here!Well he has arrived. Brooks Nikolas was born on Friday, November 22nd at 10:34 am. He was 6 lbs 14 ounces and 19 inches long. He is a calm, sweet, go-with-the-flow baby. We love him. His sister loves him....until she doesn't. Then she "gently" pushes him away.<br />
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There will be a birth story soon enough but for now, these pictures will have to do.<br />
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Harper's first few days after she was born were an emotional roller coaster. We were not sure if she would have to go to the NICU or what her plan was. I remember lots of blood tests, car seat checks etc. The nurses woke me up every 2 hours to feed her. With Brooks, we were thrown into it. No extra tests and no waking me up to feed him. Strange, I thought. But apparently normal!<br />
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He is a healthy 7 lbs 8 ounces and continues to eat and sleep like a champ. I can't wait to get to know him more!<br />
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Meanwhile, let's see what Miss Harper is up to.....<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-13575696594356082842013-10-18T19:10:00.000-07:002013-10-18T19:10:15.724-07:00A friend needs help...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This spring/early summer Harper was feeling yucky. We had taken her to the ER on a Sunday and they said nothing was wrong with her. Well I didn't agree. To make a long story short, my mom watched Harper the next day and we ended up taking her back to the ER. I told Andy to stay at work because they would probably just give her an IV and send her home. Well, an IV turned into blood work which lead to confusing results. We were told that her white blood cells and platelets were low so they ran more tests. I already knew that kids with Ds are more prone to Leukemia but this was a big slap in the face. They ran more tests and we were told if they came back abnormal that we would be admitted ASAP. Our luck, they came back half abnormal so it was our choice to be admitted or not. We chose to go home. Scary for us but not the point of this post. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can talk about my feelings and emotions at the time but I don't think I have to. The first thing I did was message my friend Becky. Becky's daughter, Tessa, is only 15 days older than Harper and they live in our area. We've met a few times and MADSS events. This year, Tessa was diagnosed with <b style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">myelodysplastic syndromes</b><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> (MDS, formerly known as </span><b style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">preleukemia</b><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">). I felt awful venting to her about the possibility of Harper having Leukemia when her daughter was living it. But Becky helped calm me. All from a Facebook message. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Harper's tests were read from a specialty doctor the next morning and she was cleared. It was a nasty virus taken over her system. Not Leukemia. But this post isn't about Harper. It's about Tessa. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today when I got home from work I was scrolling through IG and saw a picture of Tessa at the hospital.......Tessa's preleukemia has officially turned into Leukemia. She's scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning for her central line placement as well as a platelet transfusion. She needs prayers. Her mom, dad, big brother, and little sister need prayers. Tessa is a fun, loving, on the go two year old who shouldn't be spending her time in </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a hospital. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look at how sweet and sassy Tessa is. This could have, and still could, be Harper. While kids with Ds have a better chance of fighting off Leukemia, it's not something any child should go through. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">I'm squeezing Harper tighter tonight. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neither one of them wanted to cooperate</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go Tessa GO!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-83149278987733368112013-10-08T19:07:00.002-07:002013-10-08T19:07:55.647-07:00Down syndrome Awareness MonthOctober is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. In the past I have blogged every day to raise awareness. Frankly, that is just not going to happen. I guarantee it. I'm 33 weeks pregnant and feeling every centimeter of it. I'm tired and chasing after a 2 year old is hard work. At least I'm honest people. I'm spent by the time I get home from work.<br />
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I think that Down syndrome has become a part of our every day life that I forget it's there most days. Did I forget that Harper can't walk yet? Hell no. But her burst of language makes up for it. Her sassiness makes up for it. She is who she is. And she WILL hit her milestones when she is good and ready to. And on her own terms.<br />
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With that said......I've had a few things happen to me lately regarding Down syndrome.<br />
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I was on a panel in August to speak to potential Genetic Counseling students. I have a great relationship with my genetic counselor and she asked me to be on the patient panel to tell prospective students my experience with genetic counselors. It was a fantastic opportunity and one that I took seriously. While I wasn't there to speak specifically about Down syndrome it was still my job to advocate and raise awareness. I was able to tell them how their job would impact a life. I felt like I contributed something to society and maybe helped a few students decide on their career path.<br />
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I've meet a few soon-to-be moms who may or may not be pregnant with a child who has Ds. Exciting right? Well, I have to take myself back to that time where is wasn't exciting and remember how I felt. It was scary. Both of these mom's do not have an official diagnosis. One is far enough along that she is going to wait until he is born. The other is just starting her second trimester and has testing options she hasn't decided on. But it's hard for me to contain my excitement. Yep, excitement. To me a baby is a baby. Whether he/she has Trisomy 21 or not. That baby deserves to be loved and for someone to be excited about their arrival. I want those moms to see how happy Harper is and how happy Harper makes me, her dad, her family and friends. I wanted so badly to celebrate my pregnancy with Harper that I want these moms to be able to as well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over it. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Really over it. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva in the making </td></tr>
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This is the part of the post that has taken me the longest to write. I have drafts sitting waiting to be published but nothing came out right. I'm sure not sure I did it justice. Here goes....<br />
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Through Facebook, I have been able to keep in touch with Tanya, a friend of mine from high school. Tanya and her older sister Tina, had an aunt, Ruthie. Ruthie lived with them growing up. Ruthie had Down syndrome.<br />
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At the time I had no idea how much of an impact Ruthie would have on me and my family. I wish I could go back and tell my high school self to pay closer attention to Ruthie. I do have memories of Ruthie. She was at all the sporting events Tanya or Tina were a part of. I remember going to Tanya's house and Ruthie was there. She was friendly and funny and didn't make me feel awkward. She was one of the few people with Ds that I actually knew. You could tell she was loved and that she loved fiercely.<br />
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While I hadn't seen Ruthie in years I had thought about her often after Harper was born. Ruthie gave me hope that Harper would be loved and taken care of. Ruthie gave me peace of mind. She was a living testament to what I want Harper to be. She wasn't a burden to society. She was a blessing. <br />
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I've thought of her even more now that I'm pregnant. Ruthie was the older sister. Her younger brother loved her. Makes me have hope for that future that Harper and her little brother will have a special bond that will be unbreakable.<br />
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Not that long ago I heard that Ruthie was sick. I started to think about her more. Think about Harper's future. Would she live with her younger brother? Would she be an aunt? What does her future hold? In the beginning of September, Ruthie passed away. She passed away from a family who loved her fiercely. To quote Tanya, "Ruthie is the most amazing person I've ever known or loved." That my friends is what life is about.<br />
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As I write this I'm watching Harper on the monitor holding her baby doll while she should be sleeping and saying "hi" over and over again. She melts me. And I'm so proud that she is my daughter and excited to see what type of big sister she will be.<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-32507408728743807422013-09-02T17:26:00.000-07:002013-09-02T17:26:05.349-07:00What's been going on.....Well a lots been going on around here since I blogged last. I'll skip the apologies but this pregnancy has gotten the best of me.<br />
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Yep, 28 weeks tomorrow! Welcome to the third trimester! This little boy is due November 26th!<br />
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First things first, Harper is TWO!<br />
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We had a luau themed birthday party. It was adorable and Harper actually enjoyed opening the gifts. She was a little side tracked by the gifts but once we put all of the wrapping paper away, she realized she had some AWESOME gifts.</div>
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And here is a party belly shot....</div>
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And Harper's new obsession.....she has turned into quite the naughty girl.</div>
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-92146965539162831882013-03-06T18:46:00.002-08:002013-03-06T18:46:29.971-08:00Spread the Word to End the Word<br />
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On March 6th please help us to Spread the Word to End the Word. What word? The R word. Retard. </div>
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The R-word is intended to be a medical label. Not a word to describe Harper. </div>
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March 6th is the day to promise to stop using the word retard/retarded. I know that many of you have used this word without understanding how hurtful it can be. I'm guilty of it. But now that I understand the true meaning, I've stopped and you can to. Go<a href="http://www.r-word.org/" target="_blank"> here</a> to sign the pledge to eliminate the demeaning use of the R-word. </div>
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Harper is a person. Not a medical label. There are so many other words that you can use instead: dumb, crazy, silly, ridiculous. Choose your words wisely and with a loving heart. </div>
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Have you signed yet? Do it for Harper and her buddies. But do it for yourself. You'll feel better once you sign it. And drop me a comment once you sign it so I can be proud of you too! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">You better sign it! Do it for me!<br /></td></tr>
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-71128279433126705612013-02-23T19:37:00.002-08:002013-02-23T19:37:33.608-08:00Milestones, crash of 2013, and patienceHarper has been busy. Kicking butt and taking names. She is growing up before my eyes. That is part of the reason I was so upset when my phone crashed. Along with the crash came tears because I lost some pictures of my precious girl.<br />
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Right before the epic crash of 2013, I emailed myself these.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo0XBdnRY2RWQd5gdlgJscsHyIG2s0RAN9qoWEveRX7LxBJCl0C9u8UEyWjqvezNcklmmdHw6TCRigTE_gEJIWxNeGAk5MKkfNDxzn-v4ExrUvESSzx8E8qSPPDBSIqzivGy5ofuES5w/s1600/H+and+muffin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOo0XBdnRY2RWQd5gdlgJscsHyIG2s0RAN9qoWEveRX7LxBJCl0C9u8UEyWjqvezNcklmmdHw6TCRigTE_gEJIWxNeGAk5MKkfNDxzn-v4ExrUvESSzx8E8qSPPDBSIqzivGy5ofuES5w/s320/H+and+muffin.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muffin face</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyQXYsl-RCUiDt6Pvnv-Dr_Z9nHfPcWJSz5uXFDjEzMsl9AbvWvq_4iT9d90N5Gzjfy5SebisXt_tM9F55_6VfYY8cJETd6eZw4Y2B2lVeBVuHB5M7ldu0ntYi2eTkvnHiiqGoLAixGI/s1600/H+and+Brew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwyQXYsl-RCUiDt6Pvnv-Dr_Z9nHfPcWJSz5uXFDjEzMsl9AbvWvq_4iT9d90N5Gzjfy5SebisXt_tM9F55_6VfYY8cJETd6eZw4Y2B2lVeBVuHB5M7ldu0ntYi2eTkvnHiiqGoLAixGI/s320/H+and+Brew.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watch out Brewer. I'm going to get you with my mallet. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7FFSdtKaVvbFpOUTQQdXa57O23FGr3Ug82IiMjr-xEaVB1U6kFeytPVvy-cLy_VSQtWzgI2q6sf7Z3znWeNuzJCiqXJRP3Ua-vCavU7uqJ8mVNOewJfKkjUfJjHkBTNYnU9x4dOHn28/s1600/glasses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7FFSdtKaVvbFpOUTQQdXa57O23FGr3Ug82IiMjr-xEaVB1U6kFeytPVvy-cLy_VSQtWzgI2q6sf7Z3znWeNuzJCiqXJRP3Ua-vCavU7uqJ8mVNOewJfKkjUfJjHkBTNYnU9x4dOHn28/s320/glasses.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trying on glasses. Pray for me. H kept them on for about 2.2 seconds. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCitWlkxjEn3CAl8cconE8UYe7M2aDHWBb-XOduShQm3Vq5MmUDpuZlGPevunbDzx5DGoTzwFdfFlYkp9ebSA1yOWj6mlkGe6LIEoUXcov1f3U2NvIuhTe3pbwy-bmx3TL8xjSRNf4cc/s1600/in.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCitWlkxjEn3CAl8cconE8UYe7M2aDHWBb-XOduShQm3Vq5MmUDpuZlGPevunbDzx5DGoTzwFdfFlYkp9ebSA1yOWj6mlkGe6LIEoUXcov1f3U2NvIuhTe3pbwy-bmx3TL8xjSRNf4cc/s320/in.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma O'Connell taught me how to put things "in." Even Sophie the giraffe can fit in the cookie jar. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFf4WGFg1IBb54j-MjHZBYMw3Z5OQ8YlyCpXwabFbqOqm-sA5WLPZ4nqVHJh-zqLwwdT0FX1qTynBY6Q7M8rbI4C1C1NelF59Dj-NUMcvFzMioos4uM-bJmh1w0QjyZw0H5aFBEU1fTw/s1600/sleepy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFf4WGFg1IBb54j-MjHZBYMw3Z5OQ8YlyCpXwabFbqOqm-sA5WLPZ4nqVHJh-zqLwwdT0FX1qTynBY6Q7M8rbI4C1C1NelF59Dj-NUMcvFzMioos4uM-bJmh1w0QjyZw0H5aFBEU1fTw/s320/sleepy.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleeping on Daddy.</td></tr>
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You can see there have been some milestones hit and some changes coming our way.<br />
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While my mom watched H on Monday she taught her how to put things "in." Or in Harper's world, shove everything you can into the small cookie jar that sings. You can imagine how upset she gets when the cookie jar is full but there is a naughty rattle sitting on the floor instead of in the cookie jar. Damn rattle.<br />
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Girlfriend has definitely found her sassy pants this week.<br />
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<i>Insert picture of H being sassy. Oh wait, my phone crashed. Dang it. </i><br />
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Harper had an appointment at the eye doctor earlier this week. It was quickly pointed out that Miss H is nearsighted (just like her mama) and needs glasses at a very young age as well (crap, just like me). Cue the wrestling of trying to pick out the appropriate frame.<br />
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I was actually trying to get a picture of the sample glasses while they were on Miss Sassy Pants, but the poor frames only stayed on her pretty face for about 4 seconds. Please pray for <strike>me</strike> my patience. I'm up for the battle. Bring it on new glasses!<br />
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The frames should arrive in about 2 weeks. Plenty of time for me to starting banking my patience away for the fights we are going to have.<br />
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Fingers crossed!<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-56613884693616468192013-02-17T08:39:00.001-08:002013-02-17T08:39:43.124-08:00Growing Up Health guest postIn January I was asked to write a post for <i> Growing Up Healthy: A UW Health Kids Blog.</i> I was honored to be asked and honored that the post has been so well received. You can read it <a href="http://blogs.uwhealth.org/kids/" target="_blank">here</a>. <div>
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Make sure you leave a comment and follow their great blog. Hopefully they will ask me to help again! </div>
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Happy Sunday! </div>
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-42818262003242139822013-02-10T15:00:00.000-08:002013-02-10T15:00:21.483-08:00Polar Plunge 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My last post resonated with a ton of you. Thank you for the emails and comments. I'm glad to know that I'm not alone in my feelings. It makes me feel like I'm a good mom. I appreciate every comment you leave.<br />
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Of course, whenever I post about my hatred of milestones, Harper hits a new one. She is signing more! I attribute this to me using it with her but really she caught on at school. And she hasn't looked back since!<br />
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Having this sign, ok well only one sign down, has made our life easier! I actually know when she wants more and I don't have to guess anymore! I'm trying to catch her on video doing this but I'm normally clapping at her with approval!<br />
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With Harper in mind, Andy and Uncle Jeffy did the Polar Plunge in Madison this weekend. This is clearly the dumbest thing the two of them have ever done (second is putting the dogs shock collar on) but it definitely was the sweetest.<br />
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Months ago these two got it in their heads that they would raise money for Special Olympics and jump in the freezing cold water. If that wasn't enough they decided to jump in as Bert and Ernie. Cue the incredibly scary costumes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEi16YgFSeuwRtforOHEjePh3Du3s_KvuH_I_YK0t6PtOzEp6du2oJMFgNn58zUjNl1YL6kdvblNVBE8n0vH3zRphbSpBxCdrUsQQn0nk38aOREgxGUjWRaP4p3zRmgUllRCSxudXOqJg/s1600/polar+plunge+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEi16YgFSeuwRtforOHEjePh3Du3s_KvuH_I_YK0t6PtOzEp6du2oJMFgNn58zUjNl1YL6kdvblNVBE8n0vH3zRphbSpBxCdrUsQQn0nk38aOREgxGUjWRaP4p3zRmgUllRCSxudXOqJg/s320/polar+plunge+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was before we even left the house. And believe me, they were full of doubt. </td></tr>
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When we got there, we quickly realized that not only was the jumping into the freezing cold water in February going to suck but the waiting to jump into the water was also going to suck. Lucky for us, we were bundled up! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61R56fyCpsdzfzyhSYNN4haAo7jtXJJuVqcR7btwjUN5W9be0-KeGdNJjGxgw3aoPVYfTi5NiISRzrI7AcfmbsCWvEvvsCufyAj-4Su1uNoiWyYImFB-EKD7RE61XP8Vv_NJ1iBdwIWc/s1600/polar+plunge+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61R56fyCpsdzfzyhSYNN4haAo7jtXJJuVqcR7btwjUN5W9be0-KeGdNJjGxgw3aoPVYfTi5NiISRzrI7AcfmbsCWvEvvsCufyAj-4Su1uNoiWyYImFB-EKD7RE61XP8Vv_NJ1iBdwIWc/s320/polar+plunge+5.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Jeffy/Ernie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpX6X7iY4rmOTURBuJlp28akQsd4HhzrB3aL3mwi9ZYGm1PLBVxDmWnrQQpEJCkksu7mfB8637T2GzNUZijyDp5HDCZ0eWy9uaN54JavU1i1-kIsO-kAIbzxK5ed4CLuQmC3ut0isfrxE/s1600/polar+plunge+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpX6X7iY4rmOTURBuJlp28akQsd4HhzrB3aL3mwi9ZYGm1PLBVxDmWnrQQpEJCkksu7mfB8637T2GzNUZijyDp5HDCZ0eWy9uaN54JavU1i1-kIsO-kAIbzxK5ed4CLuQmC3ut0isfrxE/s320/polar+plunge+9.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andy/Bert</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrNo-9uJ7UfIJS3tXeOwctXkfjx2yNsLG9q8mmqBGKsKmnHIraRdj-BxLKCtfJtUTEzjKV_LvczRLpzMITuatEYOU87A1OTS-kBNfgfzDRKDrA35caattzsHwGmWdMdikswq10dVI1jM/s1600/polar+plunge+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqrNo-9uJ7UfIJS3tXeOwctXkfjx2yNsLG9q8mmqBGKsKmnHIraRdj-BxLKCtfJtUTEzjKV_LvczRLpzMITuatEYOU87A1OTS-kBNfgfzDRKDrA35caattzsHwGmWdMdikswq10dVI1jM/s320/polar+plunge+6.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBIE7K3HtS2Zv7DtpxVpB0ouN01oPneC7AAgpyV92rR3AP2dTmtnZEK9KHwWpaqQ_v_sAdgyCq1YMA4qAetb4EiTLUSTpQNc4AMm_bkY6YNXCMYCc0G9FgfTaMAuAT0pq3m2pgl5uY4U/s1600/polar+plunge+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBIE7K3HtS2Zv7DtpxVpB0ouN01oPneC7AAgpyV92rR3AP2dTmtnZEK9KHwWpaqQ_v_sAdgyCq1YMA4qAetb4EiTLUSTpQNc4AMm_bkY6YNXCMYCc0G9FgfTaMAuAT0pq3m2pgl5uY4U/s320/polar+plunge+7.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More waiting and probably rethinking this idea. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rxb3vD_CyjiTN65ki_yH2b2NJazBT1UVI3MvXTpD2YkENBILvb6eOPGg7ryZcZ5zr2Vk03IeqsPBgke0jv4GtEovM0ruVVocgm0NkXyzm_11dJxBZZjU8bbFAgCafKuS-CTiUIbus80/s1600/polar+plunge+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rxb3vD_CyjiTN65ki_yH2b2NJazBT1UVI3MvXTpD2YkENBILvb6eOPGg7ryZcZ5zr2Vk03IeqsPBgke0jv4GtEovM0ruVVocgm0NkXyzm_11dJxBZZjU8bbFAgCafKuS-CTiUIbus80/s320/polar+plunge+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harper was definitely not amused. She didn't make a peep. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzKzMZ6fMBOVKTrEincEqDly4j1dvaHJbsWlTRQJFxJ9VEY78NxiQoewtqxW04goyQ_dll_lIfx8_XbAO0XjpJMqptph6Gmmog907FnA_Xyu-eKXiK6vo_SzQHttWEtwwjKwLmFaU524/s1600/polar+plunge+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzKzMZ6fMBOVKTrEincEqDly4j1dvaHJbsWlTRQJFxJ9VEY78NxiQoewtqxW04goyQ_dll_lIfx8_XbAO0XjpJMqptph6Gmmog907FnA_Xyu-eKXiK6vo_SzQHttWEtwwjKwLmFaU524/s320/polar+plunge+4.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apparently Jeff thought Andy was going to back out!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiui30459SMF4eNMbIJTEqy8M6mEHJQwXlkib334yLPyz-CiR-__tUoIVonT0fIxKsOJhjscZHiXaphDKdzdeMlSHF_RrJzT5QHcqVejPq1Iee-b8i8qpqeJyLP7MMZhfKugvkYbdUreeI/s1600/polar+plunge+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiui30459SMF4eNMbIJTEqy8M6mEHJQwXlkib334yLPyz-CiR-__tUoIVonT0fIxKsOJhjscZHiXaphDKdzdeMlSHF_RrJzT5QHcqVejPq1Iee-b8i8qpqeJyLP7MMZhfKugvkYbdUreeI/s320/polar+plunge+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cannonball! Notice the firefighter turning his head to avoid the splash! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvXyhFmKBG9IWRpwVJeJyfyuSCos8RSDlJ9g6kihj_ygRkIBr_NZc2slwXpEoSj_-1llLpnAZuT0CD8n1lQuNaRuSJh1iEKvH-kJgzmHfKt3oaKfQYBhezS8wFgn4DVWV9Q_q2OrQF4I/s1600/polar+plunge+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvXyhFmKBG9IWRpwVJeJyfyuSCos8RSDlJ9g6kihj_ygRkIBr_NZc2slwXpEoSj_-1llLpnAZuT0CD8n1lQuNaRuSJh1iEKvH-kJgzmHfKt3oaKfQYBhezS8wFgn4DVWV9Q_q2OrQF4I/s320/polar+plunge+8.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Done. And freezing. </td></tr>
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Thanks to all who donated toward the cause! Will there be a next year?! Only those two knuckleheads know the answer to that! </div>
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-91638191103856125222013-02-01T18:50:00.001-08:002013-02-01T18:50:26.551-08:00Ramblings...I know I've posted somewhat about this before but I've been thinking of this often but it's hard to explain. So here goes.....<br />
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I know Harper has Down syndrome. You know Harper has Down syndrome. But do strangers? Or do they just know there is something "wrong" with her? </div>
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We can't leave the house without someone stopping to tell us that Harper "is the cutest baby they have ever seen!" Or "her eyes are so blue," "she's so tiny." "How old is she?" When I say she is almost 17 months, I sometimes get a look. A look that says, "hmmm, she's awfully tiny for her age. I wonder what her deal is." </div>
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I always respond with a very kind THANK YOU and yes, she is a peanut for her age. That's it. But the voice inside my head is saying, "I can see you racking your brain to figure out what is wrong with my child." </div>
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But I don't. Not yet anyway. I'm too nice of a person (on the outside). </div>
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Harper had a therapy session at school on Friday and I had to leave the room. I couldn't take it. The therapist was having her do something that I didn't think she could do. I <i>knew </i>she was going to hit her head. Sure enough, she did. And she cried. And then I walked away. I know the therapist was pushing her to work harder. Hell, I do it too. But it was my breaking point for the day. Harper is the oldest in her classroom and all of her younger friends are getting ready to move to the Toddler room. It's not safe for H to move with. She isn't mobile enough. But I am anxious for that day to come. It means she is a real toddler. </div>
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The last two weeks has had me shed too many tears comparing Harper's abilities to others abilities. I've posted about this before but it HAS TO STOP. I'm trying. Really I am. But it's not easy. At. All.<br />
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Good news.....I've been asked to do something awesome for an awesome company. Could I be any more vague?! More details to follow.<br />
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Happy weekend everyone! </div>
Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-82077053050213958672013-01-14T14:44:00.005-08:002013-01-14T14:44:44.790-08:00Funk, not funky. I'm in a funk. A post-holiday funk has turned into a parenting funk, a friend funk, a wife funk, the list goes on. I'm a creature of routine. It makes this Type A girl less crazy. But I am craving something different. Maybe I'm growing up but routine is what is killing me lately.<br />
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Take something little, like Harper's meals. They can be very "routine" and "boring." Because, let's face it. She has 2 teeth. I can't give her steak. (well I could but...) Last weekend I added in hard boiled eggs. Not allergic and she liked it. One more thing I can add to the menu for H.<br />
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My friend Tara and I dig crafts. She is able to find more time (or just stays up later than I do) and creates more than me. But we have similar tastes. And unlimited text messages bc we frequently take pics of our creations and send them to each other. This friendship has blossomed in 2012 and has helped me branch out. Even though despite her persuasions, grey will still be my favorite paint color of all time. The point of this story is that this friendship has helped me out of a "routine." Her text pictures of mustache straws or her favorite mirror she repurposed gets me out of a funk when I need it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7cw-petWtK0PAS9B3t6c-0nd058KtU1OtU6y9SVqqKIauhNxb-hGipJWeqgdG0lbx3mlOAdH1Vxui3KGTXzLGYXP8mPs9h4LWI6IPPoJIJyLyYV27FgP3Dbom9aYeppX8Tp_Ybo9FZE/s1600/taramirror.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7cw-petWtK0PAS9B3t6c-0nd058KtU1OtU6y9SVqqKIauhNxb-hGipJWeqgdG0lbx3mlOAdH1Vxui3KGTXzLGYXP8mPs9h4LWI6IPPoJIJyLyYV27FgP3Dbom9aYeppX8Tp_Ybo9FZE/s200/taramirror.jpeg" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't is amazing?</td></tr>
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As I've gotten older and had a child, my "me time" has become sparse to none. It's a normal thing. I am selfless when it comes to Harper and that's okay. Most of the time. But as I write this, my back is aching and their is a $50 Spafinder gift card (thanks Aunt Sharon) staring at me and yelling "<i>go get a massage Kaiti. Go on, you deserve it." </i>But I have yet to call the spa and make an appointment.<br />
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<i></i>I feel guilty. Why do parents feel bad taking times for themselves? I know that massage will make me a better mom. How do I know this? Because I can barely play on the floor with H without needing a walker afterwards.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6RuLpjC_YsoHZgjfT0aCpGBcPeGguCCXbVxoBT375LOgcHqy7wTaYfoi6St76vREiXVa5og6Vde5s0NKD6H1GJwfBCtR5HivjrQJE8XB7kG9om1-vbfYeVl2yV1acbTLz2yNVkRLTKQ/s1600/1%253A142.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6RuLpjC_YsoHZgjfT0aCpGBcPeGguCCXbVxoBT375LOgcHqy7wTaYfoi6St76vREiXVa5og6Vde5s0NKD6H1GJwfBCtR5HivjrQJE8XB7kG9om1-vbfYeVl2yV1acbTLz2yNVkRLTKQ/s320/1%253A142.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See me on the floor? Yeah, getting up wasn't easy! </td></tr>
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As I settle into 2013, I have a list of goals I want to accomplish. I plan on having some of them will go off of my routine. Hopefully creating a much funk-less 2013. Now, off to schedule my massage, get my craft on and spend some time on the floor with my kid! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_K_zQUJS9vQu1SK8FYa_UaXm2V32TJRJVEhKEZc2KHWuXeLVEUOrjGujwcuM5iyiF_QPcLlFHaFQ20PYNumADwFf8HpC3hOMge9GuldoIQkmYn3r2usaphYJJFOkEGzLrvk_ZZfp3YGU/s1600/1%253A12.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_K_zQUJS9vQu1SK8FYa_UaXm2V32TJRJVEhKEZc2KHWuXeLVEUOrjGujwcuM5iyiF_QPcLlFHaFQ20PYNumADwFf8HpC3hOMge9GuldoIQkmYn3r2usaphYJJFOkEGzLrvk_ZZfp3YGU/s200/1%253A12.jpeg" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Badger Basketball Game. She was over the pictures. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vOsouQ26Fsz6fgrFKVqx5tViXGfFpsv9Jb2LIllhZPNi1ko-qDevziWhqasNfuHnHGHukxaamyrH0JsKt_YdpHh5DMldWMrRFdtXvlwH7NngNufLCs7zaDURceoptYZuRmRzxEo_uno/s1600/1%253A14.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vOsouQ26Fsz6fgrFKVqx5tViXGfFpsv9Jb2LIllhZPNi1ko-qDevziWhqasNfuHnHGHukxaamyrH0JsKt_YdpHh5DMldWMrRFdtXvlwH7NngNufLCs7zaDURceoptYZuRmRzxEo_uno/s200/1%253A14.jpeg" width="149" /></a></div>
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-12438653020508741122013-01-12T08:17:00.002-08:002013-01-12T08:17:37.555-08:00Just as I posted about milestones.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Go figure. I vent about milestones and Harper goes and does this for the first time! Girlfriend has her own agenda! </div>
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-69470178760367878352013-01-07T16:34:00.000-08:002013-01-07T16:34:03.252-08:00MilestonesI hate milestones. Scratch that. I have a love hate relationship with milestones. Harper doesn't care. I realize this is my problem. Which makes this "problem" even worse.<br />
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At 16 months Harper:</div>
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*sits</div>
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*has 2 teeth</div>
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*rolls like there is no tomorrow</div>
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*babbles.....a lot</div>
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*eats all table food. A. LOT. of table food. Has a reputation to uphold with her eating skills.<br />
*can stand with help<br />
*self-feeds<br />
*understands peek-a-boo<br />
*claps<br />
*tries to work an iPhone<br />
*and the list goes on...<br />
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Notice crawling is not on that list. Or getting to sitting on her own. I can't help be antsy.<br />
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She has just started to put weight on her feet for more than a few seconds and without bending at her waist to look at her shoes (totally my kid). </div>
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I know the real crawling is coming soon. She can crawl. It's a non-traditional crawl. More like a slither. But she can do it. She is close she just continues to lack motivation. Needless to say, she is content. I want her to push herself but I have to remember.....she is her own person. I can't change her personality. And nor do I want to. </div>
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This is MY problem. I need to get over this. And I know that <strike>many</strike> all moms want their child to be the greatest. This isn't a struggle that is only mine. How do you cope? How do you stop comparing? And why do we care? I know she will get there in the end.<br />
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-41248945622242127012013-01-04T13:16:00.000-08:002013-01-04T13:16:44.303-08:00Harper's Heart DayOne year ago today Harper had her broken heart fixed. I remember the day and the days leading up to it perfectly. This past year and made me more thankful for everything we have. A healthy family, a new house, careers, and great friends and family.<br />
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Harper and I spent the morning delivering goodies to the PICU at the American Family Children's Hospital. It's a tradition that I'm going to <strike>try to </strike>keep. Just as we pulled up to the hospital my tears started. When we entered the 4th floor I was a mess. Tears of happiness and thankfulness. I've never been so thankful to complete strangers. These people were holding their breath with us every step of the way and helping our little H become stronger. Harper didn't understand what we were doing today but she definitely brought the cuteness!<br />
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If you want a reminder of our story you can find it <a href="http://smiletomyface.blogspot.com/2012/01/surgery-day-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>. For all of those mama's who helped me through that difficult time with your prior knowledge THANK YOU! I have spent the last year trying to comfort as many moms in the same position I was in a year ago. It's a great feeling to have this heart surgery in the past.<br />
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It's a new year and my resolution is to blog more. Not just for you. But for me. It helps me. It's my "me" time and, clearly, I didn't do a lot of it this last year.<br />
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But for now, a quick review in pictures.<br />
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Now off to celebrate a happy heart!!<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-18728844672489510282012-12-24T09:26:00.004-08:002012-12-24T09:26:59.889-08:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I will post again about how 2012 treated us but until then.....Happy Holidays! </div>
Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-37185952219677231282012-12-20T19:14:00.001-08:002012-12-20T19:14:22.565-08:00Christmas 2012<div class="sflyProductPreviewWidget" style="width:425px; height:494px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetTop" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/top.gif);"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetCenter" style="height:482px; padding: 0 6px 0 6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bg.gif); background-repeat:repeat-y;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewLogo" style="width: 105px; height: 34px; padding: 14px 0 0 14px;"><img src="http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/logo.gif" style="padding: 0; background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none;"></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewContainer" style="height:350px; text-align:center; padding: 0;"><a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=3AbtmblwzZuWg&eid=115"><img src="http://images-community.shutterfly.com/prs/v1/3AbtmblwzZw/3AbtmblwzZw4s/p/67b0de21b3127d902548/JPEG/1356059630000/0/" style="padding: 0; background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none;"></a></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewMessageContainer" style="height:55px; background-color:#f4f4e9; text-align:center; padding: 15px 0 15px 0; line-height: 19px;"><div class="sflyProductPreviewTitle" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 15px; color: #333333; font-weight: bold;"><span>Gallery Greetings Holiday Card</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewSEOText" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>Create custom Christmas cards this holiday at <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards" style="color: #6666cc;">Shutterfly</a>.</span></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewViewCollection" style="font-family: arial, sans-seris; font-size: 13px; color: #333333;"><span>View the entire <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery" style="color: #6666cc;">collection</a> of cards.</span></div><img width="1" height="1" border="0" style="padding: 0; background: #ffffff; border: none; box-shadow: none;" src="https://os.shutterfly.com/b/ss/sflyshareprod/1/H.15/111?pageName=sharekey&c1=msc&c2=blogger" /></div></div><div class="sflyProductPreviewWidgetBottom" style="height:6px; background-image:url(http://cdn.staticsfly.com/img_/share/preview/msc/widget/bottom.gif);"></div></div>Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-64229088669714934962012-12-03T17:06:00.000-08:002012-12-03T17:06:29.517-08:00"Not a real problem," problem. I want to blog tonight. I honestly do. I've thought about this post all day. Problem is......I can't post any pictures to go along with it.<br />
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Both my computer AND my external hard drive is at capacity. What a crappy predicament. For now, you have to trust me when I say that Harper has been extra cute lately.<br />
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It must be that extra chromosome!<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-54993903463422343482012-11-25T16:35:00.001-08:002012-11-25T16:35:37.455-08:00Down syndrome thankfulnessEvery Thanksgiving my blogger friend, Patti, puts out a call for us moms to send her a picture of our little one. Patti is the mother of 10 and one on the way. She is crazy but in an awesome way! Her youngest, Lily, also has Down syndrome. Us Ds mama's stick together. She is one of the reasons why this blog has readers, besides my friends and family who felt obligated to read it!<br />
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She gave the sign and I immediately sent her the cutest picture of Harper to date. Read the blog <a href="http://babynumber10.blogspot.com/2012/11/thankful-for-you.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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There are so many cute kids and wonderful reasons we are grateful for our children. Take a minute to look at the cutes kids, read the awesome reasons we are thankful and remember to think twice about judging a child or a parent of a child who is differently-abled.<br />
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-78447533243212481132012-11-24T06:57:00.001-08:002012-11-25T16:22:59.200-08:00Thankful, happy, and some more thankfulWe are amidst the season of thankfulness. I am trying to be more present and to be thankful in the present rather than looking back. That's easy to do when you have her rolling around your floor.<br />
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And even though she is pulling my hair ALL. THE. TIME. I am still thankful for her. I guess pulling hair is a typical milestone!</div>
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I think on a daily basis how blessed we are to have Harper in our lives. But it's days like Thanksgiving that make having her a tad more sweet. Starting traditions because of her melts my heart because it means my family is, well, a family. </div>
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Hug your littles a little closer tonight. Juliet is now dancing in heaven and her parents have to live without her. <a href="http://proverbs31girl.com/?p=2171" target="_blank">Here</a> is the link to the slideshow that was played at her funeral earlier this week. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. </div>
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-28238121486861760982012-11-12T16:31:00.000-08:002012-11-12T16:31:15.818-08:00Blessed and help needed It was about this time last year that I started praying. I took a break from it for quite a number of years. But love and the fear of losing someone that means the world to you makes you change as a person and start grasping at anything that could potential make the situation better.<br />
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My prayers and your prayers delivered. Harper soared through her surgery and her recovery. She was crowned our fighter and champion.<br />
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I haven't stopped praying. I don't go to church like I did last year before her surgery, but I don't feel required to attend to be heard.<br />
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My birthday, November 4th, marked Harper's 10 month post op from open heart surgery. More proof that she is meant to be with us.<br />
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I know I haven't posted regularly in quite sometime and I am working on mending that. I haven't seen the comments as I did a year ago. But I know you, my readers, are still there. I see the traffic and am well aware that I still have a captive audience.<br />
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I am asking a favor. You pulled through for us many times but now it's time to pay it forward and help out another baby girl in need.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6a401a; font-family: 'Bitstream Vera Serif', Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://proverbs31girl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2043.jpg" style="color: #eb836a; text-decoration: none;" title="IMG_2043"><img alt="IMG_2043" class="attachment-medium" height="300" src="http://proverbs31girl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_2043-153x300.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" title="IMG_2043" width="153" /></a></span></div>
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Juliet is over a month old. She has surpassed all expectations. But she has started to struggle. She is now on oxygen 24/7 and without it turns blue. I have linked up to Allie's blog before but the need is stronger today than ever before. You can find it <a href="http://proverbs31girl.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6a401a; font-family: 'Bitstream Vera Serif', Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://proverbs31girl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/familyphoto.jpg" style="color: #eb836a; text-decoration: none;" title="familyphoto"><img alt="familyphoto" class="attachment-medium" height="200" src="http://proverbs31girl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/familyphoto-300x200.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" title="familyphoto" width="300" /></a></span></div>
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This family is in my thoughts on a daily basis. Harper and I talk about Juliet quite often. </div>
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As before, please read Allie's blog and leave a comment. I know it will warm her heart and hopefully ease the stress and pain. </div>
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<br />Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-72009636256280011822012-11-11T11:02:00.000-08:002012-11-11T11:02:04.909-08:00Quick update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have been busy! Here is a quick update in pictures! </div>
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In the past two weeks Harper has been growing up before our eyes! She started feeding herself at school but REFUSED to do it at home! Made this mama proud and upset at the same time! But as of today, she will feed herself at home! She finally has her first tooth and is a bottomless pit</div>
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She is super close to crawling! She wiggles and rocks and is THIS close to moving! Watch out world Harper will be coming to get you soon! </div>
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Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143520002503127656.post-19470921957519456802012-10-15T18:48:00.001-07:002012-10-15T18:59:58.094-07:00Quick postI have a great post but I am having problems posting it. So, to tide you over. I give you The Bohacek's....and Bucky!<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuG2niP85zCQqG5hy7RzRKuVwXHQOV1CHLAYYZZj964CxqepjoSkbDZiD9rmycEWdjKz6GlApj0uRm-vi5n9BE4VQqNMFByYmbKlWfL4KlJ5jTMyviGQGOP1OK0XgpCX8THtcagR1EXk/s640/blogger-image--2115472812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuG2niP85zCQqG5hy7RzRKuVwXHQOV1CHLAYYZZj964CxqepjoSkbDZiD9rmycEWdjKz6GlApj0uRm-vi5n9BE4VQqNMFByYmbKlWfL4KlJ5jTMyviGQGOP1OK0XgpCX8THtcagR1EXk/s640/blogger-image--2115472812.jpg" /></a></div>Kaitihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02352060297455004876noreply@blogger.com0