So Listen Up!

Santa Claus

2009-12-13T18:15:00.001-08:00

I've been following the 12 Tags of Christmas on Tim Holtz's blog. This is the plaid background made with alcohol ink. I forget which day it was now. If you want to learn great techniques for cards, etc. then Tim is the person to check out this time of year.

What else? Just prepping for Xmas. Taylor is excited this year. Keeps asking me if it's Christmas Eve. All she wants is a Piglet doll so Santa shall deliver.

I'll leave you with a photo from her Halloween party since I haven't posted in forever. She is doing so well in school. Paying attention, going potty, focusing, participating----we are MOST PROUD! Had her dressed in the cutest Halloween shirt but she insisted on taking it off. :)

btw--just had 8 inches cut off her hair. She looks darling but SO much older! eek.

Yes, I am alive! .... & Memory Box contest

2009-10-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

It's been forever since I updated this poor blog. Just too darn busy to create AND post. Seems like I have to choose between one or another. Need more hours in the day.

I did create this layout for the current Memory Box contest. I love their products. The tree stamp around the edges is Memory Box and the mushroom stamp is Poppystamps. I colored in the tree with Copic markers. I also used Memory Box papers from the Twilight and Spiceberry collections.

Yep, that's me at the top. I think we look alike, don't you? My color choices were to play off the colors of the 70's. We've come a long way! lol.

Happy Halloween and fall season to you all!

Here comes Petey Cottontail!

2009-02-26T18:38:00.001-08:00

Well, here's my newest craftiness--needle felting. He started as a pile of wool roving. Needle crafting is so fun! Not only is it fun to create these creatures but the startup costs are minimal. This is a WHOLE lot cheaper than scrapbooking/stamping. Thanks Michele and Tina for getting me started! He isn't my first little creature. I'll share those later. I just finished him tonight so I thought I'd share. Basically you take different colored wool and poke it with a barbed needle until you get the shape you envisioned. It's a little tough on the fingers. I have some small wounds. lol. He is mint green. Once again the only time I get to take photos is after dark. :( The first photo looks more accurate as far as color goes. He originally had loppy ears that hung down but it didn't look quite right so I ripped them off and reattached. It's forgiving too. I love this needle felting thing.

T and I hit the park today. She had a blast! It was like being let out of prison after this winter we've been having. I am just dying for spring to get here.

Happy pre-Valentines Day and sorry for the neglect

2009-02-07T18:43:00.001-08:00

Geez, it's been forever. It's been so stinky with all this cold weather and snow I just don't feel like typing here but I'll share a Valentine.

Stamps are Character Constructions. I just kept adding hearts to the sleeves. Reminds me of the puffy shirt episode of Seinfeld. Used tons of Stickles so it has a lot of sparkle that doesn't show on the scan.

I've learned a new craft--needle felting! It's really fun. Basically it's sculpting little characters from wool with a barbed needle. I'll share some things eventually.

Cya!

Secret Sister '08

2008-12-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

I am a member of a private google group made up of rubber stampers, scrapbookers, etc. Seems like we dabble in quite a bit of craftiness---anything from beading to knitting to needle felting. We've been a group since before my daughter was born so it's been a few years. Anyway, each year we do a secret sister swap type thing at Xmas time. You can sign up if ya want. If not, no biggie. My SS this year was Michele. She was good to me to say the least. She's also been a great friend over the years even though we've never met in person.

One of the requirements for the swap is to send at least one handmade item. LOOK at this snowman Michele made! It's needle felted. That means it started out as a big ball of wool! I gotta learn how to do this!

And here he is on one of our trees. Notice no other snowmen around him. He is the king of that section. I just love him. Her needle felting is superb. Notice Taylor's popsicle stick ornament from last year. lol. She did the gluing of the foamies. :)

And here's my loot! Yep, she spoiled me. Thanks Michele. You're one of a kind.

Festival of Lights- part 2

2008-12-24T11:50:00.001-08:00

Here's my final display of lights. Merry Xmas to all!

Oglebay Festival of Lights Part 1

2008-12-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

I am posting this for out-of-towners. Pictures really don't do these lights justice as they are pretty darn big. You can't tell from the photos. Anyone who lives near this area knows alllll about the lights. They are gorgeous BUT the traffic they create can cripple a little section of town for quite a while. I just thought people that live in other states might appreciate this little section of Wheeling, WV. I think because I've lived locally all my life I can't appreciate fully the beauty of them. They are pretty but they come around every year. Taylor did enjoy them especially when we drove through the tunnels of lights.
So here's your tour--part 1. I didn't get every conglomeration due to freezing temperatures and cars behind me. There's nothing worse than waiting and waiting to get through these lights with Granny Moohoo taking her camera out every 5 seconds so these were pretty much taken on the run. Some were taken through the windshield.

I started with what is probably my favorite. Cinderella. I love this one. Then we have some clowns. Moving on down we have a dinosaur extravaganza.

Taylor's favorite---tandy tanes.

A blurry nutcracker. Sorry.

Isn't this a gorgeous lamppost? They are all lined up along one section of the road.

A red bird feeding her young.

This one is more impressive IRL. I only caught part of it.

Stay tuned. I'll post the rest tonight.

Purple Onion Designs Gift Wrap Challenge

2008-12-14T18:11:00.001-08:00

Michele over at Purple Onion Designs is hosting a gift wrap challenge on her blog. I believe it ends tonight. I had a gift to wrap so I thought what the heck?! I'll play a little. There are so many layers here.

First off, the actual paper is a recycled a brown bag from my LSS. I saved all of them and used Glimmer Screens and Glimmer Mists to make shiny sparkly paper. There's a lot of bling on the package that unfortunately doesn't photograph well in the night light. Bummer cuz it really shines.

I had the tag base already made. Basically it's spritzed with water and crumpled for a nice aged effect. Then it's sprayed with walnut ink and Glimmer Mist on top of that. Like I said--many layers. I then used the merriness set from POD to stamp the lights and stars on the tag. I used my Nestabilites Labels One die set to cut the base for the snowman scene. I smeared some distress inks on my non-stick craft sheet, spritzed with water and picked up the ink with the white cardstock. I wanted it to be a little mottled. I heated it with my heat gun because I can't possibly wait for something to dry. Stamped the snowman in Memories black ink. The snowman's scarf is colored with Copic markers. I stamped the snowflakes from the merriness set in Brilliance platinum. That little tree is Tim Holtz grungeboard painted with Fired Brick crackle paint also from his line. I added some ornaments with adhesive rhinestones. I edged the tag with a couple different colors of distress ink. And then.........

came the Stickles. I edged the snowman and the entire tag by hand. Dot by dot. Then I attached the tag to the package and thought, "hmmmmm, this needs something." Edged the border in a couple different color inks and then I realized the entire package needed glitter. So dot by dot I finished.

This goes to Mark's boss next week. They stiffed her last year so I figure she's worth it. She's a great boss and a very nice person.

Think she'll know he didn't wrap it?!

Pappy's Perfect Pirate

2008-11-09T05:12:00.001-08:00

Seriously, could she be any cuter????

Well, I'm finally posting some Halloween pictures. Halloween was all about Pappy this year. Taylor would not go trick-or-treating without him and Gramma was left to hand out candy. He did get a break on the second leg of our journey but she wouldn't leave the house without him.

She did well. Once she got the routine down she would go from house to house and say, "up da steps, trick or treat, candy." She is such a doll. The weather was just perfect too. We had friends over and their daughter joined Taylor in the festivities. We ended the night with pizza and pumpkin pie.

Success!

Quick fall card

2008-11-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

Made this for a friend. Main image is Paperbag Studios, leaf is Stampendous, not sure about the believe stamp. Memory box patterened paper and I think that tree stamp is Stamping Oasis. Not sure.

Have tons to share but not enough time! Maybe later.

Thank you noteblock card

2008-10-27T17:57:00.001-07:00

This noteblock stamp is a sample of the latest and greatest from Purple Onion Designs. They have been fun. I have a couple Xmas ideas I'll share later on this year. Sorry for the horrible picture. I took it at night with terrible lighting. Oh Well.

Have a great week.

Fall extravaganza!

2008-10-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite season. I love all the beautiful colors and the changing of the leaves. We partake in all the fall activities---hayride, pumpkin picking, corn maze, petting zoo, etc. I love it. Taylor did well this year. Better than last. Crowds are tough but we get through that to the fun part. She loved the tractor ride and the petting zoo this year. She loves the pretty pumpkins and all the fall decorations I have up in the house. Here's a few shots from Simmons Farm and the Springhouse. I took tons of photos. Springhouse also has pumpkins dressed up as characters. Maybe I'll share those in another post. It's been so long since I've posted. We have been very busy so stay tuned.

Here's a couple of my creations over the past few weeks. There's more but I just don't have time to scan. Bat below is Inkandinkdo, pp is Memory Box, danger sticker and ribbon tape are Martha Stewart.

Scary scary man is a score from a friend who was just done with him. Love it. Very scary. Chandelier is Memory Box, spider sticker is Martha and spider/web in corner is a Making Memories glitter clear. Love those glitter clears and all their self-adhesiveness. Very cute.

And I leave you with the best. Were we really pumpkin pickin' that day or was there a little bit of some other type of pickin' goin' on?????

first Halloween card

2008-09-21T17:29:00.001-07:00

First Halloween card of the season. I love creating cards for this holiday for some reason. I don't always get them in the mail but I love putting them together. Stamp is Purple Onion Designs and owl sticker is Martha Stewart (I got a deal. I refuse to pay $6 for 2 sheets of her stickers- ridiculous). Eyes are colored in with Acid Yellow Copic marker.

Taylor has not been doing that great in preschool. We made the decision to take her out for now and put her in the 2 year old program. There are some 3 year olds that are in there for potty training and separation anxiety issues so it's not like she won't get contact with kids her age. Problem is it only meets once/week. I'll have to put her back in music and Little Gym for socialization. We were getting better socially and now she doesn't want ANYTHING to do with kids. Oh well, this too shall pass. She also has extreme separation anxiety. My husband and I are going on a vacation next week (good luck Mom) and we'll have some decisions to make once we get back and lots of red tape to think about.

Parenting is the hardest job. You have a tendency to beat yourself up over certain decisions, etc. Best you can do is just roll with it and do your best and not give a shit what society thinks. Rules and expectations are so overrated. We are going to live our lives exactly the way we see fit. I'm happier already just thinking about it!

I Spy Pinecones!

2008-09-16T12:01:00.001-07:00

These are horrible pictures but I don't have time to mess around taking them again. Thought I'd share them anyway. Stamps are Purple Onion Designs, pp is Pink Paislee, and glitter letters are American Crafts. The magnifying glass and butterfly are Tattered Angels glimmer chips. TFL.

10 chinups

2008-09-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Another cute video. Taylor loves Sesame Street. There's an episode where Chris is trying to obtain employment on Sesame Street. One of his interviews is with the Count who needs someone to "count" on---literally. Taylor is mocking Chris doing chinups. See the Count wants Chris to do exercises so he can count the reps. Well, Chris decides this job would just be too exhausting after the Count asks him to run 37 miles.

Tons of cuteness here.

Japanese

2008-09-08T14:38:00.001-07:00

We are off school today sick. Big bummer. I was hoping to get our first full week in to see if T would relax a little. The preschool is letting me stay because Taylor has had some anxiety. In other words she screamed so loud the first day I could hear her across the school and she wouldn't calm down. lol. :) They called me after 15 minutes and had me come back and stay.

Well, all that said here's what we learned (both of us). We can count to 5 in Japanese! I have another cute video for you next time.

Restful Robin

2008-08-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

I received the most wonderful package in the mail from Kris on Friday. In my msn art group we do a secret summer sister swap and Kris had my name again. She also had it for Xmas this past year. lol. She is always so generous and thoughtful. Her artwork is beautiful.

The patterned paper is the Twiggy line from Memory Box. I can't say enough good things about this paper. It's thick and very pretty. The bird stamp is also Memory Box. I've been wanting this stamp since I laid eyes on it. It's actually one stamp but the bird and the nest are on separate ends of the wood block. The swirls are from Inque Boutique. Never had any of their stamps before and I'm likin' them a lot. I may add a sentiment later.

I'm no restful robin this week. Taylor starts preschool next Wednesday and I don't think I've ever been this nervous about anything in my life. Wish us luck. It'll be a transition for both of us!

RubberStampMadness Sep/Oct 08

2008-08-17T06:00:00.001-07:00

Made it into the latest edition of RubberStampMadness. Almost all stamps are Character Constructions. There are some really fun Halloween cards in this issue.

I am considering deleting all the posts pertaining to our private life. Taylor will start preschool soon and I'd just like to make a fresh start. I know we will have our issues but I'd like this chapter to begin with all this other stuff behind us.

Summer has been very busy---trips to zoo, horseback riding, picnics, etc. Hopefully when the winter months roll around I'll have time to post more and more creations to share!

Have a nice day.

wanna see the world's most tolerant dog?

2008-07-23T06:43:00.001-07:00

Anything is possible

2008-07-12T04:22:00.001-07:00

If you have been reading my blog these past few months you already know Taylor was diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)--Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified in November of last year. Was is devastating? Absolutely. Did it practically cripple our little family? Yes. Did it break our hearts into a million pieces? Absolutely. Did it change us forever? YES.

It changed us for the better.

With the help of many unselfish and caring individuals and tons of hard work on Taylor's and our part Taylor has made tremendous gains. I do mean tremendous. In fact I took her back to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh last month and I blatently asked them to remove her diagnosis so it won't follow her around for the rest of her life. We are left with a language delay but we can deal with that. That's nothin' compared to where we started. She will begin private TYPICAL preschool this fall. Keep your fingers crossed.

So, it's my time to give back. I have been thinking all along that I would do something to give back to the autism cause once Taylor got to a point where every bit of my time wasn't consumed with therapies, etc. Recently we began therapeutic horseback riding through an organization called PP TUG--People and Pets Together Under God. It is completely non-profit and ran by a lady I work with at the eye surgery center. All helpers are volunteers. There are 3 volunteers per horse so it takes quite a few people for the 3 classes. The woman who owns the horses/farm volunteers all her time (she washes 6 horses the day of therapy and volunteers during riding). There is a lot of work and money involved in the paperwork, equipment, supplies,etc. The cost of the insurance alone for only 8 weeks of riding is close to $1000. My coworker ran this organization with her husband before he died and since his death has continued on. She is just amazing. The kids receive small trophies at the end of the session and from what I hear they are very proud of these little trophies because for some it's the only trophy they will ever receive. Some of the riders are physically handicapped. Some are mentally disabled and some are both. If a rider is unable to pay one of the volunteers usually picks up their tab. These are some REALLY amazing people. It feels amazing to be surrounded by them each week.

The waiting list is over 5 years long because it is nonprofit. We got in because another rider is out for surgery and my coworker needed someone who would go in with the possibility that they couldn't ride next year. Once a child starts they can stay until the age of 18.

So for the first time in my life I am blatently asking for your monetary donation. I am asking all our friends and family for monetary donations that will go toward equipment, etc. It can be as little as $5 or even less. It is tax deductible and if needed I can forward the tax exempt ID#. I am also checking into fundraising. I have a few other personal ideas too. My goal is to raise enough money to pay for their program next year. Is that a huge goal? Sure, but this past year has taught me that anything is possible.

If you are able to make a contribution it sure would be appreciated. I'll hand deliver it myself with your name attached. If you are financially unable then your kind thoughts for these kids are greatly appreciated. Just take a few seconds and think of them. Just be aware of them and their parents. They work so hard every day. They are truly living miracles.

Michelle Infantino
417 Independence Drive
Washington, PA 15301

Dora Dora Dora the Explorer!

2008-06-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Now some of you out there may think this is just a couple characters at a toy store but to us it's much more than that. My little girl is conquering all kinds of fears, reaching milestones, and is just generally enjoying life these days. Not only did she LIKE Dora and Elmo (sorry Elmo, Dora was no. 1) but she took part in the ribbon cutting. She is much more comfortable in general. She was done after about 15 minutes but that's okay. Those characters are really big and lots of kids scream when meeting them. She danced with Dora, hugged Dora, high-fived Elmo, etc. It was so GREAT!!!

Life is so different now. Every little thing means so much. We try very hard to make every outing successful. Sometimes it isn't the easiest but life isn't easy and kids in general are just that---kids. Good days and bad days. We may have to work harder but we reap great rewards from her successes. She's just the best and doing amazing things!

And they said we'd have lifetime problems. Whatever. Give me a break. My kid rocks.

First Crush

2008-05-23T19:09:00.000-07:00

I had a lot to say here so I kept the actual layout extremely simple. I slammed down some letter stickers and started writing. Was a great feeling to just write freely and tell the story. I also had a bad photo to work with--the problem is the yellow wall that they were leaning against. It cast a yellow shadow on the both of them. It was also from someone else's camera so I couldn't edit it before processing and honestly I just don't have time for that. I love this layout. It's not fancy smanchy but it's brings a big smile to my face.

Have a great holiday!

Blossom

2008-05-09T09:49:00.001-07:00

Quick thank you card f0r a friend. The flower image is either Amuse Art Stamps or Impress. Can't remember which. The center image is colored with Copic markers and embellished with Stickles glitter glue. I also used Stickles around the edge of the punched flower. Swirl stamp is Impress and the sentiment is either AMuse or Impress. Can you tell those are the companies I've been using lately? lol.

The punched image is actually a Spirelli punch. I talked myself (and a friend) out of this punch at the crop a couple weeks ago and then I just HAD to have it so I went to the store and bought the darn thing. I think it's overpriced but it's just so darn nice and I can think of many uses. TFL and all you mothers out there have a great day Sunday!

Miss Precious

2008-05-04T17:23:00.001-07:00

Thanks for checking in. I know it's been quite a while and I've been meaning to update everyone with Taylor's progress for some time.

She is doing super and making soooo much progress. She is talking more and participates in all her activities with other kids as long as they aren't right up in her face. She's gonna be just fine and she's so smart. We caught everything at such a young age. She definitely has her own personality and preferences. She will always prefer smaller social situations and kids that are calmer but that's why private school with small classes will suit her just fine. Unexpected situations aren't her favorite either but we can deal. After all she's only 2 years old so we have time to iron some things out. We were fortunate to have the correct treatment at the correct time. There were days I felt as if I were fighting an uphill battle doing the ABA myself but it's so worth it. She's a super duper dynamite kid full of spunk and personality.

Everyone loves her. There is a little boy at the Little Gym that has always been Taylor's special little friend. She even lets him hug her. He came up to her last week (mind you---he's 3 yrs old) and looks at her with the sweetest grin and says in this exasperated voice, "Taylor.... I love you." It was so darn CUTE. When I tell her we are headed to the Gym she always replies, "Thomas?" We were at music class the other day and she asked me "where's Thomas?" I suppose she thinks her friend should go to music with her too. lol. She seemed bummed when I told her Thomas doesn't come to music. lol. It's started already! I have a child with a speech delay and some of her first words are about a boy!

On to the layout above--I went to a 16 hour crop last weekend. I SOOO needed it and I was much more productive than Mark who spent the day at the casino! lol. I managed to eek out 11 layouts. There's no way I'll scan all of them so I decided to share a favorite. Maybe I'll post more later. Materials used: rhinestones in flower centers were a RAK from my generous friend Donna (check out her etsy shop-she has high quality goods), Prima flower cut in half, Heidi Swapp bling, brackets are Fancy Pants I think, rubon is Creative Imaginations, and paper is old Basic Grey. I love this paper and wish they hadn't discontinued this particular line. I've used it over and over on all types of layouts. I think it's Sweet Pea Jack.

Did see P.S. I Love You with Hillary Swank. Loved it! It's a girlie boo-hoo movie but it's definitely worth the watch.

I'll be posting a little more now. I'm hoping life will slow down a bit.

Bday card

2008-03-31T17:01:00.000-07:00

Quick birthday card for a friend. Used my Copic markers again. The scan bleached the color a little. Present and sentiment is Purple Onion Designs and confetti on background is Eat Cake Graphics. Also used some Stickles glitter glue. TFL.

More marker fun

2008-03-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

Don't ya just love that blue egg? The marker is correctly named Robin's Egg Blue. I think it's my favorite to date. Little bunny is Eat Cake Graphics, sentiment is Purple Onion Designs, egg is Stamps by Judith, and notecard is Amuse. Also used some Stickles glitter glue on the eggs and around the scallop.

Also have a couple cards in the current issue of RubberStampMadness. I'll post them later. They also used me on their website which is kinda cool. Mine is the third card from top shown here.

Stay tuned........

Quick little Easter card

2008-03-08T18:18:00.001-08:00

Had to use my new Copic markers again. Love these! I will continue to collect a few here and there. They are alcohol based. They flow so nicely and leave no stray streak marks. Thanks to Michele for turning me on to these amazing markers. Stamp and notecard are Amuse Art Stamps. Bought the stamp because it's so cute just like my little gal Taylor. TFL. I'll be back soon with tons of layouts. I've been busy and I have tons of things to scan and share.

Much to say----not much energy

2008-02-29T18:30:00.000-08:00

For those of you who still continue to check this blog I will be back soon. I am vowing to post something within the next week. Lots of Taylor news, scrapbook layouts, and more to share. Lots of stuff goin' on. Good stuff.

For now I must go to bed. When Friday rolls around I'm just TIRED.

Enjoy the weekend!

Children's Stories theme

2008-02-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

Here's a couple cards that didn't make it into RSM a while back. The theme for the issue was children's stories. It was a bit difficult coming up with submissions.

I am making it a point to submit a card per issue. I just feel I need something to try to preserve my sanity.

Grandchildren

2008-02-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

Made this for my MIL for Xmas. Just getting around to posting. I think changing all the photos to black and white made a huge difference. Heidi Swapp bling and flower, Lil Davis chipboard and some paper scraps from my stash. I think the paper is My Mind's Eye. TFL.

GPP Crusade No. 16--Journal Your Blog

2008-01-31T18:04:00.000-08:00

The title says it all---basically journal your blog on paper. Simple yet something I haven't done.

In under the wire again. As soon as I read the theme for this month's Green Pepper Press Street Team crusade I knew the exact post I wanted to put down on paper. I don't keep a journal so I thought a scrapbook layout would be the next best thing. This is a simple layout but it is exactly what I want Taylor to realize years from now. She is so smart-so ahead academically yet challenged in other areas. We are working through so many issues and we are both learning lessons along the way.

The post which inspired this layout is here. I decided to focus on the most important point of that particular post. I do not know where life will go from here for her/us and I don't feel like writing down in black and white the obstacles she had/has to overcome. I fully intend those obstacles to be a part of our past. NO----they will be part of our past. I know people out there are thinking I'm crazy for saying so but we will and are beating this. I am damn determined.

Daddy and Taylor

2008-01-24T18:37:00.000-08:00

Two posts in one night. Blow me down.

I love this picture of Taylor and Mark. He really tries with her. Being her Daddy is not the easiest at times. I'm sure she feels like being our kid isn't the easiest either. lol.

Gold leaf stickers and decorative tape are Martha Stewart. My friend Kris sent me the tape as a secret sister gift and I am totally loving it. Stamps are Purple Onion Designs.

Thanks for looking. We are all still alive in this house but 20+ hours/week of therapy doesn't leave much time for anything or anyone else. That's just life. Ya just have to make the best of it I guess.

Valentine

2008-01-24T18:19:00.000-08:00

One of my submissions that didn't get picked up this time. Lady is Character Constructions. Catherine Moore also has a new line of stamps out that is just amazing. It's called Queen of Tarts. Great collection.

The light is coming on

2008-01-22T17:43:00.000-08:00

Oh, my baby, we will prove them all wrong. It can be done. It will be done. We will take one another to places never thought possible.This little light of mine I'm going to let it shine
Oh, this little light of mine I'm going to let it shine
Hallelujah
This little light of mine I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine

My miracle child

2007-12-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

Just look at that happy face.

Miracles do happen here and will continue to happen.

I am full of emotion today. I am tired of people coming into my house and telling me things I don't want to hear or need to hear. We have worked so hard. In August of this year Taylor had lost almost all her words. Pretty much silence. In 4 months she is requesting her favorite foods with words, saying hi/bye/night night appropriately, doing puzzles, building with blocks, swinging, sliding, climbing on the balance beam, laughing, tolerating playdoh for a minute or so, responding much better to (quiet) strangers entering her safe house, playing Mr. Potato Head, crafting with foam stickers, etc. Not to mention she knows most of her ABCs, numbers 1-10, colors, approximately 30 animals and has every book in this house memorized. I can give her 2 or 3 puzzles at once, dump out all the pieces and she will sort through and do them all. She is also acquiring labels naturally- without being formally taught each one through discrete trial. In formal terms this is called generalization and she is very capable of doing this. We didn't have to teach generalization which means she is slowly moving to learning the way "typical" kids learn. Socialization with other children is still one of our toughest obstacles but she is still very young. She can't stand loud kids. Well, I'm not very good at that either so we have something in common.

So these therapists come into my home and tell me Taylor's delays will always be with her. WHAT?!!! She is so on-target if not ahead academically. Yes, we have social things and communication to work on but come on people. They talk of group homes, etc. They have NO idea where we started and what road we have taken. I try to explain and they look at me like I'm talking a foreign language. They don't believe me. I'm in the process of making them a movie of what Taylor was doing 4 months ago. I feel compelled to prove it to them. I tell them the puzzle completion started with me doing one piece (my hand over hers) and then rewarding her with an M&M after each piece. Yes, it was hard at first. Yes, she screamed, hit me, and threw herself around like a wild animal. BUT, guess what?! Her puzzles are now one of her very favorite things. And it was really never about the puzzles. It was all about getting her to focus long enough to complete something - focus long enough to learn. Some days I think we have a little ADHD mixed in all this but that's okay too. The typical therapists have no idea how ABA works but seem to not want to learn. The key is ABA needs to be done properly in order to work. There were days we did formal sitdown sessions on and off ALL DAY LONG. That's what the professionals mean when they say intense 1:1 therapy. They don't mean do a couple things and then let her stim for 15 minutes. We do no stimming around here. It is ALL redirected. ALL OF IT. Yes, I'm tired but my kid needs saved. Who the hell else is going to do it?

Basically it's going to work like this. With direction from our ABA therapist Taylor WILL be saved. ABA is what gave her a strong foundation to learn. If any person involved in her life doesn't want to jump on board well then back off----my little girl and I will run you over.

Peace.

RubberStampMadness Jan/Feb 2008

2007-12-26T17:45:00.000-08:00

My "King Ribbit" card made it into the latest issue of RubberStampMadness. Had a lot of fun with this one. It's pretty much straight forward stamping with a spotlight drawn in with chalk.

Frog is Eat Cake Graphics. Chair is Character Constructions. Grass, flowers, and alphas are Purple Onion Designs.

Thanks for looking!

Merry Xmas!

2007-12-25T08:37:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to wish all of you a Merry Xmas.

This card was made for my secret sister. We had each other's names and she totally spoiled me! You know who you are. :)

Character Constructions Xmas cards

2007-12-14T18:18:00.000-08:00

Thought I'd revive this blog for a moment by posting a couple Christmas cards. Only had time for a couple. Doll parts are Character Constructions and sentiment is Purple Onion Designs.

Hope you are having a peaceful holiday season.

Crusade No. 14 - Who/what is your muse?

2007-11-30T18:10:00.000-08:00

This month's (I'm barely making it) Green Pepper Press Street Team's topic is Imaginary Friends. Basically who/what is your muse? What inspires your artwork?

Well, since I don't consider myself a true artist I really haven't given this topic much thought until now. I had some trouble with this one and then one day it just dawned on me.

Stress--- stress---and more stress.

Maybe it's not a typical muse but I've created most of my published cards/projects under stress. When I am worried about someone/something I can throw myself into my paper, ink, stamps, etc and forget all about it for a brief time. Therapy for Momma. :) Pretty simple really. Maybe it should be called an escape instead of a muse but it works for me.

I'll leave you with a little creation for my ABA therapist. She does totally ROCK. Stamps are Green Pepper Press. Sweet stamps, huh?

Let's talk about the system

2007-11-21T02:54:00.001-08:00

It stinks.

Okay----here's how it goes. You get referred for a complete developmental evaluation. You wait 4-6 months for your official appointment to diagnosis your child (sometimes longer---I've heard up to a year in Philadelphia). Birth-3 comes earlier but these kids need intensive therapy. It's not near enough.

You wait longer to get wraparound services. You have to have all these meetings, pick an agency, etc.

So basically you wait over 6 months to get intensive therapy started. So if we hadn't met a gal who knows Lovaas ABA we'd still be in a state of complete panic.

I've said it before. We got lucky. We have made huge strides and it's because of ABA.

So what is wrong with this picture. The typical family has just wasted 6 months of CRUCIAL development time. Time to remap the brain and get on that upswing.

This is the time you hear parents talk about---the time they see their kids "slipping away."

Sad, huh? No not sad------------------horrific.

President veto

2007-11-17T10:25:00.001-08:00

You can check it out here.-----I guess some still don't view this as a crisis.

http://aliedwards.typepad.com/_a_/2007/11/veto-impacts-au.html

It's official

2007-11-16T16:30:00.000-08:00

We are offically on the spectrum---PDD-NOS to be exact.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder- Not Otherwise specified----translated into "we know there's something up with your kid but we don't know what exactly so we'll put her in this catch-all category." The good part is we do have the label so we will possibly qualify for more services.

I really don't feel like sharing my emotions today. There are some days I'm just overwhelmed and don't feel like explaining everything. Today is one of those days.

The psychologist will recommend 15 hours of wraparound therapy done in our house (in addition to the 4 therapists we have already). The psychologist seems to think we will be denied and will have to appeal to get the therapy. Joy. Isn't that sweet? I guess in Washington county they don't like to approve services for kids under 3 years old. By 3 years old it's so much more difficult to "catch up." So unfair.

We make strides every day but until you've had a child with these challenges you'll truly never know what it feels like to be part of that 1 in 150--to watch your kid struggle with things that come so easy for other children.

She is just such a smart and sweet kid.

She doesn't deserve this and it sucks.

Tomorrow----it ain't no big thang really................

2007-11-13T17:09:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is our official evaluation with the Child Development Unit of Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. I look back at all the emotions surrounding this appointment and I'm finally in the correct state of mind. I've been all over the place emotionally with the appointment----everywhere from panic to dread to apprehension, etc. When we were first referred I couldn't wait for tomorrow to arrive. Then we met someone who has forever changed our lives. An amazing person who truly cares about kids and will go above and beyond. She literally trained me to be an ABA therapist to my daughter. WE GOT LUCKY. We were in a very dangerous place. You know that place you hear about on talk shows---"she was slipping away right before our very eyes"-----you watch any talk show about autism or any developmental disorder and you'll hear those words and dear God do I feel for those people. It was quickly happening here. I know Taylor's mind was making misconnections daily. I'm absolutely positive that was happening. We caught it in time and we are remapping as we speak and folks guess what?!!!! It's working. It's working. I know there are some people who think if we wait and see she will just come along in her own time. WEll, this momma can tell you that would've never happened and that's one risk in life Mark and I are NOT willing to take. Mothers ALWAYS know. ALWAYS. Her behavior was alarming and made me uncomfortable inside. If any mothers out there are experiencing the same feelings then you push your pediatrician to refer you on-----you PUSH like you've never pushed before. Your child is counting on you to do so.

I think back to filling out all those daunting blue forms we were sent when we first made THE appointment. I think about all those questions I answered. I am taking a different kid tomorrow. We have plenty to work on and many obstacles but they are being checked off one by one. I remember Early Intervention coming and asking me how I wanted our family social goal to be written----I simply replied, "I just wanna go out to a restaurant or store without a huge screaming struggle. I just want to be a family." That's it. Simple, right? Well it took a lot of work. We have been successfully out to eat twice in 2 weeks and to Walmart twice in 3 days. We have conquered the grocery cart----along with the sliding board and swings and trampoline. HUGE sensory progress folks. We will continue to work on playdoh, elevators, hair dryers, strangers, vacuum cleaners, loud environments, etc.

ABA therapy (done correctly) has changed our lives. Seriously. It is working for Taylor. It may not work for all kids but it is working here. She is feeling success. That is what it's all about -- her success which has quadrupled her confidence. She is so much happier now. Less frustrated with daily life---still frustrated with trying new things but we can work through it. She is so proud of herself when she makes progress. She knows. We still have a few bad days here and there but we won't focus on those right now. She's only 2 years old.

Soooo---this family still struggles and does tremendous amounts of therapy but we also trick-or-treat, go to the grocery store, do puzzles, read, jump on the trampoline, write, play chase, eat popsicles, watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, do more puzzles, hop, eat in restaurants, and many more typical family things.

So ya see tomorrow won't be a day to remember-----August 21, 2007------now that's the day to remember. That's the day we began ABA therapy and the day my child turned a very important corner----the corner of SUCCESS.

YIPPIE!!!!!!!!

2007-10-31T09:12:00.000-07:00

Today Taylor was nearing the end of her yogurt and she looked at me and said "help" as plain as day!

Yesterday she went to the kitchen and said, "wa wa."

We are getting past the sensory blocks day by day with the trampoline and tunnel and bean bag and brushing and on and on. She is learning incidentally after I repeatedly say the same word in the same context day after day!!!

Yep----we are gonna be okay eventually. Okay is good. It's gonna click.

Impressive progress

2007-10-30T09:53:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd fill in ya in on Taylor's progress. I know there are quite a few friends and family reading this blog these days.

Our "typical" week here consists of 4 therapists and constant sensory and ABA therapy pretty much done by me. Under the direction of our ABA therapist who comes once a week and does updates/therapy we have implemented an ABA program that seems to be really working for Taylor. I have an entire notebook full of data. I do ABA therapy with Taylor spontaneously throughout the day and in actual sit-down sessions. We are acquiring more and more skills so we not only do new things but we also have to map out time for review. It's an all-day affair which is fine with me because the more she sits and works the less time there is for shadow play. Early Intervention therapists also come to the house and I find ways to incorporate things they are doing into our day. The trick is finding the way to present it. Taylor learns in different ways. All it takes is finding what clicks. It can be tricky or it can just occur incidentally. I notice more and more incidental learning which is huge!

I have taught her to imitate. Our ABA gal says if a kid can imitate they can learn anything. Maybe it will take us a bit more time but it'll come.

I truly believe that we caught her early enough to turn this whole thing around in a couple years or so. I know it won't be easy and we'll still have to teach things in different ways. We live, breathe and eat therapy but that's what it takes. I will not be a parent who sits back and just lets it be--not judging others - we have fortunate circumstances working in our favor here. It won't always be this tough but we just have to suck it up for now. Forcing your 2 year old to do things isn't easy but she'll thank me later. If we would have just "waited to see" what happened we would be in BAD shape right now. These kids have to be caught early. Catching it early gives time to remap the brain.

WEll---our appointment with Children's Hospital is 2 weeks away now. I have no idea what they will say. I am taking a different child to that appointment now. She has changed so much. We still have tons to work on (especially unfamiliar people and places) but she has changed for the better with all this therapy. All the therapists are a little in awe at what we are accomplishing in this house with ABA. I think we've made believers out of a couple of people who weren't so much in favor of the process. I have no idea what the professionals will say because I'm sure most people go into that appointment without ABA therapy behind them. We have been working extremely hard for 2 months. We just got lucky and was sent the right person at the right time. Funny how that works.

WEll, off to review my "lesson plan" while Taylor is napping. I map out a lesson plan each night for the next day. It works. It is my job now and that's totally cool. I'm armed with the knowledge and tools to save my little girl and that's EXACTLY what I'm gonna do. :)

Peace.

age 2

2007-10-24T07:36:00.001-07:00

This is Taylor on her second birthday. Cute as always.

I reflect back to this time and I realize how far we've progressed in 2.5 months. At this point all we were doing was stacking blocks, reading books and watching TV. She is doing so many different things now. There's great hope for her future.

Materials used--mostly Daisy Ds except for the flowers which are Heidi Swapp. Don't ya just love that pink paper? It's part of their fall line I think---odd but if you'd see the entire pack of paper it just fits.

Happy Wednesday!

RubberStampMadness/childhood

2007-10-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

Made it into the latest issue of RSM. Look at that cover. How do those cover artists come up with this stuff? That's all stamping!

That story at the end of the article takes me back a few years to a different way of life. My childhood was a little different than most. We were by today's standards considered to be low income/poor. My parents had me young. My Mom was the ripe old age of 19. They started a life with nothing and a colicky kid to raise. We may not have had an excess of money but I wouldn't trade it for the world. We raised all our own vegetables. My Dad worked a difficult manual labor job all day and came home to spend the evening tending to a garden and mowing grass. We never spent an evening indoors in the summer. We socialized with the neighbors each and every night because we were all outside. We had 2 TV stations. I think this is why I can read so fast. Books replaced TV. lol. We lived in trailer which my Mom kept so clean you could've literally ate off the floor at any time. We took our laundry to "town" once a week to the laundry mat. Santa coming was a huge deal because toys weren't casually purchased weekly as it goes today (incidentally-- I was sick every Christmas. I swear it was due to excitement). We ate dinner as a family EVERY night. We appreciated everything more. Kinda sad the direction society is going in these days. Such hustle and bustle and inattention to what is really important.

Ohhh, gotta tell ya about the laundry mat---well, that was my first brush with the Hare Krishna community. The Krishnas were big in our area back then. The temple was being built and they had visitors from all over. They were in full swing. They would come to the laundry mat in their vans in full garb. White sheets, bald head, pony tail--the works. Now you can imagine as a kid whose highlight of the laundry trip was Welch's grape soda and corn chips this scene was quite fascinating. My Mom would tell me not to stare. Come on---how could I not??? Was nothing to see them chanting outside the Kroger store. They were also always at the tail end of the Christmas parade. I remember them parading their elephant past our junior high school and throwing candy at the windows to the kids. Recruiting I guess. I wonder what it's like up there now. You don't hear much about them anymore. Not judging a different way of life or anything--how people live is their personal business--- but they sure did stick out in good old Marshall county where different is not always tolerated.

Enough about the ole days. Life sure has changed. I'm just not so sure it's changed for the better. Do you eat dinner with your family each night and actually TALK to one another?

pumpkin patch 2007

2007-10-19T17:43:00.001-07:00

Nothing screams fall like a trip to the pumpkin patch. I love this time of year. The changing of each season is pretty cool but fall is just full of the most beautiful colors. Mark's work sponsors this little trip each year to Simmon's Farm. I think that's pretty cool too. I'm a week late posting this but better late than never.

To some this is a simple fun day at the pumpkin patch. To us - well - it was a great success. There are several sensory issues presented at the patch. Walking on uneven ground, the shaky hayride, the corn all the kids were playing in to name a few. Taylor did fantastic. The corn the kids were playing in was just plain gross and dirty so I don't blame her for not wanting in that mess. The ride out to the patch was just fine--held her close and she did okay. The ride back she cried but I found it a bit rough and fast myself. She walked on the uneven ground in the corn maze holding Daddy's hand and was just a champ! We also had the advantage of our ABA therapist friend going with us. She is just at the top of my list of favorite people right now. Without her I would have no idea how to help my child. I just love her and her son. Great people I tell ya.

We came home and Taylor was ready for a nap. I was rocking her and I stared straight into those gorgeous brown eyes and told her how proud I was of her and what a great job she did that morning. I was presented with a huge toothy grin. Without a doubt she knew exactly what I said that afternoon. Priceless.

Crusade No. 13- Get Gothic

2007-10-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

The theme for Michelle Ward's Green Pepper Press Street Team crusade this month is Get Gothic. Share your Halloween creations/decor etc. I really had a good time creating Halloween cards this year. Usually I just send them to the kids but I had some cool stamps to work with this year.

On this first card I used a danger sticker from the new Martha Stewart line. I don't care for most of her craft stuff but her Halloween line was very cool. Swirl stamps from Green Pepper Press, skull baby from Stamp Francisco I think, bat from Stamps by Judith, and skull from Inkadinkado.

This next creation I submitted to RubberStampMadness but it didn't make the cut. Oh well. All the cirque people are from The Tattered Circus, circles from Purple Onion Designs, and the bars they are sitting on are Paperbag Studios.

The card below uses a sticker for the focal point. Warning sticker is Martha Stewart and the other stickers are Daisy Ds and Making Memories. The funky laced type border stamp at the top is Stampers Anonymous, circle stamp is Moon Rose, spider is Savvy Stamps I think either that or Amuse, added bling with Stickles glitter glue.

The next uses another Martha sticker and a sticker for the focal point. Cat was cut from DaisyDs patterned paper, Daisy Ds black cat rubon, bat is Stamps by Judith, houndstooth border is BLine Designs.

The next creation uses almost all Marth stuff. Haunted stickers are DaisyDs and the background paper is from the latest issue of Somerset Studio. Rest is Martha.

Last--- a simple creation on a dollar spot card from Target. Spooky word is Purple Onion Designs, Frankenstein is Amuse I believe, moon is a section of the Moon Rose stamp used above on the Pumpkin Patch card.

That's it folks!!!! Have a Happy Halloween season.

Tough phase

2007-10-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

We've entered a difficult phase in the Infantino household. Taylor has figured out we will not allow her to play in her reflection all day instead of learning. She is most unhappy about this fact. She takes off and tries to sneak. She sees me coming and quickly stops and gives me an "ehh" in a most annoyed tone. That simple "ehh" was how it started a couple days ago and now we are at full fledge tantrums, hitting, etc.

I think the need to "see" herself comes from the fact that she sometimes doesn't "feel" her body. The trick is to find an "acceptable" way for her to feel grounded - an "acceptable" way to meet that need. Easier said than done. For example---instead of her running back and forth and back and forth in front of her reflection for an extended period of time perhaps we could read books in her worm tunnel. The tunnel touches her on all sides therefore grounding her and she learns by reading at the same time. Problem is this will satisfy the need for a few minutes and then ya gotta think of something else. Makes for a very long difficult day. This sensory stuff is a whole new ballgame for me. I'm so tired I sleep all night and during her naps. I dream all this wild stuff too-- my mind is overloaded.

So today I saw a lot of trying to replace that need to see her reflection----rubbing her face all over me, rubbing her hair all over her face, crashing into the couch pillows all day, rubbing her chest against mine, staring at her arms and hands, etc. Once again you gotta keep this kid busy ALL DAY. We are doing better with that since we now know how to use more toys. It's very difficult when you first begin because if a child doesn't know how to play with toys then what the heck are you gonna replace all this behavior with?! It's step by step by step and it's difficult.

Some of you reading this may think that playing in your reflection is a normal thing----well, not all day. It then prohibits learning and becomes the primary focus of the day. Unacceptable.

Occupational therapy offically began this week. Taylor did well for her first visit. She was able to put her hands and feet all through a container filled with beans. She was also able to tolerate pulling objects out of therapy puddy. Therapy puddy is stiffer than playdoh. It's a step toward playdoh. I think Taylor would rather eat liver than play with playdoh at this point. She runs from me if I get the playdoh out. This explains a little why Taylor is such a neat eater. We do not like stuff on our hands or face. Think about your hands being sticky from syrup and multiply that by a thousand--that's how Taylor feels when her hands are messy. We will begin brush therapy next visit. It is done every 2 hours for 2 weeks and then I think the frequency tapers off. You brush their arms, legs, hands, feet and back and then apply pressure to the joints. She explained the whole process better. Think about how great you feel when you've had a massage. That's a good comparison. You feel grounded, relaxed and more in tune with your body. That's what brush therapy should eventually do for Taylor. I can tell you it she won't like it much at first but she'll eventually desensitize to the whole process just like everything else.

Taylor has a lot of sensory issues that affect daily life. She despises vacuum cleaners, hair dryers, loud toilets in public restrooms, hand dryers, etc. They are annoying to the average person but very amplified for her. She is terrifed of them and they hurt her ears BAD. She also does not like the feeling of being in an elevator. She shakes a lot and screams when in elevators.
She also does not like to swing but we are working on that. Our ABA therapist says the therapeutic effects of swinging can last for days. She won't touch the balance beam at the Little Gym. Just think of anything that would make the average person just a little uneasy and multiply that by a thousand and you might be able to imagine how if would affect my little gal.
Once again---some of these things are normal for a kid Taylor's age but it's the DEGREE of how it affects her. These things cause great panic for her.

She is quite the mix---hypersensitive to some things (vacuum) and hyposensitive to others (feeling her body---that need to "crash" into the couch). It's all so complex and difficult to explain. I know her so well. I know pretty much how she'll react even before the situation arises. Her and I ---well, we understand one another much better these days.

Speech comes tomorrow. To leave this entry on a positive note---Taylor is beginning to imitate more of our words. They aren't initiated on her own yet or a request for something but she can make the sounds! She can imitate words in books and everyday conversation. You have to really listen sometimes and figure out what she is saying but she is trying so hard. She is so smart. If we didn't have all this sensory stuff to work through I firmly believe we'd be fine. It just affects everything. The way I understand it is if you don't feel comfortable within yourself you don't learn receptive and expressive language. We'll be fine anyway---we just work a lot harder around here.

There are days I wake up and think "dear Lord another day of this?" and there are days I wake up and think "bring it on." I am noticing more "bring it on" days---a lot more. If I have to die trying we will overcome this. There's no other acceptable path. There just isn't. I won't allow it. We are talking about my daughter here. She doesn't need to be perfect. I just want her to be happy and independent. HAPPY AND INDEPENDENT.

We will achieve both of those things. WE WILL. I promise her that daily.

Taylor thoughts

2007-10-06T03:40:00.001-07:00

I love you.

Perfection is highly overrated and utterly ridiculous.

Thank you for trying to understand me.

Thank you for not denying that I need help.

I need fun.

I am so smart.

Daddy is loads of fun.

My mood is a reflection of yours.

I don't like sticky hands.

Lots of kids are too unpredictable for me for now. I like one on one and quiet. Maybe that will change or not.

I can't stand loudness and chaos. It makes me frantic inside.

I will conquer the swings. I mastered the sliding board, didn't I?

I am so cute.

I will continue to surprise you daily.

I don't feel comfortable in my body yet but I will and then I will talk to you A LOT. I have to feel comfortable first and then I will learn more.

I love ice cream - just like Daddy.

I prefer soda over water. Could you adjust that please??

I like your hair.

Thanks for turning off the TV so I can learn more. I would watch it all day.

I am like the other kids but I'm much more special.

I don't like crayons. I like ink pens.

Thanks for working with me all day. I would prefer to play in my reflection but I'll take you.

I will give you kisses any time you ask. This is your reward. Cherish it.

Now you know your priorities- without a doubt.

Hug me close when I feel uneasy in public.

I love my dog. She's funny and I love giggling when she runs around the kitchen.

Sleep at any time possible. I have lots of energy-more than most.

I am very persistent, just like you.

I teach you much more than you teach me.

I will want a drink of anything you drink.

Home is my sanctuary.

I have a hard time feeling my feet in strange places so slow down.

I love crashing into pillows.

Thank you for teaching me to play with my toys.

I am stubborn, just like you.

I love music.

Quit analyzing my behavior and just be with me.

Help me and I will help you.

Unfamiliar places are too much. Take me back a little at a time or I will show you my displeasure.

Life is just that--life. It is imperfect.

Sometimes you just gotta get through the day and call it a night.

You are much more grounded because of me.

There are days I will bring you to your knees.

My accomplishments are huge. HUGE.

We play by an adjusted set of rules. :)

Once again----I will teach you much more than you teach me.

Love and Peace
Taylor

Ink blot Halloween characters

2007-10-02T17:22:00.001-07:00

Thought I would share the last of my ink blot characters. The second isn't really my style but it's for the kiddos so I didn't want to get too scary. lol.

I won Michelle Ward's Street Team crusade! So cool.

We are doing okay around here. Taylor has a little cold. Other than that just normal therapy stuff and everyday life. I have quite a few Halloween creations to share and a few Taylor layouts so be sure to check back soon.

Peace.

card and my state of mind

2007-09-27T17:36:00.001-07:00

Stamps are Character Constructions, pp is DaisyDs, stickers are Martha Stewart and Making Memories.

I am so all over the place with my emotions. I love Taylor so much and all this uncertainty is so tough. I wish our Children's Hospital evaluation was before November. It is sort of looming over my head. I guess I need that to move on to a real acceptance phase of whatever label they give her. Not an acceptance of her (she'll always be the love of my life) but an acceptance of a different life. An acceptance of different obstacles to overcome. An acceptance of what life has dealt. I feel stuck on an emotional roller coaster---a ride that seems to never end. I need some sort of final word- so to speak. The label won't change a thing but it will give my head something to wrap around, some way to move forward instead of just wondering all the time.

I just wanna know if there's gonna be ONE night I don't think to myself as I close my eyes to go to sleep----- what in the world will happen to her when I die? if she only improves to a certain extent who will take care of her and love her like I do?

Like I said---emotional roller coaster.

Update for family and friends

2007-09-25T03:53:00.000-07:00

Mark and I have made some decisions regarding Taylor and therapy. For now we will be having Early Intervention come on Monday and Wednesday. Tracy will come on Tuesday. I'll work my nursing job mostly Thursdays and Fridays will be Little Gym. Our Monday gal's appointments are all scattered in October but November will be on a constant Monday schedule. We will continue to work on ABA at home all day.

We decided to wait on Children's Therapy Center until we go to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh in November. Tracy, Mark, and I all agree that a gradual entrance into therapy is smart for Taylor---not for everyone--but for Taylor. My gut feels this is what should be done.

Her and I work well together using ABA at home and I don't want to entirely throw that off with an abrupt entrance into therapy every day for hours. That may all change in November when we go to Children's. I'd like to see what they personally recommend first. For now thank God that we met someone who could basically give me a crash course in the ABA arena. This is not for everyone. It's tough. More tough to do on your own kid than anything. Thank God for mini M&Ms.

I just want to say these decisions are right for my kid--each and every kid is different. If you are reading this and going through something like this just keep that in mind. I am in no shape or form trying to guide anyone. This blog basically keeps friends and family informed of OUR situation.

In 5 weeks we have made significant progress. She will now scribble with a pen (crayons not a favorite here), use her Magnadoodle to stamp shapes (was clueless what this thing even did a month ago), loves the slide, can swing on my lap for a couple minutes, is pointing to request food and drink, and is babbling on and off. We have also heard the words "da-da" and "ma-mum" again. She can say "dup" aka pop if prompted. We have also heard cake, up, bite, coo-kie, and a few others that are questionable but I think are words that just need ironed out. We can also do matching puzzles, some gross motor imitation, etc. We have came a long way without conventional therapy. This is all at home! We are working so hard. We learn in very small steps so the above accomplishments are very big and take time.

We do still have the shadow play a lot but I always try to redirect her. We now have Halloween window clings on each and every reflective surface of the kitchen. I'll be glad when fall comes and the sun doesn't shine as much. No doubt SOME of this is play but some isn't. When she starts that methodic back and forth it's time to do something else.

We have had a couple great playdates with Tracy's 4 year old son. She is very comfortable with him. He is a very well- behaved fun boy! It's great for her to see him pretending. They sat side by side in the car yesterday---very close in the carseats. She was very okay with that. I think she was saying the "k" sound for his name also. We continue with the Little Gym and playyards and playgrounds and restaurants. Little at a time with gradual increases here and there. She does well.

Thought I'd throw in a little Halloween card for fun. Stamp is Amuse. Cards are from the dollar spot at Target. I just added the scallop part.

More later. I have several Taylor photos to post---all her new accomplishments!!!

Couple more ink blot characters

2007-09-18T18:14:00.001-07:00

Mona is from the Stamping Zoo which I believe is now closed. All other stamps are Character Constructions. I have boatloads of Halloween cards to share. I'm not in the mood to scrapbook so I've been taking an hour each night to do a little stamping aka stress relief. :)

Autism on Oprah today

2007-09-18T09:51:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd throw that out there if anyone wants to watch. :)

Good/Bad news

2007-09-17T16:58:00.000-07:00

Good news---we qualified for the medical assistance card based on the letter from Taylor's pediatrician. This means all these evaluations should be covered. Of course ABA therapy is never covered but this means as of now we won't be receiving a boatload of bills in the mail. It's retroactive back to August 31. :)

Bad news (but not really)--I don't know where my head was this morning. I pulled out of the garage and left the garage door open. This means the house was left open the entire time we were gone. I then came home and kinda chuckled to myself that I left the garage door open and then proceeded to drive the Escape right into the brick while pulling it in the garage. Did nothin' to the house but scraped the plastic pretty good on the vehicle. I looked at it and thought, "ah, it's just plastic" and proceeded with the rest of the day. Six months ago I'd have been beside myself and today I just blew right past it without much thought. In fact I thought "whateva---just a car." lol. Priorities have changed significantly.

Great day at the Little Gym. T and I had LOADS of fun!

Something Fun---Crush on You Crusade

2007-09-15T05:05:00.001-07:00

Michelle Ward's Green Pepper Press Street Team blog has new crusades each month. Just little fun challenges to encourage us all to share information and art. This month is titled "crush on you." Michelle's crush is red so I dedicate this one to her. I was totally inspired by Sandra Evertson's ink blot characters in the current issue of Somerset Studio magazine. So fun, easy, and fast. I will be posting more of the eery creatures toward Halloween. Keep checking back. This blog isn't all serious ya know. Gotta take a break from conventional therapy and do some art therapy. :)

All stamps Michelle Ward for Stampington aside from the skull which is Inkadinkado. Isn't this little she devil cute with her Prima flower skull hat!

Physical Therapy eval

2007-09-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Taylor will also have physical therapy 2x/week. We have the occupational therapy eval. the week after next. I'm thinking they will definitely want to see her for that also. So it's gonna be 1.5 hours 2x/week for them and whatever Early Intervention wants (guessing 2x/week also) and our ABA gal 1x/week with me doing ABA each day also. Are you tired yet? lol. The one day that is left will be the day I work---hopefully.

The therapist was concerned because Taylor toes in so much. She has from birth. I thought they might want to work on that. They also want to work on jumping. They are not at all concerned with her strength. Trust me---she's strong. She gives me a workout during these evaluations.

I told them I want Speech therapy to be the first component of her day. If it's in the middle or last she may have already had a meltdown and nothing will get accomplished. At this point communication is the focus. I also told them I want the SAME therapists each time. If not she'll spend each session just fighting a stranger. She doesn't care much for strangers especially strangers in an office that sorta resembles a doctor's office and an office associated with work. After all---what 2 year old WANTS to do these things? The best 2 year old on the best day might be a little irritated by the whole process.

These CTC evaluators all have a week to write up their reports and then we'll get a feel for a concrete schedule. I'll feel a little better when I know what I'm going to be doing weekly.

Next week-----ABA gal on Tuesday and planning meeting with Early Intervention on Friday with the ABA gal present. THANK THE LORD SHE IS COMING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You see---the conventional speech therapists sometimes don't favor ABA. (This is just my opinion so no nasty emails from anyone, ok?, every kid is different). ABA is very very expensive also so we are just gonna approach the subject with Early Intervention because there are ABA therapists in the area - some division of UPMC provides them in-home. I don't think any insurance companies cover ABA. Basically our ABA gal is gonna be my parent advocate to try and acquire ABA therapy through Early INtervention for free. It's a longshot but worth a try.

Haven't heard anything about the medical card. Plan on calling them on Monday. I know our caseworker was on vacation this week.

We have a playdate today with our ABA gal and her 4 year old son. Fun. That's it. Fun. Ya see---it's real tough getting caught up in all this and remembering a 2 year old craves FUN. We are also going to the Little Gym on Monday. It may be our last time because of scheduling be we are goin' on Monday for fun.

That's all folks. Hope this blog is keeping family informed and will someday help someone else who is feeling lost.

Speech eval at Children's Therapy Center today

2007-09-11T16:08:00.001-07:00

The therapist scored her around 8-12 months on receptive language and somewhere between 12-14 months expressive. I think that was it. We talked about so much I had to ask twice but they will send me a full report within a couple weeks. We will go there twice a week for speech therapy and I'm guessing Early Intervention will want to do speech once or twice a week in the home plus another person will come through their agency (forget the title but they are like a catch-all to sort of help you with a little of everything). The speech therapist at Children's Therapy Center seemed to think the occupational therapist will probably recommend OT twice a week also. We are lookin' at 4 days/week of various therapies and I'll work one day. I'm trying really hard to keep my job. Oh, we'll have to fit ABA therapy in there also. So, another afternoon plus any of our free time will be taken up by ABA.

Taylor took a tantrum in the middle of the eval today and started some of her hand motions. Wasn't too bad. A couple months ago she'd have screamed the entire time just being in the room with a couple strangers.

In case you are confused between Early Intervention and Children's Therapy Center- it's easy. Early Intervention is home-based and free through the county or state--one of those. Children' Therapy Center is an outpatient service of The Washington Hospital. Not free so let's hope we get that medical card. The paperwork was all in as of Friday.

Our ABA gal comes tomorrow and we have a physical therapy evaluation at CTC on Thursday. We have a planning meeting with Early Intervention next Friday to determine exactly what they want to do but my guess is what I listed above. We briefly touched on what they would want during the eval yesterday but the "formal" meeting is next Fri.

Met a couple Moms in the waiting room today. They are surviving and so will we. Taylor was surprisingly at ease with the children in the waiting room. :)

Let's change direction for a moment

2007-09-11T04:18:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna share the last of the Taylor layouts from a crop I attended weeks ago. This blog has to take a more positive turn.

Results

2007-09-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

Early Intervention came today. It was tough.

Scores (keep in mind she is 25 months old chronologically):

Cognitive (thinking, problem solving, play skills)----8 months
Communication (understanding and expressing needs and wants)--receptive 15-16 mos.
expressive 14 mos.
Social or Emotional(engaging others and interacting)--18 months
Physical(large and small muscle development)---gross 17 mos. , fine 15-16 mos.
Adaptive (self-help such as feeding/dressing/etc) -- 14 months

Well, there ya have it. Had we not had help from our friend in teaching her how to point and respond to her name she would've scored lower.

Was strong and okay with those results till afternoon and then I felt it REALLY hit me. Life will be lots of therapy for quite a while and lots of hoping and praying for progress. I'll apologize up front for not wanting visitors and not visiting or making return phone calls. I don't have the energy today to call my own mother. Some days I just can't think or talk about it for another second and I can just deal with getting through what I need to get done on a daily basis. I have to teach her what I can with what skills I've been taught by a very generous soul and it takes time and persistence. Sometimes what the system provides is just not enough. I have to get it together. There are so many more people out there having an even tougher time. Feels selfish to actually type out some of these feelings but they are real and they hurt a lot.

One evalution down----3 more to go this week and one next week. One day at a time. Let's make this blog realistic----today just totally sucked. Sucked, sucked, sucked.

Tomorrow is another day.

Next week

2007-09-08T15:52:00.000-07:00

Mon.-----Early Intervention complete evaluation
Tues.----Speech Evaluation at Children's Therapy Center (totally lucked out here as they had a cancellation and our original appt. was for December AND I found someone to work for me)
Wed.---ABA therapy with our friend
Thurs.---- Physical Therapy evaluation at Children' Therapy Center

Sooooo check back next weekend if you are following this blog to check on Taylor. :)

Each day

2007-09-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

Made this collage last week. Good stress relief. Lady and bird stamps are from Character Constructions and the days of the week stamps are from Purple Onion Designs. These photos are a bit blurry. Should've waited for better lighting. Also used some vintage wallpaper for the base. The flower was originally white but I spritzed it with Adirondak color wash.

The matted photo in the background was inspired by Karen Michel from her Altered Imagery book. You basically take a regular film photo (no digital)- soak in water and scrape with a paper piercer or anything sharp. This shrub is right outside one of our windows. I was hoping to get a window effect by placing it just so. This collage has special meaning to me so it will stay here. :)

Perspective

2007-09-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

My friend will bury her 28 year old son tomorrow- her only child. Unexpected tragic accident. She lost her husband last year unexpectedly. Found him dead in a chair. She has lost her entire immediate family---basically everything. She is one of the nicest people I've ever met. Totally does NOT deserve this.

Puts things into perspective, doesn't it?

Quick update

2007-09-02T18:23:00.000-07:00

The hearing test determined Taylor is able to hear normal speech sounds. Couldn't really complete the entire thing because she was crying and afraid of the room. Honestly I thought it was a little closed-in and dark myself. We were there for 2 hours. lol. The lady kept trying but Taylor didn't want to have much to do with the whole procedure. She wouldn't keep the plug in her ear for the computer to test her hearing. Basically there are 3 ways they can test for hearing deficit---her turning her head towards sounds in a soundproof room, the earplug connected to the computer, and testing under general anesthesia. I saw her head turn enough times to be satisfied with the results and confident that she is hearing. Anesthesia would just be ridiculous. The lady was also very confident that she is hearing normal speech sounds.

We have had the BEST weekend. We went out to dinner twice with Taylor and she did SOOOO well. She sat on my lap the entire time but who cares. She actually enjoyed herself. And----for the BIG BIG news------Taylor went down the slide 4 times and kinda enjoyed that too. She also sat on my lap and let me swing her for a brief moment. She is babbling more too. We work with her every day and I am seeing a big difference. :)

Mark took me to the Waterfront for an early birthday. We ate at Rock Bottom and went next door to see the dueling pianos at Sing Sing. We had a great time. Just the 2 of us. The piano players were very entertaining and I would highly recommend it. Fun stuff. We needed it.

Early Intervention comes next week to fill out paperwork and our ABA therapy gal comes also. She's gonna be so proud of Miss T!

Can she get any cuter?

2007-08-31T04:21:00.001-07:00

I still haven't shared all the layouts I completed at the crop a while ago. This is one of my favorites. She's just SO darn cute.

Off to a hearing evaluation today and more phone calls. :) It's gonna be a caffeine day for me. Tired.

Taylor update and published card

2007-08-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

Made it into the current issue of RubberStampMadness. Funny how fitting this article is right now. Going through all this waiting/teaching/tantrums etc. sure does test a couple. It's all okay. I should be in the next 3 issues of RSM if anyone gets a chance to check 'em out.

On to more important issues. I took Taylor to the doctor last week (for a rash which was probably roseola but I just used that as a reason to get in) and I ended up seeing my pediatrician's partner. Well--I swear things do happen for a reason. Of course I quickly dismissed the rash and moved on to more important topics. He ended up referring us to Children's Therapy Center in Waterdam Plaza and we have physical and occupation therapy evaluations scheduled in September. Speech eval. not till December!! Obviously kids have trouble speaking these days. That's okay though. At least the ball will start rolling a little sooner and maybe she can start those therapies. I'm not sure how much of those she'll really need but I'm sure she needs a little help. If I hadn't seen the partner I STILL wouldn't know about this place. Of course they can't diagnose so we will still be waiting for a label until Nov. 14 from Children's Hospital. That's how it goes folks. You need a complete evaluation and a diagnosis in order to get certain services. Thank goodness we can get the PT/OT evals done earlier though. We are also in a better position knowing someone who works with autistic children. My ABA therapy notebook is full of notes from this week. We are working on non-verbal requesting (pointing), responding to name, matching (which my kid is SOOOOO doing well at this), gross motor imitation, object imitation, self-help skills and I forget what else. We are in a unique position here. Most people don't have the help to get this started. We are lucky we know someone who is willing to help us so much. Damn lucky. She is coming up again tomorrow. I also called Early Intervention AGAIN today. They should be calling me back any day now to set up in in-home evaluation. I also called the welfare office on Friday to get a Medical Loophole form to get Taylor medical card. I guess that will cover Taylor's PT/OT therapies at the Children's Therapy Center if our insurance doesn't. I don't think it is based on need. That right there is very valuable information folks! Ya see--this is possibly gonna get really expensive and every bit helps.

Anyway, as far as home ABA progress goes----Taylor was resisting everything at first--really resisting. We went from trying to just figure out what she wanted to making her actually work for it. Lots of tantrums. We still have them but the first few days were brutal. She is resisting less now. She is even pointing at things-infrequently but it's showing progress. She is really resisting responding to her name. I can see the resistance letting up a little though. She is very proud of herself with matching and so am I! Funny how every little accomplishment is savored now. Be careful what ya take for granted.

Lemme tell ya---this kid hates strange places and strangers - restaurants especially. And going in doorways that are unfamiliar. No likie. We are working on it and it's very exhausting. I have learned really quickly not to give a crap about all the people staring. We also started back to the Little Gym today which is so good for her. She's not into following directions (can't really process directions) or much close contact (little girl came up to her today and she backed up and put up the elbow) but the running around is great for her. Baby steps.

I am going to continue to post all this info plus some fun stuff. All work and no play.....
I hope this information helps someone else. I know I've read blog after blog and it felt pretty damn good to know I'm not alone.

I'm off to bed. This is so exhausting. Never in a million years did I think I'd take the role of mother/in-home therapist but that is where I am and it's all good. Not all days are good but as far as the big picture goes---it's all good. After all---Taylor is lovin' the chocolate rewards that go along with therapy. She's my kid. My very bright, smart kid. One in a million that kiddo.

A little funny and turning a corner

2007-08-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

I thought this blog could use a little humor--hence the layout. lol. She's a doll!

We have turned a corner in this house. The "it's okay" corner. If Taylor is simply a bit behind or if she gets diagnosed with something else it's okay. It's life. We are implementing ABA therapy in this house NOW under the guidance of an angel who shall remain nameless. Honestly---it's kinda fun. We had the best time this morning. They'll be trying times but the good times are great. She is so funny and sweet and laughs like crazy sometimes. She has been sick for a few days too. She has had a fever and now has a red rash all over her body. Measles (surely not), Fifth Disease, who knows so we are in the house for a few days. It's some childhood funk. So--Amanda--if you are reading this thanks for the playdate invite but we'll have to pass. I don't think the other mothers would appreciate our attending and spreading disease. lol.

Thanks to friends and family who are so concerned about us. We are doing fine now. The initial shock of 'you need to get your kid evaluated. she's behind' is over and we are back to life. It's a short life and we will live it the best we know how. Love you all.

Good afternoon at playyard

2007-08-15T16:56:00.000-07:00

There weren't many kids at the playyard today. It was calm and Taylor actually climbed on the slide. She also let another girl about 4 years old come up to her and Taylor muttered some sort of jargon to her but it was intentional. It was initiated by my kid. Maybe I'm just grasping but it felt good. It is a little hope. I'll be taking her around kids constantly now. I have to make sure part of the social backwardness isn't just a product of limited exposure to kids. The last time we were there it was wild. Maybe she is just overwhelmed by wild kids?? Please let that be the case.

Maybe we have a big speech delay coupled with a very shy kid? She has always had stranger anxiety. We have been working with her like two nutcases.

Regardless-----we are prepared to take this on no matter what it is. We are stronger than we've ever been.

This blog will be full of crazy thoughts and many ups and downs. Fair warning. I'll be grasping at every little thing too. I need hope.

ONe last thought----all you parents out there that let your kids watch the Wiggles. Well, watch out for all that hand flapping. Kinda makes you wonder if your kid is imitating or actually has a symptom. I'm just sayin'...... We no longer watch the Wiggles in this house. We no longer watch much TV of any type when Taylor is awake.

I'm 95 percent sure..........

2007-08-15T04:47:00.000-07:00

that we are a statistic. A very heartbreaking statistic. The 1 in 150 statistic. A gut-wrenching statistic. A statistic I never EVER imagined would land in this house. A statistic that has ripped a world apart. A statistic that makes me cry at will. A statistic that means my daughter may never know the "normal" joys of life. A statistic that makes me hate the other mothers at the park. A statistic that is so unfair I can't even imagine ANYTHING worse. A statistic that keeps a light from going off inside my daughter's head that would help her talk, respond, look, socialize normally ,etc. A statistic that means possibly no ballet/gymnastics etc. - speech/occupational therapy instead. A statistic that means so much. One small word, one horrific heartache------

AUTISM

It's here. Taylor is exhibiting all the signs. I've had a weird feeling in my gut about this for a little while--a mother's feeling, a nurse's feeling---you know those feelings. It would explain so much. So many social difficulties. A reason for all the meltdowns in normal social situations when things get too "close." A reason for loss of words. A reason for virtually no speech. A reason for constant movement. A reason for hand flapping when uncomfortable around other kids. A reason for constant screaming on an airplane. A reason for her being so behind the other kids--kids younger than her. A reason for not wanting to be held close to your chest. Now talk about heartbreaking. Every selfish bone in my body is grieving over that one. A reason she goes to sleep without any protest. A reason she was totally miserable around all of her cousins and completely content as soon as I removed her from the situation. A reason it's always seemed "difficult" around here. A reason she won't pretend. A reason she doesn't "show" us anything. A reason she didn't point before age 2. A reason she won't look when I point something out to her. A reason she went to the other side of the room completely away from other kids at The Little Gym. A reason when you call her name she almost always won't look at you. A reason for so many things.

So, I have a call in to Early INtervention who is supposed to call me within 10 days to schedule an evaluation within 45 days. We also have an appointment at Children's Hospital to get her diagnosed. Wanna know the best part??? Insurance doesn't cover behavioral therapy. Early Intervention is free. Children's is not. Soooooo, any additional therapy or visits at Children's is out-of-pocket. First thing we are probably going to sell is Mark's car. Early intervention does provide therapy but odds are she might need more. We will find a way.

DEAR GOD PLEASE LET ME BE WRONG. PLEASE. I BEG OF YOU.

Please don't call me. I can't bear to talk about this right now. I just can't. I'm not sure how Mark feels but I can't talk on the phone about it yet. I'm just struggling to make it through the day and I know I have to get past this feeling to do the best for Taylor. This is so not about me but I feel so damn selfish right now. I'm so pissed off, sad, depressed, angry, hateful, heart-broken. You name it. We are all feeling it.

I know you are all saying "wait for a diagnosis." Well, it sure feels like autism lives here and it's real right now.

So, pray for us or do whatever it is you all choose to do. Hug your kids today and thank God for them.

5 more!

2007-08-11T17:32:00.000-07:00

These layouts are all Mark's side of the family. We took a trip to Boston in May and Mark's parents visited us last month. If you want to know any of the products I used feel free to email me. There's too much to list.

I definitely enjoy scrapping the non-posed moments the most. More natural and just a better representation of everyday life.

Have a lot on my mind right now. Thanks for visiting.

another bubble layout

2007-08-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

I have so many pictures of T with bubbles I just couldn't resist doing another. Fontwerks circle stamp, Creative Imaginations epoxy stickers, Fancy Pants "sweet" rub-on, etc. I used the Bo Bunny flexible ruler to make the wave design. Picked it up at the crop last weekend. I think Scrapbooker's Dream still has some in stock. She ships anywhere and charges actual shipping in case you are interested.

lots of new layouts comin' to ya

2007-08-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

I went to a sixteen hour crop on Saturday. I'm still tired. :) I ended up finishing fourteen layouts and 2 cards. I'll share a few each day until they are all posted. Some I like - some are just "eh."

Gotta post and run. If I don't shower during T's nap I don't shower and that's just not good for anyone. Oh--before I forget--I posted some new links to the right for those of you who enjoy bloghopping. Lots of talent on that right-hand side. Purple Onion Designs is a retail site but even if you don't buy stamps you must check out the gallery she has posted. It's fantastic.

Cards

2007-08-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

Made these a while back. Never posted them for some reason. Lady and bird from Character Constructions and little girl stamp from Paperbag Studios. Papers are Foofala and Making Memories ledger. Used a Crafter's Workshop template to color in the swirls on the birthday card. Used colored pencils to shade everything.

Big Girl Chair

2007-07-31T17:48:00.000-07:00

Finished this one while waiting on my Crest whitestrip to do its action. Finished it up quick. I'm so tired I just started throwing things down. Seriously. The reason the paper is torn is because I was too damn tired to get up. Work was extremely busy today--as always.

I love love love this paper line from Scenic Route. Acquired it in a Jenni Bowlin kit a while back. It's perfect for girl pages.

Gotta relax and call it a night.

Happy Birthday Taylor!!!!

2007-07-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

Today is Taylor's actual birthday but we had a small celebration yesterday. Just my parents, Tom and Jeri, and Mark and I. I saw no sense in having a huge party when she slept through most of her birthday last year. She is a bit afraid of strangers also so we kept it low-key.

The highlights----Ice cream and cake were the hits this year. She sat on her new bike long enough for a picture then fell over. The bike ended up alone outside. She loves the Happy Birthday song and would love to be serenaded every day. The blocks rate right up there with cake/ice cream. Books are a close second. Macy was sick all day long and seems to be recovering today. Tom and Jeri bought her a motorized Barbie four wheeler. hmmmm.........that'll keep me busy. Fun had by all!

you just never know

2007-07-24T19:38:00.000-07:00

You never know what this life will deal you. Just found out a former classmate has leukemia. We kinda dated a little--very briefly. I just thought he was the cutest in high school.

He is blogging about his experiences and I will definitely be checking in periodically. I listed his blog on the right- chipchat.

Magic

2007-07-24T19:14:00.000-07:00

There is just something that surrounds children that is so magical. They are so untouched, innocent, free to run around like a crazy. There are days when Taylor surrounds me with that special magical innocence that nobody else could possibly provide. Look at that face. Full tilt running in the bubbles. She is so far from thinking about mortgages, marriage, money, blah, blah--all that "adult" crap.

Here's to the magic.

Saf's non-jambo jammity jam jam

2007-07-21T04:55:00.001-07:00

Had a great time. So nice to get out and socialize. Nice to know people actually read this blog. lol. :) Lots goin' on. Lee and Jon are going to Vietnam to pick up their baby! Michelle Hartley made a guest appearance. Much deliberation over golf partners. Jess is headed to Utah in October. Found out Jenn and Amanda scrapbook. :) Eric's niece is just growin' up to be GORGEOUS. Hopefully all party peeps avoided the DUI checkpoints. I'm sure I missed something.

On a different note---outlet malls comin' next summer less than 5 minutes from here! Gap, Nike, Eddie Bauer, Guess, etc. Woo hoo!

Mixing old with new

2007-07-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

First of all---sorry for the white crap on the layout but my scanner is permanently screwed due to putting wet art projects on it for scanning----hint, hint---DON'T do that!!

In an effort to clear my head I am currently going through my scrapbook supplies and getting rid of a ton of stuff. I just can't think with all this stuff around me that I'll never use. In my effort to reorganize/regroup I came across some tried and true product that I just love. It had disappeared to the bottom of tons of other crap and took a permanent home at the bottom which it sooo didn't deserve. I think this patterned paper is from 7gypsies very first release---am I correct? Anyway, I love, love, loved that release and I must've just completely hoarded it. You'll be seeing it again soon. Love those Autumn Leave library tabs or whatever they called them at the time. Great stuff.

Other diddies used here are Heidi Swapp ghost arrows highlighted with a white paint pen, MM glitter brads (LOVIN' these and so need more, lol), Catslife Press newsworthy stamp and last but not least---my latest splurge--those Creative Imagination rubons I've been drooling over. They are expensive but I went into the LSS on a day I really needed a pick-me-up. Only bought one pack but at $16 how the hell could you afford more than one?!

Cya!

love you more

2007-07-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted a layout in a while because it seems I'm just too pooped at the end of the day to scrapbook. I did get this finished. It's been on my desk for over a week.

Being a Mom is probably the toughest job I've had to date and I've had my share of difficult jobs throughout the years. You love them so much yet they can push your buttons daily. Perhaps it's tough because as Moms we are so emotionally involved. I always want to do the absolute best but I've come to realize I just have to do MY personal best as a mother and leave it at that. As mothers we also tend to get repeatedly judged by others especially other mothers which I don't quite understand. I just want her to understand I do my absolute best- it may be far from perfect but we are all flawed. I don't want her growing up to be a Mom and expecting herself to be perfect. That's a sure setup for failure. All this being said---being a mother is the toughest and BEST job I've ever had. I love this little girl so much I can't imagine a life without her.

Rainbow/ATC

2007-07-05T18:34:00.000-07:00

Hurried up and grabbed my camera tonight for this gorgeous rainbow. These pics were taken off the deck. If you look really close you can see a second rainbow to the right. Didn't have the right lens on the camera but I think you get the idea. Very pretty.

Also included an ATC I completed for a mingle. We were to use at least one Purple Onion Designs stamp. The background is created by spraying Adirondak color wash on glossy paper- let dry. I then stamped the word "flower" repeatedly in distress ink. Stamped the actual flower stamp directly over the top with black pigment ink. Sprinkled the entire card with clear embossing powder and heated. Mounted on black cardstock. Added some Primas and Stickles glitter glue.

Gotta run---I am dead tired.

Summer fun

2007-06-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

We went to visit my friend Jeri and her nephew Wyatt today. Jeri and I have been friends for over 20 years. Those kind of friends are few and far between.

Anyway, T was a little scared at first. No shocker there. It didn't take long for her to see the potential for fun with Wyatt. After all---he has many firetrucks and cars. I mean--what more could a gal ask for? Taylor is a bit of a tomboy so she was at home. (no interest in dolls whatsoever) I also included a pic of Wyatt and his best buddy Tom (Jeri's husband). He wanted nothin' to do with us big girls. :)

Reading, popsicles, firetrucks, balls--nothin' better!

A tough day at work

2007-06-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

Tickets.
Need 2.
Tickets?
Need tickets?

For those of you who were present there's no need for further explanation. :)

Old photos

2007-06-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

Been doin' a little reminiscing. I think I'm getting OLD.

I'll be posting old pictures on and off for a while. It's fun to look back at these.

What the hell was I thinking with that ultra-blonde hair and burnt up skin?! I'll have this era in my life to thank for wrinkles later on!

One photo is me and Jessie. The other photo is Alex, Christie Kolenc, me, and Danno. Look at that Humble Sacrifice T-shirt. Now THAT brings back some memories!

Hey Chris---if you're out there shoot me an email.

Keep checkin' back. There's more. Saf--you are next.

$13 and some change will getcha......

2007-06-20T17:20:00.000-07:00

Went to goodwill today and came home with this loot. Pretty satisfied really. I do enjoy McCoy pottery even if it's not worth a bunch. I already have one of my grandmother's pieces. I'm not a big collector of this stuff but if I run onto a nice little pretty I'll buy it. The pitcher will reside on my bathroom sink and house my toothpastes---nighttime toothpaste and regular. My freaky dental care is another post. lol. Not a chip on either piece!

The books were a great find at 75 cents each. I think 2 of them were half off! These books retail for $6 a pop. We read a LOT around this house so new books are always a necessity. Cute little alphabet toy too. Good finds.

C ya!

i need me some change

2007-06-18T02:52:00.000-07:00

Ok--I need some change around here.

Let's start off with weight. Dear God---here we go back to Weight Watchers AGAIN. Saturday morning will now be spent sitting in meetings but what else am I gonna do? This can't go on. I'm so down about the whole overweight issue and my muscles ache in the mornings. I'm convinced it's due to fat. :( It's not like I'm a million pounds but my frame isn't meant for this! I can't function like this and it will directly affect my child if I don't do something now. That bothers me the most. I'm also a nurse who stands all day. Granted--I don't work a lot of days but I can feel the effects of carrying extra pounds after beating on my feet and knees all day on a cement floor. I can't take it ANYMORE.

Next off is clutter. I'm ready to throw things away again. I love to get in that mood. No hoarding of junk. Just a garbage bag and me. I'll be doing this over the next month or so. I find that it clears my head. lol. Maybe I'm nutso but I can't take the build-up of excess shit around here. It clouds my entire being. I'm not a neat fanatic but stuff is building up and I need clarity.

Ok---that's enough for a Monday morning.

Oh, and a little art for ya. Made this for my friend Jen. She spends a lot of time with her grandson and this stamp just fits. I'd have to say this particular stamp is one of my current favorites. It's from Stampscapes. I was in a stamp store quite a while ago and this little stamp just popped out from everything around it and shouted, "buy me!"

Happy belated Father's Day to all you Dads out there. Mark is a great Dad. He won't see this cuz he's a busy computer guy but he deserves a little credit so I thought I'd throw it out here on an off chance he catches a line or so. Great Dads invent games like Blanket (this involves Mark sitting on the floor with many pillows/blanket and Taylor running full force from far away and diving into the fray--she's a toughie). Great Dads work hard to provide a safe neighborhood for their families. Great Dads hug and kiss their kids. Mark is a great Dad.

Later.

two posts in one day--whew!

2007-06-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

On the "Thank you God" layout I used some MM patterned paper, my trusty scallop punch, Prima flowers, Stickles glitter glue and the artistamp alpha from Purple Onion Designs. Simple design/bad picture of me but I like it. She makes me smile.

The layout with the arrows came together quick. I love that patterned paper on the bottom. Came from the back of Ali Edwards' Designing with Patterened Paper book. Good book. Also used Heidi Swapp ghost arrows, my favorite Foofala paper Filagreen (I need more!), another scallop punch stamped with journaling lines and an Autumn Leaves date sticker.

Look at those little tan lines of her feet!!!!!!

Wiggle while you work

2007-06-15T04:06:00.000-07:00

The Wiggles (unfortunately) are a staple in this house. Let's just say Mark and I never thought we'd be watching a big purple octopus and a green dinosaur doing the latest jigs. Taylor loves them so that's that.

She also loves to help me clean. I'm sure that'll taper off eventually. lol.

I've been using my scallop punches on every layout lately. Probably because they are out in plain view and make great resting spots for journaling. Stamps used on the punches and the artistamp alpha are from Purple Onion Designs. Drew some bling onto the Wiggles layout with STickles glitter glue. That stuff has been around forever and I just love it. Rest is pretty self-explanatory.

Happy Friday!

Cutie

2007-06-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

My friend Jeri bought this t-shirt for Taylor while on vacation. She likes to spoil this kid. Look at her---it's tough NOT spoiling her. She's just so much fun!

7 years

2007-06-10T04:55:00.000-07:00

Thank you Mark - for giving me my world.

July/Aug RubberStampMadness

2007-06-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

One of my cards was picked up in the new RubberStampMadness. It feels good to be in print. Not my first time but each time feels good. Little bit of recognition is good for the ego. lol.

The issue also mentions the art in the Purple Onion Designs gallery. Michele really does have some fantastic art on her site. Lots of talent. Used her butterfly stamp on my published card as well as a fairy stamp from Lost Coast Designs.

Took T to the zoo today and she really had a great time. Did so well holding Mommy's hand while walking. Usually she's runnin' like a madwoman. Great job T!

Page, Chapter, The End

2007-06-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Quick layout using fairytale set from Purple Onion Designs. Taylor loves books and especially loves when Daddy reads to her.

gearin' up for Sopranos

2007-06-03T17:45:00.000-07:00

I'm so pumped for these last 2 episodes. The last couple episodes were damn good. Little teeth crushin' and murdering relatives goes a long way. lol. After The Sopranos exit I think I'm done with TV for the summer. Goodbye to the tube for a couple months. It really is a big electronic fat generator. I think I'm headed back to Weight Watchers too. Lord---I wonder how much money they'll get from me in this lifetime.

I'm gonna catch up on some reading. Been wanting to finish all of Augusten Burroughs' books. Great books. He is very entertaining and what a life! Any other reading suggestions?

Later.

just a couple layouts

2007-06-02T19:28:00.000-07:00

I just had to get "zobe" documented before years pass and "zobe" becomes an afterthought. I love these Hambly Studios rub-ons. Too bad I used these elegant silver rub-ons on a layout about my kid's feet. Still love them just the same. lol.

Finally did a layout with something in it besides people. lol. Thought maybe later on Taylor may like to see some of the little things I associate with the holiday. That candy dish was my Grandma Cook's piece. It's all nicked up but I so love it. She always filled it with ribbon candy. That thing has been around since my Dad was a kid.

The scallop stamp and "2007" are from Purple Onion Designs. I'm SO gonna have to get her Great Circus alphabet now. Love how the "2007" stamped out. Sometimes you just gotta see it on paper. Dug out those old Making Memories scrabble letters stickers too.

Thanks for looking. Have a great weekend--what's left of it!

Green Pepper Press Street Team Crusade No. 8

2007-05-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have been pondering this crusade since the day Michelle Ward posted the topic. Basically you are to share your cheap tools, ideas, etc. - things you use in your art that are inexpensive.

My friend dropped off a bunch of goodies yesterday. She shops a lot and I get her overfill. Totally lovin' that. She's a makeup fanatic. I believe these flip flops were a gift with purchase at the Lancome counter. So they were cheap for her and free for me!

Taylor has been playing with them since she dropped them off and I just had a lightbulb moment tonight--perfect timing as the crusade ends tomorrow. The sole of the flip flop has a brick pattern. Perfect! Great for stamping. The top has some type of weave pattern. Soooooo............you get double your fun with one pair in this case! I stamped the bottom and top of the scallop with the sole of the flip flop.

I also used the cap of an Alene's tacky glue bottle to stamp the circles around the edge of the scallop. I then filled in the circles with a silver paint pen. Bird is Character Constructions and the little bird quote is Michelle Ward for Stampington Bird Sanctuary set.

Fun crusade Michelle. Keep em' coming.

PEEK!

2007-05-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

Taylor loves peek-a-boo or any form of hiding. lol.

This particular layout was so fun. Alpha and circle stamps all from www.purpleoniondesigns.com. I colored the letters with glitter markers. While the paper was still wet I rubbed over the glitter ink with white chalk. This gave the paper texture and dimension. Used some Daisy D and MME paper. Also used a super cool journaling rubon from Hambly Studios. Love those things.

Happy Memorial Day to all!

Summer card

2007-05-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie card using a butterfly stamp from Purple Onion Designs, Prima flowers, brads and a rub-0n. Have a nice day!

Let's talk plastic Easter eggs

2007-05-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

All you new parents out there---lemme give ya some great advice. Save your money the first couple years. It's true what they say--kids like the wrapping paper more than what's inside. Kids like the box more than the expensive gift. AND as far as the Easter bunny goes---just buy a cheap pack of those plastic Easter eggs and some plastic grass and call it done. Seriously.

First LO is packed full of alpha stamps from Purple Onion Designs (www.purpleoniondesigns.com). Finally used those Bazzill cards I've had forever. Threw some Prima flowers and some ribbon on there too.

Second LO is almost all Daisy Ds Girlfriend collection. I see a pattern here. This is my second year using this paper for Easter LOs. I think I may have to purchase another pack before it's all gone for next year! Oh, another thing about this LO is the file tabs punched from patterned paper. I saw Ali Edwards use it in CK last month and just have to have that punch. I took the idea from her LO. I think it will prove very useful. Great quality punch too--made by McGill.

That's it folks. I think it was "see how much crap I can put on 2 pages night." Lots of schtuff on here tonight. hmm.... must be my mood.