JANUARY 2000

TO LAURA- I Just read your story about your Aunt Ruby. I am so overwhelmingly sorry for your loss. You have touched my heart and I am so thankful that you came and shared your story. Quite a few of us have been thinking about and watching and trying to prevent our children from experiencing rejection with our extended families, aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbors, schoolkids-basically the entire world (see we're moms so we think we CAN change the world! :)heheh). Anyways, to read of your love and acceptance of your aunt really helped me, 'cuz I often think of when Kaylee is older-she's so cute now because she's a kid- but how will people feel about her when she's 20, and 30 and 40? How will HER neices and nephews see her? Laura, you were a great neice to your Aunt Ruby, and a great person to all I'm sure. Sorry for your lose. You brightened my day by sharing your story, though the sunshine was a bit blurry for all the tears in my eyes. God Bless you, and hope you made it through the funeral ok. Just know there is a world FULL of kids, teens, grown ups with DS out here! You're welcome to come and visit any time you like, pull up a chair and stay awhile....you can see my girls at http://www.jps.net/scottcindy

TO SHIRLEY- Please join often in our messages and chats. As mom to a teenager with DS-your much further down the journey of life with Christopher then I with Kaylee and we ALWAYS love to hear advice and stories from moms like you!

sorry this is so long.. :)

I just had to tell you how lucky all you new moms are. When I had Christopher 18 years ago, there wasn't as much support as there is now. I did start him in an infant stimulation class at 3 months. It was very helpful to him and the parents I met helped me more than anything. Keep talking and sharing. It is the best thing for you and your wonderful children. I wished I had this message board 18 years ago. But it is never to late to learn something. Thanks everyone.

I think someone has a birthday coming up:)

I remember it to be an 8th birthday.

Who could it be?:)

Love Ro

Post up and let us all know PLEASE:)

I'm sorry, but messages like this are not allowed on this site. We have deleted your message because it does not address the topic of Down syndrome. We do not allow spam on this site.

SNIP--- did u ever wonder if u could make money while u were online surfing, well now..... so you can get paid while you sleep. Email me with anyquestions ---SNIP

Please feel free to continue to share your thoughts on the topic of Down Syndrome on our site.

Just a quick thank you to Brennan's mom and Marie for your comments. I don't mean to sound negative. I know my daughter is beautiful and she will endure. I have to go because it is time to go home. Darn, I wish I had on of these things at home. Then I could keep on top of things. Anyway, check back with everyone hopefully WEednesday.

Tammy,

I don't know how to evaluate the evaluation,but...... way to go Alex:)

Amy,

CONGRADULATIONS on the new one:)

Dawn

How is Branson doing? I'm glad to hear that his surgery is behind him and he is doing okay:)

Cindy,

L.O.L. =Laughing out Loud

Could I, would I, or better yet SHOULD I?

My son was born to us with a special little thing that I had no control over:) He had that special little pepper:) (gene)that made him what he is today.

Would changing him would make is life any easier, would/could it produce different challenges that even without disabilities may be equally as difficult:)

Just pondering

RO

Hi All!

Just wanted to touch base and boy (girl) is there some catching up to do. I so much want to "talk" to all of you! Bear with me as I get the hang of this...k?

CINDY/Brittany's mom, I so much want to reach through this screen and give you a gigantic hug! It can be so hard when others really can't understand what it's like to have a kid with different abilities. I have a few friends with 4 year olds and sometimes the difference is so dramatic. Then Brennan does something that is so incredible and I try to remember that I have to go at her pace with lots of little pushes from me, LOL. Just know that you are not alone in your worries. Also, in the potty training area, I heard a great idea at a seminar. One mom said she put regular cotton panties INSIDE the pull-ups so that her daughter "felt" the mess but mom didn't have to constantly clean up. Isn't that a great idea?!? Let us know how things are going........we care.

This could get long so I'll say it once.......SORRY!

Brenda, Thanks for the welcome. I'm excited to be here!

Bonnie, "The Wiggles" looks great to me too. I looked for it over the holidays but was unsuccessful. I'll keep you posted, so to speak - hee hee

Adrienne, I hope today was better for Russell and you.

Mary, Sending get well wishes and kissed to your GS.

Dru, How was the Leeza show? I couldn't find the listing.

Dawn, Outstanding Gump story. Thank you!

Debi, Well said!

Shirley, Thanks for the upper....I need to hear stories like that.

Bill, Please post often. You have that rare insight that I would love to absorb!

Ro, Your posts make me smile. I've missed them!

Melissa, That is great! Keep signing. Brennan is learning signs at school that I don't even know - ha - she has surpassed ole mom!

Dawn, So glad to hear Branson is doing better!

Heather, Family can be a real pain at times, huh?

Judi, Your boys sound so polite!

Tonya, Thanks for sharing. It's always good to know about anything written about DS.

Amy, Congratulations!!!!!!! Your story has touched my heart in a deep, deep place.

To All of You, Thanks for all your posts. I'm Brennan's mom. She is 4 and has Down syndrome. I'm so happy to be here and I'll TRY to not make such a winded post again. I just want you to know that I appreciate all of you, even if I didn't mention your name...is that possible, hahahahaha

Bye Bye for now,

Brennan's mom

P.S. Tammy, I found you over here! I'm smiling big time!

Well, I just love how everyone shares their children that I thought I would share one. Russell @ 22 months is aknowledging music with his body. When we play music with a great beat, he gets on his hands and knees and rocks back and forth. He also moves his head back and forth. He is also starting to imitate mouth sounds that the PT and I do with him. I never know when he is going to do things so I just get so excited for him!!!

AMY - your post touch my heart and brought tears to my eyes - CONGRATULATIONS!

Tonya, Let me just say that my Branson is a wonderful baby! I love him to pieces, truly!! But I can assure you that if they had something to "cure" him from having Down Syndrome. By god I would try to be first in line. Not because we dont love him as he is but I want his life to be easier. You have to admit, it is a "long row to hoe", (Texas saying) Not for me but for him! And I want my child to have every possible chance at a "normal" life. It is hard enough when you have no handicaps. Like I said I love my baby more than anyone else in this world, but if there was a chance I would want him to have it. I know that I was told by the geneticist that the Trisomy 21 happened at conception. The way she explained it was that it was like a copy machine and it copied the extra chromosome over and over. I can accept that, but if there was a chance to fix it......... I would, for him. :0)

No offense to anyone here, I hope. This is only my oppinion.

Tonya, Let me just say that my Branson is a wonderful baby! I love him to pieces, truly!! But I can assure you that if they had something to "cure" him from having Down Syndrome. By god I would try to be first in line. Not because we dont love him as he is but I want his life to be easier. You have to admit, it is a "long row to hoe", (Texas saying) Not for me but for him! And I want my child to have every possible chance at a "normal" life. It is hard enough when you have no handicaps. Like I said I love my baby more than anyone else in this world, but if there was a chance I would want him to have it. I know that I was told by the geneticist that the Trisomy 21 happened at conception. The way she explained it was that it was like a copy machine and it copied the extra chromosome over and over. I can accept that, but if there was a chance to fix it......... I would, for him. :0)

hi CINDY...your post touched me. I beleive that one day your little one will be able to come to you and ask to go play in the snow. and your heart will rejoice. at 3 my son couldnt have asked that he was able to ask last year at 7, but yours could ask sooner, cause all the kids grow at different levels. i also know what you mean about the different levels, do you treat them at age 1,2, or 3? i still go through that sometimes. its not always easy to know but hang in there, shes still young and has alot of growing to do, i also understand about the temper tantrums and its NOT the same as "normal" kids. your right , not all people can understand it.

take care

marie

Tonya, while most of the time DS occurs at conception i have heard other times that it can happen afterwards. I may be wrong i'm not sure. But my feeling is that i see nothing wrong in trying to decrease the possibility of birth defects. I dont feel birth defects are beautiful. While children born with DS should be loved and accepted and can grow to become independent or semi independent adults, the DS still leaves them with many difficulties and problems with health, and problems of non acceptance from others. I love my son dearly whose almost 8 but it would be easier for him and i if he didnt have DS and there's no denying that. Any chance to decrease birth defects should be looked upon as a good thing not something to be upset over, this is just my opinion mind you. They have done studies of mothers who have children with DS were low on certain types of vitamin and minerals during pregnancy and some wonder if it could factor but the studies are tenative and i havent heard baout it recently. I just wanted to add my imput. thanks for sharing. marie ps my son is doing pretty well and i am very proud of him. But still it would be better if he did not have DS...

Oh Amy how WONDERFUL! Madison is surely smiling down now knowing that her mommy has smiled today. What a blessing. Love to you and yours, Tammy

I just wanted to let you know that we found out yesterday that we are having a baby boy!! Madison is my daughter, and I have a strong feeling that she nudged God, and said to Him, "My momma is so sad, could you please give my momma a reason to smile??" ...and he gave her this request (no one could refuse her!!) and sent us this new life. The specialist checked him over from head to toe (especially the heart) and gave him a clean bill of health. I was so relieved to know that he would not have to suffer with the heart problems that Madison did..she was so brave!!! Thank you, Madison, for hearing my cries, and sending your little brother...you knew that Mommy needed a little body to hold and pour this love into!! Momma to Madison (Amy)

Hi everyone......anyone who wants to know how Alex's eval went, I posted it over on the Bulletin Board.

Back again real quick. First I notice that there are two Cindy's so I changed my name. I forgot to thank Lauren for the input on preschool. Also, could someone explain how the system works as far as postings, times if there are any. And what is "LOL"?? Thanks.

Hello again. Thank you Ro and Heather F. for responding to my entry.

The problem was that I guess i takes a while to respond on this. Also, I am not that great a computer buff. I can only check this out on Mondays and Wednesdays at work (which i am really not supposed to be doing). Anyway, I made here and I am so glad to have a support group. You know so many people you talk to do not have a clue what it is like to have a child with Down's Syndrome. I mean sure they are like other children in the sense that they have temper tantrums (very bad at my house sometimes), they go to school, they play etc, etc, etc. What is really bothering me right now is the fact that my daughter couldn't come to me and say "Mommy it is snowing outside. Can we go play in the snow?" "Mommy I love you and I want to sit beside you for a little while." My sister has a three soon to be four year old in May and it astonishes me how well this child can talk. You know i really long for my daughter to tell me how her day has been. Another thing that I don't understand. My daughter will be three in March; the speech therapists say expressively she is 14months and cognitively she is 23months. So do I treat her like a one year old, two year old, or three year old?? The emotional strain of wanting your child to progress in every aspect of life is so much to bear at times. Will people make fun of her? Will she ever have children? Will she ever find true love?

Anyway, I don't mean to write so much. I haven't talked to anyone through this whole ordeal because I don't think anyone else quite understands. I wanted to tell Brennan's Mom that I like her story about bath time. It really touched my heart. You know sometimes they surprise one day with what they understand. Also I think her or someone was asking about potty training. We haven't mastered yet either, but i found that books were very helpful. One is Prudence and her Potty. Very cute!! Also, I have switched Brittany from diapers or pull-ups to just plain 5-ply cotton panties. They sell at Wal-Mart pack of 3 for $6.96 or something like that. It can be messy at times if you know what I mean and I find myself washing about 10pair a day; but it teaches Brittany how it feels to be wet and dirty and I say she does not like it. Also saves on money.

Anyway, thank you for letting me know about Bear in the Big Blue house. It sounds like a fun show. Thank you for being here.

Just wanted to share something I happened to see and was offended by in the magazine First for Women (2/7/00 issue page 26) The article title: End Down Syndrome It was a very small article that said "researchers hope that taking folic-acid supplements during pregnancy may reduce the risk of birth defects." Notice the words 'during pregnancy'. I'm sorry but don't researchers know that the extra chromosome comes about at conception and can not be altered 'during the pregnancy'. What really made me upset was the title, which implies that DS is something that needs to be ended. Why 'end' something so beautiful. Well, anyway I did write a letter to the editor of the magazine stating how I felt about this article. Here is the address if anyone else would like to write. First for Women, Bauer Publishing Company. 270 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 Thanks to all the parents and friends on this site, even though I don't write often, I do read the posts. My son is 3 now and has a new baby sister so reading about other kids with siblings has helped me understand how to work with him better. Thanks.

HEY! Hi, Cindy, that is my dear friend KAREN and her Hubby, John!! Aren't they wonderful?? Kids are so beautiful!! I'm glad someone finally looked at the page, it is such a wonderful and inspiring story. They really are as wonderful as they look, too. Michelle

TO JOHN AND DEBBIE- Caleb and Faith's parents

Just saw your photo and read the article about your family on the unomas friends thingy. So nice to meet your family! What a great encouragement, blessing and testimony your family is to the world! I understand what it is like to have two children with different "issues" - though Faiths kidney stuff is MUCH MORE serious then Emma's Erbs Palsey-it still is such an emotional zapper. Thankful for our Great God and people that continue to place their faith in Him. HI Caleb and Faith from Kaylee and Emma!

Melissa/Brennan's Mom: Thanks so much for the info on Bear. I'm definitely gonna check it out! Right now, my little dumplin's are THOROUGHLY in love with Teletubbies, and Barney runs a close second, and Arthur and Dragon Tales are in a tie for third! (We're a PBS Family, as you can see!). Melisa: That's great about Jason signing! Boy, when they catch on, they learn signs like wild fire! Hope you have lots of books/info on signing handy to teach him. "More" and "Eat" were the first two signs Sam and Patrick learned, as well as the first two signs they put together! Why is it anything to do with eating or drinking they learn first? Right now, we're learning "etiquette" lessons, please and thank-you in sign. They are catching on quite well for being 3! Now, they sign "more, please" when they want something. And feeding himself too! That's such a big thing! (not to mention one less thing for you to have to do!). Having twins, I know how wonderful it is when they learn how to do something themselves! Keep up the good work! Judi

Melissa/Brennan's Mom: Thanks so much for the info on Bear. I'm definitely gonna check it out! Right now, my little dumplin's are THOROUGHLY in love with Teletubbies, and Barney runs a close second, and Arthur and Dragon Tales are in a tie for third! (We're a PBS Family, as you can see!). Melisa: That's great about Jason signing! Boy, when they catch on, they learn signs like wild fire! Hope you have lots of books/info on signing handy to teach him. "More" and "Eat" were the first two signs Sam and Patrick learned, as well as the first two signs they put together! Why is it anything to do with eating or drinking they learn first? Right now, we're learning "etiquette" lessons, please and thank-you in sign. They are catching on quite well for being 3! Now, they sign "more, please" when they want something. And feeding himself too! That's such a big thing! (not to mention one less thing for you to have to do!). Having twins, I know how wonderful it is when they learn how to do something themselves! Keep up the good work! Judi

Melissa Dupont, Just wanted to say "Way To Go Jason ! That is terrific - give him a big hug from me please." Wait until you can get him to sign "I Love You" - what a heart melter that is too ! Love, Terri & Nicholas

HAPPY MONDAY EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Melissa Dupont - hope to hear from you soon. I e-mailed you back. Love chatting via e-mail with you!! Your great. JEFFTIXX - Glad to get your e-mail. I responding on my son's reflux background, send me yours!!!! Have a great day y'all!!!

Hi Friends: Just an up-date on my precious angle, I was down yesterday, stayed and bathed, fed and put him to bed. He is doing wonderful, but stats still down, they will not let him home with oxygen unless his states are over 80%. At least we got some good NEWS, they thing that it is just due to weak muscles in his lungs, and as soon as he sits up by himself, he will strengthen up and them when he walks he will get even stronger, and will be ready to come off the oxygen. So, we will have to wait and see what happens. The nurses all think he is really advanced in his social skills, he talks to everyone, LOL, and really enjoys keeping lots of people around him. I find this board has eased my stress and worry, and the people here are so wonderful, thanks for being here for me, love and health to you all.

I just read Marie's response to my "cousin" question on the BB. I'm sorry that some of you, and your sweet Ds children, have to deal with terrible attitudes from ADULTS. And here I'm worried about little children being terrible to Nicholas. I really need to stop and count my blessings I guess. I wish life were fair. Thank you all for being such a support to me!!!!!!!

Hi Bill! Don't worry about not being able to spell very well, it doesn't matter one bit! Thank you for your comment about families. My heart hurt when I read about your sister. I guess I should be grateful for the not-so-wonderful family I have, huh? Thank you for making me see the positive!

After reading some of the messages I just wanted to add my 2 cents worth.My daughter Annie is almost 3 yrs old & even though she likes Bear in the Big Blue House,Blues Clues is her absolute favorite.Because of Blue & Steve she now says all sorts of words: blue ,Steve, clue, and mail to list a few.She'd watch it all day if she could. Hope some of you find the show helpful with your d. s. kids.

After reading some of the messages I just wanted to add my 2 cents worth.My daughter Annie is almost 3 yrs old & even though she likes Bear in the Big Blue House,Blues Clues is her absolute favorite.Because of Blue & Steve she now says all sorts of words: blue ,Steve, clue, and mail to list a few.She'd watch it all day if she could. Hope some of you find the show helpful with your d. s. kids.

I want to let everyone know that Branson is alomost WELL!! *YES* Thanks so much for all the support we have recieved!

Way to go Jason!!!!, You sweet doll! I cannot wait to meet you and your wonderful Mama!

Bill, never hesitate to post, we do not count misspellings here. The only thing that matters is love, and compassion!

WELL THIS MAY SEEM A LITTLE SILLY. I AM NOT YELLING BUT I AM EXCITED. I JUST HAD TO TELL SOMEONE. I HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH JASON TRYING TO GET HIM TO SIGN THE WORD MORE AND TO CLAP WELL....................TODAY I CLAPPED HIS HANDS TOGETHER AND SAID JASON YOU DO. CLAP.

HE DID IT TWICE. THEN HE LOOKED AT ME AND SIGNED THE WORD MORE. WOW !!!~~~~ I CANT BELIEVE IT I JUST HAD TO TELL YOU ALL, I AM SO HAPPY............ AND HE HATE A PB& J SANDWICH ALL BY HIMSELF IN HIS HIGH CHAIR HE IS FINALLY FEEDING HIME SELF INSTEAD OF THROWING IT TO THE CAT AND THE FLOOR.

HEY HEATHER:)

Tis the SLEEPY Ro I have had a great day and your e-mail made it for me. Really there is no need to feel bad. I really don't have time to say much but I hope to see you on post again:)

Ro

Hi all

I am not new to this site and I do not post much.But I read all of your post’s.You see I am a dad of a Ds young man who is in is 20’s .I cannot spell to good so I hope you can understand me. I feel a little bit embarrassed, and I do want to answer some of your post’s.I feel so proud of you young mum’s the way you all cope’ and the love you show for your children. I love my son so dearly’ I know all his little wants and needs, like all you mum’s know your children. Sum times it can be lonely for a dad going round the net reading sum lovely post’s from mum’s in D.S sites, knowing I could answer some of them. Well I must go now as I can hear my son calling me and my wife is due back home from shopping. I will carry on reading all your post’s.I hope I have not bored you all. Welcome to you new mums.

Heather you can pick your friends but not your family, We too had a bad incident two years ago when My sister's daughter got married, she invited every body, including my older "non Downs" son to the wedding, but she did not invite my D.S son, due to the fact that he may be an embarrassment to the bridegrooms family. (my oldest son refused to go to the wedding) and I can not repeat on this page what I said to her my so called sister. She now is no longer my sister. So do what your heart tells you.

Mary I hope your Grandson gets well soon. Bye for now from a dad who knows what you mum’s are going through.

PS I think some of you know my wife

Hi, everyone. I am new to this board and just want to put in my 2 cents. My son Christopher is 18 and attends the local High School in a special class. He is in regular gym and luch and even has a job at the local Burger King. He has a brother who is a freshman. They have always gotten along together but this is the first time they were in the same school together. Jason can not believe how many friends Chris has. Everyone knows him and everyone is so nice. Someone is always coming up to Chris and talking to him. Chris has been very luck with schools and teachers. He hasn't had much problems with acceptance. Chris has 2 more years at High School then we will be looking at what his future will hold. There are some courses at the local college that he may be able to take and they will help him find a job too. Chirstopher is a great kid. He is very helpful and I am truly blessed I have him. Chirs can not real or write very well but he can communicate with no problem. Those of you with young children I just want to say fight for what you believe in at your school meetingsand do not settle for anything less than what you want for your children. They may never be president but they could work in the White House. Thanks and feel free to e-mail me if you want to talk. Shirley proud mother of Chirstoher and Jason

Most of you know how I go about writing replies so hold on to your hats.......lol! Heather, I read your posting on the bulletin board and I KNOW HOW YOU AND OTHER PARENTS AND FAMILY FEEL about this situation....I honest to GOD do! My son went thru the very same thing and I would like to share with you what helped us through it..............In "trying" to "educate" family and others about Nicholas and his ds, you have to let the teacher be.......your son. I never hesitated to "teach" and explain to my son about his situation. He can now tell anyone WHY he is "different" and WHY he is just like you or I. Because we love our children so much, we also want to protect them from the........inevitable. I cannot begin to tell you what a heavy load this can be at times. It would wrack my soul to see my son being made fun of or being slighted in the least over simple things. Well, to make a long story short, Nick himself came to his own rescue. He has no feelings of hate so when other kids would make fun of him he would feel hurt, yes, but then he would get up and go do something else. But, as soon as those kids wanted to play with his toys again, he would let them. Unbeleivable as it may seem, he was NEVER rude to them! I taught him that not every one will be able to understand his ds but as long as he did, well then, that was his saving grace. I always gave him incentive to learn to love himself and to not judge other people because they are "different then he is......face it..if we wanted to, we could teach our children to make fun of the children that make fun of them! Now owuldn't that make a perfect world? LOL! As we can only teach what we know, do yourself and your son a favor and learn as much as you can about ds and then, try to keep it simple, but allow your son to absorb that knowledge from you and then watch you in how you deal with other peole as they react to his ds, and they will react, believe me. In good and bad ways. Just try to take it all with a grain of salt, always keeping in mind that if someone has a problem with him then it is just that...their problem; not his and certainly not yours. Try to teach your son and yourself how to glory in your own uniqueness because like they say....."what a BORING world this would be if everyone were exactly alike!" Keep the faith and good luck...Debi

AWWWWWWWWWWWWW....................... I am so touched by my children........most of you know my 2 1/2 year old doesn't say much in the way of words, but babbles constantly.....he is forever "talking" to us, but just not in english, lol. Anyway, he sat on the floor and "read" to Lauren this morning, while she laid on her tummy and chatted to him. IT WAS SO SWEET!!! Think I'm gonna cry......

I am continually amazed by him.

Tammy

Dawn, loved the Gump story!!!!

HI!! I posted a question on the Bulletin Board, would everyone please look at it and give me ALL input! I promise to be good and swallow my pride. I want any and all thoughts and ideas! I am feeling much better today! Sorry all of you, and I hope you know who you are. I feel terrible.

To Cindy:

My son,Danny, started preschool when he turned 3 in Oct. 99. He really enjoys it, and has gotten into the routine rather quickly. His school is an integrated preschool program also(I noticed someone's child was in a similar program in a previous post).

He is now into the routine of walking to his class, hanging jacket,etc., sitting for 45 min. circle time(pledge of allegiance,chosing daily tasks,weather,songs), choice time(free play) and so on...He also receives PT,OT and Speech. I have noticed a big improvement in his speech lately, and he's starting to help with counting 1-10 and abc's and seems to know what's next. Overall, I've noticed major improvements in PT, OT and speech.

I wish you the best with your child's preschool. I hope it's as good for your child as it has been for mine. It's also a nice break for his mom 4 mornings a week!!And his sister Amanda likes getting a little extra attention too.

Goodluck!

Hello everyone, hope everyone is doing ok! Hello Leah, thanks again for your help. I get freaked out if I encounter the teeniest bit of resistance.....betcha didn't notice..huh? RLOL! Nick and I are doing fine although Nick has learned how to lie to me and hold me hostage emotionally and boy, does that one SMART! OUCH!!!! What really ticks me off is that he is soooooo convincing and I fall for it hook, line and sinker.......Brat! Oh well, just another day in the life of a poor overworked mom who has to try and juggle EVERYTHING all in a single day! Have a good one........Debixoxoxo

OK guys bear with me on this, you will get the point at the end! :0)

Forest Gump in Heaven:

Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is met at the Pearly Gates by St. Peter himself. The gates are closed, however, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper. St. Peter says "Well, Forrest, it's Certainly good to see you. We have heard so many good things about you. I must inform you that the place is filling up fast, and we've Been giving an entrance quiz for everyone. The tests are short, but you Need to pass before you can get into Heaven.

Forrest responds "It sure is good to be here, St. Peter. I was Looking forward to this. Nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. Sure hope the test ain't too hard; Life was a big enough test as it was.

St. Peter goes on, "I know, Forrest, but the test is only Three questions: What days of the week begin with the letter T? How many seconds are there in a year? What is God's first name?"

Forrest goes away to think the questions over. He returns the Next day and goes up to St.. Peter to try to answer the exam questions.

St. Peter waves him up and says "Now that you have had a Chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers".

Forrest says, "Well, the first one how many days of the week Begin with the letter "T?" "Shucks, that one's easy. That'd be today And tomorrow." The Saint's eyes open wide and he exclaims "Forrest! That's Not what I was thinking, but.....you do have a point though, and I Guess didn't specify, so I will give you credit for that answer."

"How about the next one?" "How many seconds in a year?" "Now that one's harder" says Forrest, "but I thought and thought about that and I guess the only answer can be twelve."

Astounded, St. Peter says "Twelve! Twelve! Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?" Forest says "Aw, come on, St Peter, there's gotta be twelve,: January second, February second, March second. . . "

"Hold it" interrupts St. Peter. "I see where you're going with it. I guess I see your point, though that wasn't quite what I had In mind, but I'll give you credit for that one too. Let's go on with the next and final question. Can you tell me God's first name?"

Forrest replied, "Andy." When St. Peter asked how in the world he came up with the Name Andy, Forrest replied, "You know, St. Peter, that song we sing in church: "Andy walks with me, Andy talks with me."

The lesson: THERE IS ALWAYS ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW, and just because another person doesn't see things the same way or understand the same way that you do, does not mean that it's wrong..

Mary I am sending prayers to you and your's filled with love!

Just in case anyone is interested, I just heard that the Leeza show on "ABC" will have a spot about plastic surgury and Down syndrome. The show should air on Monday. The show airs in the Atlanta area at 1:30 am. I hope this information is accurate for those interested.

Many people have asked for a place to introduce themselves and post a picture of their family, child or self. I've created a "Friends" Board to help you keep track of who's who on Uno Mas. Click on the link above to add your Bio and pictures. Be sure to be very careful about using exactly correct urls when you link to your picture. When you add new pix, you can do it under your original introduction. Hope you like it!

Michelle

Hi Friends: Just wanted to up-date you on my little pet. Although he seems to be back to his normal little self, they did an oxygen test on him yesterday, and his stats went way down, so they would not let him come home. He will be in until at least Tues, as they have a lung scan scheduled. They did another echogram yesterday, 1 of about 4 since birth, and it is normal, no heart problems. They will not get the results back on the blood work for a couple of weeks, so we are still in suspense as to whether it is an imune disorder. I am going down late today, and stay with him untill bedtime, to give mom & dad a much needed break. Thanks for being here for me, you have been such a help to me to find a way to cope. Love & hugs

Good Day everyone, Boy you don't want to miss a day on here,Mary hope your GS is doing well this morning and the Good Lord gives the Docs the answers they need today. Michelle hope Ciarra is feeling better. ...Speaking for those of us in the East yes weve had plenty of snow and cold,broke records the last couple of nights, And they say more on the way tonight. But the boys are becoming proes on their new snow boards and the snow men are getting better and better....Ro if I could I'de ship you some...Anyone with little boys please read my post on the Bulletin Board...Welcome All Newbies Isn't this a great place ...Thanks Michelle

Tina... thanks and I did see the response on the other board. It did help. I also got a couple of e-mail on my aol account so thanks to everyone else also. I am trying not to worry to much. It just has all gotten more intense (reflux and every hour eating) in the past couple weeks. My carpet looks lovely. What would we do without carpet cleaners!!!! I hope to maybe share my smiles and thoughts with other sometimes rather than taking!!! You are all great. Once again, I am soooo glad I found this place!!! Hugs to you all!!!

Me again....has anyone heard from Wendy, Max's mom lately. She was a pretty avid reader here and posted on occasion. She is from SC. I sent her an email to the old address but never received a response. Any information you may have would be helpful. She may have a new address if she switched provider's. Thx!!

While we are on the topic of kids fave TV shows does anyone know anything about "The Wiggles?" There is a preview of the Wiggles doing a song called "The Monkey Dance" at the beginning of the new Barney Christmas video. My kids go wild over them...I have searched the TV listings but see nothing. Apparently you can buy them on video but I was wondering if anyone has seen them on TV and if they own a video do their children enjoy it. Thanks, Bonnie Mom to Samantha-9, twins Robert and Nicholas(ds)-27 mths

Hi Adrienne,
I answered your post on the message board at about 8:30 this morning..don't know how much help it was, but I just wanted you to see I noticed. Unless this thing is typin' invisible again..I hate when that happens.. LOL

To Adrienne/Russell's mommy: Sorry if I can't be of any help to you with the reflux problem Russell is having, I do remember a few people who have had the same problem here. I hope they see your post and share their experience with it. Hang in there sometimes postings get over looked so please don't take it personal. I am glad you found this place. I wish I had this when my daughter was a baby. She is now 12 and has three younger siblings.(all girls).

Bye for now and take care, Paulette

Hi Adrienne,

I'm new here too. Everyone I've "met" so far has been great - really. I used to live in Laguna Niguel (did I spell that right? It's been a while!) I have 3 girls....9,7 and 4 (DS). I'm learning new things all the time and could probably spend MANY hours a day on the computer researching Down syndrome. I hope I don't look like a message board hog already :). This internet stuff is great! Okay, okay. I'm done....gotta go play "Life" (seriously - the board game) with the rest of the gang. Take care all!!

Hey Judi,

I think Melissa Jason's mommy answered waaaay better than I could have :). Thanks Melissa Jason's mommy! I learned even more about "Bear". It really is cute but I never know what "jag" Brennan will be on.....one week only Barney....the next only Sesame Street....the next only Big Comfy Couch. What goes through her mind? Who knows! At least she keeps me on my toes - lol!

If I don't get back, hope all of you have a terrific week-end. We're expecting some snow. I really do love it but suspect those of you in the east aren't so enamored any more - haha! Enjoy the Super Bowl, if you're into that kind of thing. Personally, I love the commercials. I know....I'm goofy.

Bye Bye for now, Brennan's mom

P.S. The ped. just told me that the little bump on Brennan's head is an epidermal cyst. He said it wouldn't go away but that it might not grow, or if it did grow or bother her it would need to be removed by a dermatologist. Just curious if anyone else has dealt with this. It does bug her when I comb her hair. (I think it might hurt a little). Okay....thanks and see ya later!

To Mary Waid I tried to e-mail you the other day but my mail got sent back. If you care to chat send me an e-mail, I may be able to help.

OK here is the scoop on BEAR IN THE BIG BLUE HOUSE he is on the disney channel here in colorado at 10 am and again in the afternoon. you can just go to any Target or walmart and they have tons of toys walmart carries every show bear in the big blue house ever has done almost and they are only $9.99 the movies come 2 shows to a tape both my 4 yr, old and y son jason who is only 23 months old love his movies tutter is the mouse pip & pop are the otter twins trelo is the monkey and ojo is the little girl bear they all live in the big blue house and have lots of fun. bear teaches things such as potty training brushing your teeth manners respect. they have shows on bed wetting it is educational. but very fun.. I know how some people are not wanting there children to watch much tv but i would let my 2 watch this till the cows come home. i have looked in jc penny catalogues and sears they are SO VERY EXPENSIVE that is why i stick with walmart and target. well got to run the kiddos are hungry. if any one has any questions please feel free to email me or post a comment here. Melissa :-)

OK here is the scoop on BEAR IN THE BIG BLUE HOUSE. HE

Well, it took me almost a week to find a website with a chat room and bulletin board for just DS. Thanks for being here!!! My son is 22 months and I am finding that I need a place to ask and search for questions/answers. I did post a question / thought on chronic reflux and ALWAYS wanting to eat on the board. Please take a look and I will welcome any thoughts. Please e-mail me!!! Thanks again for being here. I hope I can help others also but I feel still new to the DS thing and don't know alot of people in the DS boat with me in SO CAL. Thanks to you all!!!!

Bear in the Big Blue House is on the Disney Channel. It airs on the east coast at 10:00am and I believe again at 12:30pm. My kids love it. Target and the JCPenney Catalog sell all sorts of Bear merchandise.

whoops, that last message was supposed to be Karen, not Cindy! Sorry for the mix-up. End of the day brain-drain! Judi

Cindy/Brennan's Mom: What's Bear in the Big Blue House? Never heard of it before. Just curious as to why it's such a great motivator. Can always use more great motivators! BTW, does anybody have any good "potty training" suggestions? I'm starting to see some interest in this area from Sam and Patrick, and I need some of y'alls expert advice. Their day-care teacher has noticed this too and she has been putting them on the potty (no results yet). Since most of the kids in their class are potty trained, I'm hoping peer pressure helps too. Judi

Boy, you miss a few days around here and you miss a lot. All I have to say is: "People, people, can't we all just get along?" Big S, little s, this is still a great site, and it's filled with wonderful, kind, caring and supportive people! Michelle Mc, keep up the good work! Judi

OK, MY TURN

Just wanted to say I think everyone has been extremely sensitive lately and it gets so I am afraid to offer any suggestions to anyone, for fear of them taking it the wrong way. IMHO, we all must get thicker skin. We all must stop being so emotional. We are all on the same team. But starting to sound like the Republican party during the last Clinton elections- tearing apart their own party,while the Democrats took the victory. Can everyone just NOT take offense at anything? Remember that we're all here to further the social, educational and life long acceptance of our kids in this crazy world- And Just Be Nice?? Nice forever? Let's kill eachother with kindness.

Brennan's Mom, Caleb is 4 years old and all boy! Makes me grin all the time! He also has a little sister named Faith, who is 2 years old, that I have a tendancy to talk about alot too! They keep me hopping, but I have to say, most days I love it!

Ro: Thanks for thinking of me! We had an Ice Storm yesterday! It was sleeting/freezing rain/snowing all morning! Didn't go to work (although, the boys had school, figured if a big old school-bus could make it thru that junk! Still cold here (definitely not used to cold-it's been in the 70's and 80's most of the winter!). Had a nice day home w/hubby & the boys, made a big fire in the fireplace and made p-nut butter cookies! Hope you're keeping dry! Judi

Terri,
'Can't say if it is right or wrong, but I would have done exactly the same thing..and probably called someone in administration to let them know that their employees should at least be 'briefed' on the basics.

WELCOME BACK, MELISSA AND JASON!!
And this time I am yelling. LOL

Mary,
I am glad your grandson is at least in high spirits. :-) These little people are such 'troopers'. So sorry they do not have answers yet. Keep us informed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Tina

Wanted to share something 'strange' that happened yesterday. I took Nick to Children's Hospital for his annual bloodwork. His pediatrian strictly follows the healthcare guidelines and we take him once a year for complete blood count and Thyroid Test (I don't know who cries more - Nick or Mom :) ) Anyways - I hand his prescription for the bloodwork to the admissions clerk. She is typing information into the computer and asks "What is the reason for having blood test done?" (I was tempted to say - "Oh, I was bored so I decided to come down and have his blood drawn since I had nothing else to do today." For some reason, questions like that really annoy me - like it was my decision to have blood drawn. I told her that this was annual routine bloodwork. She looks at the precription and says "Down Syndrome? What does that mean, Down Syndrome?" thought for sure that I heard her wrong and said "Excuse Me?" She again said "What does that mean - Down Syndrome?" I just looked at her oddly and said "That is his diagnosis !" She said "Oh, okay." I really don't think she had a clue. Now you have to understand that Pittsburgh's Down Syndrome Center is located at this same hospital. I think it was the first time that I had ever been floored like this. I just thought it was weird. Did I handle it right? What do you guys think?

OK OK I had got alot of flack from my very truely great friends inthe oast 2 days so just to let you all know i am not leaving thr group. i would honestly miss all of you way to much! thank you Tina, Michelle, Tammy, Dawn i appreciatte you all very very much. sometimes this message board gets used as a ring for fighting. it really shoudnt be, because we all have something in common no matter how it is spelled. our children are with UNOMAS we need to be here fro each other this is a support group. thats what we need to do. we should be able to vent scream, hollar, cry, laugh, and rejoice in the littlest detail with iur children young nd old. i really dont know what i do with out all of you. if any one wants to chat or talk i can always be reached online. thanks for being great. Love you all Melissa. (((hugs)))

Hi Karen,

Thanks for your note. You sure are right about "Bear"! What a motivator!

How old is Caleb? He sounds like he has good taste in TV - ha! Brennan is 4 and she has 2 big sisters, 9 and 7. When they want to be, they can be good (and not so good) examples for their little sister too.

Bye Bye for now, Brennan's mom

Brennan's Mom,

What a wonderful story to share! I can see your smile shining all the way over here! Isn't it amazing what Bear in the Big Blue House can do? He helps Caleb do his vocabulary words each day, and keeps him in bed, and helps him to go potty, and helps him to finish his milk and the list goes on and on!

Hello everyone! I'm doing research on the Montessori method and children with Down Syndrome. Iam preparing a Montessori home environment for her. Als, I am Montessori certified ages 6-9, and have worked in a Montessori school before. I often wondered even before Trinity was born how the Montesssori method could benefit those children with learning disabilities. Maria Montessori's work intiated with "retarded children". She worked with them for seven years before applying her methods to children without disabilities.. I'm wondering if any of you have your children with Down Syndrome in a Montessori school? Also what have been your experiences? Is anyone homeschooling using the Montessori method? Has anyone had experiences with the Montessori method/a Montessori school and their DS child? Please e-mail me privately for somm chit chat. Thank you, Linda Kranz Olathe(19) Eleanor(11) Trinity(7mo)DS

Hi: Just wanted to up-date you on my GS. I have been down sitting with him yesterday & today. He seems to be back to his own happy go-lucky self. They are still doing tests on him, and so we still have no answers as to his problems. I must say, that this board is the best place I have found for truly caring people, and I have had more support on here than anywhere on the net. Please keep up the excellent work, and thank you Michelle. Good health to all, and give your little angels a hug for me.

Dear Tina,

Thanks so much. It always does help to hear from others who've been down the same road. I don't know why I'm so wigged out about the whole thing. I guess I just always feel like she's been through enough, ya know?

On a lighter note, I just have to tell you guys what Brennan did tonight! I had one of those brief "why me" moments of sadness during dinner. It passed quickly and later on I was using the restroom, (I know, waaaay too much information, but it's critical to the story) and Brennan comes knocking at the door. She was saying "house" as her way of asking me to watch "Bear in the Big Blue House". I told her she had to have a bath first. Well, when I come out of the bathroom, she is butt naked and holding her pajamas and a new diaper! She got everything to take her bath and I was ashamed for my brief pity party. I laughed and laughed and hugged her and told her how proud I was of her. She is an amazing little girl. She even went peepee by herself and wiped and all! I was astounded!

Thanks for listening...hubby is out of town and I had to tell someone who would really appreciate it. I figured you guys would since you have kids with DS too. Well, gotta go pack lunches and clean up. If I get a chance I might peek at the Univ. of Cincinnati basketball game on ESPN. Go Bearcats! They are number one you know! You can probably figure out where I went to college and where I live. Hee Hee Have a wonderful evening all!

Bye Bye for now,

Brennan's mom

Brennan's Mom,

My oldest daughter, who is now 14 and does not have DS, had her tonsils out at 12 and had an awful time..there is no way to sugar coat it and I am not sure if it could be any worse had she had Down syndrome. On a more positive note..we are beyond it now and she is fine.
We all wish you and Brennan the best.
I think it may be more of an individual thing, ability to tolerate surgery and discomfort etc. And even with all the trouble she had it definitely beats the sore throats and infections she was getting before.
Also, I have heard that the older they are, the harder it is and the longer it takes to get back to their old selves. Hope this helps.

Dawn,
*HUGS* to Branson, what a trooper!! :)

I am desperately needing information regarding down syndrome. However, I need this info in spanish. If anybody knows of a resource where I can receive this info in spanish, it would be greatly appreaciated!! Thanks, Kent

Dear Dawn, Tina, Paulette and everyone else,

Thanks for responding so quickly! I really appreciate your input regarding the tonsil thing and welcoming me.

Dawn and Paulette,

What was the surgery like? How long? Were your kids miserable afterwards? Etc...etc... I am a totally anal mommy who needs lots of information. It can be a curse...just ask my family! Ha ha. I promise it won't scare me or freak me out. I actually do better when I am totally informed and ready for action, so to speak. So fill me in and give me all details, if that's okay with you.

Dawn, Your little one sounds like a real trooper...hope he has a good rest of the day.

Paulette and Tina, I thought I had alot with 3 girls...you've got me beat hands down! My hubby jokes that he is going to buy stock in a large drug store....you know, for things like make-up and all the girly things our kids will need. Yikes! It's already going too fast. Oh well, I'm enjoying the ride.

Bye Bye for now,

Brennan's mom

Welcome Brennan's mom. I have four girls and the oldest is 12(ds). Her name is Tiffany. She had the same thing with her tonsils, it took about two weeks after the operation to get her back to herself. She doesn't get throat infections often anymore. As for joining i think you can just join in(at least that is what I did) and everyone will welcome you with open arms.

Me-LISS-a, Me-LISS-a, Me-LISS-a, ...not yelling, just chanting..everybody join in..she will 'hear' us.. :)
Miss you and Jason..

Melissa,

I miss you already!!!:0(

Remember this, "Nothing real can be threatened"

Love you to pieces! Get back over here, please! :0)

Dawn & Branman

Welcome..Brennan's mom... :-)
I am Tina, and have 5 daughters..ages 14, 12, 10, 6 (w/Ds) and 17 months.
Oh yeah, and a hubby too..poor guys..;)
You can post wherever you like..I (and I am sure everyone else)...check both regularly. welcome..and I am amazed by this internet thing too...:)
'look forward to getting to know you and yours also.
Have a great day!!

Tina

This is for Brennans Mom,

My 2 yr old, Branson had the very same thing with his tonsils being so big. In fact he just had his surgery to remove tonsils and adenoids last wednesday. He is feeling pretty rotten right now but they said its because its scabbing over. I do think it is going to make a huge difference in his breathing, snoring, sleeping, ect. The ENT also told me it would help Branson eat more textured foods. He said due to the large tonsils it was an "uncomfortable" sensation for Bran to swallow anything but mushy soft foods. So we will see. Sure hope so!

Glad you found Uno-Mas, it is a wonderful place! Feel free to e-mail me anytime.

Branson's Mom

OOPS...I just found your bulletin board! Am I supposed to ask my question(s) over there? Thanks!

Hi Everyone,

I'd like to introduce myself. I am mom to Brennan (4y.o. DS) and two other daughters 9 and 7.

I was wondering if I could join your group. I am thrilled to be on the internet and to have found some places where I can "talk" to other parents of kids with Down syndrome. I don't get to use the computer alot, but when I do I like to try to get more info.

Right now we are dealing with alot of back to back infections....isn't everybody?! She had to be hospitalized because her breathing was obstructed by humongous tonsils (they were almost completely blocking her airway). Anyway, the doc is talking about removing her tonsils and adenoids. Has anyone else done this? I read somewhere it can be a difficult surgery, especially for kids with DS. Please let me know if anyone else has dealt with this.

Also, thanks for having a place like this. It is so amazing to have the world at your "fingertips"!!!! (Don't think I'm goofy....k?)

I can't wait to hear from you and to get to know you and your families!

Oh yeah! I do have a hubby...ha! Almost forgot to include him....sorry dear!

Bye Bye for now, Brennan's mom

Forgot the comment I wanted most to add:
"Don't Sweat the Small Stuff!" LOL
Hope I did that right. Tina

Way to go Step Dad!!!! I'm there with you! You nailed Stevie's description to a T. We just gotta keep laughing. He's lucky to have a dad like you!

Judi,

I see by the weather station that you and yours are pretty close (if not in) the icy weather. Be careful and stay warm.

I have the rain and the THUNDERSTORMS :(

With the water shortages we have I should be thankful.The thunderstorms although dangerous can be very beautiful at times...

Ro

Cindy, My son Nicholas is now 3 1/2. He started preschool September 1999. He has loved it, and actually the week that he started school he said more words (he hadn't said any new words in about six months). The preschool that he goes to is a Special Education integrated class put on by the public school district we are in. Integrated meaning that half of the kids have some type of disability, the other half are tuition paying preschoolers (without a "disability"). They have a speech therapist that works with Nicholas once or twice a week, and they all work on anything we have put in our IEP. Look into a local parent center that intervenes or helps parents understand the IEP process and the rights that your child has in regards to school. If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask and I'll be glad to help. I hope this was of some help to you!

Well, I wasn't going to get involved in this..but anyone who knows me knows that'll never do. LOL
First, let me say that I totally agree with the fact that we too often let 'legalisms' or political correctness get in the way of support. Which, I may add is one reason I often avoid the religious chat that I had become so much a part of.
And, secondly..yes, Michelle Mc, you have created a wonderful site here and worked so hard to keep it going and get it back..these issues are petty in the grand scheme of things. But, I must add that no matter how I read your intro on the home page, I see it the same way everytime. No biggie on the "S", and I take you to mean "Downs" as a condition that we as families deal with and it is..just as in Multiple Sclorosis, it is MS..
That being said, I will leave this alone now..just wanted to put in my 2 cents and that's all I got.. :)
Wonderful post..Step-Daddy..and I do know who you are. LOL I am so glad to see you steppin' right in so to speak..What a wonderful example you set..loving and accepting him..by choice. Hats off to you and give my best to yer other half and that (big) lil' guy. :) *hugs* Tina

I am the step father of a Down's Child that causes massive amounts of destruction where ever he goes. I love him, but he is controlling, willful, vengeful, and throws temper tantrums. He is eight, but has the emotional maturity of a two or three year old, the reasoning of an eight year old, and the frustration of a fifty year old working in a cubical.

He has a wonderful giggle and smile, wants our constant attention (both a good thing, until you need to do something else, like go to the bathroom or talk to your spouse, then watch the feces fly).

this should give you children plenty to talk about for the next month or two, grow up and forgive others, don’t get personally offended by general comments, and stop gossiping.

I am the step father of a Down's Child that causes massive amounts of destruction where ever he goes. I love him, but he is controlling, willful, vengeful, and throws temper tantrums. He is eight, but has the emotional maturity of a two or three year old, the reasoning of an eight year old, and the frustration of a fifty year old working in a cubical.

He has a wonderful giggle and smile, wants our constant attention (both a good thing, until you need to do something else, like go to the bathroom or talk to your spouse, then watch the feces fly).

this should give you children plenty to talk about for the next month or two, grow up and forgive others, don’t get personally offended by general comments, and stop gossiping.

Michelle mc....Keep up the great work!

Maria! Nice to here from you again. The girls are doing fine. How are your kids doing? Is the baby settling more? Keep in touch ok.

Marie If it's on zoom then the sherbert must be good! MichelleMc Just to let you know that all 100 or so books on the Barnes&Noble list spell syndrome with a capitol S

My wife Cindy is my official reader and always highlights the posts for me going on here at Unomas. Wow, things are heating up again. "TEFLON" (sp?) is the word of the day here. Nothing sticks to it! The beauty of having a family is that we tick each other off regularly. We are a family here at Unomas, and we are going to bug each other. Oh well, let it slide off.

Michelle, your committment to providing an open forum for the sharing of information and emotions is great. I rely on my spell checker all day long at work to proof my stuff, but the spell checker still doesn't know every nuiance or proper noun. Oh well. Just another TEFLON moment folks. I saw a couple great posts out there where folks were looking for advise and direction on tough issues...let's give them some of our attention.

And obviously, if anyone gangs up on Michelle, this family is ready to rumble :)

If I just offended anyone (I've been dying to say this and have felt left out not getting to say it) then post your offense everywhere possible and send me nasty emails. "you reap what you sow"

Confessional time: I really will work on getting those pics out on the photo page and update it :(

Cindy,

Nice to meet you.

Where in Tennessee do you live?

I know the time zone changes outside of Chattanooga. It is an hour difference.

I'm not sure if you were asking for that info but there it is.:)

I usually don't chat in the chatroom do to unruly children. They need a referee for everything they do.....

I bounce first, I get first controller(N64), I get to sit in the front, I change the T.V. ........

I live in a striped shirt.

I have an older son with Down syndrome and I am not sure about the early pre-school. I know they post about it here and on the bulletin board.

I know I haven't been any help but I wanted you to know that there is people out here listening:)

Good luck with the chatroom

Ro

I am sorry to let everyone know that i will no longer be here at unomas.this place is supposed to be for adults ad friends and families who 1 want to learn about downs. 2 exchange ideas and problems 3 be a major support group for us who have beautiful children with Downs Syndrome. i spell that word how ever i want to and i willnot be told that i can or can not spell things any one certain way. buti feel like i am going to get yelled at for saying something that someone else doesnt like. come on it is just a word. and it is spelled how ever any one chooses. so long as the focus is not taken off of our children and that is what is happening. i dont even feel like part of the group anymore. thias breaks my heart.I have turned to uomas for very intimate problems laughter tears and friends.but it really doenst feel like that anymore. and Diane: i really dont appreciatte you coming in here snd trying to tear down walls of frinedship. you have no right. if anyone wants to emil me you know whre i can be reached . love to all my friends here and you know who you are. Melissa Jason's Mommy.

I am sorry to let everyone know that i will no longer be here at unomas.this place is supposed to be for adults ad friends and families who 1 want to learn about downs. 2 exchange ideas and problems 3 be a major support group for us who have beautiful children with Downs Syndrome. i spell that word how ever i want to and i willnot be told that i can or can not spell things any one certain way. buti feel like i am going to get yelled at for saying something that someone else doesnt like. come on it is just a word. and it is spelled how ever any one chooses. so long as the focus is not taken off of our children and that is what is happening. i dont even feel like part of the group anymore. thias breaks my heart.I have turned to uomas for very intimate problems laughter tears and friends.but it really doenst feel like that anymore. and Diane: i really dont appreciatte you coming in here snd trying to tear down walls of frinedship. you have no right. if anyone wants to emil me you know whre i can be reached . love to all my friends here and you know who you are. Melissa Jason's Mommy.

Hello, I have an angel who will be 3 in March and will be starting a preschool. I need a little insight as to how this has helped other children with down's syndrome. Please respond.

I miss out all the time:(

I either go before the snow falls or after it has melted this year.

I wanted to play too.....

Have enough fun for all of us.

Judi,

Have Sam and Patrick had snow yet? Tell them to send us ALOT:)

Ro

IS ANYBODY THERE? i HAVE TRIED TO CHAT IN CHAT ROOM SEVERAL TIMES BUT NEVER ANYONE THERE. TIME ZONE IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT THAN HERE IN TENNESSEE. PLEASE HELP

I'll try this again-

To Michelle-

You can capitalize any letters you want, as long as you continue with the great job you've been doing with this site. Your hard work is truly appreciated! Thank you!!!!

Michelle Mc, Whether there is a capital 'S' or not makes no difference to me. You have done a great job!!! It's the cause that's more important not the spelling. Unomas has been great support for me since Shuxin was about 3mths old. She's now 18mths and running around. I would like to say a big THANK YOU to you!! Ai Lay, Andrew, Shuxin and Shuyi (2mths)

hey denise, i would love to see stevies snow angels!!! tonight we are letting jared make sherbert becuase they make it on his ZOOM tape and he thinks its the greatest thing in the world. this should be interesting haha!!!

our snow has stopped but there is well over a foot out there:/

hope you guys are hanging in there and having fun. i like the link you sent me earlier it was pretty good.

tina...glad to hear stevie is doing well too. hope everyone else is fine on your end.

take care all:)

marie

I'm so sorry, please remove one of my comments. I'm not even sure how or what I did wrong.

Diana,

First let me say that I found your comments very petty. You come on to "our" web site and waste our time by posting something so stupid as this. Who cares if it's Down Syndrome or Down syndrome. You must not have a child with DS because I'm sure that if you did you would not be wasting your time with such a petty thing.

I have just spent the last two days crying my eyes out. I feel like my heart has just been reaped out of me again. You see, within the next few weeks I will have to make the hardest decision that I have ever had to make. And this is from a person who knew that the baby she was carrying would be born with DS. The decision to carrying the baby to full term doesn't even compare to the decision I may have to make.

My son will be 5 in a few months and has been attending PPCD(Pre-school Program for Children with Disabilites) for the past 2 1/2 years. You see he is still not talking at least not in sentences and he is not talking to them and because of this his principal wants to put him in a self-contained classroom next year instead of a regular kindergarten classroom. I feel like I let my son down. I have always know that his lack of verbal communication would be a big problem when it came to placing in regular classes. I should have fought for more speech therapy hours and I should have made sure that his were one to one and not with a group. The first time my son needed me to fight for him and I LET HIM DOWN. I wish that once just once someone would ask me what my dreams for my son are.

If anyone has anything positive to say about self contained classes, please email me because here in our home town, the main objective of a self contained classroom is to teach our kids to be self sufficient. Which means they will teach him how to wash his hands, brush his teeth and one of their greatest commplishments would be to show him how to carry his tray from the cafeteria to his classroom. My two other kids were 10 or so before they were allowed to carry their own tray at a cafeteria. And for his personal hygiene,well we work on that every day at home.

So you want to talk about respect, just sit in on one of those ARD meetings they will really make you sick.

One more thing and I promise I will shut up. Michelle, please don't let people like Diana up-set you. Everyone here knows that you are here for us and if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have a place to go and share my pain. I really don't know what I would do without UNOMAS. Thanks for the bottom of my heart.

Diana,

First let me say that I found your comments very petty. You come on to "our" web site and waste our time by posting something so stupid as this. Who cares if it's Down Syndrome or Down syndrome. You must not have a child with DS because I'm sure that if you did you would not be wasting your time with such a petty thing.

I have just spent the last two days crying my eyes out. I feel like my heart has just been reaped out of me again. You see, within the next few weeks I will have to make the hardest decision that I have ever had to make. And this is from a person who knew that the baby she was carrying would be born with DS. The decision to carrying the baby to full term doesn't even compare to the decision I may have to make.

My son will be 5 in a few months and has been attending PPCD(Pre-school Program for Children with Disabilites) for the past 2 1/2 years. You see he is still not talking at least not in sentences and he is not talking to them and because of this his principal wants to put him in a self-contained classroom next year instead of a regular kindergarten classroom. I feel like I let my son down. I have always know that his lack of verbal communication would be a big problem when it came to placing in regular classes. I should have fought for more speech therapy hours and I should have made sure that his were one to one and not with a group. The first time my son needed me to fight for him and I LET HIM DOWN. I wish that once just once someone would ask me what my dreams for my son are.

If anyone has anything positive to say about self contained classes, please email me because here in our home town, the main objective of a self contained classroom is to teach our kids to be self sufficient. Which means they will teach him how to wash his hands, brush his teeth and one of their greatest commplishments would be to show him how to carry his tray from the cafeteria to his classroom. My two other kids were 10 or so before they were allowed to carry their own tray at a cafeteria. And for his personal hygiene,well we work on that every day at home.

So you want to talk about respect, just sit in on one of those ARD meetings they will really make you sick.

One more thing and I promise I will shut up. Michelle, please don't let people like Diana up-set you. Everyone here knows that you are here for us and if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have a place to go and share my pain. I really don't know what I would do without UNOMAS. Thanks for the bottom of my heart.

Can anyone give me some info on whether there is any greater risk for DS babies to be born vaginally? Due to possible heart problems, does this pose an increased risk for the child? Please reply to my email. NLCapo@aol.com Thanks.

Sorry back again

I made Bill get up in the attic and find our Dictionary.

It is the Oxford English Popular Dictionary

In it it states----DOWN'S SYNDROME with the "s". Not that it means much to Diane, but last we heard, president Clinton done some of his collage education in Oxford.U.K.

SO where does leave us Brits??? are we offending you Diane??

We have to call our children Down's syndrome. Sorry but it is our language.

But when all is said and done, our Spencer is our little angel, and the only "S" that we care about is the "S" in his name. Bless him.

Michelle this is your web site, and whatever you say goes.

sorry for doing this twice but I had to correct some spelling.

Sorry back again

I made Bill get up in the attic and find our Dictionary.

It is the Oxford English Populay Dictionary

In it it states----DOWN'S SYNDROME with the "s". Not that it means much to Diane, but last we heard, president Clinton done some of his collage education in Oxford.U.K.

SO where does leave us Brits??? are we offending you Diane??

We have to call our children Down's syndrome. Sorry but it is our language.

But when all is said and done, our Spencer is our little angel, and the only "S" that we care about is the "S" in his name. Bless him.

Michelle this is your web site, and whatever you say goes.

LOOK I JUST NEEDED TO SAY THIS DOWNS SYNDROME, Downs, Downs Syndrome what do they all have in common? it is the word Downs syndrome. trisomy, Trisomy 21 who the heck cares of how it is spelled. it is what our children are with. we love tehm just the same they are our precious angels our love . our life line. they are OUR children and who is anyone to come in here and tellme how to type a word. we are alladults here kets start acting like it. all i know is that i am tired of my friends leaving this wonderful site for fear of writting or tryping something. or saysing something. this is the place where we should all feel free to type and talk about what we want. whether or not it is spelled correctly.! god knows there are some of us who just cant spell correctly to save there lives. ad we know who we are.~ Diane: juast aceppt us for who we are with all of our mistakes. because above everything else we are but HUMAN. Michelle mc. I love your site. you have been a savour to me. love ya lots. Anonymous...............................

LOOK I JUST NEEDED TO SAY THIS DOWNS SYNDROME, Downs, Downs Syndrome what do they all have in common? it is the word Downs syndrome. trisomy, Trisomy 21 who the heck cares of how it is spelled. it is what our children are with. we love tehm just the same they are our precious angels our love . our life line. they are OUR children and who is anyone to come in here and tellme how to type a word. we are alladults here kets start acting like it. all i know is that i am tired of my friends leaving this wonderful site for fear of writting or tryping something. or saysing something. this is the place where we should all feel free to type and talk about what we want. whether or not it is spelled correctly.! god knows there are some of us who just cant spell correctly to save there lives. ad we know who we are.~ Diane: juast aceppt us for who we are with all of our mistakes. because above everything else we are but HUMAN. Michelle mc. I love your site. you have been a savour to me. love ya lots. Anonymous...............................

LOOK I JUST NEEDED TO SAY THIS DOWNS SYNDROME, Downs, Downs Syndrome what do they all have in common? it is the word Downs syndrome. trisomy, Trisomy 21 who the heck cares of how it is spelled. it is what our children are with. we love tehm just the same they are our precious angels our love . our life line. they are OUR children and who is anyone to come in here and tellme how to type a word. we are alladults here kets start acting like it. all i know is that i am tired of my friends leaving this wonderful site for fear of writting or tryping something. or saysing something. this is the place where we should all feel free to type and talk about what we want. whether or not it is spelled correctly.! god knows there are some of us who just cant spell correctly to save there lives. ad we know who we are.~ Diane: juast aceppt us for who we are with all of our mistakes. because above everything else we are but HUMAN. Michelle mc. I love your site. you have been a savour to me. love ya lots. Anonymous...............................

Well, I'm probably going to stick my foot in my mouth and get a ton of nasty responses (and if you do, out of kindness to others, please e-mail them to me rather than post them on the board), but here goes.....

My son has Down syndrome. Call it, spell it and say it how you want to, but at least people are opening up and are asking questions. A spoken word, whether it is politically correct or not, is not going to change my son and who he is (as a person, mind you, full of love and laughter), nor is it going to change the way I live and love each day with my child. It is merely a word, and acceptance is the only thing I am striving for. If using the "m" word or the "r" word is the only way that someone can communicate with me and understand my day to day life with Caleb, then so be it. I have learned that it is not done in hate, but out of ignorance and I know that there are many, many areas in this world, that I am ignorant. I'm not so vain to think that I am perfect and that I never make errors.

So I'm asking, in all kindness, to take the splinter out of your own eye first. Make sure that YOU are correct in every second of every day, in every breath you take, before you criticize another.

As I wrote to a very good friend (actually, great...and you know who you are)...."My son is my son, a beautiful gift from God. Words won't change his diagnosis, but acceptance will change his life." A personal note to Michelle Mc....you are ambitious, kind, compassionate and a wonderful friend. You created a place for us to come to feel comfortable and welcome and to share our lives. Thank you doesn't seem to be enough to say for your hard work and dedication, but I will say it anyway, knowing that my heart is behind it. THANK YOU!!!

tO cAPITALIZE oR nOT tO cAPITALIZE, tHIS iS tHE qUESTION?

i am lucky if i spell it correctly since i started on the computer, big or little, so long as i can read it it is okay with me.

here's to your "s" michelle:)

if only you knew how hard it was for me not to hit the shift key. lol

ro

Hi Everyone and thanks for your nice words about the site. You have no idea how much it means to me

I wanted to explain that my defensive reply to Diane was a combination of my reaction to her post and to an extremely indignant email she sent me. I don't think it would be fair for me to post it here. But I thought I should explain my heated reply. I invite her to post the message here, if she would like.

For the record, everyone is free to post their opinion and make statements about things they believe in. "Person-first language" is obviously something that Diane feels very strongly about.

Personally, I feel very strongly about people feeling comfortable to ask me about my son. To approach my family and ask questions if they any. To not treat Down syndrome as some "un-speakable" condition or shameful disease. I don't anyone to be afraid to talk to me about him, for fear of "saying the wrong thing."

I cut people slack when they don't use the exactly prescribed politically correct term. Well ... except for the "M" word ... I've got to admit, that one makes me wince and I usually don't hide it. I let it go when people come up with that "they are all so loving and sweet" as if all people with Down syndrome have the exact same personality! I figure they are trying to be nice, and I'm not going to bite their head off for trying to be nice.

We can all walk around angry all the time or we can make others feel comfortable to talk about the subject of Down syndrome and give us a chance to tell them how normal and happy our kids are.

I think the anger over politically correct wording is counter productive. It makes people afraid to talk to us, for fear of unintentionally offending us.That is my opinion and this is my website and I sure as heck am not going to apologize for my take on the subject!

That said... I checked the dictionary and a few other respected websites and, by golly, I have been spelling it wrong! I just figured it is a proper noun and capitalized accordingly. I meant no disrespect to anyone and I apolize profusely to the many people that I must have offended with my capital S. I will correct it in my text. However, I do reserve the right to capitalize the first letter of each word in the Title of My Site.

I know that Diane is just trying to educate people about their mistakes and she is welcome to do so on this site. I think a little less hostility about it might further her cause.

Michelle,Thank you for this site ,Please feel free to make all the mistakes you want.I'm the mother of a 5 yr old with DS.And have only had my computer a few months,and searched everywhere for some support,to here from people talking about there real lifes with kids that have Ds.And this is it.It's wonderful to someone that doesn't have anyone to share with,Well I just can't put in words just , Thank YOU ,Thank You ,Thank You. .....Brenda

Michelle

please ignore the strange people or persons or what ever we should call them (I am not to good with my Grammar, I only come from Oxford U.K) But I am a mother of a 26 year old Down's Syndrome.son. here in the U.K we say Down,s with an s at the end

Our children have been called many nasty names over the past years, only last week some one came in here and said they should not be called "angels"

Surly a small "s" or a large "S" won't hurt any body!!!

It would seem very strange to Spencer if, when I called him "People Down Spencer come here please"!!!!!!

Diane

if you want to pick holes in peoples spelling mistakes, then please come to my web site, and point out ALL my spelling mistakes, I am sure that you will find 100s of mistakes. So please help me out

AND LEAVE MICHELLE ALONE

Michelle does a good job here, we don't have a web site like this in the U.K, and us Brits have to come in here for our friendship and support, that all the American people lovingly give us.

So lets not get our knicker's in a twist over a small "s"

Amen to what Terri wrote. I would go a little bit crazy without Uno-Mas! :0)

Diane we of all people know that our kids are kids "with" Down Syndrome and not just "DOWN SYNDROME"!!!!!! Enough said??? Michelle Mc. I want to thank you again for providing this website. I love it here~~~~~~!

Good grief. Aren't we being picky. Anybody who reads this site know how much Michelle obviously cares about people with Down syndrome. I think parents should pull TOGETHER and not fight each other. We have enough to fight for in this life. Make it something important.

Michelle Mc, Please ignore comments from people who pop in and make negative statements and leave. You have to know how much the regulars on this board appreciate the board and truly appreciate the tremendous amount of work and effort you put into trying to piece it back together. UnoMas, to me, has truly been a lifeline - connecting me with so many wonderful people that I would never have met otherwise. Just the sheer amount of panic that you saw spreading amount all of us when UNOMAS was down should give you a good indication of how much you Michelle, are loved and valued. Please don't get down about something like that. You have brought a ray of sunshine into all of our lives. Again - thanks for getting UNOMAS back up and running. Terri & Nicholas

Thank you for taking the time to let me know how my website has offended and disappointed you.

I've spent thousands of hours building the site for no other reason than to provide a place for parents to find support and encouragement from others and to lift the spirits of new parents. In the last two weeks my site was completely wiped out and I've worked frantically to try to piece the site back together. The homepage had to be completely rebuilt. I did use the term "Downs" on that page, only because this is a term that many new and uninformed web users type into search engines. However, I agree that it has a negative connotation and I may remove it.

I do not refer to people with Down Syndrome as "Downs" as you accuse me of doing. Take a look at the homepage and you will see that you are quick to judge. I refer to the medical diagnosis of Down Syndrome.

I find your disappointment in and hostility over a capital letter S absolutely ridiculous. You could make the suggestion that it is improperly spelled very simply and I would certainly look the term up in the dictionary and correct it, if warranted.

I'm sorry you found nothing of value in my website and chose to contact me about my degrading and offensive use of a capital S.

The correct way of writing it is Down syndrome. The "s" is not capitalized. It is also important to always refer to the "person first". Children/adults with Down syndrome are NOT "Downs or Downs people". They are people first and formost and should always be to as such. A person with Multiple Sclerosis does not become "a multiple sclerosis" and you would never hear anyone refer to them as such. People with Down syndrome deserve the same respect.

Hello Everyone!!!! How has everyone been?????? Paulette hows the children? Glad to see Unomas back!!! :-)

Anyone feel like doing Wednesday updates? Meet ya at the Bulletin Board!

Bob,

I'm from WI and I don't know of any State society, but several cities have their own groups.

Tammy

Dawn, just saw the post regarding Branson today. Will be thinking of you and him. Hope he recovers soon!! Take care. Ai Lay

Michelle, hope Ciarra gets rids of those bugs soon! Take care. Ai Lay

Hi,

My younger brother was never actually tested for DS, and my parents aren't going to get him tested. The closest I got was that the doctors thought he might have a mild case of DS. But it could be something else entirely; someone I know suggested it might be Asperger's syndrome.

I don't really know why I'm writing this, but is there anything I can do? I feel so helpless.

IS THERE A WISCONSIN STATE DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY

Hi everyone!!!!! I just found out about your chatline. I read a little bit and like the various opinions... My name is steff and I have a 26 mo. old girl with ds named olivia. We live in l.a.,ca. I was especially intrigued by the comment from mary about her grandson. I e-mailed you today, I hope you received it.(still new to the computer)We had many of the same medical issues with olivia. I'm gonna read some more on the message board. Just thought I'd say hi!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello everyone, hope everyone is better soon. Michelle if it makes you feel better my friends son had same thing happen with his ears and they are fine now.

A cute little story about Tiffany. A boy that she has had a crush on for a while, broke his ankle this week. Last night she went on the computer and went into a kids word processor program we have and made him a card and wrote that she missed him and hoped he was better. She had to get me to print it out but the rest she did on her own with next to no spelling errors. She never will cease to amaze me :). Just thought I would share that with you all. For those who don't know Tiffany, she is 12 years old.

I want to thank everyone here for their support. It is so much easier to handle illness that our loved ones have, when you have people in your corner. Just to up-date you on my grandson, he is doing better today, and they have ruled out cystic fibrosis. Now they are looking more to the immune system. You would think that after 7 months of tests and etc., they would have a handle on why he is still on oxygen, and his levels go so low. I will be going down to hospital to sit with him tomorrow, so mom can go home and have a few hours with her other little ones. Please keep us in your prayers. Thanks for being there for me.

I want to thank everyone here for their support. It is so much easier to handle illness that our loved ones have, when you have people in your corner. Just to up-date you on my grandson, he is doing better today, and they have ruled out cystic fibrosis. Now they are looking more to the immune system. You would think that after 7 months of tests and etc., they would have a handle on why he is still on oxygen, and his levels go so low. I will be going down to hospital to sit with him tomorrow, so mom can go home and have a few hours with her other little ones. Please keep us in your prayers. Thanks for being there for me.

Well we have 10 inches of snow in Pa. and expecting 5 more yet tonite. I must say that Stevie makes absolutely beautiful snow angels!

Nancy someone had posted previously that Dr. Siegfried Pueschel the man who wrote A Parent's Guide to Down Syndrome did not endorse TNI. I haven't been able to find any scientific proof that verifies TNI works but everybody has to make up their own mind.

Does anyone know why I can't post a message on the Bulletin Board? I have tried many times, but it never shows up. ??????

Hey Michelle Mc!! I have been hearing MAJOR advertising on the radio here in Dallas for CI Host. Apparently they have a big push in this area for new clients. Every time I hear one of their ads I want to SCREAM then call up the radio station and tell them to pull the ads because of the ROTTEN way they treated Unomas. Glad things are slowly getting back to normal here, and I wanted to tell you how much I love this site and appreciate all your hard work! Judi

Michelle: Just checked out Karen's story! It was great! It's so nice to be able to put a "face" with a name. Thanks for sharing it with us. Amy: Congratulations! I had no idea there would be a new addition to your family! How exciting and hope you keep us posted. Judi

Wow, been off-line a few days and boy there's a lot of catching up to do here! Michelle: I was so sorry to hear Ciarra's not feeling well. Poor little thing, hope she gets well quickly and her ears close up on their own (I know we don't want surgery if we can avoid it!). Ai Lay, hope Shuxin get's over her chicken-"pops" (what my nephew calls 'em) soon, and doesn't pass it around the family! Mary, hope things work out for your GS. We'll keep your and him in our thoughts and prayers. Kim, glad to hear Alli did so well w/her class! Sam and Patrick started 3 weeks ago and they did the same thing! They just pulled up a chair and joined in the fun! They are now the "darlin's" of the school and EVERYBODY stops by their classroom to say hi! Such a good feeling, isn't it? Well,l I got some new pic's of my little dumplin's scanned recently and I'm gonna go try to post them on the BB. (On second thought, just when I learned how to do that last time, that's when all the problems started.... hmmm, better think about this!). Nothing much new here. Weather is finally getting cold here in Dallas. I know, all of you on the East Coast getting the Nor'easter right now don't want to hear that. I'll be thinking of you all and hope you all stay warm! I may live in TX now, but I am a transplanted New Englander and can definitely sympathize! Judi

To everyone who wrote here and privately, thank you. I cannot tell you how much I missed Unomas, and the feeling that everyone cares about each other. There may be times when we all disagree and not get along, but it is times like now that Unomas is at its best, Bransons surgery, Ciarra's illness(which BTW turned out to be a ruptured eardrum and severe infection in both ears...may need surgery to close the hole!) and a new lady who needs support as her baby God Son is hurting. You guys are what I missed so much. Much as we drive each other crazy at times, we are good for each other. Im amazed at the compassion shown here. Thanks.

Did anyone checkout Karens family story I wrote about earlier??? It is so sweet. Also, Amy O, Madison's mom, is expecting test results Monday regarding her soon-to-be-born baby. Not just whether or not the baby may have DS, but if it has the same genetic heart defect. I know I would be tickled to get the support if it was me. Let her know we are all here, wishing her well, and praying that the new baby doesnt have the same problem that took the life of little Madison. Amy, prayers go up, along with balloons. Love ya.

Hello again all..
My computer made some boo-boos and has been 'down' for a while. Not Y2K...more like Y-ME?? LOL
But I am back up and runnin' and trying to catch up.

So glad to hear that Jared is having a 'good' spell Marie. *S*
Stevie~Marie seems to be progressing rather nicely too, and now that she is, Cass is about to enter the terrible twos...she is almost 18 months. LOL
I am sure not complaining, the independance that these girls demonstrate will definitely pay off....eventually. :)~that's my "positive"~

Brenda,
It is great seeing you here and hope to chat with you again soon.

Cindy,
Best wishes to you and Brittany. Preschool can be a big step, but it will be ok..and you will see that she will adapt to the routine quicker than you will. :) Stevie is now in kdgtn and knows the 'ropes' so to speak, as well as how to get around 'em...:)LOL
Do you have any other children? We have 5 daughters and it is not so different from when they went to school..well, for them, anyway. In fact, I sometimes wish the others had some of the extra 'attention' that Stevie gets. Best of luck and keep us posted on her progress.

Michelle,
Hope Ciarra gets over her 'bug' soon. We will be thinking of ya and wishing you well. *hugs*

Mary,
I cannot offer you any advice on the health of your GS, but can definitely send prayers and support. Please Keep us posted.

Tammy,
Boring is good!! LOL No time for boring here..but I am trying..I keep telling myself I have to let some of this 'little' stuff go around here. Like, taking my shower, brushing my hair..you know that sort of thing..to leave more time for the hugs and quality time together. ~hehe~ so far the only thing I have been able to cut down on is sleep..but I am gettin' it figured out.. *G*
Seriously, I am glad to hear that all is well at your house..you deserve it. :)

Dawn,
Branson will be back to his old self in no time.. *hugs*

Denise,
I hope all is well with you and your Stevie also. Hope to visit with you again soon.

and last..but certainly not least..Thanks again to Michelle Mc. Yes, 1000 characters was stifling.. :) LOL

Catch you all soon..and to anyone I did not mention...Hello and have a WONDERFUL day!!

Tina

Michelle,Hope Ciarra is feeling better today,Up and running again.

hi Denise, Tina and all, glad to see things are shaping up here, sounds like theres a lot of sickness going around hope everyone feels better, things going pretty good on this end, seem some improvement in Jareds behavior...i am keeping my fingers and toes crossed!!

take care all

marie

To Nancy

hi were you the one who wanted info on the Nutrivene Vitamin Therapy? I have not used it for my almost 8 year old son but i have had two of his doctors tell me NOT to use it, as they are unsure of the possible side effects so i have not and my own personal studies have not proved its effectivness. Of course that is just my opinion but i am not for the vitamin therapies. Hopefully you will get other replies also. hope something works out for you though, take care:)

marie

HI I HAVE A SISTER AND SHE JUST HAD HER BABY IVONNE, SHE IS 4 MONTHS AND SHE HAS DOWN SYNDROME SHE ALSO HAS A HERT PROBLEM AND IS HAVING SURGERY ON 02/09/00 MY SISTER SAID I HOPE SHE DOSE A GREATE JOB IN SURGERY AND I SAID SHE WILL. MY FAMILY HAS ALOT OF ATTENTION TO HER ESPECIALY ME. WHEN SHE GROWS UP SHE IS GOING TO BE VERY NICE, POLITE & PRETTY.