tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-318919862024-03-13T11:26:56.058-04:00A day in the life of the StewartsRuthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.comBlogger387125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-66394885047619614142011-05-30T04:39:00.000-04:002011-05-30T04:39:41.128-04:00The best laid plansOk, so I had wonderful plans about this blog but when it came right down to it I found myself unispired. It seemed like the longer I went without blogging the harder it was to jump back in. But I just reread a lot of my posts and I need to keep up with this blog. It is so helpful to me to remember these events and how I felt when they happened. I love all of them, the good times and the bad. I am going to do my best to try and post some pictures from things that have happened to us in this past year. I especially feel bad that I missed Hallie's first year so I will go back and review the pictures and videos that I have and how I felt about them as they happened. This is important to me. This is a journal for my family. I know I have lost readers since it has been so long since I posted but it is more for me and for my family than it is for anyone else.<br />
<br />
There. I said it and I mean it!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-74403364617175242822011-02-04T23:04:00.002-05:002011-02-04T23:04:58.410-05:00A New EraSo this is a new year and I am going to start updating my blog more regularly. <br />
<br />
I just began a new job and so far, I'm so happy with the decision. Things at my old job got bad fast and this move was so right for me personally and professionally. It has done wonders for my stress level! <br />
<br />
I am hoping to be able to post at least once a week from this point on. I do think it is so important and it is a great way to keep a journal of the things that happen to our family. <br />
<br />
This year marks 10 years of marraige for Ryan and I so it is a special year. I feel like we should celebrate all year long. <br />
<br />
I hope you'll join me.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-35076549157003904292010-10-26T01:00:00.000-04:002010-10-26T01:00:13.148-04:00Primary ProgramThis last Sunday was our Primary Program. In our church the kids go to separate classes for the second and third hour. This is all the kids ages 3-12. Every year they put on a big program during sacrament meeting where they sing songs and give talks that they have been working on all year. It is always the highlight of my year and I so look forward to it. This is even before I had kids. Now that I have kids actually participating, I love it even more. <br />
<br />
This week's was a bit tough for me. <br />
<br />
Evan did a wonderful job. He was reverent and sang and smiled and then he gave a talk that he wrote himself. It was about why he loves the Savior. He said he loves Him because He died for us so that we can repent. It was very sweet and tender hearted. I love watching him do things like that. <br />
<br />
Griffin was a challenge. Going in we knew that he was going to have some issues. We had prepared him in the weeks previous as they practiced. It was a new setting for him with a new schedule. This makes everything a little scary and he acts out. His "acting out" is in the form of spinning around, crawling on and under seats, making loud and strange noises, etc...Not too terrible, but not great either. In the last practice Ryan had to go up and sit with him to help him control himself. <br />
<br />
On the way to church we talked about how it was going to be different and we went over his part again and again. I thought maybe he would pull it off. What I didn't think about was how difficult it would be for me to watch him implode. <br />
<br />
I watch him up on the stand, knowing that he is uncomfortable. That he is in over his head and he doesn't know how to react. It is simply too much for him. We tried it without Ryan for the first 5 min or so but soon enough we realized that Ryan needed to go up. What others might see as a boy misbehaving I know is a boy who has no idea how to handle a situation that is uncomfortable at best and scary at worst. I couldn't help but cry as I watched him struggle. I felt fairly helpless. Finally it was too much and Ryan brought him out to the foyer. He cried and cried and cried. It made me so sad because here is a boy who so badly wanted to succeed. To sit with his friends and sing songs, but he doesn't have the skills to accomplish this, even when he wants it so badly. <br />
<br />
So I watched the rest of the program, holding Hallie on my lap, with tears in my eyes. So happy the Evan was a success and hurting so badly for Griffin. <br />
<br />
I know it is a simple thing. In the grand scheme of things, it is just a primary program. But it was one of those times when I was hit by the stark reality of his disability. Oh, how I love him. I want the world for this child and I will move mountains to see that he accomplishes all he sets out to do. I know he can do it, whatever it may be.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-67733916048192686022010-10-26T00:46:00.003-04:002010-10-27T00:28:32.085-04:00Ballroom DancingWe had a really fun date last week and went to a ballroom dance clinic at the local studio. It was so much fun and relaxing. I really enjoyed it. What a nice way to spend a night together. So much better than dinner and a movie!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TMZdMy7mwXI/AAAAAAAABbk/2yF4_J4NgWw/s1600/dancing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TMZdMy7mwXI/AAAAAAAABbk/2yF4_J4NgWw/s320/dancing.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-92022517122785421622010-10-19T00:45:00.000-04:002010-10-19T00:45:09.982-04:00Police: Teens Attempt Child Luring As Prank - Pennsylvania News Story - WGAL The Susquehanna Valley<a href="http://www.wgal.com/news/25380452/detail.html">Police: Teens Attempt Child Luring As Prank - Pennsylvania News Story - WGAL The Susquehanna Valley</a><br /><br />Here is the news story after they found the teenagers who did it.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-41968133664139857912010-10-18T06:24:00.000-04:002010-10-18T06:24:07.864-04:00Scary stuffLast week we had a scare. Evan was with Ryan at the school while Ryan helped with intramurals. They were outside playing at the park that is right next to the school. Ryan was not far from Evan at all. <br />
<br />
A man stopped and told Evan that if he wanted candy he would need to get in his car. Evan ignored him and they drove off. Evan didn't tell Ryan right away. He told me about it an hour or so later. He was obviously confused and a little bit scared. He was upset at all the questioning and when we told him we were going to call the police he was worried that they would arrest him since he couldn't tell them what the man looked like. <br />
<br />
The police came to our home and took his statement. They also pulled him out of school the following day to ask more questions. <br />
<br />
After an investigation the detective found out that it was a high school kid playing a prank. I do not think it is funny at all. He will most likely be charged with disorderly conduct. <br />
<br />
This was a big deal for Evan and for all of us. It brought up emotions you don't want to have and thoughts you really don't want to think about. I had a hard time with the what ifs for a day or so. I just couldn't stop thinking about what could have happened. <br />
<br />
Evan was so proud of himself, and righfully so, for making the right choice. We have since had many conversations about what to do if it ever happens again. We are trying hard to make sure that Griffin knows too. He is the one I mainly worry about as he just doesn't understand that people could ever want to hurt him. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TLwgND7IMqI/AAAAAAAABbg/oY6AuFkJ9p0/s1600/Evanschool.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TLwgND7IMqI/AAAAAAAABbg/oY6AuFkJ9p0/s320/Evanschool.bmp" width="240" /></a></div>I'm thankful for Heavenly Father for watching out for us yet again.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-91970458097534654062010-10-11T02:23:00.000-04:002010-10-11T02:23:51.409-04:00Vote for Griffin!I have entered Griffin into the Gap casting call. You can vote for him once a day until Nov. Please do so! He is so handsome, why wouldn't he win?!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gapcastingcall.com/GapCastingCall/EntryDetail.html?id=400741">http://www.gapcastingcall.com/GapCastingCall/EntryDetail.html?id=400741</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TLKtHKQyVjI/AAAAAAAABbc/HWMFHJZZLRo/s1600/Family+pictures+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TLKtHKQyVjI/AAAAAAAABbc/HWMFHJZZLRo/s400/Family+pictures+013.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-89595210259257403022010-09-26T18:51:00.000-04:002010-09-26T18:51:07.648-04:00I love my BIG car!On Thursday of last week I was in a fairly bad car accident. Long story short, a woman was passing a truck when she shouldn't have been and I turned left in front of her because I couldn't see her around the truck, nor was I expecting her to be where she shouldn't be. Oscar and Hallie were with me. <br />
<br />
It was a loud, scary, huge crash. Hallie was screaming, I was screaming and crying and I couldn't believe we were alright. But we are, alright that is. All of us are ok. I am so impressed with my huge SUV. The other car was completely totalled. The entire front end of her car was gone but my car really didn't sustain that much damage. The only reason it was undriveable is because the tire was turned and flat. <br />
<br />
I will never drive a smaller car with my kiddos inside. Thank you Ford Expedition! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJ_OG7EINjI/AAAAAAAABbU/OSDwunMKQYc/s1600/car.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJ_OG7EINjI/AAAAAAAABbU/OSDwunMKQYc/s320/car.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJ_OIT3YN5I/AAAAAAAABbY/aXhceoS27jQ/s1600/car2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJ_OIT3YN5I/AAAAAAAABbY/aXhceoS27jQ/s320/car2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-69713294568529753072010-09-26T18:43:00.000-04:002010-09-26T18:43:15.445-04:00Oscars EvaluationLast Friday Oscar had his evaluation from Early Intervention services through our county. The woman who came to evaluate him was wonderful and I felt like she did a wonderful job with him. She got right down on his level and went with him in play. She did direct him as well. He responded well to her and I was just impressed with the entire meeting. <br />
<br />
After playing with him for about 5 minutes she turned to me and said, "Mom. This child is not autistic." I was pretty sure that he wasn't but having one boy who is can often mean that you have another. He does have some attributes that made us think he might be but the overall picture did not seem that way. Hearing it from the experts made me breathe a huge sigh of relief. <br />
<br />
He does need speech therapy and they are adding a sensory component. Oscar is what they call a "sensory seeker." He wants to feel things in the extreme. He bangs his head on purpose, bites toys, pillows, and now his siblings, he slides down the stairs on his stomach as fast as he can. There are ways we can try and fill this gap before he starts doing these behaviors and hopefully stop them. One way is to get him a little mini trampoline with a handle. That is going on the Christmas list. <br />
<br />
His language is coming along very quickly. He said three new words during the evalution. I think a few months of therapy and he will be right where he needs to be. His issue is only due to the problem with his ears. <br />
<br />
It was a huge relief that now he will be getting the help he needs.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-38672090693488307632010-09-20T05:09:00.003-04:002010-09-20T05:15:23.138-04:00Funny pics of HallieTrying to post from my iPhone for the first time. Let's hope it works. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJcmBsAFTiI/AAAAAAAABbM/hEFH0zV9n_Y/s1600/big+eyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJcmBsAFTiI/AAAAAAAABbM/hEFH0zV9n_Y/s400/big+eyes.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJclRt-K7jI/AAAAAAAABa8/elN_9R8xBjs/s1600/looking+at+mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJclRt-K7jI/AAAAAAAABa8/elN_9R8xBjs/s400/looking+at+mom.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJclTX60eFI/AAAAAAAABbE/T1ZxOPsAZd4/s1600/looking+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TJclTX60eFI/AAAAAAAABbE/T1ZxOPsAZd4/s400/looking+up.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>I just had to post these hysterical pictures of Hallie. She had just gotten up from a nap and her hair looked funny. Then she started giving me the funniest looks. She is so cute and funny! <br />
<br />
RuthRuthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-7820628281901735782010-09-08T04:12:00.000-04:002010-09-08T04:12:03.352-04:00Brief Family UpdateEvan is loving first grade and being in school all day long. I miss him a ton! He is working on a "movie" and writing a script and everything. He said today that his movie needs to have a movie star. I told him that I always wanted to be a star and he said I could have a part in his movie! I'll post it when we finish. <br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This past weekend Evan had a lemonade stand. It was fine and he made about $5 in 2 hours. Not bad for a kid. We were in the car that night when he said he wanted to have a stand each week and sell different things and the next item he wanted to sell was "chicken burritos!" I have no idea where it came from but it was hysterical. On Sunday as we drove home from church he told me that some stores aren't open on Sunday, like his store isn't open and he doesn't have to work on Sundays. Such a serious little guy. He kills me. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIdD4dQ6eOI/AAAAAAAABaU/uh4PdBoZKDg/s1600/1stday.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIdD4dQ6eOI/AAAAAAAABaU/uh4PdBoZKDg/s320/1stday.bmp" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Griffin has had a great first week and so far so good on the second week. He had a few rough patches last week but nothing too major. I feel like he is doing so so well. He is supposed to be starting a new program soon called "stepping stones". They will come pick him up for a couple of afternoons a week and teach him how to socialize better and do skills like cleaning up toys and riding a bike and things like that. Skills that don't come easy for kids with autism. I can't wait. It is a highly regarded program and we were lucky to get a spot as early as we did.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here are the boys on the first day of school this year. Both of them go just right across the street so we can walk them there. Saves us a lot of time, money, and gas! I love it. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Oscar is getting evaluated on Sept 17 for early intervention. His speech has come really far in the past few weeks but I still feel like he will need therapy. I also am not sure what they will say about his sensory issues and why he has them and how to help him. I'm nervous. Ok, I'm really really nervous. I am not sure I can take bad news. I don't even really know what I mean by that but I think another autism diagnosis would be extremely difficult for me to handle at this point. I am hoping that the Lord knows that and will not give me more than I can handle. Sigh. I love this picture of him helping Hallie. He did that all on his own. He is always trying to take care of her and calls her his "Baby Girl". How precious is that. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIdD6FknTiI/AAAAAAAABac/tRQHztuQlh0/s1600/OandH.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIdD6FknTiI/AAAAAAAABac/tRQHztuQlh0/s320/OandH.bmp" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Hallie is just a joy to have around. She is exploring and just moves all the time. She wants to be the center of the action at all times. She is a great eater and since we have put her on solid food a few months ago she has just gained SO much weight. I can't believe this is the same girl that the doctors were worried about! She was at the doctors about 2 weeks ago with an ear infection and she weighed 19lbs! She is already 9 months old and I can hardly believe it! In this picture she is doing her crinkly nose smile which is my favorite! She has 4 teeth, two on top and two on bottom and is simply adorable. We just love her. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIdD7ccCWTI/AAAAAAAABak/9e6vSaCkZ8Y/s1600/hallie.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIdD7ccCWTI/AAAAAAAABak/9e6vSaCkZ8Y/s320/hallie.bmp" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am worried that she has had 3 ear infections this summer. I am getting a referral to the ENT. We have gone through this with Griffin and Oscar and both of them did not hear well for almost a year and then had problems with their speech and needed therapy. I'm not doing that again. I would much rather be proactive and get her in early just to get checked out. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Ryan is finally getting his sleep study tomorrow night and will have to stay the next day for naps. They are checking for narcolepsy and I am pretty sure he has it. He fits all the symptoms. I can't stand being afraid every time he is driving, even when it is the middle of the day and he is wide awake he can fall asleep at the wheel. It is crazy and scary and I've had it. The naps are to see how quickly he falls into REM sleep. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">He just started teaching the early morning seminary class in our house yesterday morning. It is quite an undertaking for him considering all he has going on right now. He is a full time teacher who also does the extended day tutoring for extra money. He is a piano teacher. He is a boy scout camp director part time during the year and full time during the summer. He is also starting his Master's internship this year to finish out his program and now he is also the seminary teacher. Not to mention full time father of 4 small children and husband to a wife who works full time. Whew! I don't know how he does it. </div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-80254158236867961032010-09-08T01:49:00.003-04:002010-09-08T01:54:58.263-04:00Grandma<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIcj52am05I/AAAAAAAABaM/iCx4zSVdKew/s1600/gmagpa.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514415745505088402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TIcj52am05I/AAAAAAAABaM/iCx4zSVdKew/s400/gmagpa.bmp" border="0" /></a><br />Just a short while ago my grandmother passed away. I received this picture during the last days of her life. I love the tenderness of holding hands. Of saying goodbye without saying a word. It brings tears to my eyes each time I look at it. I am so happy that they had each other. I am so happy that I have someone to grow old with.<br /><br />I loved my grandma so much and will miss her. Although I lived far away from her for most of my life I always knew that she loved me and I hope she knew how much I loved her.<br /><br />I was unable to go say goodbye to her or to make it to her funeral. It was a difficult time for us. She was a wonderful grandma who loved us and my last memory of her is of her holding my baby Oscar when he was just 3 months old. How she loved that little baby. She kissed him and cooed at him and he cooed right back. I will always have that memory of her.<br /><br />One of my favorite memories is when they came to visit us in DC and I took them to the WWII memorial. It was a wonderful day. I learned so much about both my grandma and grandpa that day that I had never known before. It was so fun to spend so much time with them.<br /><br />I'll miss you, Grandma. Watch over us from Heaven.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-45066603301589588482010-08-23T05:51:00.002-04:002010-08-23T05:59:03.483-04:00The Toll of SummerSummer takes a real toll on me. We have difficult summers here. By here I simply mean in the lives of the Stewart family. Ryan moves to camp the second week of June and for the next 8 weeks I go into survival mode. This summer seemed the hardest so far.<br /><br />I am not sure what was more difficult about this summer. This is our third summer doing the summer camp director thing and the toughest for me physically and emotionally. The first summer I had just had Oscar, who was in the NICU until 2 days before Ryan moved to camp. You might think that summer would have been the worst. Then last year I was working full time and pregnant with Hallie. You also might think that would have been tougher. This summer we had 4 small children, I worked full time, and honestly I just didn't feel that hot.<br /><br />I can't pinpoint it. I just know it was tough. I missed Ryan so much, even though I saw him every day. It just wasn't the same. We ate the same meals in the same dining hall as we did every year and yet this year I was hungrier. I was lonlier at home. I felt more on edge with the kids. My body literally ached every day.<br /><br />I tried at first to continue the diet I had begun last spring and finally I just gave up. I gave up with gusto. I decided that this summer had a name and the name was "The Summer of Gluttony." I gave in to every craving. I gave in with gusto. (I like that word) It really was one of the only things that made me feel better. And now, I am so ready to diet. I really think it worked. Giving in to the cravings and doing what I thought I wanted at the time made me realize what I really want. To be healthy.<br /><br />This week I am beginning anew the search for what that means to me. I don't think that means I will be model thin. I do think it means I will be thinner.<br /><br /><br />I just know that I'm ready and that feels good.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-30469940838783380222010-08-23T05:48:00.002-04:002010-08-23T05:50:22.899-04:00Evan's noteThis summer Evan left me a note on a a 3x5 card left on the kitchen table resting against a diet soda he had gotten out of the fridge for me. Does he know his mommy, or what?<br /><br />This is what it said.<br /><br />" I love you so much. I just love you so so much. I just love you mom. Sometimes I miss you at daycamp but you come back to pick me up.<br />Love: Evan To: Ruth "<br /><br />He can melt my heart. What a wondeful boy.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-67629551965250046582010-06-23T04:05:00.003-04:002010-06-23T04:23:52.073-04:00Oscar updateI feel like I have missed out a lot recently.<br /><br />I completely missed blogging about Oscar's birthday. This kid is so funny, sweet, charming, loving, handsome, quirky, quick witted, and FULL of personality. For someone so little he is just full of life. I feel like if Oscar could tell us his motto it would be, "Go big or go home!"<br /><br />When he does something, he takes it all the way. Whether it is climbing onto a table and then jumping off, or jumping up and landing on his behind, or running outside naked and climbing up the playset before I can get to him, or throwing every toy he can find down the stairs just to see what happens, or growling at anyone who gets too close to his sister Hallie, or kissing me a hundred times in a row, or playing intensely with his trains, he gives it all he's got.<br /><br />He loves to dance and does it whenever he hears the smallest bit of music. A fun cell phone ring can get him going and distract him from anything that might be bothering him at the time.<br /><br />He recently got tubes in his ears. (happy day) He has been doing so much better ever since and does not have the mucus, the sore throat, or the problem with his ears so far. Keep your fingers crossed. He also began using more words almost immediately. The doctor told us that the mucus in his ears was so thick and nasty and that he most likely had not heard much of anything for the past year. He was surprised Oscar had any words at that point. Made me so sad to hear that. Poor baby. He is working on catching up.<br /><br />Oscar has no fear. He will climb, jump, run, roll, touch, pull, push, hop, on anything and anywhere. This is one adventurous kid. He is also an extremly messy child. sigh. He is always covered in dirt and bruises. I have tried to wash off many bruises before realizing they were not dirt.<br /><br />One thing about Oscar is his love of water. He really loves the water so much. The bath is his favorite thing and he will play in it for hours if we let him. When we turn the water on he puts his wide open mouth directly under the faucet. Crazy kid. He uses the side of the tub as a slide and crashes all over. He just loves water. I have never seen anything like it. When he was just a baby he would put his face in the fountains at the splash park and laugh and laugh while the other kids his age were screaming if it got their faces at all. If I turn on the water anywhere near him he will come running and watch out, because he will dive right in clothes and all.<br /><br />Oscar, we love love love you!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-29384255849540884212010-06-10T03:03:00.002-04:002010-06-10T03:06:36.536-04:00Great post on autismThis post on Mormon Mommy Wars today was so real to me about living with the day to day realities of autism and how to deal with it. I was most struck by the similarities in handling the autistic child. It is so important not to push and not to force. She puts it so well <a href="http://www.mormonmommywars.com/?p=2197">here.</a>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-40690643388632195342010-06-10T01:54:00.002-04:002010-06-10T01:55:15.923-04:00Choices<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TBB-ObZlH_I/AAAAAAAABZ8/sXwEOa622P8/s1600/buffalo+family.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481019532848209906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/TBB-ObZlH_I/AAAAAAAABZ8/sXwEOa622P8/s400/buffalo+family.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>On June 9, 2001 I made the best choice of my entire life and here is where we have come since that day. I love you Ryan, more and more each day. </div><br /><div></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-41357194158187613422010-05-25T04:14:00.012-04:002010-05-26T23:49:04.482-04:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_3rZ1xAsWI/AAAAAAAABZ0/oD21buCmOS4/s1600/stewart+family.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475791551114293602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_3rZ1xAsWI/AAAAAAAABZ0/oD21buCmOS4/s400/stewart+family.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>On May 23 all the Stewarts head to NJ in honor of Graham. You can read about past years <a href="http://stewartfamily-ruth.blogspot.com/2009/05/graham-day.html">here</a>. This year we had several things going on. We decided to celebrate Ryan and Griffin's birthdays while there on Saturday. On Sunday McKenzie spoke after returning home from his mission to Russia. We also helped Zachary out just a bit with his Eagle Scout project which is a very nice neighborhood garden. It was a busy weekend but it was wonderful. We had perfect weather and just had a seriously good weekend together.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475408179136521394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_yOup2zZLI/AAAAAAAABZs/j-Pui8mlO-Y/s400/163.JPG" border="0" /> I decided to celebrate Griffin's birthday with the family for several reasons. I thought it would be easier for him to have a party in a family setting with people he loves and who he knows love him. He is comfortable around them and does not get as upset with the loudness and the craziness when it is family. I just don't feel he would even want a friend party at this point.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_yOuUFUrGI/AAAAAAAABZk/IWMAnYRjXKQ/s1600/042.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475408173291842658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_yOuUFUrGI/AAAAAAAABZk/IWMAnYRjXKQ/s400/042.JPG" border="0" /></a>We were told by his teachers to get him a bike because he needs work on his pedalling and gross motor skills. I was happy because that is what I wanted to get for him anyway. We got him a Lightning McQueen bike with training wheels. He also got the matching helmet and knee pads. He is all set to go!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_yOtzgbdTI/AAAAAAAABZc/dyi-q4c9YTA/s1600/156.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475408164547163442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_yOtzgbdTI/AAAAAAAABZc/dyi-q4c9YTA/s400/156.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLW4zEd3I/AAAAAAAABZU/L1KrNRWF7Ug/s1600/pops+and+finn.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLOkx8qRI/AAAAAAAABZE/1OrUij7udOM/s1600/Oscar+on+table.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475122854506572050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLOkx8qRI/AAAAAAAABZE/1OrUij7udOM/s400/Oscar+on+table.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><div>We had all the kids put streamers on their scooters and bikes and even some of the adults and then we had a bike parade across the street at the school. It was really a great time. I hope it is a tradition that we will start and keep doing for a long time. I loved it! </div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLOf9-CtI/AAAAAAAABY8/f3Prdi4tHcU/s1600/bike+parade.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475122853214816978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLOf9-CtI/AAAAAAAABY8/f3Prdi4tHcU/s400/bike+parade.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Griffin did have some moments when he was overwhelmed but he knows how to cope. He finds a quiet place to go and regroup. It is harder for me than him, I think, when he has one of his moments. He knows how to cope better than I do, I guess. What a great kid.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLODfyAkI/AAAAAAAABY0/UbVhRdv-jEM/s1600/alone+time.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475122845572006466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLODfyAkI/AAAAAAAABY0/UbVhRdv-jEM/s400/alone+time.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLWhOlWWI/AAAAAAAABZM/_F0No1z7w_E/s1600/pinata.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475122990991890786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLWhOlWWI/AAAAAAAABZM/_F0No1z7w_E/s400/pinata.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div>There was a local carnival last week and you could see it from our house when the lights were on. When we walked up to it Griffin called out, "Let the fun begin!" He is full of fun one liners.<br /></div><br /><br /><div>Sunday was a nice day also. McKenzie gave a wonderful talk and it was so nice to hear more about his mission. I was asked to sing and that is always an honor. Hallie also cut two teeth! I can't believe she is almost 6 months old! </div><br /><br /><div></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLNqNYdUI/AAAAAAAABYs/zXExodEBgBI/s1600/hallie+in+sunflowers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475122838783948098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S_uLNqNYdUI/AAAAAAAABYs/zXExodEBgBI/s400/hallie+in+sunflowers.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>We had a dinner after church and it was just so nice to be together. As our kids get older it becomes more difficult to find time for us all to be together. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Another successful Graham day. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-55324727255020325302010-05-25T04:10:00.002-04:002010-05-25T04:12:57.813-04:00Evan making Hallie giggleOk, I have been trying to embed this video for about a week and after trying at least 20 times I give up. I am not sure what the issue is but if you feel like watching a cute video of Hallie laughing at her brother, Evan than follow this link.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DF0-frX-big">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DF0-frX-big</a><br /><br />and then go to the right and watch our neice Delilah laughing at her daddy, Jason. It is really cute too!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-39754100041793321522010-05-09T22:40:00.002-04:002010-05-09T22:42:25.677-04:00New Hair<div>So, I am growing my hair out. And I really really hate it. I hate the process but I am excited about the end product. This is the hair I am going for:</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-dyRWJ5JXI/AAAAAAAABYc/j8xhfc-8v-Y/s1600/designlive-Richardson.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469465914795173234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-dyRWJ5JXI/AAAAAAAABYc/j8xhfc-8v-Y/s400/designlive-Richardson.jpg" border="0" /></a> She is a designer on HGTV who I happened to see while getting a pedicure recently. I love her hair and I hope it looks good on me!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-83066686834084982872010-05-09T22:02:00.002-04:002010-05-09T22:05:54.407-04:00Evan playing piano at the talent showEvan was in his school talent show the other night and was so proud of himself. He should be, he was awesome! He taught himself to play "I am a Child of God" by ear. He also plays the theme for Star Wars and other songs he hears in movies. He is very musically inclined but I think that is because he is so into math. Anyway, enjoy! The bow is my favorite.<br /><br /><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lrKEbDjBLIQ&hl=" fs="1&" width="425" height="344" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></embed>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-89124360602409663362010-05-06T15:00:00.003-04:002010-05-09T22:06:21.766-04:00Old Friends<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTjomHLqI/AAAAAAAABYU/8Nt4oLqguCU/s1600/090.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468235875471535778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTjomHLqI/AAAAAAAABYU/8Nt4oLqguCU/s400/090.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTho8ohjI/AAAAAAAABYM/2wOj2K85xjs/s1600/053.JPG"></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTgqQoR7I/AAAAAAAABYE/5Lpxt-dkgYM/s1600/054.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468235824378693554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTgqQoR7I/AAAAAAAABYE/5Lpxt-dkgYM/s400/054.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTfzcBKTI/AAAAAAAABX8/15jSCGwiEtI/s1600/052+-+Copy.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468235809662511410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTfzcBKTI/AAAAAAAABX8/15jSCGwiEtI/s400/052+-+Copy.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTe4-GkuI/AAAAAAAABX0/EBoft82NS5c/s1600/055.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468235793967780578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S-MTe4-GkuI/AAAAAAAABX0/EBoft82NS5c/s400/055.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />There is something so comforting in the gathering of old friends. They know you well and love you well anyway. They always want the best for you. No matter how much time has passed it is as if we saw each other yesterday.<br /><br />I had that recently at a lovely beach house in South Carolina. We ate, we laughed, we cried, we remembered, we caught up, we had so much fun....<br /><br />Love you girls! Can't wait for 2012!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-5262068388224250822010-05-06T02:02:00.004-04:002010-05-06T02:09:29.136-04:00Perspective<object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KHDvxPjsm8E&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KHDvxPjsm8E&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-30107692867848413642010-04-17T00:44:00.005-04:002010-04-17T01:09:09.134-04:00Autism<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBsTkDfgI/AAAAAAAABXs/1TY9sl-5r4c/s1600/SDC10343.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBr3V-VXI/AAAAAAAABXk/xMrfIN9CpFM/s1600/SDC10346.JPG"><br /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBrlj13HI/AAAAAAAABXc/pftYA2SUV8M/s1600/autism.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 340px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBrlj13HI/AAAAAAAABXc/pftYA2SUV8M/s400/autism.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460968240236059762" border="0" /></a><br />So tonight I watched Autism: the musical. It was touching, heartwrenching, moving, and just good to watch. Did it make me cry? Of course it did, come on, this is me we're talking about! But it wasn't always a bad cry. Some of these kids made me so happy just watching them.<br /><br />Griffin is like that. Just watching him from across the room can put a huge smile on my face. He is one in a million. He, like other autistic kids, has sensory issues. He will allow you to touch him but within his own rules. He is very cuddly, loving and sweet. Tonight I asked for a kiss. He kissed my knee, which is something he does when he is not comfortable at that moment kissing your lips. I asked for a kiss on the lips and he gave me such a knowing look. In that look I read, "Mommy. I love you but I just can't do that right now. It's more than I can give." Ryan tricked him and told him he had a secret for him and then gave him a big kiss on the lips. He is able to laugh about it.<br /><br />We had to get the tire fixed the other day and I took Griffin with me to have the mechanic put the newly fixed tire on the car. He was so impressed with all the cool tools and the big tires. When the mechanic took the tire off he was shocked and said, "Why did he take our tire! Oh No!" I explained that he was helping us fix the car and he said, "Oh, thank you sir. Thank you so much, sir." I loved watching it.<br /><br />Later the mechanic asked what school Griffin goes to and when I told him and explained that he was autistic he said, " I thought he might be."<br /><br />Why is it that it was upsetting to me? I guess while he was still so little most people just thought he was being a little kid. The older he gets, the more pronounced his behaviors will be. It was the first time that a stranger said that to me after just seeing him for a few minutes. It was tough for me.<br /><br />One of the parents on this movie tonight said that they only have nightmares when they think of their child's future and their constant goal is to do whatever it is that will prepare their child better for that future. He said if he could find the one thing that would make her ok when he was gone he would do anything to get that thing. I know exactly what he means. I try not to think about the future as it is completely unknown.<br /><br />Griffin may be just fine and that is what I am working towards. So many steps to get to the goal.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBr3V-VXI/AAAAAAAABXk/xMrfIN9CpFM/s1600/SDC10346.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBr3V-VXI/AAAAAAAABXk/xMrfIN9CpFM/s400/SDC10346.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460968245009732978" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">(Evan and Griffin were having so much fun taking these pictures!)<br /><br /></div>For the most part I am fine. Griffin is fine and happy and doing exceptionally well. But, like all parents of a disabled child, I have my moments of grief. I cry. I mourn. I ache for my child. I ache for Ryan and I. I ache for his brothers who don't always understand why Griffin gets treated differently. But in the end I know that tomorrow he will wake up grinning and will make me smile again.<br /><br />Another parent in this show said something that to me was profound. "Why is it up to me to decide the quality of her life?" It isn't. Griffin is happy and he has always been one of the happiest children, from birth he was grinning. He loves life, and so do I.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBsTkDfgI/AAAAAAAABXs/1TY9sl-5r4c/s1600/SDC10343.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kG25XfticV8/S8lBsTkDfgI/AAAAAAAABXs/1TY9sl-5r4c/s400/SDC10343.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460968252584984066" border="0" /></a>Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31891986.post-10430956337625473762010-04-13T03:30:00.002-04:002010-04-13T03:32:53.989-04:00Quick updateHallie's sweat test: normal!<br /><br />She has also gained over a pound! Pack it on darlin'.<br /><br />Next week I am taking a trip down to Myrtle Beach area to have a reunion with some of my college roommates and I am so excited that at times I find it difficult to breathe! I told someone that I just can't wait for the late nights and all the laughter I know will ensue. These are some of my oldest and dearest friends who I have not seen in years. We have always talked about doing this and now, finally, we are taking the initiative.<br /><br />I can hardly wait!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18172197472239363720noreply@blogger.com1