Sweet Potato Enchilada

Super-yum! This GFCF recipe was a total hit at last night's dinner. Even our niece who doesn't normally like sweet potatoes raved about it. Funnily enough, growing up I didn't like them either and my dad was a huge fan. It's the southern influence I guess. Growing up with Kentucky rellies results in lovin' the southern food....sweet potatas, milk gravy,hushpuppies, catfish, etc. As a kid they were just baked with a touch of brown sugar and butter, and as an adult, I'm trying all sorts of different recipes and truly like them....sometimes. THIS is one of those times!

Sweet Potato Enchilada

1 large onion or leek, diced

1 tsp minced garlic

1/8 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp coriander

1/4 tsp chili powder

Dash cayenne pepper

1/8 tsp garlic powder

3-4 cups sweet potatoes, boiled & mashed - I use a mix of sweet potatoes & yams.

1/2 cup salsa

8 GF corn tortillas cut in quarters

CF cheese ( Cashew Cheese is the cheese of choice in our house)

Saute onion and garlic. Or steam together in the microwave. Add spices to onion mixture and cook until translucent. Add to mashed sweet potatoes. Adjust seasonings. Spray a baking pan with oil. Layer with half of the salsa, half of the tortillas, sweet potatoes, remaining salsa, and remaining corn tortillas. Top with CF Cheese, if using. Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes, until done.

Yield: 8 servings-193 calories per serving.

Courtesy of The Kid Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook

Sweet Potato Enchilada

Super-yum! This GFCF recipe was a total hit at last night's dinner. Even our niece who doesn't normally like sweet potatoes raved about it. Funnily enough, growing up I didn't like them either and my dad was a huge fan. It's the southern influence I guess. Growing up with Kentucky rellies results in lovin' the southern food....sweet potatas, milk gravy,hushpuppies, catfish, etc. As a kid they were just baked with a touch of brown sugar and butter, and as an adult, I'm trying all sorts of different recipes and truly like them....sometimes. THIS is one of those times!

Sweet Potato Enchilada

1 large onion or leek, diced

1 tsp minced garlic

1/8 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp coriander

1/4 tsp chili powder

Dash cayenne pepper

1/8 tsp garlic powder

3-4 cups sweet potatoes, boiled & mashed - I use a mix of sweet potatoes & yams.

1/2 cup salsa

8 GF corn tortillas cut in quarters

CF cheese ( Cashew Cheese is the cheese of choice in our house)

Saute onion and garlic. Or steam together in the microwave. Add spices to onion mixture and cook until translucent. Add to mashed sweet potatoes. Adjust seasonings. Spray a baking pan with oil. Layer with half of the salsa, half of the tortillas, sweet potatoes, remaining salsa, and remaining corn tortillas. Top with CF Cheese, if using. Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes, until done.

Yield: 8 servings-193 calories per serving.

Courtesy of The Kid Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook

Since Saturday....

1. Buppy asleep with his ever-loved "Kiki".

2. Roses from W...chosen while grocery shopping.

3. Two best buddies...Captain C & Captain W.

4. Elmo & Cookie pancakes...a new way to use a sandwich maker.

5. Bup & W showin' some brotherly love.

6. Our littlest scholar...who's loving coloring. Look at that tripod grip!

Just a pictorial glimpse into our life since Saturday.

Since Saturday....

1. Buppy asleep with his ever-loved "Kiki".

2. Roses from W...chosen while grocery shopping.

3. Two best buddies...Captain C & Captain W.

4. Elmo & Cookie pancakes...a new way to use a sandwich maker.

5. Bup & W showin' some brotherly love.

6. Our littlest scholar...who's loving coloring. Look at that tripod grip!

Just a pictorial glimpse into our life since Saturday.

Sunday Date - African Children's Choir

Tonight Bup and I enjoyed date night at a performance by the African Children's Choir.

A-mazing!

These little mites can sing and dance like no other!

The stories of life before entering the Children's Choir is one of tragedy and heart break and tenacity and love. Amazing spirit. Amazing survival. Amazing voices.

Only a 3 min film glimpse into their past paths will bring a tear to your eye, gratitude for our life here in peaceful Canada and the desire to do more.

Unfortunately, I didn't have my "good" camera with me so the pics aren't great. The colors are diminished...the effect muted.

Bup was pretty funny. At first he was scared. Scared of the loud singing and drums. He snuggled with his head laying on my shoulder but by the end of the performance he was dancing and clapping...when he wasn't turned around in his chair to show the senior ladies behind us his toy white rat...swinging it by the tail and once in a while dropping it at their feet. Come on he's 2 and a lot...can't just sit and be not heard, right?

Sunday Date - African Children's Choir

Tonight Bup and I enjoyed date night at a performance by the African Children's Choir.

A-mazing!

These little mites can sing and dance like no other!

The stories of life before entering the Children's Choir is one of tragedy and heart break and tenacity and love. Amazing spirit. Amazing survival. Amazing voices.

Only a 3 min film glimpse into their past paths will bring a tear to your eye, gratitude for our life here in peaceful Canada and the desire to do more.

Unfortunately, I didn't have my "good" camera with me so the pics aren't great. The colors are diminished...the effect muted.

Bup was pretty funny. At first he was scared. Scared of the loud singing and drums. He snuggled with his head laying on my shoulder but by the end of the performance he was dancing and clapping...when he wasn't turned around in his chair to show the senior ladies behind us his toy white rat...swinging it by the tail and once in a while dropping it at their feet. Come on he's 2 and a lot...can't just sit and be not heard, right?

An Inspiring Blog

This lady completely inspires me and touched my heart through her blog. She is a woman of strength and heart and love.

The cute freckles and smiles of her kids made me smile and appreciate mine all the more.

Of course, they were sleeping while I was reading so it was easy to be appreciative!:) Sleeping...one in our bed with his dad, sleeping side ways with not a blanket on...and the other in his own bed curled up in a little ball, with his "Kiki" held tight in his strong, little fist. I love the sight of these sleeping boys.

Anyway, if you're looking for a new read, check out the NieNie Dialogues.

An Inspiring Blog

This lady completely inspires me and touched my heart through her blog. She is a woman of strength and heart and love.

The cute freckles and smiles of her kids made me smile and appreciate mine all the more.

Of course, they were sleeping while I was reading so it was easy to be appreciative!:) Sleeping...one in our bed with his dad, sleeping side ways with not a blanket on...and the other in his own bed curled up in a little ball, with his "Kiki" held tight in his strong, little fist. I love the sight of these sleeping boys.

Anyway, if you're looking for a new read, check out the NieNie Dialogues.

The Wicked Queen's Apple & Food Challenge Friday

Remember in Snow White when the wicked Queen genetically modified an apple with poison to kill the sweet Snow White?

Well, that apple isn't just in Snow White. I bought four of those apples today. By accident. By the innocent sneakiness of a happy little 4 yr old boy who put a package of "Grapple"s in our cart.

An apple injected with artificial grape flavor.

What the??? (as W would say).

Cause really...a nice crunchy apple needs to be injected with flavored crap to increase the appeal?

Ugh. The sickeningly sweet smell of them from the package is enough to bring the Kool Aid man running through the streets. Maybe it was he who thought this up, not the wicked Queen.

Regardless, if my child bites this apple, I'll be begging to sleep until Prince Charming is home from the hockey game to wake me!

Food Challenge Friday

Artificial Sweeteners

They are everywhere. The diet revolution made them a day to day norm in our diets. There is so much controversy with this. Health wise. Of course, it's a cazillion (official number of course!) dollar industry so the companies responsible want us to believe in the health benefits. Do you avoid Artificial Sweeteners? Do you love them & swear by them?

As you all know, I've been a bit of a Diet Coke addict. *ahem* I drink it for the caffeine (a whole other post), it's cold, and I like the taste.

So.

I know this needs to change. Now. And here's what's helping me change my mind.

1. Weight gain. My family doctor talked to me this week about there is lots of evidence that artificial sweeteners CAUSE weight gain. My body doesn't know the difference between sugar & a "calorie free" sweetener. It's something sweet & the body reacts as such.

2. Formaldehyde. My son's naturopath gave me information that as's turn into formaldehyde and over time cause MS like symptoms.

Both of those should be enough to scare me off forever!

We don't have fined sugar in our home. We use Agave nectar, brown rice syrup, and pineapple juice and the family has reponded well to it. Even my Favorite Husband doesn't use sugar in his coffee any longer. Wuhoo!

Now, to stop buying Diet Coke. Now.

The Wicked Queen's Apple & Food Challenge Friday

Remember in Snow White when the wicked Queen genetically modified an apple with poison to kill the sweet Snow White?

Well, that apple isn't just in Snow White. I bought four of those apples today. By accident. By the innocent sneakiness of a happy little 4 yr old boy who put a package of "Grapple"s in our cart.

An apple injected with artificial grape flavor.

What the??? (as W would say).

Cause really...a nice crunchy apple needs to be injected with flavored crap to increase the appeal?

Ugh. The sickeningly sweet smell of them from the package is enough to bring the Kool Aid man running through the streets. Maybe it was he who thought this up, not the wicked Queen.

Regardless, if my child bites this apple, I'll be begging to sleep until Prince Charming is home from the hockey game to wake me!

Food Challenge Friday

Artificial Sweeteners

They are everywhere. The diet revolution made them a day to day norm in our diets. There is so much controversy with this. Health wise. Of course, it's a cazillion (official number of course!) dollar industry so the companies responsible want us to believe in the health benefits. Do you avoid Artificial Sweeteners? Do you love them & swear by them?

As you all know, I've been a bit of a Diet Coke addict. *ahem* I drink it for the caffeine (a whole other post), it's cold, and I like the taste.

So.

I know this needs to change. Now. And here's what's helping me change my mind.

1. Weight gain. My family doctor talked to me this week about there is lots of evidence that artificial sweeteners CAUSE weight gain. My body doesn't know the difference between sugar & a "calorie free" sweetener. It's something sweet & the body reacts as such.

2. Formaldehyde. My son's naturopath gave me information that as's turn into formaldehyde and over time cause MS like symptoms.

Both of those should be enough to scare me off forever!

We don't have fined sugar in our home. We use Agave nectar, brown rice syrup, and pineapple juice and the family has reponded well to it. Even my Favorite Husband doesn't use sugar in his coffee any longer. Wuhoo!

Now, to stop buying Diet Coke. Now.

Friday Findings...

Just another noisy morning...trying to keep the little men from maiming themselves through their fearless antics and well, the play dough came out, a Flying Saucer Chef was born and life is much happier. Ahhh....the sweetness of the little things.

The bigger picture is that play dough play is a fantastic tool for strengthening little hands and fingers therefore assisting with pre-printing skills. So, we're all for play dough!

Friday Findings...

Just another noisy morning...trying to keep the little men from maiming themselves through their fearless antics and well, the play dough came out, a Flying Saucer Chef was born and life is much happier. Ahhh....the sweetness of the little things.

The bigger picture is that play dough play is a fantastic tool for strengthening little hands and fingers therefore assisting with pre-printing skills. So, we're all for play dough!

Alberta's Special Education Initiative

The CAPSC meeting last night was emotional, interesting, relieving and frustrating all at the same time.
Firstly.....the CAPSC email that went out stating that coding would be removed as of Sept 2010 was INCORRECT. Coding will be removed EVENTUALLY but there is no immediate plan or timeline to do so.
Wow. Well, that was an immediate relief and shocking that such a mistake could be made and relayed to so many people. It was impactful...that email....as we all how I felt...along with the other 200 attendees last night. 200! There's usually only 40 at these school and parent council meetings. Which is sad. A city of a million people...and such low attendance? Anyway....
The Minister of Education has committed to redesigning Special Education in Alberta. Setting the Direction. This will be a system of INCLUSION for all students. A system that focuses on one's abilities...not disability. A system in which front loading, coding and IPPs are not needed. A system in which the "wait to fail" system of current days is obliterated.
"Every Student, Every Day, No Exceptions."
One where teachers fuel the change. Where teachers are professionally educated & trained in Special Ed and given the technical skills and support to effectively have a fully inclusive classroom. I could go on and on but you can read the framework here.
Also, this is all THEORETICAL at this point. PHILOSOPHICAL. There is no action plan. There are steering committees and such but that's it at this point. There will be NO FURTHER FUNDING to make this happen. All this will take place under the CURRENT funding structure. As education is running at a deficit here in Alberta. Should be interesting to overhaul the system with no extra funds, don't you think?
It all sounds pretty and looks lovely on paper....how or if it will every be rolled out is something else. There needs to be real examples, a real plan, the people involved, all politicians on board, etc, etc, etc.
Of course, I didn't let you all down! Did I sit quietly, with my hands folded demurely in my lap and say nothing? No. Did I stay completely in control and calm? No. At the end of the panel discussion I managed to make a slight fool of my emotional self.
One particular stakeholder, Kathryn Burke, Executive Director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta, is phenomenal. She GETS it. She has lived this with her two LD sons. She's real, she's political, she's powerful and an inspiration as an advocate/mother for LD kids. So.....after the discussion, I approached her with the other panel members ( two gov't officials and the CBE Director of Learning Support) to tell her how listening to her speak was like coming home and that I appreciate her work and it gives me hope for my child with in the school world and....I started to CRY!
Ugh.
I am such a crier. At the most inopportune times. It rocks me to the core as I don't expect to do so and then the tears start. Ugh! I hate that. Wrong place. Wrong time. What the??
Kathryn was wonderful about it. Got tears in her eyes. Hugged me. Gave me her card. Told me to hang in there and that it is only now....many years later....that she can talk about the challenges her family has faced.
I cried. In front of the panel for the Setting the Direction Framework Gov't of AB officials.
Yup.
Today I just shake my head at myself and hope that little teary moment makes the gov'ts view of "special education kids" real. Not just numbers. Not just a document. Real kids. Real important.

Alberta's Special Education Initiative

The CAPSC meeting last night was emotional, interesting, relieving and frustrating all at the same time.
Firstly.....the CAPSC email that went out stating that coding would be removed as of Sept 2010 was INCORRECT. Coding will be removed EVENTUALLY but there is no immediate plan or timeline to do so.
Wow. Well, that was an immediate relief and shocking that such a mistake could be made and relayed to so many people. It was impactful...that email....as we all how I felt...along with the other 200 attendees last night. 200! There's usually only 40 at these school and parent council meetings. Which is sad. A city of a million people...and such low attendance? Anyway....
The Minister of Education has committed to redesigning Special Education in Alberta. Setting the Direction. This will be a system of INCLUSION for all students. A system that focuses on one's abilities...not disability. A system in which front loading, coding and IPPs are not needed. A system in which the "wait to fail" system of current days is obliterated.
"Every Student, Every Day, No Exceptions."
One where teachers fuel the change. Where teachers are professionally educated & trained in Special Ed and given the technical skills and support to effectively have a fully inclusive classroom. I could go on and on but you can read the framework here.
Also, this is all THEORETICAL at this point. PHILOSOPHICAL. There is no action plan. There are steering committees and such but that's it at this point. There will be NO FURTHER FUNDING to make this happen. All this will take place under the CURRENT funding structure. As education is running at a deficit here in Alberta. Should be interesting to overhaul the system with no extra funds, don't you think?
It all sounds pretty and looks lovely on paper....how or if it will every be rolled out is something else. There needs to be real examples, a real plan, the people involved, all politicians on board, etc, etc, etc.
Of course, I didn't let you all down! Did I sit quietly, with my hands folded demurely in my lap and say nothing? No. Did I stay completely in control and calm? No. At the end of the panel discussion I managed to make a slight fool of my emotional self.
One particular stakeholder, Kathryn Burke, Executive Director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta, is phenomenal. She GETS it. She has lived this with her two LD sons. She's real, she's political, she's powerful and an inspiration as an advocate/mother for LD kids. So.....after the discussion, I approached her with the other panel members ( two gov't officials and the CBE Director of Learning Support) to tell her how listening to her speak was like coming home and that I appreciate her work and it gives me hope for my child with in the school world and....I started to CRY!
Ugh.
I am such a crier. At the most inopportune times. It rocks me to the core as I don't expect to do so and then the tears start. Ugh! I hate that. Wrong place. Wrong time. What the??
Kathryn was wonderful about it. Got tears in her eyes. Hugged me. Gave me her card. Told me to hang in there and that it is only now....many years later....that she can talk about the challenges her family has faced.
I cried. In front of the panel for the Setting the Direction Framework Gov't of AB officials.
Yup.
Today I just shake my head at myself and hope that little teary moment makes the gov'ts view of "special education kids" real. Not just numbers. Not just a document. Real kids. Real important.

Alberta Education Eliminates Coding for Special Needs

A dire situation is in the works. Please read the email below that I received today.

This is HUGE!! Every child will be affected in the Alberta school system. Even if your child is not a coded child. They too will be affected. Coding determines the type and level of support that a child receives. For example our son is coded and this is why he receives the level of PUF (Program Unit Funding) for Early Intervention Education that he currently holds. This directly impacts us. We will not know yet, what the outcome will be. I suspect by the end of May beginning of June we will be made aware. How timely that I receive this email today while we are in the middle of applying for Fall 2010 funding and choosing an appropriate school. I must digress...as I could preach from this soapbox for days!

Talk about this. Share it with your friends who have kids in the school system here. Increase awareness. Thanks for taking the time to do so. ~ Mrs. M

All students are going to be affected by Alberta Education’s decision to remove coding (the designations that identify and provide supports to students with special needs) starting in the Fall of 2010. Obviously, the students who are currently coded will be impacted by this decision. However, the distribution of funding and the supports available in individual classrooms may change significantly – thereby impacting all students.

On Wednesday, April 21^st, CAPSC will be hosting a panel discussion on special education. The guests who are coming are influential decision makers with Alberta Education and the CBE:

- Sydney Smith, CBE’s Director of Special Education
- Kathryn Burke, Executive Director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta
- Dianne McConnell, Alberta Education’s Director of Special Education
- Anne Davidson, Project Manager for Alberta Education’s “Setting the Direction for Special Education in Alberta” initiative.

We encourage you to send this panel discussion invitation to all of your parent friends and acquaintances, whether they have a coded child or not. This event is free to attend and all are invited. The panel discussion will take place Wednesday, April 21^st, 2010, from 7:00-9:00 pm in the library (second floor) at AE Cross Junior High School in SW Calgary.

This is a perfect opportunity for CBE parents to learn firsthand about what’s coming. Bring your questions: Q&A with the audience will form the majority of the discussion. We hope to see you and your friends / neighbours / acquaintances there!

Alberta Education Eliminates Coding for Special Needs

A dire situation is in the works. Please read the email below that I received today.

This is HUGE!! Every child will be affected in the Alberta school system. Even if your child is not a coded child. They too will be affected. Coding determines the type and level of support that a child receives. For example our son is coded and this is why he receives the level of PUF (Program Unit Funding) for Early Intervention Education that he currently holds. This directly impacts us. We will not know yet, what the outcome will be. I suspect by the end of May beginning of June we will be made aware. How timely that I receive this email today while we are in the middle of applying for Fall 2010 funding and choosing an appropriate school. I must digress...as I could preach from this soapbox for days!

Talk about this. Share it with your friends who have kids in the school system here. Increase awareness. Thanks for taking the time to do so. ~ Mrs. M

All students are going to be affected by Alberta Education’s decision to remove coding (the designations that identify and provide supports to students with special needs) starting in the Fall of 2010. Obviously, the students who are currently coded will be impacted by this decision. However, the distribution of funding and the supports available in individual classrooms may change significantly – thereby impacting all students.

On Wednesday, April 21^st, CAPSC will be hosting a panel discussion on special education. The guests who are coming are influential decision makers with Alberta Education and the CBE:

- Sydney Smith, CBE’s Director of Special Education
- Kathryn Burke, Executive Director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta
- Dianne McConnell, Alberta Education’s Director of Special Education
- Anne Davidson, Project Manager for Alberta Education’s “Setting the Direction for Special Education in Alberta” initiative.

We encourage you to send this panel discussion invitation to all of your parent friends and acquaintances, whether they have a coded child or not. This event is free to attend and all are invited. The panel discussion will take place Wednesday, April 21^st, 2010, from 7:00-9:00 pm in the library (second floor) at AE Cross Junior High School in SW Calgary.

This is a perfect opportunity for CBE parents to learn firsthand about what’s coming. Bring your questions: Q&A with the audience will form the majority of the discussion. We hope to see you and your friends / neighbours / acquaintances there!

Sunday Dinner

We strayed from our usual Sunday pancake supper in order to be joined by friends for Sunday dinner. We dined on a feast of roast chicken, creamed spinach, mashed potatoes, oriental broccoli and a sweet potato salad. Mmmmmm... It must have been pretty good as there is not a scrap of chicken left...not even for soup....and few other left overs.



What was really neat about the visit is that these friends have a young daughter who has an ADHD diagnosis and food allergies and sensitivities as well.



It was wonderful to speak with another family who can relate and has ideas to share...successes to show...trial and error lessons to teach too. Mrs. Isle Madame even brought two huge bags of gluten free flours and a GF Bread Cookbook. What a treasure!



Their little girl's food allergies are soy, corn, beans/legumes, bananas, dyes and enriched flour. Unbleached flour is fine for her. Interesting, hey? The soy issue is huge. There is soy in so many foods. Hidden. Renamed. ~ It's all about super-sleuthing to locate the hidden culprits.



I'm toying with the idea of redoing the Elimination Diet for W. To see if there is a difference. To see if I need to tweak things further or can add anything back in. This needs some thought....talk with the Naturopath and the energy to do it all again.



One of our favorite recipes from last night, was Tosca Reno's Sweet Potato Salad with exotic spice mix. YUM! Truly sweet potatoes, not yams, with leeks, purple onion, raisins, molasses, super spices such as cumin, paprika, cayenne, cinnamon, nutmeg....I'm drooling just writing this!

Sunday Dinner

We strayed from our usual Sunday pancake supper in order to be joined by friends for Sunday dinner. We dined on a feast of roast chicken, creamed spinach, mashed potatoes, oriental broccoli and a sweet potato salad. Mmmmmm... It must have been pretty good as there is not a scrap of chicken left...not even for soup....and few other left overs.



What was really neat about the visit is that these friends have a young daughter who has an ADHD diagnosis and food allergies and sensitivities as well.



It was wonderful to speak with another family who can relate and has ideas to share...successes to show...trial and error lessons to teach too. Mrs. Isle Madame even brought two huge bags of gluten free flours and a GF Bread Cookbook. What a treasure!



Their little girl's food allergies are soy, corn, beans/legumes, bananas, dyes and enriched flour. Unbleached flour is fine for her. Interesting, hey? The soy issue is huge. There is soy in so many foods. Hidden. Renamed. ~ It's all about super-sleuthing to locate the hidden culprits.



I'm toying with the idea of redoing the Elimination Diet for W. To see if there is a difference. To see if I need to tweak things further or can add anything back in. This needs some thought....talk with the Naturopath and the energy to do it all again.



One of our favorite recipes from last night, was Tosca Reno's Sweet Potato Salad with exotic spice mix. YUM! Truly sweet potatoes, not yams, with leeks, purple onion, raisins, molasses, super spices such as cumin, paprika, cayenne, cinnamon, nutmeg....I'm drooling just writing this!

"Warms Heart"- Cardiology/TSC update

Bup has a little routine.

"I wuvyoutoo Mom."

"I love you Bup."

"Meeee??? Oh. Warms Heart!"

And our hearts our warm. Especially after receiving the results of R's Holter Monitor test. There are no concerns! Yay!

This is the outcome we were hoping for...expecting. Yes, Bup has two small tumors on his heart, but they are very tiny and not causing any blockages. Also, at birth Bup's little heart was working extra hard....throwing in an extra beat every 10 beats...but that disappeared and this Holter just confirms that his little heart is beating normally with no problems from those little tumors resting between the chambers.

"Warms Heart"- Cardiology/TSC update

Bup has a little routine.

"I wuvyoutoo Mom."

"I love you Bup."

"Meeee??? Oh. Warms Heart!"

And our hearts our warm. Especially after receiving the results of R's Holter Monitor test. There are no concerns! Yay!

This is the outcome we were hoping for...expecting. Yes, Bup has two small tumors on his heart, but they are very tiny and not causing any blockages. Also, at birth Bup's little heart was working extra hard....throwing in an extra beat every 10 beats...but that disappeared and this Holter just confirms that his little heart is beating normally with no problems from those little tumors resting between the chambers.

Psych Visit Update

Good news!

The sat meeting with Mr. Psych went well. He is completely on board with W's need for continued support throughout the school year and agrees that W is at risk....risk to lose the PUF because he is doing so well at school and risk for regression if he doesn't have the much needed support. SO.....here's hoping that the assessments by all involved will show the Ministry of Education that our little W is still eligible for PUF.

It amazes me how much this actually stresses me and how I show that stress. Prior to the meeting I was so grouchy and felt this huge chip growing on my shoulder like Mt. Rundle. Then after the meeting was over, even though it went well, I was still short until I just gave in....went to my room and had a good cry. Then all was well.

It's interesting to me how My Favorite Husband and I have a different outlook and deal with this type of info differently. I have a lot to learn from MFH. He sees the positive, is relieved and happy. I remain feeling pushed down by the huge chip on my shoulder, the energy of having to "advocate"...FIGHT...for our child...and then need a release....like a good cry.

Regardless....we are heading in the right direction for W.

Psych Visit Update

Good news!

The sat meeting with Mr. Psych went well. He is completely on board with W's need for continued support throughout the school year and agrees that W is at risk....risk to lose the PUF because he is doing so well at school and risk for regression if he doesn't have the much needed support. SO.....here's hoping that the assessments by all involved will show the Ministry of Education that our little W is still eligible for PUF.

It amazes me how much this actually stresses me and how I show that stress. Prior to the meeting I was so grouchy and felt this huge chip growing on my shoulder like Mt. Rundle. Then after the meeting was over, even though it went well, I was still short until I just gave in....went to my room and had a good cry. Then all was well.

It's interesting to me how My Favorite Husband and I have a different outlook and deal with this type of info differently. I have a lot to learn from MFH. He sees the positive, is relieved and happy. I remain feeling pushed down by the huge chip on my shoulder, the energy of having to "advocate"...FIGHT...for our child...and then need a release....like a good cry.

Regardless....we are heading in the right direction for W.

Saturday Morning Pscyh

As I enjoy my morning toast and diet coke (yup...cokin' it this am), there is a robin perched on the peak of our neighbors garage while I make lists in my mind and on paper, trying to repel the anxiety that comes with this morning's visit from our psychologist.
Saturday morning psych visit.
Who ever thought these took place?
I am grateful...believe me, I am. Just nervous.
W is doing so incredibly well in pre-school. Yes, he still has the wiggles and has to be prompted to stay on task for more than 5-7 minutes, struggles with pre-printing skills, circle time is one of constant reminders, hates using scissors or crayons the proper way, yet he is happy there, is a role model for other kids, loves, loves, loves story time and is exceeding our expectations socially.
Our pscychologist always sees how great W is doing in school.
Will this help us with support for next year? That is my fear. That "THEY" will only look at how far he's come....not what got him there....and decide that W will be fine without support for kindergarten.
No support? May as well throw him to the wolves. The support and small class size is what has done the trick for our little man.
I'm nervous. Worried. Anxious.
Hopefully, Mr. Psych will see the whole picture, the big picture, not just the little detail in the center and support W in his quest for learning.
It's one hour until the visit begins so I ought to tidy the kitchen and get W out of his pjs.

Saturday Morning Pscyh

As I enjoy my morning toast and diet coke (yup...cokin' it this am), there is a robin perched on the peak of our neighbors garage while I make lists in my mind and on paper, trying to repel the anxiety that comes with this morning's visit from our psychologist.
Saturday morning psych visit.
Who ever thought these took place?
I am grateful...believe me, I am. Just nervous.
W is doing so incredibly well in pre-school. Yes, he still has the wiggles and has to be prompted to stay on task for more than 5-7 minutes, struggles with pre-printing skills, circle time is one of constant reminders, hates using scissors or crayons the proper way, yet he is happy there, is a role model for other kids, loves, loves, loves story time and is exceeding our expectations socially.
Our pscychologist always sees how great W is doing in school.
Will this help us with support for next year? That is my fear. That "THEY" will only look at how far he's come....not what got him there....and decide that W will be fine without support for kindergarten.
No support? May as well throw him to the wolves. The support and small class size is what has done the trick for our little man.
I'm nervous. Worried. Anxious.
Hopefully, Mr. Psych will see the whole picture, the big picture, not just the little detail in the center and support W in his quest for learning.
It's one hour until the visit begins so I ought to tidy the kitchen and get W out of his pjs.

Breakfast of Champions

As the boys dine on sausage and sweet potatoes a la nude....what's a little nudity between friends after all this is a house of boys. Other than the crumbs which are intentionally placed within one's belly button. ???Is that not uncomfortable???~ The boys had just come from the tub so after a giggling round of naked racing about the house they settled in for breakfast and an episode of Curious George. Yes. I use the TV to my advantage at times. I admit it. Such as now, they are still engrossed as I write cause really there would be no blogging or many other things without my telly friend.

I, dressed in clothes, enjoy Vegan Lentil Loaf from Planet Organic. Mmmm...it's loaded with goodies and has a little ketchup on top. I need this recipe!

What's cooking at your house this morning?

Breakfast of Champions

As the boys dine on sausage and sweet potatoes a la nude....what's a little nudity between friends after all this is a house of boys. Other than the crumbs which are intentionally placed within one's belly button. ???Is that not uncomfortable???~ The boys had just come from the tub so after a giggling round of naked racing about the house they settled in for breakfast and an episode of Curious George. Yes. I use the TV to my advantage at times. I admit it. Such as now, they are still engrossed as I write cause really there would be no blogging or many other things without my telly friend.

I, dressed in clothes, enjoy Vegan Lentil Loaf from Planet Organic. Mmmm...it's loaded with goodies and has a little ketchup on top. I need this recipe!

What's cooking at your house this morning?

It's 2am

"I want Mighty Machines, Mom."

It's 2 am.

The little one is wide awake and requesting Mighty Machines or Super Why.

We are going to bed...again. I bet I'll hear a "But, why Mom" about that! Super why alright!


[artwork courtesy of www.decor2yourdoor.com]

It's 2am

"I want Mighty Machines, Mom."

It's 2 am.

The little one is wide awake and requesting Mighty Machines or Super Why.

We are going to bed...again. I bet I'll hear a "But, why Mom" about that! Super why alright!


[artwork courtesy of www.decor2yourdoor.com]

Good Friday

It truly is a good Friday. In more than the spiritual sense as well.

Unfortunately, we didn't remember/celebrate by attending church however a little Tell Me the Easter Story book has been read and re-read to the boys. W loves this one.

On this Good Friday I enjoyed "me" time at the Urgent Care Centre. About 5 hours of quiet time. If you call, listening to other people's children cry and the hustle & bustle of an emerg unit quiet. But I was all alone to enjoy this hectic, pain filled pace.

My back is a mess at the moment...strained again...and this time the pain was beyond me so off I took my crooked little self to Urgent Care where I spent the day...sans enfants. No one pulled the fire alarm. No one ran away. No one shouted, "NO!" to me. It was fantastic!

Eventually when I was admitted and in a private room, I even had a nap! N-A-P! Since it was another 1.5 hr wait alone in the room, I took full advantage. Pulled my wrap over my head, lay down as best I could without my back freaking out, kept my jeans on despite being ordered to wear only the airy gown (I hate those things! Who doesn't? And why should my bottoms be off to assess my spine..not backside...so the rebel I am kept them on WITH the gown. Wu-hoo.)

The nap was wonderful. Hopefully the drugs are too. So here's to a back free of pain, a deep sleep, and a loving husband who stayed home with the little fellas so that I could get care...alone.

Now, the other reason, this is truly a good Friday is that it's the anniversary of when my favorite husband & I said our vows; united in marriage to begin this crazy life we lead. Five whole years. Not so very many in the big scheme of things...and sometimes if feels like yesterday and sometimes it feels like 50 years JUST because so much has happened in the past five years. We've done it all....sickness & health, richer or poor, glad and mad (oops...that sounds very Sesame Streetish), and the comparisons could go on and on. We've done it all in five years yet still love each other, and can tell the tale...some with humor and some with tears.

I am truly blessed to have B by my side, sometimes behind me pushing me onwards, but always supportive and loving. No other man could experience my emotions and crazy cycles with the acceptance and love that B does. I am blessed. And because I am so blessed, I am proud to say that we are renewing our vows tomorrow.

In a little chapel, in the foothills of the mountains, just a private, intimate ceremony to recommit to our relationship as marrieds. So... here's to marrying my favorite husband all over again.

I definitely do!

Good Friday

It truly is a good Friday. In more than the spiritual sense as well.

Unfortunately, we didn't remember/celebrate by attending church however a little Tell Me the Easter Story book has been read and re-read to the boys. W loves this one.

On this Good Friday I enjoyed "me" time at the Urgent Care Centre. About 5 hours of quiet time. If you call, listening to other people's children cry and the hustle & bustle of an emerg unit quiet. But I was all alone to enjoy this hectic, pain filled pace.

My back is a mess at the moment...strained again...and this time the pain was beyond me so off I took my crooked little self to Urgent Care where I spent the day...sans enfants. No one pulled the fire alarm. No one ran away. No one shouted, "NO!" to me. It was fantastic!

Eventually when I was admitted and in a private room, I even had a nap! N-A-P! Since it was another 1.5 hr wait alone in the room, I took full advantage. Pulled my wrap over my head, lay down as best I could without my back freaking out, kept my jeans on despite being ordered to wear only the airy gown (I hate those things! Who doesn't? And why should my bottoms be off to assess my spine..not backside...so the rebel I am kept them on WITH the gown. Wu-hoo.)

The nap was wonderful. Hopefully the drugs are too. So here's to a back free of pain, a deep sleep, and a loving husband who stayed home with the little fellas so that I could get care...alone.

Now, the other reason, this is truly a good Friday is that it's the anniversary of when my favorite husband & I said our vows; united in marriage to begin this crazy life we lead. Five whole years. Not so very many in the big scheme of things...and sometimes if feels like yesterday and sometimes it feels like 50 years JUST because so much has happened in the past five years. We've done it all....sickness & health, richer or poor, glad and mad (oops...that sounds very Sesame Streetish), and the comparisons could go on and on. We've done it all in five years yet still love each other, and can tell the tale...some with humor and some with tears.

I am truly blessed to have B by my side, sometimes behind me pushing me onwards, but always supportive and loving. No other man could experience my emotions and crazy cycles with the acceptance and love that B does. I am blessed. And because I am so blessed, I am proud to say that we are renewing our vows tomorrow.

In a little chapel, in the foothills of the mountains, just a private, intimate ceremony to recommit to our relationship as marrieds. So... here's to marrying my favorite husband all over again.

I definitely do!