Emma's Joyful Journey

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T23:30:00.001-06:00

Halloween was full of all kinds of celebrations this year. We had a parade and party at school. Then on Saturday I went to D'Shaya's and Alana's birthday parties. And then trick or treating. After trick or treating I helped hand out candy at my house. I LOVED seeing everyone in their costumes and didn't want it to end!

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Emma Eberhart: A story of acceptance and sportsmanship

2010-07-24T21:49:00.001-06:00

I love my Lady Legends teammates! They all deserve to be Little Athletes of the Week! And thanks to Jordan Mason for doing such a great job telling my story in such a positive, uplifting way!

Using First/Then Concept

2010-07-18T22:01:00.002-06:00

First/then is something I hear alot of...good thing cause it usually means I get to do something I really like!

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Kindergarten Graduation

2010-07-08T23:15:00.001-06:00

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Pain or Something Else

2010-06-14T22:33:00.002-06:00

My leg continues to bother me after years and years and years. Tomorrow I go see another orthopedic doctor at The Children's Hospital. He is going to decide if I should have my knee scoped since none of the other tests have shown anything.

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Lady Legends T-Ball Season Opener

2010-06-07T23:28:00.003-06:00

Tonight was my t-ball debut with my Lady Legends teammates. It was tons of fun! I didn't run the bases though since my legs were hurting because I was in the car for four hours earlier in the day for my doctor's appointment at The Children's Hospital. Next week I hope my leg is better and then we'll see how fast I can run! My teammates, especially Sammy, are really supportive and encouraging. She and I got to be team captains tonight! Sammy was my pitch runner since my legs were hurting. Hitting is definatly the strength of my game. I got a hit all three times I was up to bat! I am holding onto the bat with both hands all by myself. Mom made sure I didn't swing though until Sammy was in place to run. The other teams we play against are mostly boys but who cares...we are the Lady Legends! And what's really cool...found out tonight that I get to play against Kyle, one of my friends who uses a talker just like me!

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Play Day

2010-06-06T08:03:00.001-06:00

I had a great time with my classmates. Getting wet was the best part of all!

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Catching Up

2010-06-05T21:59:00.002-06:00

Wow...where did the year go? I have been so busy being a kindergartner and playing with my friends, I have not had a chance to do much blogging. Mom's been keeping everyone updated on Facebook but I thought I better add some of my big event to my blog...not necessarily in the order in which they occured! As you will see, my journey continues to be full of joy!

Learning to Read with My Own Books

2010-03-08T22:13:00.001-07:00

I'm learning site words in kindergarten which means I'm learning to read. Mom has made me alot of books with symbols on the pages so I can read. Each of my books has its own special page on my Dynavox so it makes reading easier.

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Check Out My New Word!

2010-03-06T20:44:00.002-07:00

I've been working really hard in Speech Therapy with Miss Valerie - who by the way is AWESOME! My new word is UP! It is a huge thing that I have learned because it marks the first time I have been able to string two sounds together to make a word! Today while playing on my swing set there were alot of times to practice my new word because I love going up and also having Bob, my dog, go up with me! So here it is...

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And Site Word Bingo

2010-03-01T22:47:00.003-07:00

I like playing best when Mom AND Dad play! I always have a symbol with my site word...that way I can find it easily on my Dynavox. Sometimes I need a little help finding it on my Dynavox. And then other times, if I get it wrong the first time...I hear my Dynavox say it and then I try again without anyone even telling me to! I think I agree with my Mom that alot of the times my "motor planning" makes me just miss what I meant to push and end up pushing the button beside it. Good thing I'm a good listener so I can redo it! Maybe someday I will write you a poem!

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Bingo Queen

2010-03-01T22:39:00.001-07:00

So I told you how much I love playing the game Zingo which then got Mom thinking! She made me Shapes Bingo, Site Word Bingo and Color Bingo! You can check out my video of me playing Shape Bingo. I've gotten really good at matching shapes so now I'm working on being able to find them without matching and also naming them with my Dynavox.

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Candyland Game

2010-03-01T22:30:00.002-07:00

I've really gotten into playing games. It all started just before Christmas time when I got the game Zingo. Then Santa brought me the Candyland Castle game which I love! I gotta teach Mom not to be so competitive that she doesn't share the shapes if she doesn't need them!

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My Letter to Santa

2009-12-06T19:53:00.005-07:00

It's that time of the year....Santa will be coming soon so I thought I better get busy writing him my letter. Since I started kindergarten I've gotten good at drawing cirles around the pictures so Mom made me a page that I could write my own letter to Santa Claus. Mom says he needs all the help he can get! Hopefully Santa won't count it against me but I felt I had to confess I've been a "bad" girl. Mom didn't agree but I really felt if there was any chance Santa had thought this, I better say it....better error on the safe side than Santa think I was lying! Mom says he can see me all the time...even when Mom and Dad aren't looking! So...just in case I am on your shopping list also...here is my letter to Santa. Mom and Dad said he will be at the mall soon so guess I will take my letter to him there intead of taking a chance on snail mail.

Speech Therapy Session

2009-10-27T00:02:00.004-06:00

Anne is one of my Speech Therapists. She helps me learn to use my Dynavox. This video is part of one of our session together. Anne usually doesn't use food in our sessions but I happened to have some raisins with me because I was coming from kindergarten. Sometimes I can be a bit stubborn as you will see in the video...especially after I just finished three hours of kindergarten. It can be a bit hard to concentrate for such a long time. One thing that Anne does really well is she encourages me to learn and pushes me but at the same time she does an awesome job at following my lead. She is alot of fun!

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I Gotta Go POTTY!

2009-10-17T18:05:00.002-06:00

Big steps forward in becoming an independent young girl! More and more I've been telling people when I have to go potty. Already today I've told Mom FOUR times! I use my sign language to tell people. Mom was video taping me today when I was waiting and waiting and waiting for my friend Shantell to come play. I waited so long I had to use the potty!

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Roller Skating

2009-10-11T16:16:00.004-06:00

So just under a couple of years ago, I tried out roller skating while at a friend's birthday party and I refused to even stand up on those silly shoes...walking is challenge enough without adding wheels into the mix! Well, today another friend had her birthday party there...and this time I DID IT! I started off a little slow...just walking around the rink with my walker...no roller skates. Even did a little limbo competition! Since Mom couldn't come out to the rink with me, (she won't wear those shoes with wheels on them either)I had to figure out the limbo all by myself and I did it! Mom said I had to go get in line...I did it! I had to wait my turn in line...I did it! I had to go underneath the limbo stick...I did it! I knew exactly what to do just by watching the other kids! And not only did I do it once...since I made it under the limbo stick, I went back to the end of the line and did it again..ALL BY MYSELF!

After pondering the roller skates...I gave them a try! It was a challenge but I worked on it for over 30 minutes! Not quite ready for the Olympic team yet, but with this amount of skill increase in only two tries...I would say the Olympics may not be just a pipe dream!

Using My Trackball Mouse

2009-10-05T22:24:00.010-06:00

Recently I had an assistive technology evaluation at school. It was partly to see what would work best so I can access the computer to learn and to show everyone all of the things I know. Because of my motor planning issues (at least that's what the grown-ups say) it is important that I can use the easiest way possible to access the computer. The way I see it, is that I know what I want to do but alot of times to get my entire body to cooperate at the same time is hard. That means, it takes ALOT of effort to do something simple that other kids can do in just a few seconds. I really shouldn't have to work that hard to learn and to give an answer. During the evaluation I was very intrigued by the keyboard because I'm used to the kind of keyboard on my Dynavox. So I took the opportunity to see what it felt like to run my hands all over the keyboard. I guess that wasn't the time to explore because the evaluation team decided that I didn't know that I could make the computer work all by myself. But...the truth is....I already do! And so...here's proof! This is me using my trackball mouse. I can move the mouse to where it needs to go and push the button to run the program. Mom keeps close tabs on the right mouse button...she says that one is just for grown-ups! It still takes alot of work to do something very simple like choosing a spot on the screen. I'm still hoping to get a touchscreen because then I could concentrate more on my brain skills rather than having to think so hard about what my whole body is doing.

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My Six Year Old Portraits

2009-10-03T18:56:00.008-06:00

Finally got Mom to take me in for my six year old portraits. I really prefer to not have my picture taken so I made the photographer work for his money! Mom let me pick out one of my outfits...the pink one with my pink shiny shoes was my choice!

Nature Center

2009-09-25T20:48:00.010-06:00

A few weeks ago Mom, Bob and I went out to the Nature Center. It was the perfect place to ride my trike and for Bob to get some exercise. They have the coolest play structure. My leg has been feeling a little bit better since I started a pain medication called mobic so I had a chance to really do some climbing!

Walking the Plank!

Climbing the Slide!

Practice...Practice...Practice

2009-09-20T22:23:00.006-06:00

Whew...so much as happened since I last posted in July. I'll have to catch you up later. Can you believe it...I'm in kindergarten. Mom made one of the extra rooms in our house into my Learning Room! It is my own little school room at home and I love it! It gives me a great place to practice all of the things I am learning in school. And some day...Mom says I'll have to do homework! YUCK! But for now...here are a couple of videos of me practicing. One is of me learning to spell my name and the other one is me working on my very first site word...."the!" So check out THE videos and see what you think. Listen close during the second video about "the." You can hear me saying a pretty clear version of "the." And then...when Mom shows me the word "Bob"....I point to it first and say "Bob" Can you believe I'm learning to read! I'll post pictures of my learning room later on.

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Good-bye Megan!

2009-07-22T23:31:00.003-06:00

Today was my last session with Megan, my physical therapist. Bad for me but great for her because she got a new job in Gunnison, CO where she will be able to be with her family all of the time instead of ahving commute to Pueblo. Dad and Mom will always remember Megan as the PT who was working with me when I started to walk by myself! And speaking of walking...things are not going well this summer in that category. My leg has really been hurting and so now if I don't have my walker I mostly do the bear crawl around the house or move really slowing while holding on to furniture. Some days are better than others which is good. A few days ago I started a new pain medication which doesn't seem to be helping much. If it doesn't work, the next plan is to do a steroid burst to see if that helps out. I'm also going to have my labs redone because there were a number of things that were slightly elevated but not enough to give the doctors specific information.

Shooting Stars!

2009-07-22T23:25:00.002-06:00

Even though it rained alot on the 4th of July, I still got to watch the fireworks at the Riverwalk. The next week at preschool alot of my friends were drawing shooting stars at the creative arts table. My teachers were all so excited when I drew a shooting star all on my own! I just watched my friends and decided...hey...I can do that to and so I did! What's really cool is that I have great teachers who recognize the things I do in my own way. Thanks so much for sharing this with Mom and Dad!

A Weekend With Bernie the Bear!

2009-07-22T23:16:00.006-06:00

Bernie the Bear is a special friend to my preschool classmates and me. Every weekend he gets to come home with one of us. We write in his journal about all the things he got to do with us while at our house. On Monday morning the teachers read it to the class so we learn more about each other and what Bernie did.

Last weekend Bernie got to come home with me! Of course I had to make sure he got to share my favorite weekend breakfast of McDonalds pancakes! He even went shopping at the outlet malls with Dad, Mom and me! And the best part of the weekend..he went to Ethan's birthday party with me!

Bob and Me!

2009-07-22T22:58:00.004-06:00

Bob is getting soooo big! He now weighs 70 pounds...just like me! He has been taking the summer off from his puppy classes. I can't wait until he gets the okay to go everywhere with me!

One day Bob went with Dad, Mom and me to the intermural fields at the university to play around. It was fun to be in a place where both Bob and I could really go fast!

We love being together but Dad and Mom have to keep a close eye out because we always want to be right next to one another but we are both still learning our own strength when it comes to being together.

Catching Up!

2009-07-22T22:24:00.010-06:00

Whew...summer is FLYING by! Mostly because I've been keeping busy playing and having fun. Just to catch up, it started with our annual Memorial Day camping in South Dakota.

It was great seeing Grandma and Grandpa, aunts and uncles and all of my cousins. It always makes me wish even more that I lived closer to everyone so I don't have to wait so long to see them. I loved riding in the lady bug train that Uncle Charlie and Aunt Kathie brought. Even tried my hand at SD fishing. I like throwing out my pole (sometimes I take that very literal and Mom gets to go wading in the water). I haven't quite got it figured out that it takes more than two or three turns of the reel to bring the fish to shore. When it does final get there...usually on someone else's pole, I am the first to want to touch it. Aunt Michelle helped me brush up on my bean bag toss skills. I'm hoping when I get bigger I can join the Annual Bean Bag Tournament that is always a part of the weekend. Let's see...what else have I been up to?

Swimming at various places around Colorado. Mom and I went to Walsenburg to the water park. I love the water but only when it isn't unexpectedly splashing in my face...that trait I inherited from my Grandma Parke! I'm getting better at keeping my mouth closed in the swimming pool instead of trying to drink all the water...only problem is it makes me look like I'm the meanest swimmer in the water!

I'm hoping to get in alot more swimming, maybe a night of camping, maybe a trip to Grandma and Grandpa's house to ride the boat and tons of other things before kindergarten starts on August 24! Maybe I'll see you around!

AS Walk-A-Thon

2009-05-17T23:43:00.004-06:00

A huge thank you to everyone on the Peanut's Peeps team. Thank you to those who walked, those who gave and to those who had me in their thoughts. The day started a little rainy in Pueblo but by the time we were in Denver and the walk started it was another gorgeous Colorado day. I had a little extra challenge this year throughout the walk...a flat tire on my trike, but even that didn't stop me! A special shout out to Debie who hasn't missed a walk-a-thon since I was born! And another special shout out to Aunt Michelle, Uncle Mike, Max and Mason for walking in honor of me at the Omaha walk. Dad, Mom and I are so blessed to have such supportive people in our lives as we travel this journey. Words cannot say how much it means to us. And so...we are "another step closer" to a cure! Or from my perspective..."we are another flat tire rotation closer to a cure!"

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Are These Seizures?

2009-05-11T22:54:00.007-06:00

It was a year ago that I began having small seizures more frequently and so I started on regular medication. Learning to tell what is a seizure and what isn't is still kind of hard for Dad, Mom and me so Mom took these videos to help find out if it is seizures or not. The first one is more of weird eye movements I was making after going for a trike ride. Sorry for the rough look but I had a nosebleed coming home from school today, the scar on my nose is from a fall after a seizure at school a couple of weeks ago and then during the trike ride tonight I got my foot caught underneath the trike and it HURT so I was crying before this video was taken. Also, on review of the video we've decided...next time possible seizure happening I need to remove the sucker from my mouth!

The second video is when I was falling asleep on the couch with Mom. I've started to do this type of thing more often as I fall asleep. My head always kind of jerks to the left like I'm trying to look over my shoulder. Usually it is a little more of a jerking motion that goes farther to the side. In this video, it is at the beginning video that we are wondering if I had a seizure. Then if you watch really close when I have my hands over my face, you can see my left eye through my mittens and it looks like it is way up in my head. And because I know you are wondering...what's with the ladybug socks on my hands...it keeps me from pulling my hair out as I fall asleep. Don't laugh...it really works and I like them!

Valued Strengths

2009-05-09T23:48:00.002-06:00

That's the name of Mom's store she "opened" at Zazzle. With all of the meetings we've been having with the school district lately, it really has her thinking about all of the strengths that come with Angelman Syndrome. So...in celebration, she has created apparel that reflects many of these strengths. Check out her store at http://www.zazzle.com/EmmaKristineE
of the proceeds are going to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation.

Make It Go Away!

2009-05-07T23:36:00.003-06:00

My leg continues to bother me. I can go good for about 15 feet, then it starts to hurt so I stop, "shake it out" and go again. I guess it is one way to make sure I stop and smell the roses along the way...but does it have to feel like I'm always stepping in the rose bush??? Joe, my orthopedic physical therapist, measured my knee and it was bigger than the other one! I so hope the MRI on June 3rd gives us a for sure answer so I can have a pain free summer like alot of last summer was. I was hoping to play on a t-ball team this summer but with my leg hurting like this...I'm destined for the bleachers!

I'm Getting Ready for Kindergarten!

2009-05-02T11:14:00.002-06:00

Everyone has been very busy making sure things are ready for me to start kindergarten. All of the therapists, teachers and other people have come to watch how great I do at preschool so they will know I'm going to be a star in the kindergarten class. Mom and Dad have been going to alot of meetings. IEP is what they call it...I think it stands for Incredible Emma Planning meetings! This week I got to go to the kindergarten class. The kids were really nice...they loved my talker! Check out Oreo...he is the class hamster! Mom took lots of pictures so I can look at them over the summer and remember how fun my kindergarten class visit was. After my visit, I showed my new therapists and teachers all the things I know. The thing I did best.....I was ME! Yep...Incredible, Awesome, Amazing and Silly Me! I think I won them all over cause they kept saying..."Boy we are going to have fun next year!" When it was time to leave I really didn't want to go. Can't wait to start kindergarten!

Preschool Graduation

2009-05-02T11:09:00.004-06:00

First Bob graduates...now it is my turn! To celebrate my preschool graduation, my classmates and I sang Take Me Out to the Ballgame. Then we all got certificates and medals. And best of all...we made ice cream sundaes with sprinkles! These are my teachers. They are alot of fun and watch me really closely.

Introducing Valerie...One of My Speech Therapists!

2009-05-02T10:58:00.006-06:00

I have alot of people helping me to learn and grow. One of my favorites is Ms Valerie. I see her every other week. She is helping me to learn to say sounds and words and to make my mouth stronger so I can stop drooling so much. Valerie always thinks of new things to do to keep me working...she is always very silly! This week she made me into a bean bag sandwhich because I was wanting alot of sensory input lately.

Congratulations Bob!

2009-05-02T10:54:00.003-06:00

Yeah Bob! He passed his first puppy obidience class! Two more to go before he gets his Canine Good Citizenship Award. He is doing great going to work with Mom. The patients always ask where he is at when he doesn't come.

Boxer? Hockey Player? Skateboarder?

2009-04-22T20:32:00.003-06:00

At this moment I could pass for any of these sports enthusiasts! Along with my missing tooth from yesterday, got myself a scraped up nose today. Right in the middle of dancing to Ghost Busters at preschool it hit me....one of those stupid seizuress! Face plant to the sidewalk was next as a reult of the seizure. My teachers did a great job taking care of me and gave me a popsicle which always helps. Dr. Simmerville checked me out...no broken nose!

Tooth Fairy to Visit Again!

2009-04-21T22:41:00.002-06:00

Did it again! Lost a tooth! This time while eating garlic bread! While at the dinner table Mom heard me trying to crunch something while eating. Sounded like a rock had made its way into the garlic bread I helped Mom make! "Spit it out!" Mom said so I did! And there it was...one little white tooth!

Gone To Florida In My Mind!

2009-04-18T23:16:00.003-06:00

Woke up to snow this morning but even that didn't stop my enthusiasm for my new swimming suit! I'm getting ready for my trip to Orlando in July. Mom, Aunt Michelle, Mason and I are going to the Angelman Syndrome Conference. In the meantime, I helped Mom cook while trying out my new swimsuit 'cause once I got it on...there was no taking it off!

Positive Thoughts Needed This Way...

2009-04-02T21:47:00.002-06:00

Me and Bob have had some roller coaster days this week. Mom and Dad played a horrible April Fools on Bob and scheduled him to be neutered yesterday. He was so sad all day afterwards. Finally tonight he is getting back to himself. I left early from school to help Mom pick him up from the vet yesterday...it was a little stressful for Mom because the reason I left school early was that I had three seizures. So with me in the back seat and Bob in the front seat we drove home. Almost made it without incident but then Bob got sick in the car! Poor Bob...Poor Mom! Then after we got Bob settled at home Mom and I left for my doctor's appointment with Dr. Simmerville, my new pediatrician. We had the appointment to talk about the pain in my leg. It is back again and is not going away. Dr. Simmerville noticed that my knee was swollen and agrees that with Angelman Syndrome there are some things you have to live with but having a leg that hurts isn't one of those things. I totally second that opinion! So, he is really working hard to help us find out an explanation and treatment that gets rid of it forever. So today I got alot of lab work done and got more x-rays. I hate x-rays...lab draws aren't so bad...go figure! I am also going to have another MRI to hopefully learn something. He is also going to talk to my neurologist to see if we should be doing anything different for my seizures. The last couple of weeks my left hand stops working sometimes so that is also a little concerning to everyone...especially me! I also started working with another physical therapist today who specializes in orthopedic issues. He is my first ever guy therapist and so I'm thinking that is pretty cool! He has given me some fun excercises to work into my dance routine and the bonus is some of them include a balloon! So...alot going on right now but I'm still smiling and still hopeful this summer will be an awesome, pain free summer! Please say some prayers that it all works out. One last thing...thanks Grandma for talking to Mom yesterday. I could tell she felt alot better after talking to you!

The Power of the Potty Sign!

2009-03-31T22:20:00.002-06:00

I have not only discovered I can use the potty sign to let people know I need to use the potty but have also discovered this simple little gesture of wiggling my fist a little in the air does SOOOO much more! If I don't feel like staying in bed...just give the sign and TADA...I'm getting helped out of bed. If I feel like taking a break from therapy...just give the sign and therapy ends...at least for a little bit! If one of my friends goes to the potty and I'm feeling a bit lonely...just give the sign and soon there I am...side by side with my friend! If I feel like playing in the water...just give the sign and I am in the middle of all kinds of water choices! The power can also be yours if you choose to use it!

If You Don't Like The Weather.....

2009-03-27T19:47:00.003-06:00

just wait a little bit! That's what they say in Colorado (and alot of other places). But it did hold true during the past 24 hours at our house. Thursday morning I just needed a light jacket to play outside. Thursday afternoon it was such a blizzard that school closed early! Then Friday morning it was still snowing so I got the first snow day of my life! Dad, Mom and I hung out at home. Then by Friday afternoon it was warm enough the snow was melting and so Bob and I played outside! What a roller coaster report for the weather man!

See Ya Next Season!

2009-03-14T22:57:00.003-06:00

Well...basketball is over for the year. I wished basketball season was a year round thing! I ask Mom all the time if we can go to the game by saying "baba" and making a dribbling motion with my hand. Mom helped me make a video of this year's basketball season! Here's to an awesome recruiting year and off season work out!

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Bowling...Another Sport I Can Do!

2009-03-02T21:53:00.005-07:00

One of my best friends, Ella, turned 5 and had her birthday party at the bowling alley. Perfect chance for me to try out something new! The balls are a little heavy but it did prove to be alot of fun. And guess what...I bowled a 68! Mom and I thought that was great...Dad says I need to work on my game a little! Even better yet...my friend Makenzie got a STRIKE..how cool is that! Check out me in action! Ella's Dad and Nathan's Mom were helping me while Mom rolled the cameras!

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We Are In the Playoffs Baby!

2009-03-02T21:32:00.007-07:00

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Whew...what a weekend! Daddy's team had two basketball games and made the play-offs. That means basketball season isn't over! YEAH!!! I LOVE going to basketball games! Ever since Dad was coaching when he and Mom were dating they have always looked at each other and gave one another a "heads up" just before tip off. This year I learned how to give Daddy a heads up also. Here's a video of it! In the beginning I am just enjoying the music. I give Dad the heads up just after I yell at him! Friday night was parent's night and since Imari's parents couldn't be there, Mom and I were his stand in. Imari gave me the flowers instead of Mom...pretty cool of him wasn't it! And on Saturday, Rocky from the Denver Nuggets was at the game doing some really cool tricks. I happened to catch him for a quick picture.

It's Outta Here!

2009-03-01T22:12:00.002-07:00

One more tooth out! Not sure exactly when...just know on Friday night I was eating popcorn at the ballgame and when I got home....had one less tooth. Good thing new ones are coming in soon otherwise I may need to look into dentures! Even through all this tooth loss...still have one big beautiful smile...just minus some teeth!

Bob Is Getting BIG!

2009-02-23T23:12:00.005-07:00

Bob is growing so big! I wonder if he is going to be taller than me someday! I still love being with him just as much as the very first day he came to live with me. We make quite the digging team...Bob loosens up the dirt and I scoop it into the bucket! We are getting better at learning to be with each other. I like to tease him by shaking my hand or foot by his face...then he likes to nip by hand or foot which then leads to both of us getting into trouble! I'm getting better at doing my Bob chores. Sometimes I like to mix the dog food and the water together...not a good idea since Bob doesn't like soggy dog food! If I had my way, Bob would have a chair at the table right beside me. Mom doesn't seem to like the idea so she is teaching Bob to lay on the floor when we are having dinner. Once again...one of us at a time...things go well...the two of us together...usually means trouble!

Jigsaw Puzzles...

2009-02-23T22:53:00.005-07:00

... one of my favorite things to do these days. I think all my time practicing putting train tracks together is really paying off. I have grasped the concept of putting the puzzle pieces together like a train piece. Now I'm just working on being able to see parts of pictures that go together to make a whole picture. Some of my favorite puzzles are My First Puzzles by Ceaco Kids. http://www.ceaco.com/ceaco/index.php?category=10 Each set has four different puzzles, starting with just two pieces and going up to five pieces. I have the animals and the farm set. Now I'm waiting to get the vehicles set..which is another favorite thing of mine...cars! Mom added a video of me putting together one of my puzzles. You can check it out to the right under "Videos Of All I Can Do."

Just A Good Ole' Relaxing Weekend!

2009-02-23T22:46:00.004-07:00

Daddy's team didn't have any games this weekend so we all just kicked back and relaxed. Dad, Mom and I went to the playground which was alot of fun. Can't wait til Bob gets all of his shots so he can start coming with us. It's not a weekend without some sort of sporting event so Dad and I went to the baseball game. My friend Makenzie was there so it was well worth the trip! Bob and I did spend some time relaxing together in the backyard. I always want Bob to swing with me so Mom put up my hammock so it would be easier for us to swing together!

My Dancing Debut as a Thunder Pup!

2009-02-18T22:58:00.007-07:00

You should have been there! I went to the Thunder Pup Dance Camp and then performed at halftime of the men's and women's basketball games at Colorado State University-Pueblo. Tuesday afternoon for two hours the CSUP Dance Team called "The Pack" taught us a few dance steps and a dance routine to perform.

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This was my first ever live performance. I wonder if I could send this in for a potential spot on Dancing With the Stars!

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Now if you listen close to the first part of the video you'll hear some of the fan base I gathered after my first performance! No..just kidding...it was my friend Mary who plays basketball for CSU-Pueblo!

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Another Missing Tooth!

2009-02-11T23:56:00.002-07:00

Well...now it is official...I don't have EITHER of my front teeth! On Saturday I was playing with my toys when Mom noticed a funny look on my face. She thought I had put something in my mouth I shouldn't have! So when she told me to take it out I threw it on the floor. It sounded like something really tiny and maybe dangerous so Mom went hunting! Much to her surprise it was my tooth!! I pulled it out all by myself! How's that for being a big girl! That makes 5 teeth I've lost! And a sixth one is ready to come out any day now!

"Bob"

2009-02-11T23:25:00.005-07:00

Alot of people wonder why my dog's name is "Bob" so I thought I would share this! Because of my Angelman Syndrome, I have just a few words I can say with my mouth. I say "with my mouth" because there are TONS of things I can say with my sounds, my expressions, my hands and my talker. One of the names I can say is "Bob." Mom and Dad knew this because I have an Uncle Bob and I learned how to say his name pretty quickly. So...because "Bob" was a name I could say...that's how my dog came to be named "Bob." Now here is the really funny part! At the same time I was getting my dog Bob, my Uncle Bob got a new puppy for Christmas. So...he named his dog "Emmet" So Emma's dog is Bob and Bob's dog is Emmet! Family reunions should be a hoot! You can check out my video of me saying "Bob." You can also see how patient Bob is with me. We do have a few bumps in our relationship since he is still a puppy and I'm still new at having a puppy. I always want Bob to give me kisses but Bob usually wants to show me how sharp his little puppy teeth are! And just in case you are wondering...here is Uncle Bob and Emmet!

Maybe an Architect?

2009-02-11T23:16:00.003-07:00

I have always loved building and putting things together. I think I get this from my Grandpa Parke! My latest building material is my big foam blocks. I love to make bridges and roads for my cars and trains. And now I like to see if Bob will come into my buildings. I like it when he walks up and knocks them down with his nose!

It's Gone....Yeah!!!

2009-02-06T23:00:00.001-07:00

No more oxygen! No more stickers on my face! No more being tied to a tank! No more air blowing in my nose!

Bob is the Cutest!

2009-02-01T10:39:00.001-07:00

Out of Commission for a Bit!

2009-01-31T10:04:00.003-07:00

Sorry about not writing for a while but I was in the hospital for four days. The doctors still aren't really sure exactly what I had but the good news is...what they did helped me get better. It started with a bit of a runny nose for a couple of days followed by a couple of days of fever. When my fever got up to 105 Mom and Dad decided it was time to go the the Emergency Room. From there I was admitted to Kidsville which is the Pediatric Unit at Parkview Hospital. My room was the candyland room! My fever went down pretty fast but I just needed alot of oxygen to help me breathe. I got to come home on Thursday on some oxygen. Doctor says I'll need it for at least another week. The good news is though I can start back to preschool on Monday with my friends. They already know about oxygen since my friend Luis had some just like me.

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Bob and Me....Together Our First Day!

2009-01-21T17:04:00.009-07:00

Bob and I had a great night. We decided to be sure to get a good nights rest so we could play together today. I stayed home from preschool and Mom stayed home from work. Bad news...I had to start the day with a dentist appointment...good news..no cavities...bad news..had to leave Bob for a short bit so that made me so sad I had to cry almost all the way to the dentist! I'm helping Bob get used to his new kennel by hanging out in it with him. Mom said I didn't have to go quite so far in making him feel comfortable but I figure he deserves it! Even sat in there with him while he took a nap...was careful not to disturb him cause Mom said it was Bob's "quiet time." Oh...and just in case you are wondering...Mom didn't put me in there and close the door...I did that all by myself!
We gave Bob his first bath at our house...can't say as he really loved it but I had fun with it! Then we all went to the vet. Mom said I was really the proud, attentive and suppportive "Mom" to Bob during the visit. He did awesome but I just wanted to be sure he stayed close to me and that everyone knew he was with me!
After that we played in the backyard. It was great having someone to swing with. Bob looked like he was watching a tennis game going back and forth! All in all, Bob is the best thing ever. I will be honest with you though...I do get a little jealous if Mom gives him to much attention and I am having a bit of a hard time letting Bob play with his toys cause I want whatever he has! And sometimes he wants what I have so I guess we are even!

Bob is FINALLY Here!

2009-01-21T00:10:00.006-07:00

After two months of waiting, Bob finally came to Colorado today. Mom and I drove to Denver to pick him up. Debie, Mom's friend, came with us to the airport to help out...(thanks Debie!) When they finally got Bob's crate open he just jumped out and was ready to play! Who would have thought he was in there for so long. We took to each other right away. It took us three hours to get home because of some extra potty breaks...I didn't take my hands off of Bob for more than 10 minutes during that time. When Mom said she was taking Bob for a quick potty break without me, I let her know that was totally unacceptable! After all...he is my puppy! So..off the three of us went for a potty break! We played when we got home. I think what Bob likes best about me is my ears cause he is always licking them! When Mom said it was time to go to bed I started crying and pointing to Bob. I didn't stop crying until Dad promised me Bob was staying and wasn't going anywhere. Just to make sure Dad was on the up and up, Bob helped me go to sleep. I can't believe he is really MY puppy! Huge hugs and kisses to Terri in TN for blessing me with Bob.

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The Thunderwolves Biggest Little Fans!

2009-01-18T15:38:00.009-07:00

My friend Makenzie came up to Denver with her Dad and Mom to see the basketball game. Her Dad made us some awesome signs! It didn't get the team a win that night but the next night we won! Go Thunderwolves!

Denver Children's Museum

2009-01-18T15:33:00.001-07:00

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While we were in Denver for a few days for doctor appointments and Dad's basketball games, Mom and I went to the Children's Museum. There was soooo much to do...just wished some of my friends could have been there to enjoy it with me! Maybe next time!

Good News All Around!

2009-01-13T21:39:00.003-07:00

Today we found out Bob will be coming next Tuesday. He is flying into Denver in the early evening. Mom and I are going to pick him up...Dad has basketball practice so he can't come...his loss! Also found out today that my thyroid tests showed everything is a-okay normal! So I guess I am officially part of the diet-tribe with Mom!

New Picture of Bob

2009-01-12T18:55:00.004-07:00

Look at how big Bob is getting. He just finished his bath before this picture. Terri, the breeder in TN, says he is alot more fluffy in person! Tomorrow we should hear his coming home day!

Maybe Just 9 More Days!

2009-01-11T17:32:00.004-07:00

I've been busy getting ready for Bob to come cuz he might be coming on the 19th! I got him lots of new toys that I think are pretty cool. I hope he doesn't mind sharing! Also hope he does okay with flying. Maybe if he knew I was just in an airplane he would feel better! This is Bob and his sister, Ginger. She's going to live in Phoenix with her brother, Shadow.

My Annual Texas Trip

2009-01-11T16:33:00.003-07:00

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Mom and I made my annual trip to Texas Children's Hospital. We flew on US Airways...compliments of Angel Flight. I love flying...especially the landing and take off parts. I laugh during those times and Mom prays! Dr. Peters and I played again this year so I could show her everything new I've learned over the past year. We played for over three hours! Don't know who was more tired...her or me! She said I was doing all kinds of new things that showed I'm ready for kindergarten! How exciting is that! Then after a quick lunch Mom and I talked with Dr. Bacino. He is always so nice! This is how nice he is...I insisted he be the one to help put my shoes, socks and orthotics back on...and he did it! Now how many doctors would help their patients get dressed like that after an exam! Then Mom talked with Ann, the nutritionist, about how I can become a lean, mean kindergartner. We all agreed to do some thyroid testing just to be sure I'm not up against something a little more challenging than a few extra calories! After a long day of meetings, Mom and I took a short nap then went out for a nice dinner to celebrate. You'll have to check out my video...you can see how I've gotten so grown up I can eat at restaurants that have cloth napkins to put on your lap!! To all my friends at Texas Children's Hospital...see you in a year!

Hope You Had a Merry Christmas!

2008-12-28T10:16:00.006-07:00

What a busy holiday I had...but that means it was a fun one! We went to a fun Christmas party at my friend Makenzie's house. We played alot in her playroom while the grown ups had their party. Hopefully Makenzie's princess house was able to recover from the party! Then Dad, Mom and I went to Grandma and Grandpa Parke's house for Christmas. That meant ALOT of driving but it was worth it. We saw many of my cousins and got to play with Grandma and Grandpa. I got tons of gifts for Christmas. So far the one I play with the most is my workbench. I definately inherited Grandpa Parke's skill of building! I also got an Easy Bake Oven because I love helping Mom in the kitchen. Before leaving South Dakota, I made sure I baked a cake for everyone. I also got some pots and pans, pretend food, cash register, guitar, puzzles, playdoh ice cream factory and beads. I better get busy playing with all my new toys...you are welcome to come play anytime...I'll even back you a cake!

Bob Is Growing Up!

2008-12-28T10:06:00.005-07:00

I received a picture of Bob on Christmas Eve. Isn't he getting big! They say he is starting to do all kinds of big puppy things. The countdown is on till he gets to come live with me!

Being a Helper

2008-12-17T06:08:00.002-07:00

Mom said I had to write about this because it made her so proud...I told her I was just being a friend. But anyway, here's how the story goes. There is a little boy transitioning into my classroom from the toddler room. He is three and needs to use oxygen. Today his Mom told my Mom she had a meeting with the teachers about how the transition is going. His Mom said the teachers told her that I was really helping him out with the transition. If any of my classmates stepped on his oxygen tubing, I let'em know to get off. Also, I always make sure he has a book to read during quiet time. See...just being a good friend!

Zzzzzzzzz!

2008-12-15T21:04:00.008-07:00

Whew...what a day. I was sooo tired but managed to stay up an hour past my bedtime entertaining Mom and Dad. But when I hit the hay...I was history. I usually role over onto my stomach and prop my head up as a way to make myself stay awake. Tonight...it backfired! Turned on my rain sound machine, read a couple of books with Mom and a few minutes later.....I was in dreamland! Might need to rethink my "stay awake" position...not as effective as it once was!

Don't Peek!

2008-12-14T22:22:00.005-07:00

I've been busy making my Christmas gifts. I told Mom to make this picture really little so you can't see what it is going to be! You know it is supposed to be a surprise. And don't tell Bob (my puppy coming in January) but I already got him a Christmas present. I just know he is going to like balls as much as I do so I got him his very own ball so we can play fetch together. Remember...don't peek!

Here's The Snow!

2008-12-14T22:12:00.004-07:00

I had someone ask me if we really lived on Colorado because there wasn't any snow in my Christmas decoration pictures! Well...the snow finally got here on Sunday morning and I have pictures to prove it. This is the first winter I can really walk by myself in snowboots so I am loving making tracks everywhere! I was able to walk in snow almost up to my knees!
Today we also put up our Christmas tree. Every year Grandma and Grandpa Parke give me an ornament that makes music or talks so I have spent alot of time in front of the tree activating each of the ornaments. My favorite one is the one where Santa pops out of the chimney!

Isn't He Adorable!

2008-12-10T21:07:00.005-07:00

Bob is growing up! His eyes are open now and he is proving to be a very smart guy! He was the first puppy in his family to stand an all fours and is trying to walk. He is also already trying to get out of the kiddy swimming pool he stays in to keep him safe! I am so glad he and his Mom are with people who love them so much and take such good care. It is harder waiting for Bob to come than it is waiting for Santa Clause to come!

Happy Birthday Nathan!

2008-12-09T22:44:00.004-07:00

My friend Nathan turned 4 today! I had a great time at his birthday party playing glow golf. I'm thinking if golfing is in my future, it will be as a caddy rather than an actual golfer. But...you never know...Tiger Woods may want to start working on his game! Nathan's mom is working on a nomination for "Mom of The Year" so she even made us all our own glow in the dark t-shirts with our names on them! If my vote counts...she would certainly get the nomination!

I LOVE Christmas Lights!

2008-12-07T16:02:00.009-07:00

One of my most favorite parts of Christmas is seeing all of the lights decorating people's homes. So that gave Mom and me an idea...how about having Chritmas lights of our own! So on Saturday we decorated the outside of our house. The coolest thing about it...I can look out the big window in our dining room and see the lights all I want to! I love the sparkling snowflakes Grandma Parke gave us last year. I'm sure hope this doesn't mean Mom and I will stop driving around each night after preschool looking at everyone's lights!

Dear Santa....

2008-12-07T15:51:00.008-07:00

Today I went straight to the source of Christmas wishes....Santa! He checked out which teeth I was missing so he could be sure to bring the right ones!

Although I love seeing pictures

of Santa and decorations of

Santa...I wasn't really all that

excited about seeing him in real life! He was very nice though and asked me lots of questions about what I wanted for Christmas.

All I Want for Christmas...

2008-11-30T21:38:00.004-07:00

...is my two front teeth! I must have been a little to aggressive with my Thanksgiving meal because two days after what do you think happened....my front tooth come out! Now I have an empty spot on the bottom AND the top! I finally have a tooth the Tooth Fairy could actually see. Previous to this tooth, I was on the honor system with the Tooth Fairy because I swallowed all the others! Thanks to Aunt Michelle for helping to get my tooth out so I could look at it!

Thanksgiving With Family

2008-11-29T17:33:00.012-07:00

I had an awesome Thanks-giving because of getting to spend it with family I hardly get to see. Grandma and Grandpa Parke came from South Dakota. Aunt Michelle, Uncle Mike, Max, Mason and Mikenzie came from Nebraska. And oh yeah...Yippie (the dog) also came to visit me. I would show you pictures of us together but Mom deleted them all by mistake. Having Yippie at my house makes me even more excited for when Bob comes to live with me. We went to Bishop's Castle which always is amazing to see. I have no fear when it comes to climbing around the castle so everyone had to keep a close eye on me! The one thing that would have made Thanksgiving even better would have been Daddy here with us. He had to leave on Thanksgiving day for basketball games in Texas. Thank you all for driving such a long way. I love you all and wish I could see you all of the time.

Guess Who Is Coming To Live With Me!

2008-11-29T17:13:00.005-07:00

The little guy in the middle! Isn't he adorable! I can't wait to give him the biggest hug! His name is Bob! And I can say it! He won't be able to come live with me until the end of January but I'm already anticipating his arrival. We are going to learn so much together... probably get into alot of trouble together also! Here is a link to Bob's webpage so you can follow is journey to my house. http://www.goldens-n-doodles.com/GoldenDOODLEpups-SIMONE-TUCKER-11-23-08-MALE2.html

Check out the Specs!

2008-11-23T23:50:00.002-07:00

I found Mom's glasses and decided they might look good on me! What do you think?

Basketball Season Is Here!

2008-11-23T23:42:00.003-07:00

Finally I can get back on the social scene at Massari Arena! I love going to the games and seeing friends. I've learned how to put my hand on my chest (or usually on my tummy) for the national anthem...sometimes I even sing along! Saturday I got my first chocolate for a SWEEEEEET 3! When the team makes a 3, you have to cheer really loud and then the cheerleaders will choose you to have Nettie's Candybar Three chocolate! My walking is still a little shakey but I still hit the court after the game. I've started taking a little bit more seizure medication so hopefully that will help with my balance. I hope the Thunderwolves get lots of victories this year...that always makes Dad happier to live with!

Down Day

2008-11-16T17:57:00.002-07:00

Today I set a record...slept in til just about 10:30. I have NEVER done THAT before. I'm not really feeling myself today. Not alot of energy. My leg is hurting because it is really hard to walk today. It's been getting worse again for the past couple of weeks. Mostly I just want to lay around or be close to Mom. She wishes I could tell her how I'm feeling so she would know EXACTLY what is going on. On the positive side, I did have enough energy to help Mom cook sugar cookies...my all time favorite flavor! Nothing like fresh out of the oven sugar cookie to pick up a girl's spirits!

I'm Going To Be A Bobcat!

2008-11-15T01:14:00.002-07:00

A Ben Franklin Elementary School Bobcat that is! A few weeks ago Dad, Mom and I went to check out the school I'll be going to next year. Then today Mom and I had a meeting with alot of people who might be teaching me next year. Everyone has been really nice. They are all going to come see me at the preschool soon. I can't wait to introduce them to my friends. Keep saying prayers that my transition to kindergarten goes well. Don't tell Mom, but I think she is more nervous about it than me!

See My Name!

2008-11-08T19:47:00.005-07:00

Check this out! I was practicing writing my name with Mom today. She wrote the red one and I wrote the green one all by myself! I'm still working on putting my letters in the correct order. I wrote them in the right order but ran out of room so just decided to put the "a" between the "E" and the "m's." Mom wanted to be sure you knew she was writing upside down when she wrote the red Emma! We have a song we sing when we practice writing my letters. It goes like this- "Line down ...across ...across ...across... humpty hump...humpty hump ...circle..line!" I'm going to keep practicing so I'll know how to write my name when I start kindergarten next year! Oh yeah...the little blue mark above my name was a little something extra I added later!

3 For 3!

2008-11-04T20:45:00.002-07:00

That is the number of teeth I have lost and the number of teeth I have swallowed! All three of them are on the bottom. On Monday morning Mom was helping me brush my teeth. She knew it was loose...but not that loose! A few brush strokes and tah - dah...it was outta there! I'm still waiting for the Tooth Fairy to come this time. Must have been alot of people loosing teeth last night! At this rate I'm going to be able to sing "All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth!"

Trick or Treat!

2008-10-31T22:29:00.009-06:00

What an awesome day! I got tons of cool things trick or treating around campus with my preschool friends in the morning. Then Mom, Dad and I went trick or treating to a few houses around the neighborhood. I used my talker to say "trick or treat." Mom made the button on my device huge so I didn't even have to look close to find the right spot to push. Good thing she did this because there was soooo much to look at tonight. Having to look down and study my talker would have really put a damper on the night! The neighbors across the street went all out in their decorating and had a haunted house in the front yard so there were all kinds of people to watch. The women's basketball team, who I just adore, were across the street. They had gone trick or treating for change to give to the Make A Wish Foundation. Then it was time to hand out treats. The weather was beautiful and with so much activity outside, there was no way I was watching it from inside the house. Instead, Mom and I sat on the front porch and handed out treats. One at a time, I would pick out a piece of candy and wait very patiently for the next trick or treater. Then I would toss it into their bag. After awhile, I started to get a little picky about who I wanted to give the candy to. I fooled alot of kids into thinking I was going to put the candy in their bag, only to pull my hand back at the last second as I decided to give it to someone else instead....or just keep it for myself! A couple of guys left their treat bags exposed just a little to long so I decided to check out what candy they already had gotten. Boy were they surprised when I was taking candy out instead of putting candy in! The night ended perfectly with a visit from Mary, my all time favorite basketball player! But now...this witch has to hit the hay...I'm tired! I'll leave you with this video of me handing out candy!

Happiest Witch in Colorado! (Or Maybe the Silliest Witch)

2008-10-30T22:01:00.004-06:00

TA-DAH!! Here is my Halloween costume! Mom and I went to the park tonight so she could take some pictures of me in my costume. That way we can give all of our energy to trick-or-treating tomorrow night rather than picture taking! Although knowing Mom she will still have her camera along. Tomorrow morning my friends and I are going trick-or-treating around campus. I've already got my talker programmed so I can be sure to yell out "trick or treat!" Then tomorrow night, I'll go out with Mom and Dad for just a little bit and then I get to be the treat hander outer at our house. Come on by and I'll give you a treat...just no tricks please!

Messy But Oh So Fun!

2008-10-26T22:15:00.003-06:00

Tonight we carved the pumpkin I picked at the Pumpkin Farm last weekend. Dad has never carved a pumpkin so I had to teach him what to do. I LOVED the squishy insides of the pumpkin. It felt so good on my hands I decided to really get into it and use my feet as well. And as good as it felt and smelled...I decided to taste it also! Talk about an awesome sensory experience!

Just Because I'm Cute!

2008-10-19T08:44:00.005-06:00

So Mom wanted me to post this picture because she thought it was just a cute picture. We were busy taking pictures to send one to Erin, Maggie's Mom. She does a calendar every year as a fundraiser for the Angelman Syndrome Foundation. I'll send you a link once they are ready for purchase. The picture we chose for the calendar is one of me riding my trike. You'll just have to wait til the calendars come out to see that one!

Enjoying Fall!

2008-10-18T00:11:00.006-06:00

With winter coming soon, Mom and I have been doing some work outside. We saw alot of butterflies in our backyard. Mom took a really close up of one of the butterflies so I can show it to my friends at preschool using my talker. I really like helping to rake the leaves. Mom just hasn't figured out that before you put them in the sack, you are supposed to put them in a pile ten different times and throw them all around before they go into the pile. We also had one of our final picnics of the season in the backyard. Thought I'd show you my sign for drink just in case you are ever working with me in the backyard. I tend to get really thirsty when I work so hard!

Some Would Call It A Bribe!

2008-10-17T23:35:00.004-06:00

So as you pretty much all know...bathtime is one of my all time favorite things to do...I could stay in the tub for HOURS...even when the water gets freezing cold! And because I'm getting bigger, I'm getting pretty good at sit down strikes when Mom calls for me to get out of the tub. Mom has devised this plan as of late to get me out of the bathtub without breaking her back. It goes something like this..."Emma, its time to get out of the bathtub." I begin the strike...maybe splash some water towards her as a clear signal I am not about to get out so she might as well come in after me. "Emma, you need to get out of the bathtub to wear your bathrobe" The strike continues but the choice is a little intriguing. "Okay...I'll just wear your bathrobe." Oh no! I hate sharing my bathrobe! I got to get out of this tub! Help me! And before you know it...I'm out of the tub wrapped in my new warm bathrobe!

Jump! Jump! Jump!

2008-10-17T23:17:00.010-06:00

So any way...I'm at Breile's birthday party...the floor moves underneath you with every step, kids are bouncing everywhere and if that isn't enough...Mom has them put me in this thing they call a bungy jumping contraption! When me AND the floor started moving, I let them know not a minute to soon that I demanded they set me free! Other than that horrific experience, it was a blast! I especially loved the foam pits...could have stayed in there for days! Once I found a trampoline with a spot I could hold on to while I jumped, I added another activity to my birthday party adventures! I stayed way clear of that bungy thing and gave a definate "NO" when Mom asked if I wanted to try it again! Thanks for an awesome time Bre!

Happy Birthday Makenzie and Bre!

2008-10-17T23:05:00.005-06:00

I mentioned earlier that I've been busy going to a few birthday parties of my friends. Makenzie turned three and Bre turned four! They are best friends at my preschool. This is a picture of both of them at Makenzie's party! I was definatley eyeing that princess birthday cake. You would have been proud of me though...didn't stick even one finger into the frosting! For Bre's party we went to a huge trampoline place. You can read a little more about that in my next post.

My Birthday Party!

2008-10-17T22:49:00.008-06:00

I just realized I never told you about my official birthday party! It was the first birthday party of my life where I invited MY friends! The plan was we were going to have pizza at the park and then go to the Water Spray Park there to run around. The weather didn't cooperate so change of plans...we had my party at the Wolf Pack room at Massari Arena. My friends thought it was pretty cool to look out the big windows and see the basketball court! Even though we didn't get to run through the water, Mom made up some beach games and we had alot of fun playing, decorating our own visors, opening presents and eating pizza and cake. In all of the excitement, Mom dropped the camera so bummer for me we hardly got any pictures. It was truly my best birthday ever! I can't say enough how lucky I am to have the great friends I do. They are the most caring and fun loving friends a girl can have!

Go Thunderwolves!

2008-10-17T22:31:00.006-06:00

I am a Thunderwolf fan through and through! So are my friends Makenzie and Nathan! We are at pretty much every football and volleyball game...and basketball season starts soon so we are sure to be there as well!
Last year I was mostly into other things during the games like playdough and drawing. This year it is pretty much about being seen and who can I see! And most importantly...dancing at every chance to every song! Makenzie has the "cool girl" dance style. My dance style is somewhat indescribable! Maybe I'll do a dance video for you one of these days!

Busy Growing Up!

2008-10-17T22:06:00.007-06:00

Wow...huge apologies for neglecting my blog the past couple of months but I have been so busy growing up since I turned five! I'll make a few posts just to catch you up on all I've been up to. My social calendar has been PACKED! Birthday parties, volleyball and football games, Teri Jo and Jed's wedding and just alot of messing around with Mom and Dad. I've also been busy trying to master some of the "big girl" skills like putting on my own orthotics and shoes (which I can do with some work...just not the two together!) And to celebrate my latest interest in shoes, I got some princess shoes...check'em out! I modeled them for Mom before going to bed. I put up a good princess fight to hopefully get to sleep in them but as Queen of the House...Mom overruled me! I love the clicking of my princess shoes on the hardwood floors but you gotta watch out...princess shoes on hardwood floors come out from under you without warning! Let's see...what other new skills can I tell you about? I've said a few more words that have been witnessed by everyone but Mom and Dad! Dad says it's because we already know I will be able to talk so there is no need to show off to us. I said "Emma" at school...my teachers and friends were super excited. At the volleyball game I told Kim, Nathan's mom, a couple of times that "I want" the ball. Another big girl thing I'm doing is using my potty sign more at home to tell Mom and Dad it is time to go. I've been having a few more accidents at school but I'm really trying to do this potty thing on my own - inlcuding pulling up my pants when I'm done - so I'm not asking for much help at school which sometimes gets me in a little trouble! I've been putting signs and gesture together in new and different ways that is helping me tell everyone my thoughts and opinions. I can now put alot more planned thoughts together...like this morning I got my little purse, told Mom I wanted to put money in it from my piggy bank and then told her I wanted to take it to preschool! How's that for growing up! I had a big girl night at the beauty salon...what do you think of me without curls? Yeah..that's what I thought...my curls are back! I have also become the head of Bed Making Patrol at our house! Each morning I insist all beds need to be made up as soon as everyone is out of them! Mom and Dad have no idea about where this skill was learned...certainly not from either one of them! Well...that's enough of bragging on myself! Let's move on to some of the other things I've been up to!

Today I Am Five!

2008-08-05T21:57:00.005-06:00

It finally came...my birthday! My day started with Speech Therapy. Miss Valerie and I have been working on my goal of being able to have enough control of my lips and to get enough air out so that I could blow out my birthday candles all by myself. Check out the video from tonight to see if you think our hard work paid off! After Speech, I was so excited to tell everyone at preschool it was my birthday. I went as fast as I could into preschool. As soon as I saw one of the teachers, I tapped her on the arm and showed her that I was FIVE by putting up all the fingers on my hand. Mom was so excited to see that I KNEW it was my birthday! Then I used by talker to tell all of my friends in circle time it was my birthday and that I brought my favorite cookies for us all to share. I loved it when they sang Happy Birthday! After work Dad, Mom and I went to the Subway in Walmart to eat dinner. That is one of my favorite places to eat because there are so many people to watch. We came home and put five candles in five cupcakes so I could practice for blowing out the candles on my big birthday cake I'll have at my party on Thursday. I also got birthday calls from Grandma and Grandpa Parke, Aunt Michelle and Debie. Keep checking back....the party has just begun!

Two Days and Counting!

2008-08-03T21:14:00.003-06:00

Just two more days and it's my birthday...it's my birthday! I had a practice run today with Grandma Hattie and Aunt Renee. They came to visit and we all went birthday shopping. I got some clothes, a soccer ball, and stuff to get ready to play t-ball next year. Things like a ball, glove, tee, bat and bases. We practiced in the living room when we got back from shopping. I'm not sure why I have to have that big ole' glove on my hand to catch a ball...never had to before! Better hit the hay so I'll start off the week rested. It is going to be so exciting!

Caleb and T-Ball

2008-07-31T21:44:00.004-06:00

Guess what! Next year I get to be in t-ball! Mom and I went to check out a game tonight to see what we thought. Even though I kept raising my hand and pointing to the field, Mom didn't let me go out on the field with the other kids...party pooper! But what was really cool was I saw an old friend of mine...Caleb! We were classmates in preschool a few months ago. He was a catcher for the Sharks. When our eyes connected, we both screamed and he just stopped...right in the middle of the ball game to run up to the top of the bleachers to say hi! He made sure the other kids wouldn't play til he got back because in all of his excitment, he took the game ball with him! Fortunately for the other kids, his mom caught him before he made it all the way to the top of the bleachers and told him he needed to go back to the game. But that was okay...we found each other afterwords and shared the biggest hug ever! Caleb thinks as long as I wear my braces, and maybe even get braces up to my hips to make my legs really strong, I can play just fine! Guess I better put a t-ball set on my birthday wishlist!

Thank You Amy!

2008-07-30T22:48:00.003-06:00

Since Dad was out of town, I got to go to Amy's house tonight when Mom went to work. It was alot of fun! I wished there were kids at our house to play with! At Amy's house there was Jason who was a great friend and helped me get happy when I was crying because Mom left. And Grant who showed me his room and shared his toys with me. And then Theo brought his Mom over to visit so he and I could meet. Theo does a super job singing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" and gives awesome hugs! Thanks to all of you for showing me such a great time. I hope to see you all again really soon!

I Have Mastered the Playground!

2008-07-27T21:30:00.002-06:00

This is my favorite playground now. It is close enough to our house we can walk there. But the best part is I can do EVERYTHING there! Here's my proof!

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Birthday Day Party Circuit!

2008-07-27T14:57:00.003-06:00

Sorry about the limited postings lately..I've been a bit busy on the Birthday Party Circuit. There was Tatum's at the Caboose with his roaring dinasour cake, Ethan's at the campground with the giant jumping pillow, Zachary's at his house with the blow up sports slide and Friday it will be Eli's at the rides in the park! Dad is out of town for two weeks recruiting...can't wait til he gets back...I miss him! Because Daddy was gone last Wednesday, I did get to play with Chad while Mom went to work. Chad coaches the track team at the university so we kept very active outside the entire time! Shout out to Chad...thanks for watching me! Oh and about that Birthday Party Circuit...soon it will be my stop! Check out the tiger mask I got from Ethan's party...you should hear my roar!

These Legs Were Made for Walkin'!

2008-07-27T14:48:00.003-06:00

I never posted about my walking a month ago when the grown ups finally figured out what was going on. I figured I might jinx myself...so here goes...hopefully a month of waiting to say anything cancels out any jinxs that might be out there! So anyway..they said I have patella femoral pain syndrome. Basically, my right knee cap doesn't stay where it's supposed to. Instead it tries to go to the outside of my leg. Yeah...you said it...OUCH! What do you do about it you ask...well, for a month I've been getting my knee cap taped into place every morning. Then I'm also doing exercises to strengthen the muscles that will make my knee cap stay in place. The very best part about it...I am walking so much better! Who wouldn't walk better if your knee cap stayed where it was supposed to! So here it is...no jinxs allowed..a video of me walking with my knee cap in the middle of my leg! Don't worry about the sideways video..it is kind of like my knee cap...it will straigten out once it starts!

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Up..Up..and Away!

2008-07-13T19:33:00.004-06:00

This is my newest favorite thing to do! It wasn't what Mom intended when we added the platform swing to my Rainy Day Indoor Playground set...but I think it is way better than what she had in mind! Hang on...we are going up!

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