Sunday, August 31st, 2008 ~ John Mayer Concert! ~ Dad Picks Up Luca From The Pet Emergency Center This Morning ~ Dad picked up Luca this morning from the Pet Emergency Center. The vet told Dad to keep Luca NPO until this evening and then feed him some ice chips as tolerated. Dad removed Luca's pressure bandage from his right paw where the vet shaved the area for the IV. Dad can feed him a small amount of food if tolerated tomorrow. Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To 11 AM Mass This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and LuLu went to Mass this morning since Hippotherapy was cancelled due to rain in Parkland. It was really a nice surprise. Tracy's Hippotherapy Is Cancelled Due To Rain ~ We were on our way out the door when Mom received a call from Susan March, letting us know that Tracy's Hippotherapy has been cancelled today due to rain. Oh well, we'll give it a shot again on Friday! Tracy Has Physical Therapy On The Mat With Jeff ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy on the mat with Jeff this afternoon. He and Dad got Tracy in long sitting position and stretched and ranged her hips and trunk. Jeff sat behind Tracy while Dad sat in front of her. They put the large peanut therapy ball in between Tracy's feet so that she could get a good stretch to her adductors. Then Dad held Tracy's hands on top of the ball to help her stretch her trunk. Tracy worked really hard and did a good job holding her head up throughout her therapy session. Tracy, Mom, Tania, Wilmene & Melanie Go To See John Mayer This Evening In West Palm Beach ~ It was "girls night out" at John Mayer's concert this evening at the Cruzan Amphitheater in West Palm Beach. The opening band was, One Republic, one of Tiffany's favorite bands! They played Mom's favorite: Apologize, as an encore. The girls all wore colorful boas, and Mom swears John Mayer looked over at them in the front row and winked when he came out on stage. He played for two hours, playing most of his hits and some new covers. He opened with Free Falling! It was a great concert and Tracy and the girls had a great time. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM:Enduring Discomfort : Missing Our Old Habits ~

Saturday, August 30th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Lan taught the class and it was a small but very intense group. Mom, Dad, Tracy & Wilmene Watch The LSU Tigers Beat Appalachian State Mountaineers This Morning ~ Everyone watched the LSU Tigers beat the Appalachian State Mountaineers this morning. Tracy had on her LSU football jersey that Tiffany sent her. Football, Football, Football ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched all the college football games this afternoon and evening. Football is truly back! Boston College, UM, and LSU all won their games this week. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Bucket List This Afternoon ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy watched The Bucket List this afternoon. It is an excellent movie and Mom highly recommends it! John Mayer wrote the movie's theme song Say! It is a great song. Luca Throws Up Most Of The Day ~ Dad brought Luca to the Pet Emergency Center this evening because he has thrown up all day and did not look well. The vet decided to keep him overnight for observation, after drawing labs and putting in an IV to keep him hydrated. Dad talked to the vet at 1:30 AM and he assured Dad that he was resting comfortably. His liver enzymes are elevated and the vet thought that he may have eaten a poisonous frog. We'll keep you posted on his health status. Daily OM:Under The Hood : Importance Of Looking Deeper ~

Friday, August 29th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga again this morning. Linda taught another great class, the temperature was perfect and everyone was in sync! We had quite a few new yogis too! It was a full class. Nora is back from her summer in NH and it was great to see her! Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Galvez, Tracy's Neurologist At Cleveland Clinic In weston ~ Tracy had an appointment at 1 PM with Dr. Galvez at the Cleveland Clinic to get her Baclofen pump dose increased from 130 to 143 micrograms per day! We are hoping that the slight increase will help to loosen her tight feet, heel chords, and left hip. Mom, Tracy & Tania Watch CSpan's, CNN's, MSNBC's & Fox's View Of Senator McCain's Selection Of Governor Palin For His Running Mate ~ What an exciting two weeks for politics and US current events! We are seeing history in the making! Cousins Chip and Eileen leave tomorrow to attend the Republican National Convention in St. Paul next week! Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan March At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy did a good job with trunk control during her Hippotherapy lesson today. She held her head up and looked around at where she was going. She is so much more alert and trying very hard during therapy. We are so proud of her! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch All Of The News Networks (even CSpan) ~ Everyone is so excited about Governor Sarah Palin, Senator McCain's choice for Vice President! They watched all of the major news programs this evening and were especially pleased with an interview of Governor Palin on CSpan! Go McCain/Palin! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Daily OM: Interconnected Experiences : Noticing Synchronicity ~

Thursday, August 28th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Tanya taught another great class, the temperature was perfect and everyone was in sync! We had quite a few new yogis too! Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Krebsbach, Orthopedic Hand Specialist, To Get New Custom Hand Splints Made ~ Mom and Wilmene brought Tracy to Boca for her appointment with Dr. Krebsbach, orthopedic hand specialist. He examined Tracy's hands and wrists and wrote a prescription for custom made resting hand splints. He agreed with Mom's recommendation to wait two weeks for the Botox to take effect and then we will have her splints made. Mom Goes To Nana's To Shampoo & Blow Dry Her Hair ~ Mom stopped at Nana's to shampoo and blow dry her hair this afternoon. Mom is getting pretty good at the hair stylist thing! Tania Reads To Tracy From Their New Book: Can You Keep A Secret? By Sophie Kinsella ~ Tania has been reading to Tracy from Can You Keep A Secret? by Sophia Kinsella. It is a funny story about a British journalist who has a very serious shopping problem and her antics! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Mom, Tracy & Tania Watch CSpan, CNN's, MSNBC's & Fox's View Of The Democratic National Convention In Denver ~ What an exciting two weeks for politics and US current events! We are seeing history in the making! Cousins Chip and Eileen are planning to attend the Republican National Convention in St. Paul next week! Daily OM: Being A Strong Container : Grounding Ourselves ~

Wednesday, August 27th, 2008 ~ Mom & Uncle Johnny Go To Spinning This Morning ~ It was a perfect day for Spinning this morning and Stacy taught a very tough class! The music was awesome and it was a lot of fun! Tracy's Occupational Therapy Gets Cancelled ~ Mom was not too pleased to hear that Tracy's Occupational Therapy was cancelled once again! She had the pool heating up to a warm and toasty 90 degrees! Argh! Greg Comes To Work With Tracy On The Mat This Afternoon ~ Greg came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He and Tania sat Tracy on the peanut ball for trunk and head strengthening exercises. Then it was time for long sitting for more hip and hamstring stretches. (Tracy did not seem to be in the mood for tall kneeling over the peanut ball, so Greg decided to work Tracy in long sitting position.) Tania Reads To Tracy From Their New Book: Can You Keep A Secret? By Sophie Kinsella ~ Tania has been reading to Tracy from Can You Keep A Secret? by Sophia Kinsella. It is a funny story about a British journalist who has a very serious shopping problem and her antics! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to talk to us more and more each day! Mom, Tracy & Tania Watch CSpan, CNN's, MSNBC's & Fox's View Of The Democratic National Convention In Denver ~ What an exciting two weeks for politics and US current events! We are seeing history in the making! Cousins Chip and Eileen are planning to attend the Republican National Convention in St. Paul next week! Daily OM: Potlatch : Encouraging Generosity ~

Tuesday, August 26th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Tanya taught a great class, the temperature was perfect and everyone was in sync! Tracy Gets Botox By Dr. Rubin At The University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine ~ Tracy got 600 units of Botox today by Dr. Rubin, neurologist at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Dr. Rubin injected Tracy's pecs, wrists, fingers and hands. Tracy was very alert and even grimaced and vocalized her discomfort when Dr. Rubin injected her arm. Mom, Tania & Tracy Listen To An Audiobook Shopaholic & Sister By Sophie Kinsella In The Car To & From Miami ~ The girls listened to the audiobook Sister by Sophie Kinsella on the way to and from Miami. It is a funny story! Tracy seemed to be enjoying the story and even chuckled a few times! Dee Comes To Work With Tracy On The Therapy Mat ~ Dee, Mom and Tania got Tracy on the mat and over on her tummy for stretching. Tracy tolerated about 13 minutes and then spit up a little. While Tracy was prone, Dee attached the e-stim electrodes to Tracy's traps (T-8) to re-educate extensors. Then it was time to position Tracy in long sitting to work on trunk rotation and extension. Tracy tolerated long sitting well. Dee stretched and massaged Tracy's major muscle groups, paying specific attention to Tracy's bilateral lower extremities. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This past weekend, Mom told Tracy to say "I Love You" and she tried really hard to say I Love You! She needs to be reminded to go slow, and she takes a breath and takes her time. Please say a prayer that she continues along this path and is talking soon! Mom, Tracy & Tania Watch MSNBC's & Fox's View Of The Democratic National Convention In Denver ~ What an exciting two weeks for politics and US current events! Cousins Chip and Eileen are planning to attend the Republican National Convention in St. Paul next week! Daily OM: Outside The Comfort Zone : Things We Don't Want To Do ~

Monday, August 25th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes Spinning This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga and went Spinning. Patricia taught the class and it was really, really challenging! Patricia has the best music! Too bad Uncle Johnny couldn't be there. She played Alleluia for the cool down song! He would have loved that! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a manicure this morning before her Occupational Therapy. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Jeff and Melanie This Afternoon ~ Jeff and Melanie came to work with Tracy this afternoon. They got her on the tilt table and up they cranked her to a 30 percent incline to start. It had been several months since Tracy was on the tilt table, so they went up very slowly and gradually. Tracy's vital signs remained stable throughout the entire hour on the tilt table. By the end of the session, Tracy tolerated 60 degrees for a total of three minutes! Jeff's mom attended the Olympics in Beijing last week and brought Tracy a red Olympics Beijing tee shirt! Very cool! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This past weekend, Mom told Tracy to say "I Love You" and she tried really hard to say I Love You! She needs to be reminded to go slow, and she takes a breath and takes her time. Please say a prayer that she continues along this path and is talking soon! Mom, Tracy & Tania Watch MSNBC's & CNN's View Of The Democratic National Convention In Denver ~ What an exciting two weeks for politics and US current events! Cousins Chip and Eileen are planning to attend the Republican National Convention in St. Paul next week! Daily OM: Stepping Back From Anger : Argument ~

Sunday, August 24th, 2008 ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To Hippotherapy This Morning At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had her Hippotherapy lesson this morning at Bit By Bit in Parkland. The weather finally cooperated and it did not rain. It was really, really hot and humid! She did a good job with trunk control, but had some trouble with head control. Tracy Has Physical Therapy In The Pool This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a tough work out in the pool today with Jeff and Greg! She is working really hard on her therapy. Jeff and Greg have been working Tracy really hard both in and out of the pool. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This evening, Mom told Tracy to say "I Love You" and she tried really hard to say I Love You! She needs to be reminded to go slow, and she takes a breath and takes her time. Please say a prayer that she continues along this path and is talking soon! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Closing Ceremony Of The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. Mom is really sad that the Olympics are over and is looking forward to the Winter Games in Vancouver, Canada in 2010. Daily OM: Undistracted Energy : Pure Thoughts ~

Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Lan taught and it was a very tough class. Dad was on call for American Airlines and could not practice. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Pedicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much needed pedicure this morning. She does such a good job. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ It looks like Saturdays are Spa Days at Villa Gioia! Tracy also got a facial this morning. Her skin is glowing. Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Treatment ~ Melanie gave Tracy a CST treatment this afternoon. Tracy was very responsive and vocal during her treatment. Dad Has A Cranial Sacral Therapy Treatment Too ~ Melanie gave Dad a CST session after Tracy this afternoon. Then it was Mom's turn for a Swedish massage. Melanie Gives Mom A Swedish Massage This Afternoon ~ Melanie gave Mom a Swedish massage this afternoon. It was too hot and humid to be outside by the pool, with temperatures in the high 90s and nearly 60% humidity. Thank goodness there was no rain in sight! Dad Cooks Salmon For Dinner ~ Dad cooked Salmon for dinner using the delicious salmon rub that Al and Tammy brought from Seattle. It was really delicious. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. Mom is going to go into Olympics withdrawal when they are over this weekend! Daily OM: Life : Your Perfect Teacher ~

Friday, August 22nd, 2008 ~ Mom & Uncle Johnny Go Spinning This Morning ~ Mom met Uncle Johnny at LA Fitness and they did the 9:15 AM Spin class with Patricia! It was a very challenging class with lots and lots of energy! Mom Goes To Boca Nails For A Pedicure & Manicure ~ Mom went to Boca Nails this afternoon to get a much needed pedicure and manicure! Tracy, Tania & Wilmene Watch Under The Tuscan Sun This Afternoon ~ Tracy, Tania and Wilmene watched Under The Tuscan Sun this afternoon. They voted two thumbs up for Diane Lane! Tania & Tracy Worked On The Fast Tracy Learn To Speak Italian CDs This Afternoon ~ Tania and Tracy have been learning Italian with the Fast Tracy Learn to Speak Italian CDs. Tracy is answering the comprehension questions correctly by either blinking twice for Yes or nodding! Way to go Tracy! Tracy's Hippotherapy Lesson Gets Cancelled Due To Very Bad Thunderstorms In The Area ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy Lesson got cancelled this afternoon due to very severe thunderstorms in the area. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been more vocal and really trying to talk to us. This evening, Mom told Tracy to say "I Love You" and she tried really hard to say I Love You! She needs to be reminded to go slow, and she takes a breath and takes her time. Please say a prayer that she continues along this path and is talking soon! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. Mom is going to go into Olympics withdrawal when they are over this weekend! Daily OM: Undistracted Energy : Pure Thoughts ~

Thursday, August 21st, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a full class taught by Tanya and the temperature was perfect! Mom really enjoys her Bikram Yoga practice. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this morning. She does such a good job keeping Tracy beautiful! Mom, Tracy, Tania & Wilmene Watch Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants Part II This Afternoon At The Movies ~ Mom, Tracy, Tania and Wilmene went to see Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants Part II at the movies. It was a really cute movie with beautiful scenes of Santorini, Vermont, Connecticut, and New York City, Turkey, Alabama and Maryland! The girls give two thumbs up! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. Mom is going to go into Olympics withdrawal when they are over this weekend! Daily OM: Life As It Is : Making Life Work For You ~

Wednesday, August 20th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good Bikram Yoga practice this morning with Linda. The classes are beginning to fill up again, now that school is back in session. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Jeff & Melanie This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy with Jeff and Melanie this afternoon. After her Monday session was cancelled due to Tropical Storm Fay, Melanie and Jeff worked Tracy extra hard. They began by positioning Tracy prone (on her tummy) to stretch her hips, hamstrings, and pelvis. Tracy tolerated 20 minutes in this position. Then it was time to work on Tracy's trunk from long sitting. Tracy is doing a good job with her therapy.Greg Came By To Work On Physical Therapy With Tracy ~ Greg took a lot of measurements of Tracy this afternoon, using a tape measure and a goniometer. He will monitor her progress as we continue to adjust her Baclofen dose over the following weeks. Greg stretched and ranged Tracy's major muscle groups, paying particular attention to her left hip. He commented that Tracy's left hip internal rotation seems better after her Baclofen dose adjustment. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. Mom is going to go into Olympics withdrawal when they are over this weekend! Daily OM: Tearing Down To Rebuild : Rethinking Complaining ~

Tuesday, August 19th, 2008 ~ Happy Birthday Tiffany! ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom decided to weather Tropical Storm Fay at home and skipped Bikram Yoga this morning. They actually had a class of 10 people show up! Mom, Tracy, Tania, Luca & Luna Watched You, Me & Dupree This Afternoon ~ The girls enjoyed watching You, Me & Dupree this afternoon. It was a great way to spend a rainy, windy day! The girls gave this movie two thumbs up! Tania Reads To Tracy From Can You Keep A Secret? ~ Tania read to Tracy from their new book: Can You Keep A Secret? Tracy and Tania are enjoying this novel by British author, Sophia Kinsella. Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Afternoon ~ Dee worked with Tracy on the mat this afternoon. He stretched, massaged and ranged all major muscle groups and then it was time for long sitting. Tania and Dee positioned Tracy in long sitting and Dee placed the e-stim on Tracy's traps for muscle reeducation. He placed Tracy's ankle weights above her knees to help stretch her hamstrings. Tracy continues to work very hard during all her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. Mom is going to go into Olympics withdrawal when they are over this weekend! Daily OM: Being Clear About Desires : Getting What We Want ~

Monday, August 18th, 2008 ~ Tracy Vomits About 8 Ounces This Morning After Her Jevity 1.2 ~ Tracy vomited about 8 ounces this morning after her first can of Jevity 1.2. Tracy's Occupational Therapy Is Cancelled ~ Tracy's Occupational Therapy was cancelled this afternoon due to the inclem ent weather from Tropical Storm Fay! We are hoping to resume her therapy on Wednesday! Mom Rides Her Spin Bike At Home ~ Mom jumped on her Spin bike and rode for an hour this afternoon. With Tropical Storm Fay rapidly approaching, Mom decided to stay close to home to ride out the weather and the bike! Tracy, Mom, Luca & Luna Watch Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tracy, Luca and Luna finally saw The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants (Part I) in its entirety. We missed Tania who was at home a little under the weather! The girls plan to see the sequel next week at a theater near you! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. It is so exciting to watch the women's individual gymnastics on the floor exercises and on the vault! Go Nastia and Shawn! Nastia definitely deserved the Gold Medal on the uneven parallels! Daily OM: Tearing Down To Rebuild: Rethinking Complaining ~

Sunday, August 17th, 2008 ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy Lesson Is Cancelled ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy session was cancelled because the therapists had a conference in Orlando. Tracy should be back on track with Hippotherapy this Friday, August 22nd! Tracy Has Physical Therapy On The Mat With Greg This Morning ~ Tracy had a great Physical Therapy session with Greg this morning on the mat. Greg was very pleased with Tracy's range of motion of her right hip! He and Dad got Tracy prone on her tummy on the mat. Tracy tolerated 20 minutes in this position. Her pelvis was very flat and straight, the best it has looked in a very long time. Greg was able to easily stretch and range Tracy's hips, hamstrings, and pelvis with almost no restrictions. It looks like the small Baclofen increase has helped to release Tracy's left hip and reduced her internal rotation. Let's hope it stays loose and flexible. Greg said that it was Tracy's best session with him to date! Tracy, Mom, & Dad Go To Uncle Johnny's With Nana, Aunt Diane, & Tim This Afternoon ~ The family got together at Uncle Johnny's and had pizza and salad from NYPD (New York Pizza Dept)! Mom had her favorite pizza: white pizza with spinach, tomato, ricotta and feta cheese. MMMM! Everyone enjoyed the evening. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. It is so exciting to watch the women's individual gymnastics on the floor exercises and on the vault! Go Nastia and Shawn! Daily OM: Small Steps To Big Change : Making Big Change Easier ~

Saturday, August 16th, 2008 ~ Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Dad took a killer class this morning with Tanya from Delray! It was 105 degrees with almost 50% humidity! Whew! It was the toughest class that Mom and Dad have had in a very long time! Tracy, Mom, Dad, & Wilmene Watch The Women's Rowing On The Olympics In Beijing ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the women's rowing team this afternoon at the Olympics in Beijing! The whole crew is addicted to the Olympics! It's Olympic mania around the Anzalone home! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To 4:30 PM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom can't believe that it has already been one month since Tiffany and Benny were married at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point! It just doesn't seem possible! How time flies! Tiffany Is Enjoying Her Birthday Weekend Surprise From Benny ~ Benny surprised Tiffany with a weekend in Waikiki complete with a submarine ride and parasailing! He did not tell her any of the plans and packed her bags and had all of her things in the hotel room when he brought her there Friday evening! What a kool guy! Way to go Benny! Happy Birthday Tiffany (on Tuesday, August 19th!) Dad Cooks Salmon For Dinner ~ Dad made some delicious salmon for dinner this evening! It was really tasty! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. It is so exciting to watch Michael Phelps and Misty May-Treanor and Kate Walsh go for the Gold! Daily OM: Repeating Patterns Of Meaning : Numbers ~

Friday, August 15th, 2008 ~ Ferragosto! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great practice this morning with Linda from West Palm. The temperature was absolutely perfect and there was some great energy in the room! Tania Finishes Eat, Pray, Love With Tracy Outside By The Pool This Afternoon ~ Tania finished reading Eat, Pray, Love to Tracy outside by the pool this afternoon. They were both sad to see the story end! The movie should be out soon at a theater near you! Mom, Tania & Tracy Work On A Secret Project ~ The girls spent the afternoon working on a secret project! It is really coming along! More later! Tracy's Lab Work All Came Back Normal ~ We are happy to report that Tracy's lab work all came back normal. Her left hip x-ray had some arthritic changes. Dad is consulting with Dr. Tidwell, Tracy's orthopedic surgeon at Miami Childrens Hospital, for his expert opinion. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone was glued to the T.V. this evening for another night of great Olympic games. Go Team USA! Daily OM: Create Time For Self-Compassion : Being Gentle With Ourselves ~

Thursday, August 14th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Spinning ~ Mom went to Spinning this morning. It was a nice change, and Mom realizes how important it is to crosstrain! Mom Goes To Nana's To Shampoo & Blow Dry Her Hair This Morning ~ Mom went to Nana's to shampoo and blow dry her hair this morning. Her leg is feeling much better. Tracy Gets Her Teeth Cleaned At Nova Southeastern University Dental School Without The Use Of Sedation ~ Tracy got her teeth cleaned at the NSU Dental School. They did an awesome job, and Tracy did not need any sedation this time. Maria, the dentist, and Carolina, the dental hygienist, were very gentle and compassionate. Mom, Tania & Tracy Work On A Surprise Project ~ Mom, Tania and Tracy worked all day on a surprise project. If we told you what it was, it wouldn't be a surprise (and we'd probably have to kill you or give you a labotamy)! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. It is so exciting to watch Michael Phelps and Misty May-Treanor and Kate Walsh go for the Gold! Daily OM: Not Alone In The Dark : Looking At What We Don't Want To See ~

Wednesday, August 13th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga to get some much-needed things down around the house. Tracy Has Aquatherapy In The Pool With Jeff & Melanie ~ Jeff and Melanie came to work with Tracy in the pool. Tracy did a good job holding her head up while Jeff stretched and ranged her hips and hamstrings. Mom heated the pool to a toasty 90 degrees and the sunshine cooperated. No rain in sight! They got her vertical with her feet planted on the bottom of the pool, while Melanie supported Tracy from behind. It is a real advantage for Jeff to be 6 foot 5 inches tall with very long legs, and he puts it all to good use with Tracy's therapy! Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love Out By The Pool This Afternoon ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love out by the pool this afternoon. They are making their way through Bali! Mom Baked Mahi Mahi & Made Black Beans & Rice For Dinner ~ Dad made it back safely from his meeting at JFK American Airlines terminal today. He goes for the day for a meeting about once a month. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. It is so exciting to watch Michael Phelps and Misty May-Treanor and Kate Walsh go for the Gold! Daily OM: Create Time For Self-Compassion : Being Gentle With Ourselves ~

Tuesday, August 12th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. An instructor from Delray, Tania, taught the class. She was really good! It is nice to get exposure to different instructors. Mom, Tania & Tracy Work On A Surprise Project ~ Mom, Tania and Tracy worked all day on a surprise project. If we told you what it was, it wouldn't be a surprise (and we'd probably have to kill you or give you a labotamy)! Dee Comes To Work With Tracy On Physical Therapy ~ Dee came to work with Tracy on Physical Therapy and to give her a massage. He got her in long sitting and worked with Tracy's flexibility and range of motion. He put 10 pound ankle weights above her knees to help stretch out her hamstrings. Then he worked with the e-stim on the major muscle groups, to help with muscle re-education. Dee ended the session with massage and range of motion of all Tracy's major muscle groups. Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening. Lan taught the class. Dad really enjoys his practice. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening. It is so exciting to see Alicia Sacramone from Winchester, Massachusetts (Mom's home town) compete on the U.S. women's gymnastics team. It is especially exciting to see Michael Phelps win more Gold Medals! He is amazaing! Misty May-Trainor, from the #1 Women's Beach Volleyball Team is from Coral Springs, Florida! Daily OM: Opening A Closed Connection : Consciously Reconnecting ~

Monday, August 11th, 2008 ~Happy B'Day Cousin Caroline! (8/11) ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom started the week off on the right foot (or is it left) by practicing Bikram Yoga. It was a very hot class and lots of humidity! Mom Goes To Nana's To Help Her Out ~ Mom went to Nana's to help her with some chores. Her wound is looking better. The home health nurse came over to change the dressing so Mom got a good look at it. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Jeff & Melanie This Afternoon ~ Jeff and Melanie worked with Tracy on the mat this afternoon. They got her in long sitting and Jeff sat behind Tracy and worked with her on head and trunk control. Tracy's trunk control is noticeably improving, but she still needs to work on her head control, which is much harder to strengthen. Tania, Mom & Tracy Work On A Fun Project ~ Tania, Mom, and Tracy worked on a project for most of the afternoon. It is a surprise so we can't tell you what it is (not yet, anyway!) Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics again this evening. More Gold for Michael Phelps! WooHoo! Daily OM: Choosing True Connections : Technology As Distraction ~

Sunday, August 10th, 2008 ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To 11:30 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Yes, Mom, Dad, Tracy and LuLu went to the 11:30 AM Mass this morning since there was no Hippotherapy session, only to find out that the Mass had been changed to 11:00 AM! Oh, yeah! Looks like Monsigneur Brice changed the time when CCD took their summer reprive, and did not change the time on the bulletin or the sign out in front of the church! The usher said not to worry, they are getting ready to change it back to 11:30 AM when CCD starts up in a few weeks. Argh! Mom, Dad, Tracy, & LuLu Stop Off At Starbucks After Mass ~ It was time to make a pit stop at Starbucks after the Mass confusion. Mom had her usual nonfat chai tea latte while Dad had his cafe latte! Mmmm! Tracy's Aquatherapy Is Moved Inside Due To Bad Storms ~ Tracy's therapy was moved indoors to the mat due to heavy rains and thunderstorms today. Greg and Dad worked with Tracy on the mat. Greg spent a lot of time stretching and ranging Tracy's left hip. Dad is looking forward to seeing the x-rays of Tracy's left hip when the results are ready. Although Tracy's range seems to be improved since the Baclofen dose was increased to 130 micrograms per day last Wednesday, she still is internally rotating her left leg. Tracy Vomits 3 Ounces This Afternoon ~ Tracy vomited about 3 ounces after her 4 PM feeding this afternoon. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Meet Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, Jeff, Anita & Rose Marie At Matteo's ~ Family and friends enjoyed a dinner at Matteo's in honor of Mom and Jeff's birthdays! The food and company were amazing and everyone had a great time! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Michael Phelps win another Gold Medal in swimming this evening. Daily OM: Growing Pains : Difficult Times ~

Saturday, August 9th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Mom! ~ Dad & Mom Take The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Dad took the day off from Bikram Yoga this morning. They started the day taking Luca and Luna for a long walk! It was so hot, that they had to cut their walk short! It felt like 97 degrees with about 60 percent humidity! By the time they got home, the dogs tongues were hanging out of their mouths and they were panting! Dad & Mom Take The Dogs To The Groomers This Morning ~ Dad and Mom took Luna and Luca to the groomers for baths and clips this morning. They looks so cute and smell even better! Wilemene Gives Tracy A Pedicure ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a pedicure this morning. Her nails looks so nice! Wilmene used clear polish this week. She does such a nice job! Tiffany & Benny Surprised Mom & Dad With A Day At The Spa This Afternoon In Celebration Of Mom's B'Day & In Thanksgiving For Their Beautiful Wedding ~ Tiffany and Benny surprised Mom and Dad with a relaxing day at the spa that included a couples' massage, rose petal bubble bath, champagne and strawberried dipped in chocolate and whipped cream. It was a wonderful surprise and just what the doctor ordered! Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session This Afternoon ~ Melanie came to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. Tracy really loves her sessions with Melanie. She relaxed and enjoyed it! Melanie commented that she felt a lot of heat being released from her left abdomen, and believed that this may be the root of her discomfort all week long. We'll see when Dr. Williams receives the results of Tracy's lab tests. Melanie Gives Uncle Johnny & Nana Therapeutic Massages This Afternoon ~ Nana went next after Tracy and Melanie gave her a Cranial Sacral Therapy session to help release muscular tension in her neck and shoulders. This was the first time Nana had a CST treatment. Then it was Uncle Johnny's turn. Melanie worked with him, giving him a Swedish massage. He has been so tense since Nana's fall and hospitalization that it was just what he needed! Aunt Diane & Uncle Jeff Come Over With Cupcakes ~ Aunt Diane and Uncle Jeff came over to surprise Mom with cupcakes this afternoon. It was great timing because they could see Tiffany and Benny's wedding slideshow while they were here. Mom and Dad never get bored watching the wedding pictures! Every time they see them, they see new things! Jeff and Mom opened up their birthday gifts after the slideshow. They both got some really nice gifts. Thank you everyone for the wonderful gifts! It was the best birthday ever! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Olympics this evening, especially to see Michael Phelps and Dara Torres win medals! It is so inspirational to see a 41-year old mother win a silver medal (and her 10th medal at the Olympics)! I guess 40 really is the new 30! (Then 40 should be the new 50! WooHoo!) Daily OM: The Laboratory Of Life : Take Action ~

Friday, August 8th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Tony! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Linda taught and it was Mom's first class with her. She was really good! The temperature was pretty hot: 102.5 degrees and 40 percent humidity! Wow! Mom Takes Nana To The Hair Salon In Lake Worth With Kerri ~ Mom met Nana and Uncle Johnny at the Hairnet this afternoon for their montly standing hair appointments. Mom took Nana home when they were done and got caught at FOUR drawbridges! The weather was getting pretty stormy and a lot of the boaters were coming in from the ocean. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Melanie & Jeff This Morning ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy with Melanie and Jeff this morning. The entire session was spent trying to fit Tracy's wrist and hand splints. Unfortunately, Tracy continues to overpower any off the shelf splints. She will need to be fitted for some custom splints in the near future. Mom and Melanie will arrange for Tracy to see a hand specialist soon. Tania & Tracy Make Mom A Birthday Card For Mom's B'Day Tomorrow ~ Tania and Tracy made the cutest birthday card for Mom's b'day tomorrow! It is so adorable with animal print (Mom's favorite)! Tracy Does Not Have Hippotherapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy session was cancelled for two weeks. Susan, Tracy's Physical Therapist, is off for a conference and vacation. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love This Afternoon ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love. They are getting very close to finishing it! Mom, Tania & Tracy Watch The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants This Evening ~ The girls had a movie day, watching The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants. They had to pause it so Mom could go pick up Dad at the train station. There was a fatality on the tracks so the train had to terminate further south than normal. Dad & Mom Have Thai Food For Dinner This Evening ~ Mom and Dad decided to chill out, eat Thai food, and watch the Olympics Opening Ceremonies! TGIF! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Olympics ~ What an amazing Opening Ceremony! First class all the way! Daily OM: Tending Your Own Energy Field : Fill Yourself From The Inside Out ~

Thursday, August 8th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Tony! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Kim taught and it was her last class at Lighthouse Point. Mom really likes Kim's class and is sad to see her go. She has great energy and is an excellent Bikram instructor! Mom & Tania Take Tracy To NBMC For Lab Tests ~ Dr. Williams ordered lab tests for Tracy at North Broward Medical Center to see if there is anything going on. She has been grinding her teeth and has been tight most of the week. So, Mom, Tracy and Tania spent three hours at NBMC getting blood drawn, a cathed urine specimen, and x-rays of her left hip. More later when the results are available. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love This Evening ~ Tracy is enjoying Eat, Pray, Love and Tania is getting close to the end of the book. We can't wait until the movie comes out! It should be great! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening. Kim taught and it was a very tough class. Kim Visits Tracy After Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Kim came by to visit Tracy on her way back to West Palm Beach. Tracy was very pleased that Kim came to visit her. Mom Made Arugula Salad For Dinner This Evening ~ Mom made an arugula salad with shaved parmesan cheese this evening for dinner. Daily OM: Remembering The Moment : Enjoying Life ~

Wednesday, August 6th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga. Tracy had a new assistant working with Wilmene so Mom stayed close by to assist when needed. Mom Has An Appointment With The Chiropractor For An Adjustment This Afternoon ~ Mom went to Dr. Colavito for a 12 noon appointment. He used e-stim and moist heat and then adjusted her neck and hips. Ahh! How do you spell relief? Tracy Has A 2 PM Appointment To Get Her Baclofen Pump Refilled & Dose Adjusted ~ Tracy had a 2 PM appointment with Dr. Galvez at the Cleaveland Clinic Foundation in Weston. He refilled her Baclofen pump and increased her daily dose from 119 to 130 micrograms per day. We are hoping that this incremental increase will help to reduce Tracy's increased tone in her left hip. Tracy Has Aquatherapy With Greg & Jeff In The Pool This Evening ~ Jeff and Greg came to get Tracy in the pool for aquatherapy. Mom heated the pool to 92 degrees, so that the water would be nice and toasty for Tracy. When the water is under 90 degrees, Tracy's tone is aggrivated and she gets tight and grinds her teeth. Jeff and Greg had to cut Tracy's therapy short, because she seemed uncomfortable and was grinding her teeth. We are not sure why Tracy is grinding her teeth. When Mom asked her what was bothering her, going through the likely problem list, Tracy blinked twice for headache. So, Mom gave Tracy an Extra Strength Tylenol after her warm shower. We'll keep you posted. Dad Goes To Set Up Uncle Johnny's Computer For Him ~ Dad went to set up Uncle Johnny's computer for him so that he can access his email, etc. Daily OM: Clearing Our System : Food Allergies ~

Tuesday, August 5th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Kim taught the 9:15 AM Bikram Yoga class and it was Hot, Hot, Hot! Whew! 102.5 degrees with 50% humidity! Welcome to South Florida in August! Mom Goes To Nana's To Shampoo & Blow Dry Her Hair ~ Mom went to Nana's this morning to shampoo and blow dry her hair. She seems to be feeling a little better, thank goodness. The visiting nurse is coming to see Nana this afternoon. Tania Takes Tracy Outside By The Pool On The Patio ~ Tania took Tracy outside by the pool on the patio, but Tracy did not look like she was enjoying the heat. Tania asked Tracy if she wanted to go inside and Tracy vocalized AH-HA! She also blinked twice to let her know that she was really hot! It was in the low 90's today and very, very humid! Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania spent some time shaping Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She is so lucky to have Tania! She does a beautiful job! Tania Reads To Tracy, Luca & Luna From Eat, Pray, Love This Afternoon ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love this afternoon. They are making their way through Bali and are almost to the end! It is getting a little steamy! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Dee worked with Tracy on the therapy mat this afternoon. He used the e-stim to stretch her left hip which is trying hard to internally rotate. Tracy has an appointment with Dr. Galvez tomorrow to refill her Baclofen and to increase her daily dose. Hopefully, this will help relax her internal rotation of her left hip. Dee massaged all of Tracy's major muscle groups with lavender scented Biotone. Tracy sure does smell good! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Lan taught a very rigorous class this evening and Dad said that it was really hot and humid. He really looks forward to his Bikram Yoga practice! Daily OM: Seeing The Bigger Picture : Together On Earth ~

Monday, August 4th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! Thank you Jenny For The Delicious Body Lotions & Massage Butters! ~ Mom Went To Stay With Nana At BRCH This Morning ~ Nana is looking better and is waiting for the Infectious Disease specialist to make rounds and hopefully discharge her this evening. She is responding well to the IV antibiotics and is hoping to get her IV removed soon. The plan is to continue taking oral antibiotics once she gets home. The wound care nurse changed her dressing and the swelling has gone down quite a bit. It will still take weeks to heal, and she will need to be followed at the Wound Center several times a week. She will be receiving Physical Therapy at home to regain her strength and agility. Tracy's Occupational Therapy Is Cancelled Today ~ Melanie had to cancel Tracy's Occupational Therapy session this afternoon due to a scheduling conflict. She will reschedule make-up sessions this week. Tania Reads To Tracy From Eat, Pray, Love This Afternoon ~ Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love this afternoon. They are making their way through Bali and are almost to the end! Tracy Relaxes On Her CPM Machine This Afternoon ~ Tracy stretched and ranged her hips and hamstrings on the CPM machine for an hour each leg this evening. It really helps Tracy to stretch her major muscle groups, especially when she does not have any therapy! Tracy Vomits About 6 To 8 Ounces After Her Dinner Feeding ~ Tracy vomited about 6 to 8 ounces this evening after her dinner feeding. Maybe she got nauseous after all of the movement from her CPM session. Daily OM: A Special Goodnight : Creating A Nightly Ritual ~

Sunday, August 3rd, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! Thank you Jenny For The Delicious Body Lotions & Massage Butters! ~ Mom, Tracy, Dad, & LuLu Go To Hippotherapy At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy at Bit By Bit in Parkland. Susan and Dad sidewalked with Tracy while she sat up tall on Breezy. She is demonstrating such good trunk control. She is still working on strengthening her head control, and improving a little bit every day! Tracy Has Aquatherapy With Jeff & Greg In The Pool ~ The pool was really warm today without heating it, thanks to the hot Florida sun working overtime in August! Tracy did a good job working on her flexibility with Jeff and Greg. They supported her in a standing position in the pool, and used floating dumb bells to suspend her arms. Then they worked with her arms in various positions, while she was standing with support for thirty minutes! She is doing amazing! Nana Is Responding Well To The IV Antibiotic At The Hospital ~ Nana had a restful night. Aunt Diane stayed with her. She is responding well to the IV antibiotic therapy and her wound is healing well. We are hoping that she will be able to go home soon and continue her antibiotics orally. She will receive home health care once she is discharged. Tracy, Dad, & Mom Watch Tennis This Afternoon ~ Tracy, Dad, and Mom watched tennis this afternoon. Dad & Tracy Watch The Washington Redskins Play The Indianapolis Colts In An NFL Preseason Game ~ It's hard to believe that the NFL football season has officially begun with the first preseason game this evening. Less than three weeks until the college football season begins! WooHoo! Daily OM: The Gift Inside : Life Packaging ~

Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! Thank you Jenny For The Delicious Body Lotions & Massage Butters! ~ Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Dad went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was one of the most difficult classes they have had in a very long time. Lan taught and it was very hot and humid. Whew! Sucked the life force right out of both of them! Must be hot and humid August! How do you spell relief? Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. Tracy sure does love her Spa days! Jenny Comes To Visit Tracy ~ Our good friend Jenny came to meet Tracy this afternoon. She brought the most delicious body lotions and massage butters from Victoria Secret! Everyone had a good visit! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Visit Nana At The Hospital ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy visited Nana at the hospital this afternoon. She was moved to a private room so it was okay for Tracy to visit her. Mom does not like to take Tracy to hospitals, since there are so many germs hiding out! Dad & Mom Go In The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Dad and Mom enjoyed the hot tub this evening. Daily OM: Every Step Is Forward : Not Going Back ~

Friday, August 1st, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga this morning. Mom Gets A Manicure & Pedicure At Boca Nails This Morning ~ Mom escaped to Boca Nails this morning for a manicure and a pedicure! It felt great and was just what the doctor ordered! Nana Goes To Wound Center For Dressing Change & Then Is Admitted To Boca Raton Community Hospital ~ Uncle Johnny took Nana to the Wound Center for a dressing change and Dr. Samant sent her to the Emergency Room to be admitted to the hospital for evaluation. She will be seen by an Infectious Disease specialist who will evaluate her wound culture and lab tests. Dr. Zann's associate also came by to see her. They are the orthopedic group who put in Nana's artificial knees four years ago! She seems to be in good hands. She is in Room 407A at Boca Raton Community Hospital. Tracy, Tania, & Wilmene Sit Outside By The Pool ~ Tracy, Tania and Wilmene sat outside by the pool in the sunshine this afternoon. Tania read to Tracy from Eat, Pray, Love. They are slowly making their way through Bali! Tracy's Hippotherapy Is Cancelled This Afternoon ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy lesson was cancelled due to severe weather out west in Parkland. We will give it another shot on Sunday! Tracy Relaxes On The CPM This Afternoon ~ Tracy ranged and stretched her hamstrings and hips on the CPM machine for an hour and a half each leg this afternoon. This helps her to relax and stretch her muscles which have been tight today! Daily OM: Taking The Risk : Permission To Be Real ~