Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 ~ Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad ~ Mom & Dad Go Shopping This Morning ~ Mom and Dad hit the sale at Bath and Body Works this morning to make sure that they got some good stuff for Tracy! They had some awesome products for great prices. Mom cleaned up. She got some really good deals. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg worked with Tracy on the therapy mat this afternoon. He ranged and stretched all of Tracy's major muscle groups and then it was time for Tracy to sit on the peanut ball to demonstrate balance and practice vestibular control. Mom & Dad Go For Massages At The Four Seasons This Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad went to the Four Seasons Spa for Swedish massages this afternoon. Tiffany and Benny gave Mom and Dad a gift card for the Spa. It was a great anniversary gift and made their day so special. Mom & Dad Get Manicures & Pedicures This Afternoon On Their Way Home ~ Aunt Diane gave Dad and Mom manicures for their anniversary this afternoon at Boca Nails. It was great because Aunt Diane was there getting her nails done too. Mom, Dad, Sasha, & Tracy Go To Jeff's This Evening To Ring In The New Year ~ Everyone had a great New Year's Eve and a great 29th anniversary this evening at Jeff's. It was such a nice evening as they watched the ball drop in Times Square and the fireworks over Boca Lake. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The Ways We Love : Choosing To Have A Mate Or Being Single ~

Tuesday, December 30th, 2008 ~ Mom & Dad Walk To Starbucks In Lake Worth This Morning ~ It was another perfect day in Palm Beach, and Mom and Dad walked over the bridge to Starbucks in Lake Worth. They walked around the cute little shops on Lake and Lucerne Avenues, while enjoying their lattes. Tracy's Physical Therapy Session With Dee Is Cancelled This Evening ~ Tracy's Physical Therapy with Dee was cancelled this evening due to scheduling issues. Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga In West Palm This Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad found the Bikram Yoga studio in West Palm and went to their 4:30 PM class. It was a great class; very hot and challenging. Mom & Dad Have Dinner At The Four Seasons In The Living Room ~ Mom and Dad decided to have a light dinner at the Four Seasons in the Living Room, one of Mom's favortie dining spots. Mom had a cheese board and Dad had penne pasta. They had live entertainment, a guy playing the piano and a woman singing. It was really nice. Sasha , Tania, & Tracy Go To The Movies To See Marly And Me This Evening ~ It was girls' night out this evening and they chose to see Marly And Me. Tania and Sasha got some popcorn and then got Tracy settled in at Muvico just in time for the movie. Then Tracy started to fuss, becoming very vocal in the nearly packed theater. Tania and Sasha tried to comfort Tracy, but nothing seemed to work. So, they got their stuff and decided to leave. Luckily, the theater gave Tania some movie passes so all was not a waste. Guess we'll give it a shot again at a later date. Seems she was having some pretty wild mood swings all morning, and was laughing and crying a lot. Tracy Is Awake Most Of Evening ~ Tracy was awake most of the evening and never fell asleep until nearly midnight! Tania gave her some Motrin. Not sure what was keeping her up. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: A Self-Created State:Worry ~

Monday, December 29th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga this morning with Diane. It was a tough class, very hot and very challenging! Mom & Dad Go To Palm Beach For A Mini Vacation ~ Mom and Dad left around noonish for a mini vacation in Palm Beach. Sasha, Tania, Wilmene, and Maude are staying with Tracy, so Mom and Dad knew she was in very good hands. This is the first time that Mom and Dad have been away for more than 16 hours since Tracy's accident nearly six years ago. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. He and Tania got Tracy on the therapy mat in long sitting position for hip and hamstring stretching. Greg stretched Tracy's trunk and shoulders in this position as well. He works her major muscle groups through full range of motion. Mom & Dad Have Dinner At The Old Key Lime House In Lantana ~ Dad and Mom enjoyed appetizers and dinner at The Old Key Lime House in Lantana this evening. After a beautiful day with a walk on the beach and some sun at the pool, it was a perfect evening to dine under the stars. Sasha , Tania, Tracy, Luca & Luna Hang Out Together This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed hanging out together watching an ESPN special on college football and racial integration. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Satsang: Gathering For Truth ~

Sunday, December 28th, 2008 ~ Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Morning With Susan ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this morning with Susan at Bit By Bit. She seemed a little tired and had a hard time holding her head up. Sasha, an accomplished riding instructor in Rock Creek Park, was very excited to see Tracy ride and also vey impressed with the Hippotherapy program. Mom, Dad, Sasha, Luca & Tracy Go For A Boat Ride Around Lighthouse Point This Afternoon ~ Everyone enjoyed the boat ride around the Lighthouse Point canals and intracoastal this afternoon. It was a beautiful day, and there were a lot of boats cruising the intracoastal. Luna stayed with LuLu to keep her company and watch the house. She is such a devoted guard dog. We had quite the adventure, almost getting stuck under a very shallow bridge at low tide. Thank goodness Sasha had quick reflexes and the nautical sense to pull us back before we got stuck! Then we all got soaked (even Luca) when a very large boat swamped us with their wake. Mom got the brunt of it, sitting in the jump seat. At least she didn't see it coming since she was facing the stern of the boat. What a surprise! Last call was when Dad had to attempt several tries at docking the boat on the lift, due to a very low tide. Mom and Sasha had to get out and jump on the dock to lower the lift. Luca stayed on board to help Dad and Tracy! He's our hero! Sasha, Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Pro Football ~ Yes, it was another evening of football! Miami Dolphins are on a roll! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Satsang: Gathering For Truth ~

Saturday, December 27th, 2008 ~ Dad Goes To Hot Yoga With Lisa This Morning ~ Dad had a great Hot Yoga practice this morning with Lisa! There are four more days left until the studio closes. Rumor has it that there are new owners who plan to do some major improvements to the studio and then open in early January. Tracy Has A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session With Melanie This Afternoon ~ Melanie came to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. She responded very well to her treatment. Mom Gets A Massage With Melanie This Afternoon ~ Mom got a Swedish massage from Melanie this afternoon. She has such healing hands. It was just what the doctor ordered. Sasha Arrives Today From Syracuse ~ Another miscommunication, gee is Mercury going retrograde? (It is supposed to on the 29th!) Dad went to the airport to pick up Sasha, thinking she was arriving at 2:10 PM and she wasn't due in until 3:40 PM! Oh well! Dad got to hang out at the Ft. Lauderdale Airport for a while. Mom, Dad, & Sasha Eat Chicken Wings & Ribs From Bonefish Macs ~ It was another yummy meal of baby back ribs, spicy chicken wings, and sesame seared ahi tuna salad from Mom's favorite bar food restaurant, Bonefish Macs this evening. It was delicious as always! Mom, Dad, Sasha, & Tracy Watch The Emerald Bowl This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Sasha, and Tracy watched the Canes vs. the Bears in the Emerald Bowl this evening. Go Canes! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The Great Transformer: Loving What You Hate ~

Friday, December 26th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Another Day Off From Yoga Because The Studio Is Closed ~ Mom is going through withdrawal from Yoga because the studio is closed until tomorrow. Argh! Dad & Mom Take Tracy To The Cleaveland Clinic For Baclofen Pump Refill ~ Tracy had an appointment to get her Baclofen pump refilled and adjusted with Dr. Galvez this afternoon. Mom thought Tracy's appointment was at 1 PM and it was really at 2:30 PM. So, Mom and Dad had a latte and visited for an hour and a half while they waited for the doctor. He refilled Tracy's Baclofen and then increased her dosage by ten percent from 157 to 172 mcg/day. Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan At Bit By Bit This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan at Bit By Bit this afternoon. She demonstrated very good trunk control and is still needing to work on her head control. Practice, practice, practice. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Do Unto Others: The Golden Tule ~

Thursday, December 25th, 2008 ~ Merry Christmas! ~ Mom & Dad Get Tracy Ready For The Day ~ Tania, Maude and Wilmene had the day off while Mom and Dad got Tracy showered and ready to spend the day with family. Nana, Uncle Johnny, & Aunt Diane Come Over This Afternoon ~ Nana, Uncle Johnny, and Aunt Diane came over to spend the day with us. Everyone took advantage of the sunshine and headed for the hot tub to relax. It was nice to be able to chill out in the hot tub before hitting the kitchen! Mom & Dad Cook Surf & Turf For Dinner This Evening ~ Mom stuffed lobster tails while Dad seared and then grilled petite fillet mignons (wrapped in pepper bacon). Aunt Diane brought some couscous and made a salad. Jeff and Anita joined us around 5 PM for dinner. It was all delicious and oh so rich! After dinner, everyone gathered around the Christmas tree to open presents. Tracy loves this part of Christmas! Who doesn't like to open presents. Even Luca and Luna had presents under the tree and stockings hanging on the hearth! Santa sure was nice, because he did not leave the dogs any coal in their stockings. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The Music Of This World: Natural Sounds Meditation ~

Wednesday, December 24th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Veronica & Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Veronica and Diane! It was very, very intense! The two yoga instructors provided the class as a Christmas gift to all the dedicated yoginis! The class was packed! They even played Christmas carols at the end of the class during savasana! Everyone hummed along to the Little Drummer Boy! OMM! Mom Goes To Get A Massage From Fern This Afternoon ~ Mom got a much-needed massage with Fern this afternoon. She is a miracle worker, and managed to untangle the knots that Mom had in her scapulae and neck. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy positioned supine on the therapy mat and Greg stretched all of her major muscle groups. Then Greg attached the E-stim electrodes to her quadriceps muscles and worked on muscle reeducation. Next, Greg relocated the E-stim electrodes to Tracy's perispinous muscles to help with neck strengthening! Everyone Relaxes & Watches The Unit On TiVo This Afternoon ~ Tania, Mom and Tracy watched last week's Unit on TiVo. It has moved up to Mom's top three shows! Nana, Aunt Diane, & Jeff Come Over For Chinese Food This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed Chinese food this evening and watched the Hula Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Hawaii in Honolulu! Uncle Johnny Comes To Say Mass This Evening ~ Uncle Johnny said Mass this evening for the family in celebration on Christmas! Tracy had the giggles all evening, and even giggled during Mass. Luca and Luna also joined us for Mass! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The World In A Bright Light: Grateful ~

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Veronica & Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Veronica and Diane! It was very, very intense! The two yoga instructors provided the class as a Christmas gift to all the dedicated yoginis! The class was packed! They even played Christmas carols at the end of the class during savasana! Everyone hummed along to the Little Drummer Boy! OMM! Mom Goes To Get A Massage From Fern This Afternoon ~ Mom got a much-needed massage with Fern this afternoon. She is a miracle worker, and managed to untangle the knots that Mom had in her scapulae and neck. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy positioned supine on the therapy mat and Greg stretched all of her major muscle groups. Then Greg attached the E-stim electrodes to her quadriceps muscles and worked on muscle reeducation. Next, Greg relocated the E-stim electrodes to Tracy's perispinous muscles to help with neck strengthening! Everyone Relaxes & Watches The Unit On TiVo This Afternoon ~ Tania, Mom and Tracy watched last week's Unit on TiVo. It has moved up to Mom's top three shows! Nana, Aunt Diane, & Jeff Come Over For Chinese Food This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed Chinese food this evening and watched the Hula Bowl: Notre Dame vs. Hawaii in Honolulu! Uncle Johnny Comes To Say Mass This Evening ~ Uncle Johnny said Mass this evening for the family in celebration on Christmas! Tracy had the giggles all evening, and even giggled during Mass. Luca and Luna also joined us for Mass! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The Music Of This World: Natural Sounds Meditation ~

Monday, December 22nd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Veronica This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Veronica! It was very intense and was just what Mom needed after spending hours writing Christmas cards! Can you say stiff neck! Ouch! Mom Brings Luca & Luna To The Groomers For A Shampoo & A Haircut ~ Luca and Luna got a much-needed bath and grooming today, just in time for Christmas! They look so cute! Dad Gets A Haircut Too This Afternoon ~ Even Dad got a haircut this afternoon! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy positioned supine on the therapy mat and Greg stretched all of her major muscle groups. Then they got Tracy seated on a balance disk and worked on long sitting, balance and stretching. She is working so hard during therapy sessions. Great work Tracy! Everyone Relaxed & Watched Today Looks Back At 2008 This Evening ~ Wow, did all that happen in just one year! What a year it has been, from the Olympics to the Elections to the Economy! Whew! Let's pray that 2009 is filled with hope, health, and happiness. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Discovering True Selves: Soul Seeing ~

Sunday, December 21st, 2008 ~ Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan In Parkland This Morning ~ Tracy did a good job with trunk control during her Hippotherapy session this morning. It was a beautiful day with a cool wind and lots of sunshine. Tracy Rests After Her Shower While Mom Writes Christmas Cards ~ Mom wrote Christmas cards while Tracy rested in her bed after her shower. She was pretty worn out after her Hippotherapy. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Unit This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched The Unit this evening. It has become one of Mom's favortie shows. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Conditioned Response: Reactions To Life Events ~

Saturday, December 20th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Lake Worth With Nana For A Hair Appointment ~ Mom and Nana had hair appointments with Kerri @ the Hairnet this morning. She does such good work! Tracy Gets A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. She does such a good job keeping Tracy's skin perfect. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Nana's To Watch The Boca Raton Boat Parade This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed being out on the balcony to watch the Boca Raton Boat Parade this evening. It was perfect weather and there were lots of fire works. Tracy Vomits Again This Evening ~ Tracy got sick to her stomach while watching the boat parade at Nana's. We are not sure why she is vomiting. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Warning Signs: Paying Attention To Red Flags ~

Friday, December 19th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane. She is so intense and really makes Mom work hard! Mom Goes To Lake Worth For An Appointment This Afternoon ~Mom went to Lake Worth this afternoon for an appointment. Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan In Parkland This Evening ~ Tracy did a good job with trunk control during her Hippotherapy session this evening. She was able to control her head throughout half of the session. Tania Surprises Mom & Dad By Staying With Tracy While They Go Out To Dinner This Evening ~ Mom and Dad had a nice dinner at Trulucks in Misner Park this evening. It was a beautiful evening and there were lots of tourists in town for the holidays. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Conditioned Response: Reactions To Life Events ~

Thursday, December 18th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Veronica This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Veronica! It was a pretty challenging class with lots of heat and sweat. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy's lower extremities wrapped with ace bandages to facilitate venous return and then transferred her to the tilt table. After obtaining baseline vital signs, Greg cranked Tracy up to 35 degrees where she remained until she stabilized. Then Greg progressed Tracy to 45 degrees and then to 55 degrees. Tracy's vital signs remained stable throughout the exercise. She is working so hard during her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch How The Grinch Stole Christmas This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched How The Grinch Stole Christmas this evening. Tracy Vomits 6 To 8 Ounces This Evening ~ Tracy vomited about 6 to 8 ounces around 9:30 PM after her evening medication. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The Great Transformer: Loving What You Hate ~

Wednesdsay, December 17th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane! It was a fast paced and challenging class. Wilmene Feeds Tracy 34 cc's Of Beechnut Stage 2 Apple Banana Yogurt ~ Wilmene fed Tracy 34 cc's of Beechnut Stage 2 Apple Banana yogurt this afternoon. She is doing a good job swallowing and moving the food back with her tongue. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy seated on the Bosu and Greg attached the e-stim to Tracy's quads and then to her perispinous muscles. Tracy did a good job with trunk control and is working very hard on her head control. Greg also worked with Tracy on her balance and proprioception. Tania & Tracy Watch The Polar Express This Evening ~ Tania and Tracy watched The Polar Express this evening. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Private Practice This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and the dogs watched Private Practice this evening. It was the only series that wasn't in rerun this week. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Do Unto Others: The Golden Rule ~

Tuesday, December 16th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Bob This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Bob! It was a slow class and he made us hold the poses forever. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure & A Pedicure ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a manicure and pedicure this afternoon. She picked bright red polish for Christmas! They look so pretty! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this afternoon. Dee and Tania got Tracy supine on the therapy mat for stretching. Then Tania, Dee, and Mom got Tracy in quadriped over the peanut for weight bearing through her hips and shoulders. Tracy tolerated 14 minutes in this position. Tania & Tracy Watch The Mysteries Of The Moon On The History Channel ~ Tania and Tracy watched The Mysteries Of The Moon on the History Channel this afternoon. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The World In A Bright Light: Grateful ~

Monday, December 15th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Yoga With Liz This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Yoga practice this morning with Liz! It was very intense! Mom Runs Some Christmas Errands This Morning ~ Mom ran some errands, doing some last minute Christmas shopping this afternoon, after Hot Yoga. Wilmene Feeds Tracy 28 cc's Of Gerber Apple Banana Yogurt ~ Wilmene fed Tracy 28 cc's of Gerber apple banana yogurt this morning. She really did a good job using her tongue to move the yogurt to the back of her mouth and swallowing quickly and completely. We'll keep practicing! Gene From TD Medical Comes To Work WIth Tracy's New Wheelchair: Truly A Work In Progress ~ It looks like Gene finally got Tracy's wheelchair adjusted where she can sit in it and hold her head up, all at the same time! Very cool! It took a lot of adjusting here and there to get it just right! She seems a lot more comfortable with the new adjustments. Her old wheelchair lasted five years and will be used to go to Hippotherapy sessions and to the beach! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy seated on a balance disk and worked on long sitting, balance and stretching. Then it was time to get Tracy prone (flat on her tummy) and work on stretching her hamstrings and psoas muscles. Tracy tolerated 30 minutes in this position. Great work Tracy! Mom Goes To Spinning With Uncle Johnny & Aunt Diane This Evening At LA Fitness ~ Mom met Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane at LA Fitness for Spinning with Paul. He taught a brutal class and although the class was not full (holiday season has started), the ones who were there worked their butts off! Mom was fast asleep by 9:30 PM after a very active day! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Focused Value: Quality vs. Quantity ~

Sunday, December 14th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Elizabeth! ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy Session Is Cancelled Due To Susan Being Out Of Town ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy session was cancelled due to Susan being out of town. Her sessions will resume this Friday, December 19th at 5:30 PM. Mom, Dad, Tracy, & LuLu Stop At Starbucks For Lattes After Mass ~ Everyone enjoyed chai tea and caffe lattes this afternoon after Mass. It has become a Sunday tradition to stop for lattes and scones! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, Jeff, & Anita Go To See The Singing Christmas Tree This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed seeing The Singing Christmas Tree this evening at the First Baptist Church in West Palm Beach! It has become a family tradition: this is the third year that we have participated in this incredible Christmas pageant which always reminds us that Jesus IS the reason for the season. It was an amazing three hour show, with a real camel, sheep, horses, and donkeys. They even had real doves fly across the church, and there were incredible aerial performances that out did last year's show. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Discovering True Selves: Soul Seeking ~

Saturday, December 13th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Elizabeth! ~ Dad Goes To Hot Yoga At 8 AM This Morning ~ Dad went to the early Hot Yoga class this morning. Mom is trying to use up all her prepaid classes by December 31st, when Lan locks the doors to the studio! Melanie Gives Mom A Massage This Afternoon ~ Melanie gave Mom a Swedish massage this afternoon before Hot Flow Yoga! Wilmene Feeds Tracy 18 cc's Of Gerber Apple Banana Yogurt ~ Wilmene fed Tracy 18 cc's of Gerber apple banana yogurt this morning. She really did a good job using her tongue to move the yogurt to the back of her mouth and swallowing quickly and completely. We'll keep practicing! Tracy Has Cranial Sacral Therapy With Melanie This Afternoon ~ Melanie gave Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy treatment session this afternoon after Mom. Tracy did a good job relaxing and was vocal during her session. Melanie Gives Dad A Cranial Sacral Therapy Treatment This Evening ~ Dad got a CST session this evening too. He feels that CST helps his lower back, shoulder and knee. Melanie has such healing energy! Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Evening ~ Mom went to Rachel's Hot Flow yoga class this everning. It was a great class with the perfect temperature, which really enhances flexibility and detoxing. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca, & Luna Watch The Heisman Trophy Award Show This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the Heisman Trophy awards this evening and wish University of Oklahoma quarterback, Sam Bradford, congratulations! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, Jeff, & Anita Go To See The Singing Christmas Tree Tomorrow Evening ~ Everyone is excited to see The Singing Christmas Tree tomorrow evening at the First Baptist Church in West Palm Beach! It has become a family tradition: this is the third year that we are going to see it! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Taking Our Turn To Give: People In Need ~

Friday, December 12th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Keri In Ft. Lauderdale ~ Keri picked up Mom and they drove to Ft. Lauderdale for Hot Flow Yoga with Kelly at 9 AM this morning. It was a packed clas, with great energy, and the instructor was very dynamic! The temperature was really hot! Perfect for detoxing! Mom wishes the studio wasn't so far away! It took about 20 minutes to get there. Guess that isn't too bad! Mom Gives Luca A Bath This Afternoon ~ Luca was way overdue for a bath, so Mom gave him one today. He sure does not like the blow dryer! Tracy's Hippotherapy Is Canceled This Evening ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy session was canceled this evening due to Susan being out of town. Hippotherapy will resume next Friday, December 19th at 5:30 PM! Tania Stays With Tracy This Evening So Mom & Dad Could Go Out To Eat ~ Mom and Dad went to Houstons on the intracoastal for an impromptu dinner! It was a full moon and a beautiful, crisp evening so they sat outside by the water, and watched all the boats go by! It was a great evening! Tracy and Tania hung out together while Mom and Dad were gone! What a nice surprise! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Acceptance As Giving: Allowing Ourselves To Receive ~

Thursday, December 11th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Emil! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a great class with Veronica this morning. She taught Hot Flow and it was very challenging! The temperature was really hot! Perfect for detoxing! Tania Returns To Work Today ~ We are so happy to have Tania back at work today after she took her final exams yesterday! She has one more semester and then she will graduate. Woo Hoo! We are so excited and proud of all her hard work! Mom Does Some Christmas Shopping This Afternoon ~ Mom hit the City Center for some Christmas shopping at Macy's. They had some very good shopping sales, which Mom sure did appreciate! Tracy Has Physical Therapy On The Tilt Table With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg wrapped Tracy's lower extremities with ace wraps to facilitate venous return. Then they transferred Tracy to the tilt table and took some baseline vital signs. Greg was having problems with the automatic blood pressure cuff, so Mom changed the batteries and they checked its accuracy against a maunual blood pressure cuff. They decided to use the manual blood pressure cuff, since the automatic one was still getting what seems to be inaccurate and inconsistent readings. Tracy progressed to 55 degrees for 14 minutes and then was decreased to 30 degrees after she vocalized some perceived discomfort. We will use the manual blood pressure cuff next time until we can reestablish efficacy of the automatic cuff. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch CSI This Evening ~ Grey's Anatomy was a repeat this evening, so everyone watched the last episode of CSI with Grissom! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Fully Committed To Now: Why We Are No Shown The Big Picture ~

Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom had a great class with Diane this morning. She taught Hot Flow and it was very, very challenging! The temperature was really hot! Perfect for detoxing! Everyone learned some new poses. Tania Is Off For Three Days To Study For Her Final Exams ~ Tania is working hard, studying for her final exams on Wednesday. We miss her a lot! Mom Goes To Get A Well-Needed Manicure & Pedicure This Afternoon ~ Mom went to Boca to get a much-needed manicure and pedicure this afternoon! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg worked with Tracy on the therapy mat this afternoon. He and Wilmene got Tracy in long sitting position and Greg hooked up the e-stim electrodes to Tracy's perispinous muscles and to her bilateral quads to help with Neuromuscular Reeducation. Tracy is responding well to the e-stim. Greg stretched and ranged Tracy's major muscle groups, paying particular attention to Tracy's shoulders, hips, pectorals, ankles, and feet. Then Greg worked with Tracy on her vestibular balance while in long sitting position. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Private Practice This Evening ~ Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: The Joy Of Being: Celebrating The In-Between Times ~

Tuesday, December 9th, 2008 ~Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Bob ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga class with Bob this morning. He taught Hot Flow and it was very challenging! The temperature was really hot! Perfect for detoxing! Tania Is Off For Three Days To Study For Her Final Exams ~ Tania is working hard, studying for her final exams on Wednesday. We miss her a lot! Tracy Gets Her New Wheel Chair This Afternoon ~ Gene from TD Medical is trying so hard to get Tracy's new wheel chair retrofit to Tracy's measurements. It is definitely a work in progress (as they say in Italy: un lavoro en corso!) He spent three and a half hours putting the chair together and there are still some custom parts missing which need to be ordered. He also needs to make some microadjustments to Tracy's head rest. Dee Cancels Due To Illness & Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg worked with Tracy on the therapy mat this afternoon. He and Wilmene got Tracy in long sitting position and Greg stretched and ranged all of her major muscle groups. Tracy demonstrated fair neck control and also responded well to Greg's verbal cues to turn her head to the right and left. She is working really hard during all of her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Desperate Housewives (Tivoed) This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched last Sunday's Desperate Housewives that Dad tivoed this evening. NCIS and The Unit did not air this week. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Reflections Of Self: We Are All Mirrors Of Each Other ~

Monday, December 8th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Spinning With Aunt Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Spin class with Aunt Diane this morning. It was a fun class and very motivating! After class, she and Aunt Diane had lattes at Starbucks. Mom Runs Some Errands This Morning ~ Mom ran around and did some errands this morning after Starbucks. Tania Is Off For Three Days To Study For Her Final Exams ~ Tania is working hard, studying for her final exams on Wednesday. We miss her a lot! Tracy's Physical Therapy With Greg Is Cancelled This Afternoon ~ Tracy's Physical Therapy with Greg was cancelled this afternoon due to schedule issues. Tracy Stretches & Ranges On The CPM Machine This Evening ~ Mom and Wilmene put Tracy on the CPM machine this evening to stretch and range her hamstrings and hips. She tolerated 2 hours on her left leg and an hour and a half on her right leg. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Let It Flow: Tears ~

Sunday, December 7th, 2008 ~ Happy B'Day Luna: 3 Years Old! ~ Mom, Dad, LuLu & Tracy Go To 11:30 AM Mass This Morning ~ Everyone went to 11:30 AM Mass this morning for the second Sunday of Advent, since Tracy did not have Hippotherapy or Physical Therapy today. Mom, Dad, LuLu & Tracy Stop Off At Starbucks After Mass This Afternoon ~ Of course, Mom & Dad had to stop off at Starbucks for lattes and scones after Mass this afternoon. It was pretty crowded at the drive through! Mom, Dad, LuLu & Tracy Watch Pro Football This Afternoon ~ Everyone enjoyed watching NFL football this afternoon, while Dad caught up with paperwork. Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Afternoon ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga with Rachel this afternoon. It was a packed class with lots of energy! Uncle Johnny & Nana Stop By To Say Hi ~ Uncle Johnny and Nana stop by to say Hi this afternoon. It is so good to see them! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Desperate Housewives & Brothers & Sisters This Evening ~ Mom watched her two favorite Sunday evening shows: Desperate Housewives and Brothers & Sisters! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Warning Signs: Paying Attention To Red Flags ~

Saturday, December 6th, 2008 ~ Mom, Dad, Tania, Wilmene, Uncle Johnny, Nana, Jeff, Aunt Diane, Gio, Greg, Aimee, Myriam, Dr. Lowe, & Kara Go To See Tracy Ride In The Winter Wonderland Horse Show ~ Tracy did an awesome job riding with the drill team during the half time show of the Winter Wonderland Horse Show with Bit By Bit Therapy today. Thank you to everyone who donated to this incredible fund raising event! today at the Parkland Equestrian Center. She had the biggest cheering squad and everyone was so proud of how well she rode! Tracy, you rock! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Wilmene, Luca & Luna Watch Navy Beat Army ~ Dad was happy that Navy beat Army today! Although, he is outnumbered, since Pawpaw, Benny and Uncle Frank were all rooting for the Army! Huah! Mom Is Disappointed That Virginia Tech Beat Boston College For The ACC Title ~ Boo Hiss! Looks like the Hokies have done it again. Better luck next year I guess! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Gators Play Bama This Afternoon ~ Everyone is rooting for the Gators to beat Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide this afternoon! Go Gators! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: In Awe Of Beauty: Beauty ~

Friday, December 5th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning. As always, Diane taught a great class. The temperature was perfect and there was lots of positive energy to share. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Aimee This Afternoon ~ Tracy had her last Speech Therapy session with Aimee this afternoon. We are so sad to see Aimee go on to her Externship but we know it is a good thing and we wish her lots of luck! Aimee was such a great student clinican and worked so hard to prepare for Tracy's sessions. We are really going to miss her. She gave Tracy two pretty ornaments to hang on the tree. During her session, Aimee brought Tracy up to date on her trip to the ASHA conference in Chicago by prerecording a conversation on Tracy's Step By Step Sequential switch. Sounds like Aimee had a fun time in Chicago until she contracted a touch of food poisoning that confined her to her hotel room for much of Saturday. Good thing she did some sight seeing when she first arrived in Chicago! We are glad she is finally feeling better. Next, Aimee brought Dr. Lowe up to speed on the new additions she made to Tracy's Dynavox. She did such a good job, adding some interesting factoids about Tiffany, Dad, Mom, MawMaw, and Tania! Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this evening in Parkland with Susan. It had been ten days since Tracy had Hippotherapy due to the Thanksgiving Holiday! Tracy sat up so straight on Breezy! It was the best session that Tracy had exhibited to date. Her posture was the straightest and strongest to date, and her head control showed improvement. Way to go Tracy! Mom & Dad Go To Dinner At Wahoos This Evening While Tania Stays WithTracy ~ Mom and Dad enjoyed a spontaneous dinner at Wahoos this evening while Tania stayed with Tracy! They have pretty good jerk chicken wings and spinach salads. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Dateline NBC This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and the dogs enjoyed watching Dateline this evening. It was about the college coed, Amanda Knox, who is a suspect in the murder of a British college student in Perugia last November, 2007. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Avoiding Negative Vibrations: Taking On The Energy Of Others ~

Thursday, December 4th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning. Veronica taught a great class. The temperature was perfect and there was lots of positive energy to share. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy this evening with Greg. He wrapped her lower extremities with ace wraps to help facilitate venous return and then it was time to transfer Tracy to the tilt table. Greg and Tania took baseline vital signs and then Greg cranked Tracy up to 30 degrees. He went up at a much slower rate this time, especially after Tracy bottomed out last week during her tilt table session. Tracy maintained stable vital signs throughout her session and progressed to 65 degrees for a duration of 8 minutes. Way to go Tracy! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Private Practice & Grey's Anatomy This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy and the dogs enjoyed watching two medically-themed shows this evening. Both shows surprisingly had patients suffering from traumatic brain injury. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Awakening To Change: Being Aware Is The First Step ~

Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Tai Chi This Morning ~ Mom tried a new practice today: Hot Tai Chi! It was a lot of fun and a different type workout, requiring intense mental focus! Mom is still hooked on Hot Yoga, but it was a nice change and good for crosstraining. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy this evening with Greg. He worked with Tracy on the mat, getting her seated on a balance disc for vestibular therapy and trunk strengthening. Tracy works so hard with Greg and Tania. After some warm up stretching, Greg, Mom, and Tania got Tracy prone on the mat (on her tummy) for more hip and hamstring stretching. Tracy tolerated over 30 minutes in this position (which is awesome)! We are so proud of her! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Aunt Diane, & Jeff Go To Lighthouse Aglow This Evening In Lighthouse Point ~ Everyone enjoyed seeing Santa arrive, little ballerinas dance to the Nutcracker, snowflakes coming down over McDonough Park, and the lighting of the giant Christmas tree and Menorah this evening. It was actually pretty brisk out, whcih added to the ambiance. Tracy did not like the cool wind that was blowing, so we ended up leaving a little early and drove around the neighborhood to see the pretty lights. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Eye Of The Beholder: Beauty ~

Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008 ~ Mom Goes Spinning With Uncle Johnny & Aunt Diane This Morning ~ Mom met Uncle Johnny & Aunt Diane at LA Fitness for a Spin class this morning. Holly taught a great class, very challenging! Tracy Has A Botox Appointment With Dr. Rubin At University Of Miami This Afternoon ~ Tracy had an appointment with Dr. Rubin this afternoon to get Botox injections in her pectorals, wrist and finger flexors, and extensors. Tracy did not like the shots, in fact she grimaced and was quite vocal, letting Dr. Rubin know her discomfort. Dr. Rubin sprayed Tracy's skin with a topical chilling agent, but she still felt the injections. All in all, Tracy got 30 plus injections! She is such a trooper! The Botox usually takes about 10 days to 2 weeks to take effect, helping to release and relax Tracy's tone in her fingers, wrists, chest and shoulders. Tracy Gets A Massage With Dee This Evening ~ Dee gave Tracy a massage this evening and stretched and ranged all of her major muscle groups through their full range of motion. Tracy sure does like her massages and therapy sessions. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch NCIS This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching NCIS this evening! It is definitely one of their favorite shows! Mom likes Ziba and Abby! Way kool! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Gut Response: In Touch With True Emotions ~

Monday, December 1st, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great hot flow yoga session this morning with Rachel. The temperature was nice and hot, perfect for a rainy, cool day! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. He and Tania transferred Tracy on the therapy mat and positioned her in long sitting. Greg worked on stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups, especially her hips and hamstrings. He then sat behind her and worked on trunk and neck strengthening exercises. Tracy is really working hard during her therapy sessions. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She even stuck her tongue out three times on command. 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: Universal Feelings: Everything Is Relative ~