Saturday, January 31st, 2009 ~ Tracy Eats 3 1/2 Ounces Of Guava Yogurt Today! ~ Mom & Dad Go To 10 AM Traditional Hot Yoga With Veronica ~ Mom and Dad had a great practice of Traditional Hot Yoga (Bikram-like) this morning. Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Melanie gave Tracy a CST session this afternoon. She was very vocal during her session! Melanie Gives Mom A Swedish Massage ~ Melanie gave Mom a Swedish massage this afternoon. It was just what the doctor ordered. Melanie Gives Dad A Cranial Sacral Session ~ Dad prefers CST and it really helps his lower back, shoulder, and knee. Tania & Gio Stay With Tracy While Mom & Dad Go To The Navy Ball This Evening ~ Tania and Gio hung out with Tracy while Mom and Dad went to the Navy Ball to celebrate 50 years of the Ft. Lauderdale Navy League Council. They met a lot of nice people and 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 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: Heart Meditation: Afraid Of Opening Your Heart ~

Friday, January 30th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Vinyasa Yoga practice this morning with Veronica. Tracy Eats 66 CC's Of Guava Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Wilmene fed Tracy 66 cc's of guava yogurt this afternoon. Tracy is really moving her tongue and swallowing well. Tracy's Hippotherapy Session Was Cancelled This Afternoon Due To Weather ~ The weather turned cold and windy this afternoon and Susan cancelled Tracy's hippotherapy session. Last time the weather was cold and windy both Tracy and Breezy were uncomfortable and Susan had to end the session early! 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 Concrete Dream: Goals ~

Thursday, January 29th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a great practice this morning with Veronica. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy prone (on her tummy) on the therapy mat to stretch out her hips and hamstrings. She tolerated 20 minutes in this position. Then they got her in long sitting to work on trunk and shoulder stretches. Tracy works so hard during her therapy sessions. Tania Massages Tracy's Facial & Jaw Muscles ~ Tracy has been grinding and clenching her teeth and jaw, so Tania massaged Tracy's face along her jawline. She seemed relieved when Tania massaged these tense muscles. Mom, Tracy, & Dad Watch Private Practice This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed Private Practice this evening. They missed Grey's Anatomy, which had the week off. 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: Things We Can't Control: Allow, Trust ~

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009 ~ Tracy Eats 6 Ounces Of Mango Yogurt Monday! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga this morning with Diane. It was great to be back on the mat after three days! The room was nice and hot! Everyone was very happy that the thermostat was repaired. Mom Takes Luca & Luna To The Groomer ~ Luca and Luna got groomed today and look so cute! They are so soft and furry! Luna Gets A New Goddess Safari House ~ Luna got a new Tommy Bahama wicker safari house today! She had been sleeping in her airline kennel for nearly a year, and, although it was cozy, Mom was afraid she was too cramped and didn't have enough room to stretch out. She seems to really love it! It has three windows so she has a nice view! Tracy Chews On Italian Sausage With Her Safe Feeder ~ Tracy chewed on Italian sausage with her Safe Feeder today. It is great because she can taste all of the flavors without the danger of choking or aspiration! (Wish we invented this gadget!) Tracy, Tania, & Wilmene Watch Barack Obama's Inaugural Concert This Afternoon ~ The girls watched Barack Obama's Inaugural Concert this afternoon (tivoed) while Mom took Nana to the podiatrist. They raised their hands and voices along with Garth Brooks during his song! Tania lifted Tracy's arms for her since Tracy is not able to raise her arms on her own. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg worked with Tracy on the mat today. He used the e-stim on her quads and parispinous muscles today for Neuromuscular Reeducation. Greg worked with Tracy's head and neck control and flexibility while he stretched her lower extremities. She was very vocal throughout the session. Tania Massages Tracy's Face & Head ~ Tania removed Tracy's headrest and massaged her facial muscles and her head. Tracy loves to have her head massaged. They are working really hard on developing strong head control. 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: Self-Body Scan: Blessing Our Bodies ~

Tuesday, January 27th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Bit By Bit Board Brain-Storming Meeting This Morning ~ Mom met Susan, Kathi and Chip this morning for a brain-storming meeting on expansion ideas for Bit By Bit. It was a very productive meeting. Mom Goes Shopping At Publix ~ Mom had fun shopping at Publix this morning. Tracy Has Speech Therapy This Afternoon With Jodi ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Jodi this afternoon. She was very awake and alert, and made a lot of good sounds. Jodi worked with Tracy on the Dynavox and Tracy was a hoot. She keep going back to the section on Friends And Family. She hit the switch several times to talk about Mom! Then Jodi worked on Tracy's oral motor exercises. Tracy was very good and opened her mouth on command while Jodi worked with the nuk brush. She is working really hard during her therapies. Tracy Has A Massage By Dee On The Therapy Mat ~ Tracy had a great massage by Dee on the therapy mat this evening. He worked on stretching Tracy's major muscle groups. 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 :Heart Meditation: Afraid Of Opening Your Heart ~

Monday, January 26th, 2009 ~ Tracy Gets Her Hair Highlighted & Cut This Morning ~ Kerri came by to highlight and cut Tracy's hair. She does such a beautiful job! Tracy looks beautiful! Mom Gets The Air Conditioner Ducts Cleaned Out ~ What a process getting the AC ducts cleaned out today! It was like a three ring circus! They had never been done before, even though the house is nearly 6 years old. It was time! Lots of dust! Tracy Catches Some Rays Out By The Pool With Mom, Tania, & Wilmene ~ It was a beautiful sunny day and everyone took advantage of the sunshine! Tracy got a little browner too! Tracy Eats 6 Ounces Of Mango Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy had 6 ounces of mango yogurt this afternoon. She swallowed very well; ithey were very distinct and observable swallows too! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg worked with Tracy on the mat, stretching and ranging her major muscle groups! He really worked on her hip flexors, adductors, and quads! He and Tania do a great job with Tracy! Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening With Uncle Johnny ~ Mom and Uncle Johnny had a great Spin class with Paul this evening. He works us really hard/ Mom, Dad, &Tracy Watch 24 This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching 24 this evening. It is one of Mom and Dad's favorite 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:Things We Can't Control: Allow Trust ~

Sunday, January 25th, 2009 ~ Nana's 67th Wedding Anniversary ~ Dad Works On Taxes Today ~ It's that time of the year again, and Dad spent the day getting the taxes done. Mom & Dad Go In The Hot Tub This Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad enjoyed a relaxing break in the hot tub this afternoon. Tracy relaxed on the lanai and enjoyed some fresh air. The wind was a little cool but no one complained since it was much colder around the country! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Dinner For Nana's Dinner At Matteos This Evening ~ Mom, dad, and Tracy met Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane and Jeff at Matteos this evening to celebrate Nana's 67th wedding anniversary! Everyone had a nice 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 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 Concrete Dream: Goals ~

Saturday, January 24th, 2009 ~ Mom & Dad Go To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom and Dad went to Traditional Hot Yoga this morning with Veronica. It was a very challenging class, with lots and lots of heat. Everyone was very happy that the thermostat was repaired. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Tracy gets a facial this morning! She sure does love her spa days. Wilmene snf Tania do a great j ob keeping Tracy beautiful! Aimee Comes To Work On Speech With Tracy ~ Aimee, Tracy's Speech Therapy student clinician from the past two semesters at NSU, came by to work with Tracy this afternoon. She began by working on Tracy's Oral Motor exercises, using the oral stimulator, the wash cloth, and the nuk brush. Then Mom got Tracy's Safe Feeder and put a piece of fresh banana in it for Tracy to taste. She moved her mouth around and worked on the banana a bit. Then Aimee hooked up Tracy's switches on her universal mounts. Aimee used Tracy's Step By Step Sequential Switch and recorded a few phrases about the week's highlights from the Inauguration. Tracy hit the switch with her cheek to initiate the conversation. Aimee encouraged Tracy to make some sounds, and Tracy did murmur very softly some ahh sounds. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To 4:30 PM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to evening Mass at St. Paul The Apostle Church in Lighthouse Point. They took a ride to Starbucks after Mass and rode around Lighthouse Point to look at houses. There are so many houses for sale throughout Lighthouse Point. 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: Memories Of The Soul: Past Life Regression ~

Friday, January 23rd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Vinyasa yoga practice this morning with Veronica. Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan This Evening At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy did a good job with trunk control during Hippotherapy this afternoon. She showed some improvement in head control as well. She tolerated 30 minutes, and she and Breezy were pretty wiped out and ready to call it a day! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Numbers & Smallville This Evening ~ Thank goodness for TiVo! Everyone enjoyed catching up on Smallville and Numbers. 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: You Are Beautiful : Seeing Ourselves ~

Thursday, January 22nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Spinning With Aunt Diane This Morning ~ Mom had a great Spinning class with Nicky this morning at LA Fitness. Aunt Diane met Mom there, and they had a very challenging class. Tania Stretched & Ranged Tracy's Hands, Wrists, & Forearms This Afternoon ~ Tania massaged, ranged and stretched Tracy's hands, wrists, and forearms this afternoon. Greg Comes By To Work With Tracy On Her Physical Therapyt ~ Greg and Tania wrapped Tracy's lower extremities to help facilitate venous return and obtained baseline vital signs. Then Greg cranked Tracy up to 30 degrees on the tilt table. She maintained stable vital signs and progressed to 55 degrees, where she remained for four minutes, before she began to get restless, and orthostatic. So, Greg and Mom lowered Tracy down flat where she rapidly recovered. Next session on the tilt table, we will maintain Tracy at 50 degrees until she develops a stronger ortho-dynamic base. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Grey's Anatomy & Private Practice This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching some of their favorite evening shows: Grey's Anatomy & Private 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: The Upside Of Irritation: Things That Annoy Us ~

Wednesday, January 21st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Evening ~ Mom had a great hot vinyasa yoga practice this evening with Rachel. Apparently, there was a broken thermostat and the room was not very hot. Mom really enjoys the heat in her yoga practice. Nana Goes To The Dermatologist For Minor Surgery This Morning ~ Diane took Nana to the dermatologist this morning to have a small squamous cell removed from her right arm. She did well and is recuperating at home. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such a good job! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Greg came by to work with Tracy on her Physical Therapy. He and Tania got Tracy seated on the balance disc to work on balance. He then attached the e-stim to Tracy's quadriceps to work on Neuromuscular Reeducation. Then he and Tania got Tracy prone on the mat to work on back, hamstring, and hip stretches. Tracy tolerated 20 minutes in this position. 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 Truth Of Interdependence: Connection ~

Tuesday, January 20th, 2009 ~ Inauguration Day! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great hot vinyasa yoga practice this morning. Diane taught a challenging class! It was a lot of fun! Everyone Watches The Inauguration Festivities All Day & Evening ~ Everyone was glued to the television watching the Inauguration festivities! It was so exciting to see history in the making. May God bless our new President, the first family, and his administration. May God continue to bless Former President George Bush, his wife Laura, their family and staff. We are grateful for the way President Bush kept us safe throughout his tenure. Tracy's Speech Therapy Gets Cancelled Due To Transportation Issues ~ Mom brought the van in for service Monday and it took two days and nearly $1,000 to complete the work. Unfortunately, it was not ready in time as promised to go to Speech Therapy at NSU in Davie. It drives like a dream now, and the brakes actually work! Tania Works With Tracy On Her Oral Motor Exercises This Afternoon ~ Tania worked with Tracy on her oral motor exercises this afternoon. She also stretched and ranged Tracy's hands, wrists, and fingers. Dee Gives Tracy A Massage This Evening ~ Dee gave Tracy a much needed massage this evening. She will sleep well tonight! Who wouldn't after a wonderful massage from Dee! 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: Staying Afloat: Riding The Wave Of Life ~

Monday, January 19th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning. Diane taught a very challenging class, with one, two and three pound weights! It was a lot of fun!Tania Feeds Tracy A Cookie With Her Safe Feeder This Afternoon ~ Tania gave Tracy a cookie with her Safe Feeder this afternoon. Tracy is chewing well enough to get some of the flavor from the Safe Feeder without the danger of choking or aspiration. Tania Removes Tracy's Head Rest To Work On Neck Strengthening Exercises ~ Tania worked with Tracy on her neck strengthening exercises by removing her head rest this afternoon. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Greg came to work with Tracy on her Physical Therapy this afternoon. He spent some time ranging and stretching her major muscles while in long sitting. Then, he and Tania positioned Tracy on the balance disc to work with balance and vestibular exercises. Tracy's trunk control has improved but she is still having to work very hard on her head and neck control. Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening With Diane & Johnny ~ Mom went to Spinning this evening with Aunt Diane and Uncle Johnny! Charlie was subbing for Paul and taught a tough class! Whew! What a work out! Mom & Dad Watch 24 This Evening ~ Mom and Dad are hooked to this season's 24! Wow! What a story line! 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: Evolution Through Exploration: Purpose ~

Sunday, January 18th, 2009 ~ Our Good Friends Jenny & Vincent Are Visiting From Louisiana ~ We have been enjoying our good friends Vincent and Jenny's visit from Louisiana. You always know the sign of good friendship: you can not spend time with each other for years and it feels like you never lost touch! Jenny & Mom Go Swimming At The LPYRC Pool ~ Mom and Jenny hit the pool and did some laps at the Lighthouse Point Yacht and Racquet Club. It was a little cool but they warmed up once they got going. Jenny & Vincent Make Shrimp & Corn Chowder For Us ~ Jenny made us corn and shrimp chowder and everyone relaxed and watched the Inauguration Concert before the NFL Playoff Games. Nana and Aunt Diane came over and had lunch with everyone. It was soooo good! Mom gave Tracy a piece of potato in her Safe Feeder and she seemed to enjoy all the seasonings! Mmmm! The Safe Feeder allows you to put some solid food inside the mesh bag without allowing any food to cause choking or aspiration. Great invention! Our Friends Leave For Louisiana ~ It was time to say goodbye to Jenny and Vincent after their brief visit. We sure did have a good time with them! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch NFL Football & Brothers & Sisters This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the NFL Playoffs and Brothers & Sisters this evening. Too bad the Super Bowl did not come down to a Pennsylvania Super Bowl! Mom was pulling for that! Mom had one eye open and fought to stay awake to see the ending. Argh! Why am I so tired? 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 Most Fulfilling Road: Finding Your Next Step In Life ~

Saturday, January 17th, 2009 ~ Today Is Tracy's Sixth Anniversary Of Her Cardiac Arrest & Subsequent Brain Injury! ~ Our Good Friends Jenny & Vincent Are Visiting From Louisiana ~ Mom, Dad, Jenny, & Vincent Go To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, Jenny and Vincent went to the 10 AM Traditional Hot Yoga class with Veronica this morning. It was very hot and a lot of fun! Jenny and Vincent did a good job on their first experience with Traditional Hot Yoga! Everyone was pretty relaxed after the class. Of course, they had to hit the Starbucks drive-thru on the way home! Melanie Comes To Give Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Melanie came over to give Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. Mom participated in the session, and Tracy did amazing. She was very vocal, making lots of sounds to the music. Melanie brought Tracy the new Olivia Newton John CD which includes lots of spiritual music and chanting. It is so pretty! Tracy demonstrated good eye contact with Mom and Melanie during her session. Luna Bella even was close by with her healing energy. Mom, Dad, & Jenny Get Massages By Melanie ~ Melanie gave Mom and Jenny Swedish massages and Dad a Cranial Sacral Therapy massage. It was just what they needed after a rigorous Hot Yoga class. Jenny & Vincent Make Chicken Piccata, Sweet Potatoes, Whole Wheat Angel Hair Pasta, & Spinach & Strawberry Salad ~ Everyone really enjoyed a delicious dinner made with love by Jenny and Vincent. Melanie stayed for dinner and we all ate in the dining room to celebrate Tracy's sixth anniversary of her arrest. We are so blessed to have Tracy with us, and for her to be making progress is nothing short of a miracle. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Vincent & Jenny Watch Iron Man This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the movie: Iron Man this evening. Mom struggled to keep one eye open during the movie, and managed to see enough to follow the story line. Movies put her to sleep after 10 PM, no matter what it is! 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 Most Fulfilling Road: Finding Your Next Step In Life ~

Friday, January 16th, 2009 ~ Our Good Friends Jenny & Vincent Are Visiting From Louisiana ~ Mom & Jenny Go Spinning While Vincent Works Out At LA Fitness This Morning ~ Mom & Jenny did the 9:15 AM Spinning class while Vincent worked out on the treadmill and weights this morning. Mom Takes Nana To Lake Worth To The Hairdressers This Afternoon ~ Mom and Nana had hair appointments at the Hairnet with Kerri this afternoon. Tracy Has Hippotherapy With Susan At Bit By Bit This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan at Bit By Bit in Parkland this afternoon. It was really windy and cool, and we had to cut Tracy's lesson short because Tracy and Breezy did not like the wind and the cold. It was only 68 degrees, but apparently that was too cold for them. Everyone Enjoys Bonefish Macs This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed ribs and seared ahi tuna salad for dinner this evening from Bonefish Macs. It was soooo good. Then it was an evening of Smallville on the tube. 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: Removing Obstructions: Allowing Our Light To Shine ~

Thursday, January 15th, 2009 ~ Today Is Tracy's Sixth Anniversary Of Her Accident In Florence! ~ Our Good Friends Jenny & Vincent Are Visiting From Louisiana ~ Mom and Vincent went to work out this morning at the Lighthouse Point Yacht Club. Vincent did the treadmill while Mom worked out on the elliptical. After they worked out, Vincent went to pick up Jenny at the airport and Mom went to a board meeting for Bit By Bit. She is now an official member of the Board of Directors of Bit By Bit. Tania Reads Tracy An Article On Spirituality ~ Tania read to Tracy this afternoon in her room while they waited for Tracy's therapy session with Greg. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Tania and Greg prepared Tracy for the tilt table by wrapping her lower extremities with ace wraps to facilitate venous return while she is vertical on the tilt table. They took her baseline vital signs and then cranked her up to 30 degrees for acclimation. Tracy progressed over the hour session to 55 degrees, which she tolerated for about 14 minutes. Tracy is doing such a good job with her therapy sessions and is getting incrementally stronger. The tilt table is such a good exercise because it helps build trunk strength, while providing weight bearing through Tracy's hips . It also assists with hemodynamic endurance, allowing Tracy's blood pressure, pulse, etc. to stabilize in a vertical position. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Vincent & Jenny Watch Private Practice And Grey's Anatomy This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching their two favortie shows this evening: Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice. Mom and Dad grilled some spicy Italian sausage, corn on the cob, and a mixed baby field greens salad. It was soooo good! 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: Releasing Negativity: Pity Party ~

Wednesday, January 14th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday PawPaw! ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga with Diane this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. It was a great class; very challenging, with lots of heat. Wilmene Feeds Tracy Italian Peppered Love Knots With Her Safe Feeder ~ Wilmene crushed an Italian Peppered Love Knot in her safe feeder this afternoon. Tracy did a good job chewing the cracker in the safe feeder mesh bag. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. Greg and Tania got Tracy on the therapy mat in long sitting to range and stretch her major muscle groups. Then it was time to roll her prone (on to her tummy). Greg is able to stretch Tracy's hamstrings and hips so much better in this position. Greg put the e-stim on Tracy's trapezius muscles and perispinous while she was prone. She tolerated 20 minutes in this position. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Vincent & Jenny Watch Private Practice And Grey's Anatomy This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching their two favortie shows this evening: Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice. Mom and Dad grilled some spicy Italian sausage, corn on the cob, and a mixed baby field greens salad. It was soooo good! 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: Clearing A Space For Change: The Weight Of Objects ~

Tuesday, January 13th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga With Veronica ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga with Veronica this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. It was a great class; very challenging, with lots of heat. Tracy Has Her First Speech Therapy Session With Jodi At NSU This Afternoon ~ Tracy had her first Speech Therapy session with Jodi, her new student clinician at NSU. Jodi did a great job and was very prepared for Tracy's session. She used the Step By Step sequential switch to welcome Tracy and to catch her up on their Christmas break. Then Jodi took out Tracy's Dynavox and they reviewed some of the new categories that Aimee had added. Tracy looked a little sleepy, and had her eyes closed during part of the session. She did not sleep well last night, and it was apparent during the session. Mom commented that Tracy was initiating Jodi into the Speech Therapist fold by giving her a hard time, and Tracy opened her eyes and laughed! Dr. Lowe and Jodi discussed some potential goals for Tracy during this semester. They decided that they will start incorporating more oral motor skill-building into her sessions. Dr. Lowe told Mom to purchase a special feeding device which will encourage chewing skills for Tracy. They are also going to focus on Tracy's vocalizing more so that she will be able to alert Mom and Dad when she eventually moves into her own room. Tracy also wants to plan a family trip to Hawaii to visit Tiffany and Benny sometime this year. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this evening. Tania suggested that Dee give Tracy a massage every Tuesday for the next month. He started this evening and Tracy was so relieved she smiled during the entire session. She sure does love her massage. 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: Clearing A Space For Change: The Weight Of Objects ~

Monday, January 12th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Body Yoga with Diane this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga In Lighthouse Point. It was a great class; very challenging, with lots of heat. Mom decided to stay for the next class and do a double header! She had an energetic class with Rachelle. Awesome! Tracy Gets A Pedicure & Eyebrows Shaped ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed pedicure this afternoon, while Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows. Tracy sure does soak up all the pampering that Wilmene and Tania provide. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy on the therapy mat for long sitting with e-stim on Tracy's quads. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy, and Greg and Tania are very pleased with her continued effort. Mom Goes To Spinning With Uncle Johnny & Aunt Diane This Evening ~ Mom joined Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane at Spinning this evening at LA Fitness. Paul led an awesome class! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch 24 This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched another one of their favorite shows: 24 this evening. It was amazing! 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: Clearing A Space For Change: The Weight Of Objects ~

Sunday, January 11th, 2009 ~ Mom, Tracy, LuLu & Dad Go To 11:30 AM Mass This Morning At St. Paul The Apostle Church ~ Everyone went to Mass this morning. It was a beautiful day and Mass was very inspiring. Mom, Dad, Tracy, & LuLu Go To Butterfly World This Afternoon ~ It was Dad and LuLu's first time at Butterfly World and it was a picture perfect day. The butterflies were fluttering every where! Mom's favorite butterfly is the deep irridescent blue. It is so beautiful! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Spend The Evening Watching Their Favorite Shows ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy watched the season premier of 24, The Unit, Desperate Housewives, and Brothers & Sisters this evening. Thank goodness for Tivo! 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: It's Never Too Late: Getting Back To What You Love ~

Saturday, January 10th, 2009 ~ Mom & Dad Go To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Dad enjoyed their Traditional Hot Yoga practice this morning. Veronica taught and it was a great class. Tracy Gets A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. She sure does love her spa days! Wilmene Feeds Tracy 39 ccs Of Key Lime Pie Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Wilmene fed Tracy 39 ccs of Key Lime Pie yogurt this afternoon. She is doing a really good job moving the yogurt back and swallowing well. Mom & Tracy Watch Two Lifetime Movies This Afternoon ~ Mom and Tracy watched two Lifetime movies this afternoon: She Too Young & Mom At 16! Both are very interesting and address several social issues. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The NFL Football Playoffs This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the NFL football playoffs 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: Clarity Of Soul: Chakra Clearing Exercise ~

Friday, January 9th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga with Diane this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga In Lighthouse Point. It was a great class with lots of heat. Mom decided to stay for the next class and do a double header! She had an energetic class with Rachelle. Awesome! Mom & Wilmene Ask Tracy If She Wants Some Yogurt ~ Tracy refused some yogurt (by shaking her head NO) from both Wilmene and Mom this afternoon. Guess she wasn't really into yogurt today. Tania & Tracy Sit Outside By The Pool While Tania Reads Two Articles From Mom's Fit Yoga Magazine ~ Tania read two articles to Tracy from Mom's Fit Yoga magazine. They have some awesome articles on a host of topics! Tania read one on Tatoto You and Passing Through. Tracy Has Hippotherapy At Bit By Bit With Susan This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this afternoon at Bit By Bit with Susan. She and Dad side walked with Tracy while Kara led Breezy around the rind. Tracy did a good job with trunk control but had a hard time holding up her head. She was a little sleepy today and that seemed to take toll on her. After about 25 minutes she was pretty wiped out. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Grey's Anatomy & Private Practice This Evening ~ Everyone caught up on Thursday's programs this evening. Thank goodness for DVR! 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: Vast And Potent: Silence ~

Thursday, January 8th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Spinning With Aunt Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Spinninjg with Aunt Diane this morning at LA Fitness in Deerfield Beach. It was a great class with lots of climbing and high energy! Mom Takes Luna For A Walk ~ Mom took Luna for a walk around the neighhorhood. She also is trying a new dog food called Orijen, which is made from all natural ingredients and no ash byproducts. They seem to really like the six fishes! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy on the tilt table and wrapped her lower extremities with ace wraps to facilitate venous return. It has been several weeks since Tracy was on the tilt table, so Greg took her up slowly, starting at 30 degrees, after taking baseline vital signs. Tracy tolerated her session very well, getting to 50 degrees for 14 minutes. We plan to take her higheer next session. Tania Works On Tracy's Neck Control ~ Tania removed Tracy's head rest from her wheel chair and worked with her on neck strengthening for 17 minutes. Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch UF Gators vs. Oklahoma Sooners ~ Everyone was rooting for the Gators (yes, it is tough to admit it, but they are SEC)! 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: A Separate Reality: Disconnecting From The Source ~

Wednesday, January 7th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning at the new Awaken Hot Yoga Studio in Lighthouse Point. The studio looks amazing and it is hard to believe that they made so many improvements in less than a week. Recommended Reading: The Eight Limbs of Yoga. Mom Goes To Boca Raton To Shampoo & Blow Dry Nana's Hair ~ Mom went to Nana's this afternoon to shampoo and blow dry her hair. Mom also took Nana's blood pressure which was good, and changed her dressing on the skin lesion that the dermatologist removed yesterday. Mom Takes Luna To The Vet For Her Annual Physical ~ Luna had an appointment with Dr. Phillips this afternoon for her annual physical. She weighs 52 pounds, which is 10 pounds more than she weighed a year ago. (Shhh! Don't tell Tiffany, she'll report me to the ASPCA)! So, Dr. Phillips recommended that Mom put Luna on a low fat dog food to see if she loses some weight. Mom is also going to walk her more frequently and take her and Luca to the doggie park. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy in long sitting on the therapy mat to stretch and range her major muscle groups. Greg got behind Tracy and worked on her trunk and head control. When he laterally stretched her trunk, Tracy grimaced and let out a wail. She seemed very uncomfortable in this position, so Greg stopped. He and Tania tried transferring Tracy on the balance disc, and Tracy still appeared uncomfortable. So they took her off the balance disc, and worked on some more stretches. 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: Going Deep: Self-Examination At Depth ~

Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Veronica This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning at the new Awaken Hot Yoga Studio in Lighthouse Point. The studio looks amazing and it is hard to believe that they made so many improvements in less than a week. Recommended Reading: The Eight Limbs of Yoga. Mom Goes To Boca Raton To Walk On The Beach With Aunt Diane & To Help Her With Insurance Program Selection ~ Mom stopped over to help Aunt Diane with insurance programs this afternoon. They looked at the various pharmacy benefit companies servicing the south Florida market. Then they went for a walk on the beach and a dip in the hot tub. It was a picture perfect day! Mom, Tania, Tracy, Luca & Luna Go Looking For The Doggie Park In Lighthouse Point This Afternoon ~ Everyone went riding around Lighthouse Point this afternoon in search of the doggie park. They finally found it after driving for almost an hour. They finally gave up and decided to drive through Starbucks for lattes! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this evening. He and Tania got Tracy in long sitting on the therapy mat to stretch and range her major muscle groups. Dee got behind Tracy and worked on her trunk and head control. Dee did not observe any signs of physical discomfort when he worked with Tracy's trunk stretching. Dee even looked for triggers to Tracy's discomfort, but did not seem to find any. 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: What's Fun Got To Do With It: Finding Joy In Meaningless Tasks ~

Monday, January 5th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hard Body Yoga this morning at the new Awaken Hot Yoga Studio in Lighthouse Point. The studio looks amazing and it is hard to believe that they made so many improvements in less than a week. After Hard Body Yoga, Mom stayed for Rachel's Hot Flow Yoga class, doing a double header. She felt so great after three hours of yoga in the heated studio. Recommended Reading: The Eight Limbs of Yoga. Wilmene Feeds Tracy 36 ccs of Beechnut Stage 2 Mango Yogurt This Morning ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing 36 ccs of Beechnut Stage 2 Mango Yogurt this morning. Wilmene feeds it to Tracy through a syringe to help get it to the back of her tongue to help with swallowing. She is doing a good job moving it back and swallowing. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy in long sitting on the therapy mat to stretch and range her major muscle groups. Greg got behind Tracy and worked on her trunk and head control. When he laterally stretched her trunk, Tracy grimaced and let out a wail. She seemed very uncomfortable in this position, so Greg stopped. He and Tania tried transferring Tracy on the BOSU but she still appeared uncomfortable. Dad and Mom discussed the potential reasons for Tracy's discomfort (hip, pelvis, etc.) and will monitor this. Mom Meets Uncle Johnny & Aunt Diane At LA Fitness For Spinning With Paul ~ Mom met Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane for an awesome Spin class with Paul at LA Fitness in Deerfield. He rocks! 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: Honest Wisdom: The Power Of Not Knowing ~

Sunday, January 4th, 2009 ~ Mom, Dad, LuLu & Tracy Go To 11:30 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Everyone enjoyed Mass at St Pauls this morning at 11:30 AM. Mom & Dad Take Down The Christmas Decorations Today ~ It took all day to take down all of the Christmas decorations. Mom was sad to see them go back in storage for another year. Everyone Watches Football ~ Everyone watched the NFL playoffs this afternoon. Mom was rooting for the Falcons, especially since Matt Ryan was the rookie quarter back. She really did not have a preference for any of the other teams in the playoffs. She is looking forward to the end of football season. 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: All By Myself:When Isolation Is Okay ~

Saturday, January 3rd, 2009 ~ Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga In Delray Beach With Vene This Morning ~ Mom and Dad decided to go to Bikram Yoga in Delray Beach this morning at Balancing Stick Yoga Studio. It was their first time at this studio and it was really nice. The carpet had been removed in the yoga room and they had a painted concrete floor. It was unique to say the least. Vene, our friend who used to teach at Lighthouse Point, taught the class and it was really intense. The temperature was 101 degrees with 50% humidity, which translates to 115 degree heat index! Wow! Very hot! Mom & Dad Take Down The Christmas Lights ~ Mom and Dad took down the Christmas decorations since Dad will be getting his left knee scoped on Thursday. He won't be able to climb up any ladders after arthroscopic surgery, that's for sure! They plan to take down the tree and inside decorations tomorrow! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch The Atlanta Falcons vs. The Arizona Cardinals ~ Mom was rooting for the Falcons, because Matt Ryan, the rookie quarter back, played for Boston College. Daily OM: Working Through Silence: Noise As A Distraction ~

Friday, January 2nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Vinyasa Yoga With Kelly This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Vinyasa Yoga this morning at the Barkan Yoga Studio in Ft. Lauderdale. The new Awaken Hot Yoga Studio is opening this Monday and is promised to be GREAT! Mom is really excited to see the new improvements and will keep you posted. Recommended Reading: The Eight Limbs of Yoga. Mom & Sasha Go Kayaking This Afternoon ~ Mom and Sasha went kayaking in the South Grand Canal this afternoon. It was a beautiful day, even though the water was a little chilly! Mom left Luca on the dock this time. The last time she took Luca, he got soaked and Mom didn't want him to get cold! Sasha Leaves For Syracuse This Afternoon ~ Sasha had to go home this afternoon and we already miss her. She and Tracy had a great visit and we hated to see her go. She is such a wonderful friend, and we really enjoyed her visit! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this evening with Susan at Bit By Bit in Parkland. She had a great session, sitting up tall on Breezy, exhibiting very good trunk control and stability. She is still working on her head control. 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: Scheduling A Mini Escape: Taking A Snow Day ~

Thursday, January 1st, 2009 ~ Happy New Year! ~ Mom & Dad Are "On The Job" Today For Tracy ~ The girls have the day off for New Years, and Dad and Mom are "it" for Tracy's personal assistance. Nothing like the B team taking over on their day off. (LOL) Nana, Aunt Diane, & Uncle Johnny Come Over For The Day ~ Uncle Johnny said Mass for us at home. It is a great way to start 2009! Everyone hung out in the hot tub until the wind picked up and it got pretty cold (temperatures dipping into the low 70s)! The wind really annoys Tracy, so we all chickened out and went inside! Jeff joined us and Mom and Dad cooked (guess what) Tilapia and lasagna and everyone had a nice dinner and watched (come on now... what do you think you watch on New Years Day?) FOOTBALL! Chip & Eileen Visit Us ~ Chip and Eileen came over to exchange presents (better late than never) and we had a nice visit with them. Everyone was pretty tired from a late night (last night) to ring in the New Year, so it was an early bed time for everyone. Even the dogs turned in early! Daily OM: New Year's Resolutions: The Two Lists ~