Thursday, July 31st, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good Bikram Yoga class this morning. It was very, very hot and humid! Mom Goes To Starbucks ~ Mom relaxed in Starbucks while she made her phone calls this morning. It is so hot out: with temperatures ranging in the low to mid 90s! Mom, Tracy, & Tania Take The Dogs To The Vet ~ Luca had an appointment for his bordatella booster and Luna's eyes are still irritated and red, so Mom brought her for a follow-up appointment. Dr. Stevens gave Luna some new eye drops which helped immediately. He thinks she has allergies! Mom wonders if she is allergic to her adorable Luca! LOL! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad had a great Bikram Yoga class this evening. He really looks forward to and enjoys his Bikram Yoga sessions! Mom Gives Luca A Bath This Evening ~ Mom gave Luca a much-needed bath this evening. He does not particularly care for his baths! Luna is a lot harder to bathe. Since they are both girls, Mom ends up taking her in the shower with her! Daily OM: Disapproving Faces : Not Everyone Will Like You ~

Weduesday, July 30th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Tracy Vomits About 6 Ounces This Morning Around 10 AM ~ Tracy vomited around 6 ounces this morning around 10 AM. We are never sure what precipitates her vomiting. Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom decided to take the day off from Bikram Yoga this morning. She ran some errands and got a lot done. Mom Goes To The Wound Center With Nana For Her Dressing Change ~ Mom picked up Nana and took her to the Wound Center for a dressing change. The wound on her right knee was bothering her, so the wound care nurse wrapped it with nonstick gauze. We hope it heals well. Mom Shampoos & Blow-dries Nana's Hair ~ Mom spent some time shampooing and blowing dry Nana's hair this afternoon. She really appreciates Mom's hairstyling! (LOL) Tania & Tracy Go For A Stroll Around The Neighborhood ~ Tania and Tracy went for a stroll around the neighborhood. They tried to take Luca and Luna along, but they would not cooperate and so they decided to leave them home with Wilmene. Those dogs can be so bad sometimes! Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Melanie & Jeff ~ Melanie and Jeff worked on Tracy's trunk and head control on the peanut therapy ball this afternoon. They straddeled her on the peanut and worked on balance, trunk stability and flexibility, and head control. Then they transferred Tracy to the mat in long sitting and worked on her hip flexibility. Mom made an appointment for next Wednesday, August 6th, with Dr. Galvez to increase Tracy's Baclofen dosage and to refill her pump. Hopefully, this will help reduce Tracy's tone in her left hip, and decrease her internal rotation. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Greg worked on Tracy's left hip, using the e-stim to assist in muscle re-education. The focus of her therapy these days is to release her left hip from internal rotation, so they are working the auxillary muscles: the psoas, the adductor, and the hip flexors. Mom Takes Luna & Luca For A Long Walk Around The Neigborhood This Evening ~ Mom took Luca and Luna for a long walk around the neighborhood this evening. They sure do like their evening strolls! Daily OM: Stuck In The Mud : Staying In Pain ~

Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. She is really happy to be getting back to normal after all the festivities! Yoga is a great way to focus and regroup after such a busy and exciting month! Mom Mails Four Packages To Tiffany & Benny In Hawaii ~ Mom mailed four big boxes to Tiffany and Benny in Hawaii filled with gifts from their wedding. It cost almost as much as an airline ticket to Oahu! Yikes! Tracy Has Her Last Speech Therapy Session With Aimee At NSU Until After Labor Day ~ Tracy had her last Speech Therapy with Aimee at Nova Southeastern University in Davie. She was awake and alert the entire session. Aimee started by playing different animal sounds such as a horse, dog, and cat and then had Tracy focus on the picture that matched the sound. Then Tracy and Aimee spent some time talking about their weekend. Tracy was ready to hit the switch, to advance the Step By Step switch with the prerecorded messages that Aimee had prepared. When they were finished, Aimee took out Tracy's Dynavox and hitched up the auditory pillow and the switch. Tracy advanced the menu on the Dynavox by hitting the switch with her right cheek, where Aimee had attached it to Tracy's wheel chair with a univeral mount. Tracy really knew what she wanted: she hit the switch on Vacation under Places To Go EIGHT TIMES, and an automated voice cried out: I LOVE going on Vacations! Mom and Tania got the hint; Tracy is ready to enjoy her summer vacation before it is time to resume Speech Therapy after Labor Day! Tracy also hit the switch many times under the section: Friends & Family and an automated voice said: I LOVE you MOM! AHHHHH! That sure did make Mom feel good! Looks like Mom is going to set up some mini-vacations for Tracy to go during August. Tracy's Physical Therapy With Dee Is Cancelled This Evening ~ Dee called to cancel Tracy's Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening, due to a mandatory meeting he had to attend. We sure do miss him when he's gone! He does a great job with Tracy! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening. Rachel taught the class and it was a little different than the usual, she played music and did the poses with the class. Daily OM: Taking Our Turn To Give : People In Need ~

Monday, July 28th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good Bikram Yoga session this morning. Vene taught and it was really hot and humid in the room. Mom sure is going to miss Vene when she goes to NYC. Friday is her last day teaching Bikram Yoga at Lighthouse Point. Mom Gives Tracy Extra Strength Tylenol This Morning ~ Tracy was grinding her teeth this morning so Mom gave her some Extra Strength Tylenol. She and Dad are going to make an appointment with Dr. Galvez to get her Baclofen dose increased. Mom Has An Appointment At Boca Town Center Mall ~ Mom had an appointment with Vikki at the Boca Town Center Mall this morning. Vikki is the make-up artist who did all the bridesmaids make-up for the wedding. She helped Mom pick out her color palette for Trish McElvoy and MAC make-up. Tania Waxes Tracy's Eyebrows ~ Tania waxed Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such a great job keeping Tracy beautiful! Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Melanie & Jeff This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy on the mat with Jeff and Melanie this afternoon. Jeff worked on Tracy's trunk and head control. Tracy is getting so much stronger and is balancing better on the mat. Mom Goes Spinning With Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny This Evening ~ Mom went Spinning this evening at 5:30 PM at LA Fitness in Deerfield. She met Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane. It felt great to get back to Spinning after about a two week break. Dad Attends A Community Meeting With Cousins Chip & Eileen ~ Dad attended a community meeting with Chip and Eileen this evening. Tracy Vomits About 4 Ounces Around 11:30 PM ~ Tracy was trying so hard to talk, moving her mouth, lips, and tongue. She was so alert and then vomited about 4 ounces. Mom thinks she got so excited that she threw up! Daily OM: Knowing Our Heart's Desire : Feeling Jealous ~

Phrase Of The Month: LOVE/COMMITMENT! ~ Affirmation Of The Month ~"I approve and love of myself, I am healthy, beautiful, loving, giving, I give thanks for all that I have and all that I shall be. I am open to all possibilities. I have abundance in all areas of my life, I begin again and again, to reinvent myself daily. ~ bmindful Website ~ Goal Of The Month: "Love one another as thyself." ~ Jesus Christ ~ Quote/Prayer Of The Month: "Toujours Toujours amor, ami. Oh mon ami, oh mon ami. Amor, ami. Toujours, toujours amor, mon ami. Toujours amor, toujours amor, amor, mon ami. Yes Lord, Forever Love! Yet years ago when my father wrote my mother, The last  anniversary card before his death and wrote :“To my best friend”, I first thought it less than his best, until I realized that in a world with so much woe, and full of  so many foes. To call my mother,his wife, “His Friend”, Was the best message to send. For after all is said and done there really is only one, who has loved us more than everyone. And for Benny we pray that it may be his Tiffany. And for Tiffany Her Benny that will fit the bill. When it all comes down to seeing still, who will be there  until the end. And be for ever each other’s friend. And so dear Lord we ask You now to bless this meal. And let us sit with each other to steal. A few more moments from Mother time. Until you come to end our rhyme. Let us appreciate this time together, And keep our love forever Amen. Toujours Toujours amor, ami. Oh mon ami,oh mon ami. Amor, ami. Toujours. toujours amor, mon ami. Toujours amor, toujours amor. Amor, mon ami! My Friend to the end!" ~ The Blessing Before The Meal, written/sung by Fr. John Mericantante at Tiffany's and Benny's Rehearsal Dinner ~ Poem Of The Month: The Best Of Friends by Jill Wolf ~ Song Of The Month: She's Everything by Brad Paisley ~ Book Of The Month: Riding The Wave Inside Out by Anita Allison ~ Yoga Pose Of The Month: Bhujangasana : Cobra Pose ~ Featured Website of the Month: Tiffany & Benny's Wedding Pictures On Pictage

Sunday, July 27th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Tiffany & Benny Made It Safely Back To Hawaii After Their Honeymoon In Napa Valley! ~ Tiffany and Benny made it safely back to Hawaii after a wonderful five days in Napa Valley and San Francisco. They even made it to the San Francisco Giants vs. the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game. They had dug out passes that gave them access to everywhere in AT&T park, even where the players hung out! They did several winery tours and even went on a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley! What great memories! Mom, Dad, LuLu & Tracy Go To Hippotherapy In Parkland ~ Tracy had a good hippotherapy session at Bit By Bit in Parkland this morning. She is sitting very tall and doing a good job with trunk control. She is trying really hard to hold her head up but still has some major work with head control. This will come with time. Greg Comes To Do Aquatherapy With Tracy In The Pool This Afternoon ~ Greg came by to work with Tracy in the pool this afternoon. Dad helped since Jeff is out of town at his niece's Baptism in Seattle. Tracy really enjoys the pool and the water was a steamy 89 degrees with solar energy alone. It is really hot and humid out, with highs in the 90s. You've got to love Florida in the summer time! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go For A Ride To Palm Beach This Afternoon ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy went for a ride to Palm Beach this afternoon. The Tour de France Ends In Paris This Evening ~ Mom is sad because the Tour de France ends this evening in Paris. Congratulations to Carlos Sastre and Team CSC! Now Mom is looking forward to the Olympics in two weeks! WooHoo! Daily OM: Feeling Threatened: Afraid Of The Truth ~

Saturday, July 26th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom & Dad Go To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom and Dad went to Bikram Yoga this morning. It was a great class with Lan teaching. Mom loves when Lan teaches! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a manicure this morning. She does such a great job on Tracy's manicures and pedicures! Melanie Comes To Give Dad & Tracy A Cranial Sacral Therapy Session ~ Melanie gave Tracy and Dad a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. They both love their CST sessions with Melanie. Melanie Gives Mom A Swedish Massage ~ Mom prefers a Swedish massage and Melanie has very healing hands! She was able to relax and enjoy it too, with all the wedding planning behind them now! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Stage 20 Of The Tour de France ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched the time trial and final official stage of the Tour de France. Tomorrow's stage is the final journey into Paris and is traditionally ceremonial in nature. Looks like Carlos Sastre is the winner of this year's Tour de France! Daily OM: Children Of Mother Nature: Trees And People ~

Friday, July 25th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Takes Nana To The Wound Center In Boca Raton This Morning ~ Mom took Nana to the Wound Center at Boca Raton Hospital this morning to get her wound treated and dressed. It had been quite a while since she had been there. Everyone remembered her from the time she went for hyperbairc oxygen therapy after her bilateral knee replacement surgery. Tracy Has Hippotherapy In Parkland This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a really good Hippotherapy session this afternoon at Bit By Bit in Parkland. She is trying really hard to hold her head up and is sitting very tall in the saddle. Nana, Uncle Johnny, & Rose Marie Come Over To See Tiffany's & Benny's Wedding Pictures This Evening ~ Nana, Uncle Johnny, and Rose Marie came over this evening to see the wedding pictures from the photographer. Dad connected the lap top to the television and we were able to watch them on the big screen. There are some really awesome ones! Daily OM: Solace In Service: Doing For Others ~

Thursday, July 24th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga this morning. Kim taught the class and it was a really good session. Mom Goes To Shampoo & Blow Dry Nana's Hair ~ Mom went to Nana's to shampoo and blow dry her hair. It is so nice to have family close by. Mom, Tracy, Tania, & Wilmene Go To See Mama Mia At The Movies ~ Mom, Tracy, Tania, and Wilment went to the movies this afternoon to see Mama Mia. It was a really fun movie and everyone had a great time! Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad went to Bikram Yoga this evening. Lan taught and she played music which was really different. Daily OM: Doing Our Best Work: Roles Of Support ~

Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga ~ Mom took the day off from Bikram Yoga this morning. She was able to catch up on chores around the house! Mom Takes Luca & Luna To The Vet Today ~ Luca woke up this morning walking on three out of four paws. He was not able to put down his left rear paw, and was walking like a tripod. Mom checked out his paw and leg and everything looked okay. She decided to take Luca to see Dr. Phillips to make sure that he did not have a fracture. Luna also has bloodshot eyes, and Mom thinks he might have conjunctivitis. Dr. Phillips put Luna on antibiotic ointment and pills. Looks like our puppies are recovering from a week of partying! They sure do have a wroof life! Mom Goes To Chiropractor Appointment For E-stim, Moist Heat, & Adjustment ~ Mom finally made her chiropractor appointment after three weeks. Dr. Colovito put moist heat and e-stim on Mom's lower back and neck. Then he was able to adjust her neck and left hip. Mom sure did feel better when he was finished. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Jeff & Melanie ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy with Jeff and Melanie this afternoon. Jeff got Tracy in long sitting position on the mat. He sat behind her for support. Tracy is sitting much straighter and is also holding her head up much better these days. We are seeing improvements every day: baby steps, baby steps! Jeff has been working very hard with Tracy on her trunk and head control and it really shows! Tracy Has Aquatherapy In The Pool With Jeff & Greg ~ Tracy had pool therapy with Jeff and Greg this evening. Even though the pool temperature was around 88 degrees without heating it, Tracy still had goose bumps! The sun is behind the house at 5:30 PM when Jeff and Greg are here. So Mom needs to heat the pool even though the ambient temperature is around 96 degrees! Tracy did an awesome job during her pool therapy. She was very vocal and worked very hard at keeping her head up and her trunk straight as an arrow. Dad Goes To Bikram Yoga This Evening ~ Dad finally went to Bikram Yoga this evening. It was his first time back since last Wednesday and he sure did feel it! How quickly the body forgets! Daily OM: Trusting Spiritual Assistance: Saying Thank You! ~

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008 ~Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great practice this morning at Bikram Yoga with Kim. It had been a week since she practiced and it felt really good to be back. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Aimee At NSU ~ Tracy had a good Speech Therapy session with Aimee at NSU this afternoon. Dr. Lowe videotaped the session so that our good friend Debbie Rand could catch up on what Tracy is doing during Speech. She is a Speech Therapist and is interested in working with Tracy on her Speech very soon. During Speech Therapy, Aimee began by letting Tracy feel different textures such as a bowl of rice, a soft boa, a prickly brush, a vibrating bumpy massager, etc. Then it was time to choose an activity from her eye gaze board. Tracy selected "The Wedding" over Vowels, and Aimee hooked up the Step By Step to Tracy's switch. She had prepared a dialogue about Tiffany and Benny's wedding from Tracy's webpage and everyone shared stories about the wedding. That took some time and everyone had a few laughs, even Tracy! Then it was time to work with the Dynavox! Tracy went through the various topics using her head switch and selected Feelings right away. She picked HAPPY from a list of feelings which included: Sad, Bored, Tired, etc. Then Tracy went right to the Fieldtrips section on the Dynavox and selected "I enjoy going on fieldtrips" not once but TWICE! Mom and Tania got the hint and they are planning a fieldtrip to the movies to see MAMA MIA Thursday! Tracy is trying very hard and doing a great job! She has been moving her mouth and tongue a lot and is trying to talk! Please pray that she talks soon! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this evening. Tania and Dee transferred Tracy to her therapy mat and they worked on long sitting with e-stim to help with muscle re-education. Dee massaged and stretched all of Tracy's major muscle groups. She was a little tight after a week of no "official" therapy! It's back to work for Tracy! Daily OM: The Journey Of Commitment: Entering Into Commitment ~

Monday, July 21st, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Aunt Candy & The Gang Arrive Safely In New Hampshire At 5 AM ~ Aunt Candy and the gang finally made it home safely at 5 AM after a long night with many delays. The weather was so bad in Boston that they were not allowed to take off until 1:30 AM from Palm Beach. Dad Takes Tiffany & Benny To Catch Their Plane For San Francisco ~ Tiffany and Benny left for their Honeymoon this morning at 10:30 AM. We sure did hate to see them go. They are spending the week in Napa Valley touring the wineries. They are planning a hot air balloon ride and the wine train tour. They will spend Friday at a Giants vs Diamondbacks baseball game and then spend the night in San Francisco before returning to Hawaii on Saturday! Mamaw & Papaw Leave For Louisiana ~Mamaw and Papaw returned safely to Lousiana this afternoon after a great week in Florida. Mom hated to see everyone leave! BooHoo! Tania Returns From New York Where She Was Attending Her Cousin's Wedding In The Bronnx ~We sure did miss Tania this whole week while she was up in NYC attending her cousin's wedding! We are all really happy that she is back! Tracy Relaxes On The CPM ~ Tracy relaxed on the CPM in her comfy bed while Tania read to her from Eat, Pray, Love. She is really pooped after such a whirlwind week! Mom & Dad Relax Out By The Pool & Enjoy The Hot Tub ~ Mom and Dad hung out by the pool enjoying the beautiful sunshine, reminiscing about the fun week they had. They can't believe it is over, and wish they could hit the rewind button and do it all over again! Everyone Watches The Tour de France This Evening ~ Everyone watched the Tour de France this evening. It sure isn't as exciting since Lance Armstrong is no longer a part of it! Daily OM: Trusting Spiritual Assistance: Saying Thank You! ~

Sunday, July 20th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Everyone Recovers From A Great Wedding ~ All the bridesmaids left this morning and it sure was quiet around the house. At least for a little while, then all the lingering family members arrived to spend the day by the pool. The weather was absolutely gorgeous, and everyone relaxed. Tracy was so tired that she spent half the morning catching up on her sleep. Mamaw and Papaw, Uncle Mike and Aunt Cheryl came over and they all had Chinese food for lunch. Aunt Candy and the gang, and Nana came over too. Our good friends the Abuans, and the Giangiulio's came over to say good bye. Cousins Gene and Tere came over too. Emil also came by on his way back north. Mom spent much of the day catching up on laundry. Everyone was really happy that Mamaw and Papaw decided to stay another day with us before heading back to Louisiana. Mom and Dad, Tiffany and Benny, wanted to hit the rewind button and do it all again! Dad Rides The Harley To The Beach To Bring Tiffany Her Veil ~ Tiffany and Benny met the photographer at the beach to take photos on the beach in Tiff's wedding dress and Benny's uniform. Dad drove out on his Harley to bring Tiffany's veil! Cal took some great shots of the bride and the groom on the Harley. Mom can't wait to see them! Daily OM: Fluid Like A River: Living Like Water ~

Saturday, July 19th, 2008 ~ Congratulations Tiffany & Benny! ~ Kerri & Vikki Come At 8:30 AM To Do Hair & Make-up For The Bridal Party ~ What fun it was for the bridal party, getting their hair and make-up done for Tiffany and Benny's big day! Kerri and Vikki did an awesome job and everyone looked gorgeous! The bride was so excited! Tracy was especially happy for Tiffany and Benny; smiling and laughing all morning long! Cal, Shawnee & Diego, Photographers & Videographer, Come For Photo Shoot ~ There was lots of excitement in the air while the bridesmaids helped Tiffany put on her beautiful wedding dress! It was like a fairy tale! The photographers took lots and lots of pictures! We can't wait to see the proofs! The Limos Arrive To Take The Bridesmaids, Bride & Her Father To The Church ~ Mom, Emil, and LuLu took Tracy to the church in the van, while the bridesmaids went in one limo and the bride and her father went in a second limo! The church looked beautiful, with all of the flowers: blue and yellow orchids and white roses! Cousins Jon and Mike ushered the guests to their seats, while the groomsmen kept Benny company in the sacristry. The bridesmaids looked absolutely gorgeous as they walked down the aisle, all best friends of the bride! The co-maids of honor, Kathryn Jean and Tracy, walked down together. Jon and Mike rolled down the white runner, and it was time for the bride and her Dad to appear! Dad Walks Tiffany Down The Aisle ~Tiffany looked absolutely breathtaking as she and Dad waited at the back of the Church for the big walk down the aisle. In fact, Tiffany jumped up and down a few times just like Tigger, her favorite Disney character! Dad looked so handsome in his Navy dress whites! It was so cute when they got to the front of the church, and Dad lifted Tiffany's blusher for a final kiss, before handing her over to Benny! He put the blusher back down on Tiffany's face, after the kiss, and then picked it up again! (It was funny and everyone chuckled.) Then Dad and Benny saluted each other! (Benny is in the Army and Dad in the Navy). It was a beautiful sight! The ceremony was amazing, with Uncle, Brother, Father John officiating. Uncle Johnny gave the best sermon about how marriage is like a football game. Of course, there were many LSU fans in the crowd so it was perfect! He made analogies to marriage: team, game plan, penalty (flag on the play), etc. It was so cute! Tiffany's best friend Claire and Benny's cousin Candice did the readings and Aunt Candy and Uncle Mike (Tiffany's godparents) and Benny's Dad, Richard and his Step Mom, Devin carried up the gifts. Uncle Johnny presented the newly married couple with a beautiful Papal blessing from Pope Benedict (no relation) at the end of the Mass. They were really surprised! At the end of the ceremony, the guests gathered on the steps for the sword ceremony! Four of the groomsmen are in the Army, and they raised the swords for Tiffany and Benny to walk through. It was breathtaking! Everyone Proceeds By Mini-bus To The Cocktail Hour On The Lanai At The Lighthouse Point Yacht & Racquet Club ~ The mini-bused took everyone to the cocktail hour/reception at the Lighthouse Point Yacht and Racquet Club! The cocktail hour was hosted on the lanai where the guests were serenaded with steel drums! The bridal party took pictures by the gazebo and on the dock with a backdrop of the marina. It was all so surreal! The Guests Have A Great Time At The Reception ~ Everyone had a great time at the reception. Tiffany and Mom used a wine label theme for the table numbers with vintage years from 1980 to 2008. Each label had pictures of Tiffany and Benny during each year, and the cards were presented seated in wine corks! It looked really nice! When the bridesmaids got to their seats, Tiffany had left them a surprise: glow in the dark flip flops that flashed when they danced! Mom left Tiffany and Benny a pair of their own at the sweetheart table: Tiffany white bride's flip flops with white satin bows and rhinestones and Benny a pairt that said JUST on the left flip flop and MARRIED on the right flip flop, so when he wears them in the sand, it leaves an impression! It was perfect timing, because everyone's feet were hurting from being in their shoes all day! There were several toasts by the Kathryn, the maid of honor, and Tony, the best man! Dad and Benny's Dad toasted the new couple! Then it was time for Uncle Johnny to say grace! Everyone enjoyed their meal and danced all night long to music with a live sax player and drummer. It was really fun! The night went by too fast, and before we knew it, it was time for Tiffany to throw the bouquet and Benny to throw the garter. Kathryn's boyfriend, Danny, caught the garter and put it on Kathryn! It was really funny! Then it was time for Benny and Tiffany to cut the cake. They used Benny's sword! It was all like a dream come true! Daily OM: Actively Participating: Showing Up For Life ~

Friday, July 18th, 2008 ~ Rehearsal Dinner Jimmy Buffett Style! ~ Bridesmaids & Close Friends & Family Go To Boca Nails For A Manicure & Pedicure Party ~ The bridal party, friends, & family enjoyed a fun time getting manicures and pedicures at Boca Nails this morning. Uncle Johnny surprised them with a Mariachi band to serenade the beautiful bride to be! It was such a surprise and so much fun! (Even Mom was completely surprised!) Everyone enjoyed mimosas, fresh fruit, and pin wheel sandwiches while getting pampered. All the bridesmaids got French manicures and pedicures. Tracy even got a French manicure and pedicure. Sophia, the Junior Bridesmaid, got midnight blue French finger nails to match her sash! The Bridesmaids Assemble The Centerpieces For The Rehearsal Dinner ~ The bridesmaids put together the centerpieces for the Jimmy Buffett themed Rehearsal Dinner. They filled glass bubble bowls with key limes, lemons and limes with a candle in the middle. It was so colorful and beautiful, just like a Caribbean island at sunset! The girls did a great job designing the table cards, placing each one on a lime or a lemon with a bright beach umbrella! The tables were named after famous Jimmy Buffet songs: It's Five O'clock Somewhere and Come Monday! Even Fruitcakes! The menu was an Island Buffet, complete with Coronas with a twist of lime. There was a Leblond rum bar with strawberry, lime and watermelon fruit. Tiffany did a great job creating a slide show of Benny and Tiffany's childhood. Close family members gave toasts to the bride and groom. Tracy even gave a toast using her step by step switch! It was very touching and brought tears to everyone's eyes. Everyone had a great time! Daily OM: Changing The Way We Relate: Making Over Our Partners ~

Thursday, July 17th, 2008 ~ Pray For No Rain! ~ Mom, Dad, Tiffany, Benny, & Tracy Get Ready For The Texas Barbeque At Our House ~ Mom and the gang spent the day getting ready for the Texas-style Barbeque at our house. There was plenty to do and everyone pitched in to get it done. The caterers arrived at 4 PM to start setting up for the party. The rain finally stopped, and it was a beautiful evening for the party. Mom counted around 75 guests, and they all had a great time. The food was awesome and the caterers out did themselves. The moon cooperated and rose over the water just in time for dessert.Lots of great memories were made this evening! When everyone left around 11 PM, Mom, Dad, Aunt Candy, Tanya, the boys and their girlfriends, Tiffany and the bridesmaids hit the hot tub! Daily OM: Experiences To Savor: Magical Moments ~

Wednesday, July 16th, 2008 ~ Pray For No Rain! ~ Mamaw & Papaw Arrive! Tiffany & The Girls Celebrate Her Bachelorette Party! The Theme Was Glitz and Glam: Sex and the City ~ Mamaw & Papaw, Uncle Mike & Aunt Cheryl Arrive From Louisiana This Afternoon ~ It was so nice to see Papaw, Mamaw, Uncle Mike and Aunt Cheryl this afternoon! They had a nice flight from Louisiana into Ft. Lauderdale this afternoon. Amanda & Jacqui Arrive This Afternoon ~ Two more of the bridesmaids arrived this afternoon. Amanda made it safely from Hawaii and Jacqui from Maryland. Betty & Claire Arrive On The Tri-rail From Miami ~ Our good friend Betty made it in safely from Naples, Italy and Claire arrived from Los Angeles! It is so good to have everyone here for such a special occasion. Liz Makes It In Safely From Maryland ~ Our good friend Liz made it in safely from Maryland. It is so wonderful to see her. Everyone Has A Great Time At Tiffany's Bachelorette Party ~ Tracy and Kathryn Jean, the two Maids of Honor, did a great job getting everything ready for Tiffany's Bachelorette party at the Hard Rock Cafe. The limo arrived on time and all the bridesmaids decorated the limo for Tiffany's Bachelorette party. Everyone met at the Italian Bistro at the Hard Rock Cafe in Hollywood. Tiffany and all the bridesmaids wore boas: Tiffany's was a white feather boa, while the maids wore a bright red boa! Tiffany wore a veil tiara and Mardi Gras beads that said Bride To Be! Dinner was wonderful! The bridal party jumped back in the limo after dinner, and the rest is sworn to secrecy! (If I tell you I have to kill you!) Dad & Cousin Jon Go To Miami International To Pick Up Jon's Girlfriend Courtney ~ Dad and Jon went to the airport (Miami) to pick up Jon's girlfriend, who flew in from Boston this evening. Daily OM: Under The Hood: Importance Of Looking Deeper ~

Tuesday, July 15th, 2008 ~ Mamaw & Papaw Arrive Tomorrow! ~ Mom Takes Tiffany To Her Dentist Appointment This Morning ~ Mom and Tiffany went to Tiffany's dental appointment this morning in Pompano. Dr. Camuccio examined Tiffany and then Bernadette cleaned her teeth! Mom Goes With Tiffany & Kathryn Jean To The Reception Venue ~ Mom, Tiffany & Kathryn Jean went to the final meeting at the Lighthouse Point Yacht and Racquet Club. Gina had everything under control. She is so on top of things! It is going to be a beautiful wedding! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee On The Mat This Afternoon ~ Tracy did her best work yet on the mat with Dee and Tania. They got her in long sitting positon on the mat and she sat up with little assistance, balancing herself and weight bearing through her hands. Then Tania and Dee worked with Tracy, simulating a rowing motion. Tracy did a really good job balancing and controlling her head. Her trunk and neck muscles are really getting stronger! Next, Dee hooked up the e-stim on Tracy for muscle retraining. She is doing such an awesome job! The Best Man & His Wife Arrive This Evening ~ Tony and Ashley, the Best Man and his wife, arrived safely this evening from Texas. Let the good times roll! Mom & Cousin Kathryn Go To Yoga This Evening ~ Mom and Kathryn Jean went to Bikram Yoga this evening. It was Kathryn Jean's first official Bikram Yoga and she did great! She is a natural! Tiffany & Benny Grill Chicken Feta Burgers & Hamburgers On The Grill ~ Tiffany and Benny cooked up a delicous dinner for everyone this evening. It was delicious and everyone had a great time! Aunt Candy & Cousin Kathryn Jean Make Nana's Favorite Italian Cookies ~ Aunt Candy and cousin Kathryn baked some Italian cookies (anisette wedding cookies) this evening. They were really good! Everyone Goes Swimming & In The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Everyone relaxed in the hot tub this evening and hung out by the pool. It was another great night and just what the doctor ordered. Daily OM: A Glimpse Of Perfection: Living A Day In Grace ~

Monday, July 14th, 2008 ~ Mom, Tiffany, Kathryn & Benny Go To Get The Van's Automatic Door Fixed ~ Mom had to go back to Ocean Mobility because the accessible door on the van was not working after Mom took it last week to get it serviced. Then Tiffany and Benny went to rent a car at Enterprise Car Rental in Coconut Creek. Mom, Tiffany & Kathryn Jean Go Shopping For Tiffany's Veil This Afternoon ~ Tiffany found the perfect veil to match her dress this afternoon. It is a plain veil with a blusher, very simple and elegant. Tracy's Occupational Therapy Gets Cancelled This Afternoon ~ Benny Goes To Pick Up One Of His Groomsmen: Max At The Airport This Afternoon ~ Max arrived in Ft. Lauderdale this afternoon. He is a good Army friend of Benny's. Aunt Diane, Jeff, Nana, Uncle Johnny, and Candy and her gang came down this evening and everyone had pizza for dinner. Candy made her famous Italian anisette cookies and everyone went in the hot tub to relax! Daily OM: Collective Good: The Greater Cause ~

Sunday, July 13th, 2008 ~ Pray For No Rain! ~ Mom Goes With Tiffany For Her Make-up Consultation ~ Mom & Tiffany went to Vikki's in Lake Worth for her make-up consultation. Vikki did a beautiful job! Tiffany looks beautiful! Tiffany & Benny Take Pictures By The Hillsboro Lighthouse For Their Engagement Album ~ Mom met Cousins Chip and Eileen this morning at the Hillsboro Lighthouse to take their engagement photos. The weather cooperated and the sky was a beautiful clear blue. They got some gorgeous shots. Cousin Kathryn, Co-Maid Of Honor Arrives This Afternoon ~ Cousin Kathryn arrived this afternoon from Louisiana. She is the co-Maid of Honor with Tracy. Tracy's Hippotherapy Gets Cancelled ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy got cancelled today. Dad could not get the automatic door open to the van open after Mom got them serviced last week. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Jeff & Greg This Afternoon ~ Jeff and Greg worked with Tracy on the thrapy mat this afternoon. The weather was too stormy for pool therapy. Jeff did Cranial Sacral Therapy while Greg stretched and ranged Tracy's hips, hamstrings, ankles, and feet. She got a great workout! We are so proud of all her hard work! It is truly paying off. Everyone Comes Over For Tilapia, King Fish, & Chicken On The Grill ~ Dad and Benny grilled tilapia, king fish, marinated, chicken, and corn on the cob on the barbie this evening for dinner. It was all really good and everyone enjoyed it. Aunt Diane and Jeff brought an apple brown betty pie and Mom's favorite cookies from Fresh Market. Everyone Goes Swimming & In The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Everyone relaxed in the hot tub this evening and hung out by the pool. It was just what the doctor ordered. Daily OM: Bringing Out The Best: Checks & Balances ~

Saturday, July 12th, 2008 ~ Tiffany & Benny Arrive From Hawaii This Morning ~ Mom and Dad picked up Tiffany and Benny this morning at Ft. Lauderdale International Airport. Everyone was so excited to see each other! Luna was especially happy to see Tiffany and Benny! She jumped up and down for twenty minutes! Tracy Gets A Cranial Sacral Therapy Treatment From Melanie This Afternoon ~ Melanie came by to give Tracy a CST session this afternoon. Melanie was drawn to Tracy's GI system, which was right on cue, since Tracy has had some diarrhea for the past few days! Maybe she is excited about the upcoming festivities! Mom & Dad Get Massages By Melanie This Afternoon ~ Melanie gave Mom and Dad a massage this afternoon. It was just what the doctor ordered after a long stressful week of wedding planning! Mom, Dad, Tiffany, Benny & Tracy Go To The Dave Matthews Band Concert In West Palm Beach This Evening ~ The rain cleared and it was a beautiful evening at the Dave Matthews Band concert this evening. Everyone relaxed and had a great time! Tracy really seemed to enjoy the concert. They played a lot of cover songs, unlike their concert last evening! (Friday, DMB opened with Tracy's favorite song: Seek Up! They also played Mom's favorite: Grey Street! Too Bad!) They were really great! Daily OM: Remembering The Moment: Enjoying Life ~

Friday, July 11th, 2008 ~ Mom Takes Nana To The Podiatrist In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom took Nana to the podiatrist in LHP this morning for a 9:30 AM appointment. Then it was off to Lake Worth for hair appointments. Kerri has the cutest shop: it's called @ the Hairnet! Very chic! Mom Drops Off The Table Cards At The Dream Makers This Morning ~ Mom stopped by the Dream Makers to give Rose the table cards and seating list this morning. Tiffany and Benny's big day is almost here! Wow! How exciting! Candy & The Gang Arrive In Palm Beach From New Hampshire ~ Candy, Tanya, Jon, Courtney, Mike and Olivia arrived in Palm Beach this afternoon. Mom and Nana went to see them after their hair appointments. It was so nice to see them. Everyone is really excited to be here and looking forward to the week's festivities! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening In Parkland At Bit By Bit ~ Tracy did a really good job sitting tall on Breezy this evening at her Hippotherapy lesson at Bit By Bit! She is doing much better with her head control too! Practice, practice, practice! Mom & Dad Work On More Wedding Details This Evening ~ Mom and Dad worked on the seating chart again this evening. They finished printing all of the table cards for the rehearsal dinner. Daily OM: Reviving A Community Tradition: Storytelling ~

Thursday, July 10th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great class today at Bikram Yoga. Kim taught a very invigorating class. Then Mom ran some errands, getting some last minute things wrapped up for Tiffany and Benny's upcoming wedding week! Mom, Tania, & Tracy Sit Outside By The Pool This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tania and Tracy sat outside by the pool this afternoon relaxing and enjoying (finally) some sunshine. Mom and Tania put Tracy on her gel seat in the lounge chair. She really seemed to enjoy laying in the lounge chair. Luna and Luca enjoyed lounging in the sunshine too! It has been raining every day, and Mom is praying for sunshine the week of the wedding! Mom & Dad Watch The Tour De France This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca and Luna watched the Tour de France this evening. It is great to have two US teams competing this year: Columbia and Garmin-Chipotle! Dad & Mom Spend Another Evening Working On Wedding Planning ~ Dad and Mom worked until the wee hours of the morning printing all of the table cards for the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception. It has truly been a work in progress for Mom, Tiffany and Dad! Even Tania, Tracy, Sophia, Aunt Diane, Uncle Johnny and Nana helped out along the way!

Wednesday, July 9th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga again this morning. She really enjoys her yoga practice. Vene taught the class and it was the perfect temperature. Not too hot! Mom Spends Time Running Errands In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom spent most of the early afternoon running errands for Tiffany's and Benny's upcoming wedding. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Jeff & Melanie This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy with Jeff and Melanie. They worked with her on the therapy mat in long sitting, utilizing e-stim on Tracy's left wrist extensors and triceps (10 secs intermittent on and off). Then they switched the e-stim to the right wrist extensors and triceps muscles. Then Jeff and Melanie worked on Tracy's trunk strengthening exercises, with static stretches to the erector spinae muscle group. Tracy is working very hard and showing signs of improved trunk strength and stability throughout her therapy sessions. Tracy is working very hard and showing signs of improved trunk strength and stability throughout her therapy sessions. Tracy Has Aquatherapy In The Pool With Jeff & Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had pool therapy this evening with Jeff and Greg. Mom made sure the pool temperature was a toasty 90 degrees. Tracy sure did appreciate the warm water. Jeff and Greg stretched and ranged Tracy's hips and hamstrings and worked on head and trunk strengthening while in the pool. It is the perfect opportunity to stand Tracy up with support so that she has some sensory input through the soles of her feet. It must feel so nice to be upright with minimal effects of gravity! Tracy worked very hard throughout her pool therapy. After the session, Tracy vomited about 12 ounces! She had her last can of Jevity 1.2 at 2:30 PM, so her stomach was still very full. Mom & Dad Watch The Tour de France Recap This Evening ~ Mom and Dad watched the Stage 5 Tour de France recap this evening. Mom is in heaven with her favorite time of year: The Tour de France! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: A Bridge To Acceptance: Dealing With Disappointment ~

Tuesday, July 8th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga again this morning. She is really managing wedding stress well through her yoga practice. Kim taught the class and it was very good! She has such good energy! There were a lot of students practicing which always make it more fun! Mom Spends Time Running Errands In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom spent most of the early afternoon running errands for Tiffany's and Benny's upcoming wedding. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Aimee At NSU ~ Tracy has two more sessions left with Aimee at NSU before the summer break Time is sure flying by! Aimee is doing a great job with Tracy. Today, Aimee put Tracy's hand in a big bucket of rice! She is working on sensory stimulation prior to her Speech Therapy sessions. Next, she had Tracy feel a furry, fuzzy, red boa. After that, Aimee let Tracy smell some of the items she had collected: barbecue sauce, Starbuck's coffee, and ground pumpkin. Then, Aimee had Tracy hit the switch to activate the Step by Step sequential switch. Aimee had recorded some phrases about her weekend in the Keys. The latter part of the session was spent preparing a toast for Tracy to give with her switch at Tiffany and Benny's rehearsal dinner. Shhh! Don't tell Tiffany! It's a surprise! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Dee this evening. First, he stretched and ranged all of Tracy's major muscle groups, then he applied e-stim to Tracy's upper trapezius muscles while she was in long sitting position. Then Dee applied the e-stim to Tracy's T-10 (20 amps) with cervical range of motion. Tracy's trunk stability is improving with muscle re-education and e-stim. She continues to work very hard! Mom & Dad Watch The Tour de France Recap This Evening ~ Mom and Dad watched the Stage 5 Tour de France recap this evening. Mom is in heaven with her favorite time of year: The Tour de France! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: Bringing Out The Best: Checks And Balances ~

Monday, July 7th, 2008 ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Bikram Yoga again this morning. She is really managing wedding stress well through her yoga practice. Vene taught the class and it was very, very tough! Mom Spends Time Running Errands In Lighthouse Point ~ Mom spent most of the early afternoon running errands for Tiffany's and Benny's upcoming wedding. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Jeff & Melanie This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy with Jeff and Melanie. They worked with her on the therapy mat in long sitting, utilizing e-stim on Tracy's left peroneal and tibialis muscles to promote neutral positioning of her left foot. Jeff placed a bolster under Tracy's knees to facilitate knee extension. They used the e-stim on Tracy's left quadriceps muscle to facilitate muscle activity. Next, they worked on cervical stabilization exercises. Then they positioned Tracy's right leg at 45 degrees with e-stim to encourage active knee extension. Tracy worked very hard and tolerated all of her exercises well. Mom Joins Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny At Spinning ~ Paul taught another high energy Spin class this evening at LA Fitness in Deerfield. It was really fun! Mom & Dad Watch The Tour de France Recap This Evening ~ Mom and Dad watched the Stage 5 Tour de France recap this evening. Mom is in heaven with her favorite time of year: The Tour de France! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: The Cycle Of Life: Aging Parents ~

Sunday, July 6th, 2008 ~ Wedding Countdown: 13 Days Until The Wedding ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To Hippotherapy In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy with Susan at Bit By Bit in Parkland this morning. Today was a major first for Tracy: she got to ride Breezy in a saddle with stirrups! Usually, she rides on a saddle pad and cinch with no stirrups, only a bridle. Today, she rode high in the saddle with stirrups! She sat up straight and tall, but is still struggling with her head control, even with the soft neck collar. She is improving every day with lots and lots of practice! Tracy Has Aquatherapy With Greg & Jeff ~ Tracy had aquatherapy with Greg and Jeff in the pool. Dad heated the pool to a toasty 88 degrees. The sun managed to stay out and the rain stayed away! Tracy did a great job in the pool. Her range of motion and flexibility seems to be improving with all of the various therapies she is experiencing. We are so proud of Tracy and all of her hard work! Tracy Relaxes In Her New Hill-Rom Bed After A Nice Warm Shower ~ Tracy relaxed in her new Hill-Rom bed after a nice warm shower this afternoon. She worked so hard today that she fell asleep around 7 PM! Mom, Dad, Tracy, Luca & Luna Watch Nadal Beat Federer In The Men's Finals At Wimbledon ~ In what has been termed the "greatest match ever played," Nadal beat Federer in the men's finals at Wimbledon today!"For five sets, through rain, wind and descending darkness, the two men swapped spectacular shots, until, against a slate sky, Nadal earned the right to fling his racket aside and collapse on his back, champion of the All England Club at last." The changing of the guard from Roger Federer to Rafael Nadal, ending the five year championship held by Federer. Mom & Dad Watch The Tour de France Recap This Evening ~ Mom and Dad watched the Tour de France recap this evening. Mom is in heaven with her favorite time of year: The Tour de France! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: Creating A Harmonious Home : A Home Of Love ~

Saturday, July 5th, 2008 ~ 14 Days Until The Wedding! ~ Stage 1 Of The Tour de France! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good practice this morning at Bikram Yoga. Stacy taught and it was really hot! Mom & Dad Get Surprise Visitors From Louisiana ~ Mom and Dad got a surprise visit from Jim and Bonnie from Louisiana this morning. It was just what they needed to break them away from wedding planning mania to recharge their batteries! Mom and Jim went kayaking while Dad and Bonnie caught up on lost time! They all enjoyed the hot tub and the pool in between the rain drops! Tracy Rests In Her Chair ~ Tracy relaxed in her chair while everyone watched Wimbledon and the Tour de France! Mom is in heaven since today is Stage 1 of the Tour! Dad Grills Ahi Tuna & Zucchini And Yellow Squash For Dinner ~ Dad made delicious seared ahi tuna and zucchini and yellow squash for dinner. Mom made a hearts of romaine salad with feta cheese. MMMM! Good! Daily OM: Recharging Your Batteries : Getting Run Down ~

Friday, July 4th, 2008 ~ 15 Days Until The Wedding! ~ Mom Takes The Day Off From Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom stayed home to help Wilmene with Tracy's morning routine today since Jenetta has the day off! Tracy Stretches & Ranges Her Hips & Hamstrings On The CPM ~ Tracy stretched and ranged her hips and hamstrings on the CPM for an hour on each leg. Her range of motion has significantly improved with therapy, baclofen adjustments, and alcohol block. Mom Goes To Nana's To Shampoo Her Hair ~ Mom went to Nana's to shampoo and style her hair.Father Brice Comes By To Give Tracy Holy Communion & His Blessing ~ Father Brice came by to bless Tracy and give her Holy Communion. Tania Works With Tracy's Head Control ~ Tania took off Tracy's head rest and worked with her neck strengthening exercises. Tania also gave Tracy a shoulder massage! She has such healing hands! She is difinitely one of Tracy's special angels! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy day working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Tracy's Hippotherapy Session Gets Rained Out This Afternoon ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy session got rained out this afternoon. We'll try again on Sunday. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Jeff & Diane's For Dinner & Fireworks ~ Mom, Dad and Tracy went to Jeff and Diane's for hamburgers, hot dogs and fire works to celebrate the 4th of July! Daily OM: Conscious Creation : The First Moments Of The Day ~

Thursday, July 3rd, 2008 ~ 16 Days Until The Wedding! ~ Happy B'day Cousin Guy ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good practice this morning at Bikram Yoga. Kim taught and it was really hot! Mom Gets A Massage From Fern ~ Mom got a massage this afternoon from Fern. It was just what she needed to get rid of stress! Mom, Tracy, & Tania Go To Embassy Suites To Meet With The Caterer ~ Mom, Tracy and Tania went to the Embassy Suites to meet with the caterer for the rehearsal dinner. Tracy seems very excited about being the co-Maid of Honor for Tiffany and Benny's wedding! Mom, Tania & Tracy Go To A.C. Moore To Buy Fun Stuff For The Wedding ~ Mom, Tracy, and Tania went to A.C. Moore to find all sorts of fun stuff for the bachelorette party! It is going to be so much fun! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: Accepting Yourself : A Dynamic Choice-maker ~

Wednesday, July 2nd, 2008 ~ 17 Days Until The Wedding! ~ Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good practice this morning at Bikram Yoga. Vene taught and it was really hot! Tracy Tolerates 6 cc's Of Yogurt ~ Tracy tolerated 6 cc's of Rogert Strawberry Yogurt this afternoon. She did a good job moving the yogurt back with her tongue and swallowing. Mom Goes To The Chiropractor For Moist Heat & E-Stim This Morning ~ Mom went to Dr. Colavito this morning for moist heat, e-stim, and an adjustment. Tracy Has Occupational Therapy With Melanie & Jeff ~ Tracy had Occupational Therapy with Melanie and Jeff this afternoon. Tania let her rest prior to her therapy, so that she would be ready to work hard during her session. Melanie and Jeff got Tracy prone on the therapy mat and worked on her head control. They propped Tracy up on her elbows so that she could weight bear through her shoulders. Tracy tolerated over 40 minutes on her stomach! Then it was time for long sitting, and more head and neck strengthening. She is improving a little bit every day! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Greg This Evening ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Greg this evening. He worked with Tracy in long sitting, placing e-stim on her rhomboids to help with head control. She tolerated 10 - 13 hz of e-stim this evening. Tracy is really working had during her therapy sessions. We are so very proud of her! Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: Breaking Family Ties That Bind : Parental Fears ~

Tuesday, July 1st, 2008 ~ 18 Days Until The Wedding! ~ Tracy Vomits About 2 - 4 Ounces At 2:30 AM ~ Tracy woke up around 2:30 AM this morning and vomited! Mom and Dad woke up just in time. It is a good thing that Tracy sleeps at the foot of Mom and Dad's bed. Not even Luca or Luna woke up! Mom Goes To Bikram Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a good practice this morning at Bikram Yoga. Kim taught and she was excellent! Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Aimee At Nova Southeastern University ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy this afternoon at Nova Southeastern University in Davie. She worked with Tracy on several activities. First, Aimee had Tracy feel different textures for tactile stimulation: rough (sand paper), spongey (little spongey letters of the alphabet), soft (a furry, feathery boa). Then it was time for Tracy's eye gaze board so that she can choose the activities for the session: Do Vowels or Do Talking. Of course, our girl chose TALKING! What else would our Tracy choose? She is trying so hard to talk! So, Aimee hooked up her Step By Step sequential switch with the dialogues that she prepared, one of Tracy's weekend and one which is a surprise for Tracy at the end of her session! They discussed the weekend activities, which included Tracy's hippotherapy session on Sunday that Aimee observed. Aime was so proud of Tracy's hard work and performance on Breezy! She commented on Tracy's posture: sitting up with a very straight spine! After their conversation, it was time to work with the Dynavox. Even though Tracy was a little sleepy, she managed to do well with the Dynavox and her switch. At the end of the session, Aimee hooked up the other Step By Step that she prepared, and she and Tracy practiced the toast which Tracy is going to give at the Rehearsal Dinner as part of her Maid of Honor duties. It was so beautiful that it had everyone in tears! Whew! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Dee gave Tracy a massage this evening and then it was time to work! He used the e-stim on Tracy's T-10, T-11, bilateral traps, and left Ilio-Tibial Band. Tracy is responding well to the e-stim. Then Dee got Tracy in long sitting position and worked on trunk rotation. Tracy's trunk strength is really improving with all her aggressive therapy. Mom & Dad Work On Wedding Details ~ Another busy night working on wedding details! Time is flying by! Tiffany and Benny arrive on Saturday, July 12th! We are really getting excited and can't wait to see them! Saturday evening, Mom, Dad, Tracy, Tiffany and Benny are going to the Dave Matthews Concert in West Palm. What a great way to kick off the wedding week! Woo Hoo! Daily OM: The Feeling Underneath : Compulsive Apologies ~

Phrase Of The Month: FRIENDSHIPS/RELATIONSHIPS! ~ Affirmation Of The Month ~"Love and approval, which we all seek, must be found within first. To have a relationship of substance, ones that are solid and of real value, we must first have such a relationship with ourselves." ~ Anita Allison ~ Goal Of The Month: "Always try to meet people with an open mind." ~ Anita Allison ~ Quote Of The Month: "People go through periods when they just aren't connecting on the level they want to be, particularly in long-term relationships. This is to be expected. No relationship is perfect or stays the same. All relationships go through changes. And the longer the relationship continues, the more changes it will have to endure. That's why it is very important to understand that all relationships require respect and consideration, no matter how long it has lasted. It is always about give and take and seeing people for who they really are, and not what we want them to be. Never spend your time focused on trying to change someone else. Always work on yourself first, because when you do, you may come to realize that the relationship you have with the person you are trying to change is not what you really want. Then you will move on to find a relationship that will bring balance and happiness in your life, not frustration, disappointment, and anger." ~ Anita Allison ~ Poem Of The Month: The Best Of Friends by Jill Wolf ~ Song Of The Month: You Give Me Something by James Morrison ~ Book Of The Month: Riding The Wave Inside Out by Anita Allison ~ Yoga Pose Of The Month: Trikonasana : Triangle Pose ~ Featured Website of the Month: Mindfulness.Com : This is a great website on Mindfulness!