Friday, July 31st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice this morning with Diane. Another great class! Luca Update: Luca is doing better today. His right hind leg is getting stronger. He is walking with a swagger, and runs into things with his butt. Dr. Cook said it will take several weeks for him to redevelop his strength. Mom made an appointment for Monday with Dr. Losier, the rehab vet, in Davie. He will have a Physical Therapy session to train Mom on a home PT program. Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Applebaum, The Chiropracter, This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a great session with Dr. Applebaum this afternoon. He has such healing hands. Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Afternoon With Susan At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had Hippotherapy this afternoon with Susan at Bit By Bit in Parkland. She started off riding Gypsy, but had to switch to Breezy because Gypsy had a saddle sore and was not cooperating. Tracy did a good job with trunk and head control. Breezy got a little spooked when she turned the corner and spotted something in the grass. Guess it wasn't a good day for horses! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! 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: Every Step Is Forward: No Going Back ~

Thursday, July 30th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Pick Up Nana For Hair Appointments In Lake Worth This Morning ~ Mom left around 8:30 AM this morning to pick up Nana for their hair appointments in Lake Worth. Mom Takes Nana To Lunch At Saquella Cafe In Boca ~ After their appointment, Mom and Nana had a lite lunch at Saquella Expresso Bar and Cafe. They had a great lunch, and then headed to Nana's appointment at the Harris Comfort Shoe Store to get her orthotics adjusted. Mom Takes Nana To Her Wound Center Appointment ~ Mom took Nana to her 3:30 PM appointment at the Wound Care Center. Her wound is almost totally healed. Luca Update: Dr. Cook said that Luca was recovering well, after his spinal surgery Monday. He has a Fentanyl patch for pain, and is receiving IV antibiotics and fluids. They pulled his catheter and he peed, so Dad will be bringing him home this evening! Yippee! We miss him so much and can't wait to get him home. Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Tracy Has 4 Ounces Of Lemon Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing 4 ounces of lemon yogurt parfait this afternoon. She really likes the new flavors of yogurt that Mom found at Publix. Fritz Is Sick & Cancels Tracy's Physical Therapy This Evening ~ Fritz has the flu and is nor able to come to work with Tracy this evening. We sure hope he feels better soon. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! 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: Seeing Perfection: Letting Your Light Shine ~

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning with Diane. It was a great class, very hot and very challenging. Every time Mom feels the class is getting easier, Diane adds a new difficult pose. It's a great class! Luca Update~ Dr. Cook said that Luca is doing well, and is standing on his left leg. He is still somewhat weak on his right leg. He has eaten some of his vanilla yogurt. If he continues to gain strength and is able to pee without the catheter, he will be discharged tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed. Mom Goes To Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Mom had another great Physical Therapy session with Kurt this afternoon. He added some more complicated and challenging exercises which Mom loved. PT is really making a difference. Mom has one more week (two sessions) left, and then she sees Dr. Fishman for a follow-up appointment. Tracy Has 4 Ounces Of Caramel Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tracy ate 4 ounces of caramel yogurt parfait this afternoon. She really seems to enjoy the new yogurt parfaits. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. They grow so fast! Tania does a really good job keeping Tracy beautiful! Tracy Continues With The Prefeeding Plan ~ Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we have been using different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). She is responding well to this "out of the box" approach to eating. The goal is to get Tracy eating and to remove her G-tube soon! Fritz Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Fritz worked with Tracy this evening on Physical Therapy. He stretched and ranged her major muscle groups, then attached the e-stim on her quads with passive range of motion on her opposite quads (Neuromusculst Reeducation). Then Fritz did anterior/posterior knee glides with mobilizations. Then Fritz, Tania and Mom got Tracy prone in Superman position for thirty minutes. This is such a great stretch for Tracy, and allows Fritz to stretch Tracy's hips and quads. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! 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: Cleansing You Power Center: Trusting Your Gut ~

Tuesday, July 28th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes For A Long Walk To Starbucks This Morning ~ Mom took the day off from Yoga and went for a long walk to Starbucks this morning. It was really hot and humid, and the air was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Roundtrip mileage is 5 and three-quarter miles! Whew! Luca Update: Dr. Cook said that Luca was recovering well, after his spinal surgery yesterday. He has a Fentanyl patch for pain, and is receiving IV antibiotics and fluids. He still has his catheter and will be able to go home once he is able to stand and pee without the catheter. Dr. Cook said it will take a few days for him to regain his strength. He is currently in the ICU and will move to a kennel as soon as he is ready. Tracy Has A Consultation With Patty LaBella, A New Speech Therapist In Weston This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tania and Tracy met Jodi and Patty LaBella At The PAL Clinic in Weston this afternoon for Tracy's new consultation. She was very prepared for Tracy, having read all of the reports Mom faxed last week, as well as Tracy's website. Her goal is to work on getting Tracy's G-tube out and her eating as soon as possible. She is an "out of the box" practitioner, which pleased Mom and Tania! She discussed with Mom and Tania the oral exploration approach, which is a prefeeding plan. Patty LaBella, Tracy's new Speech Language Pathologist, recommended that we work with Tracy on Oral Exploration each time she receives a bolus feeding of Jevity 1.2 in her G-tube. So, we will use different "munchables" such as frozen fruit (mangoes, nectarines, bananas, etc), vegetables (raw carrots, green beans, celery, etc) spread with spinach and artichoke dip, meats (chicken nuggats, mini sausages, etc), Greek olives stuffed with blue cheese, and other delicious items for oral exploration. Although Tracy is not allowed to eat these "munchables", we rub them on her lips, around her mouth, and let her smell them. Tracy is showing signs of wanting to eat, she even bit a piece of carrot (don't worry, we are ready to fish it out at a moment's notice!) The theory is for Tracy to experience these sensations, while she is getting a bolus of her canned feeding (Jevity 1.2). Patty also wants Tracy to get an updated Spectracell lab test, as well as another Modified Barium Swallow under fluoroscopy. Mom, Tania, & Tracy Stop By The Cooper City Animal Hospital To Bring Luca Some Yogurt & To Visit Him This Evening ~ The girls stopped off to see Luca this evening at the Cooper City Animal Hospital. Dr. Cook brought Luca out of his kennel so that we could visit with him. Poor Luca! He has 25 surgical staples up his back, and looks like he has a zipper! He seems to be handling the pain well, with the Fentanyl pain patch. He also has his urinary catheter and IV! Dee Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Dee worked with Tracy this evening on Physical Therapy. He stretched and ranged her major muscle groups, then worked with her head and trunk control in long sitting. He and Tania got Tracy straddled on the peanut ball, to work on more trunk strengthening and vestibular exercises. She is working so hard during her therapy sessions. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! 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: An Instant Vacation: Relaxing At Home ~

Monday, July 27th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. She sure does appreciate being back at Yoga after missing most of the summer due to her hip injury! Dad Takes Luca To The Cooper City Animal Hospital This Morning ~ Luca did not improve with the solumedrol over the night, so Dad took Luca to the Cooper City Animal Hospital for more tests and possibly surgery. Dr. Cook conducted a myelogram and noted that Luca has a ruptured disc (at his last rib juncture) and will need emergency neurosurgery this afternoon. Luna is so worried, she is not eating (and that is huge, since she loves to eat!). She is still searching all over the house, looking for Luca! Mom Goes To Physical Therapy With Kurt This Afternoon ~ Mom had a great Physical Therapy session with Kurt this afternoon. He even advanced Mom to some more difficult exercises, to strengthen her hip stabilizers. They seem to be working because she is able to balance better during her yoga practice. Wilmene Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Yogurt Mousse This Afternoon ~ Tracy ate 4 ounces of yogurt mousse this afternoon. She is doing such an awesome job moving her tongue to get the yogurt back and then swallowing. Our goal is for Tracy to eat every day, to strengthen her oral motor muscles. Luca Survives Spinal Surgery This Afternoon ~ Dr. Cook took Luca to emergency spinal surgery this afternoon after his myelogram revealed that he suffered a ruptured disc. He also went into the surrounding disc space and cleaned out the calcifications that had formed. Luca will have a long road to recovery but Dr. Cook is hopeful that, in time, Luca will make a full recovery. Tracy Relaxes & Stretches On The CPM In Her Room This Evening ~ Tracy ranged her right and left hamstrings and hips on the CPM this evening, tolerating an hour and a half on each leg. Mom Goes To Spinning This Evening With Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny ~ Everyone enjoyed Spinning this evening with Paul. He is such a great instructor, and everyone is going to miss him when he leaves in three weeks! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! 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: Finding Your Pinnacle: Mountain Meditation ~

Sunday, July 26th, 2009 ~ Dad Takes Luca To The Pet Emergency Center In Ft. Lauderdale This Morning ~ Dad took Luca to the Pet Emergency Center in Ft. Lauderdale this morning because his condition was worsening; he was not able to stand on his hind legs and his little brown eyes were screaming: Help Me! Poor Luca! The vet started an IV with solumedrol (steroids) and put in a catheter. The plan is for Luca to spend the night in the hospital, and if he does not medically improve, he will have to go to the Cooper City Animal Hospital for more tests and possibly surgery. Luna is searching all over the house, looking for Luca! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To J Marks For Jeff's Birthday This Evening ~ Everyone celebrated Jeff's birthday at J Marks this evening. Jeff decided to forego his birthday gifts and to donate to Bit By Bit Therapy Inc. in Tracy's honor. What a wonderful gesture. We are very grateful for his support. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Her drooling seems less too! 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: Finding Your Pinnacle: Mountain Meditation ~

Saturday, July 25th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a very challenging and invigorating practice this morning at Hard Body Yoga at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. Her skin looks really pretty! Mom, Dad & Tracy Watch Stage 20 Of Le Tour de France This Afternoon ~ It is hard to believe that Le Tour de France will end tomorrow on the Champs Elysees in Paris! This year's tour was a blur! We are looking forward to next year's tour when Lance Armstrong will have his own team sponsored by Radio Shack! It is great to have him back on the bike! Mom Takes Luca To The Vet Because He Is Limping & Whining ~ Luca has not been acting like himself since yesterday afternoon, when Tania noticed he was walking funny. He did not go to the door when the doorbell rang, nor did he run to the kitchen when Mom was fixing him and Luna some yogurt, his favorite. The vet took some xrays and did not see anything unusual. He did see a lot of gas in Luca's GI tract, and thought this may be the reason he is in pain. He gave Mom some Flagyl to give Luca in case he had a gastroenteritis. Wilmene Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Key Lime Pie Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing four ounces of Key Lime Pie yogurt this afternoon. She is really enjoying her daily yogurt treats! Tracy Has Speech Therapy This Afternoon With Aimee ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy this afternoon with Aimee. She worked with Tracy on her oral motor exercises. She first began with very cold lemon and glycerin swabs for some thermal stimulation to the arches in the back of her throat. Tracy showed some improvement, swallowing in two seconds (from three seconds several weeks ago). Aimee then put some honey on Tracy's chewy tube for her to practice chewing. She did a good job chewing on the tube. Then Aimee put honey on Tracy's lips and coached her to lick her lips. Tracy did a good job moving her lips. The goal is to get Tracy to strengthen her facial muscles to close her lips. This will also help with her drooling. Mom & Dad Go In The Hot Tub While Tracy Sits Outside Under The Palm Trees ~ It was a beautiful evening, (all the rain had moved through) and Mom and Dad decided to go in the hot tub for some much-needed relaxation. Tracy enjoyed sitting outside under the palm trees where there was a nice cool breeze! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Transforming A Misperception : Lack ~

Friday, July 24th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a very challenging and invigorating practice this morning at Hot Flow Yoga at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point.Wilmene Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Carmel Yogurt Parfait This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing four ounces of Carnel Yogurt Parfait this afternoon. She is really enjoying her daily yogurt treats! Tracy Has Hippotherapy On Gypsy This Evening At Bit By Bit With Susan In Parkland ~ Tracy did a great job with trunk and head contrl on Gypsy, an adorable large pony, this evening at Bit By Bit with Susan in Parkland. She missed last week, and has only had two Hippotherapy sessions over the past two months. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Stage 19 Of Le Tour de France This Evening ~ Everyone is really enjoying this year's Tour, especially with all the excitement of Lance starting his own Team: Team Radio Shack! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Exercising Flexibility: Mind Stretching ~

Thursday, July 23rd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Her Physical Therapy Session This Morning ~ Mom had her Physical Therapy session with Kurt this morning at Atlantic Rehab in Lighthouse Point. Unfortunately, she did regress a bit, during her week in Louisiana. She was a little disappointed, but will practice more this weekend. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure & Pedicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a manicure and pedicure this morning. Her nails look so pretty now! She really needed it! Wilmene Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Lemon Parfait Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing four ounces of Lemon Parfait yogurt this afternoon. She is really enjoying her daily yogurt treats! Dad, Mom, & Fritz Get Tracy On The Tilt Table During Her Physical Therapy Session This Evening ~ Tania had to leave early to attend her brother's graduation from the Police Academy this evening. Dad, Mom, and Fritz got Tracy's lower extremities wrapped, took her baseline vital signs, and then cranked her up to 25 degrees on the tilt table. It had been quite some time (over two weeks) since Tracy had been on the tilt table. Her vital signs remained stable during her twenty minute duration at 25 degrees. Then, Fritz cranked Tracy up to 40 degrees, where she remained with stable vital signs for twenty more minutes. Then, Fritz advanced Tracy up to 50 degrees for another twenty minutes, with stable vital signs. She is working so hard during her therapy sessions! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Stage 18 Of Le Tour de France This Evening ~ Everyone is very excited about this year's Tour. It is so great to have Lance back on the bike. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Transforming A Misperception : Lack ~

Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom had a very challenging and invigorating practice this morning at Hot Flow Yoga at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. Wilmene Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Flan This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing four ounces of Flan this afternoon. She is really enjoying her daily treats! Tania Reads Some Stories From Where Miracles Happen To Tracy ~ Tania read a story from Where Miracles Happen this afternoon. Tania Reads To Tracy From Her Anatomy & Physiology Manual This Afternoon ~ Tania read to Tracy from her Anatomy & Physiology Manual this afternoon. Tracy seemed pretty interested too! They learned about the SCM: sternocleidomastoid muscle. Mom, Tania, & Tracy Watch The Cash Cab This Evening ~ Everyone was happy to watch one of their favorite game shows: The Cash Cab! Fritz Comes To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Fritz came by to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He worked with Tracy on trunk and head control while she was seated straddled on the peanut therapy ball. She did a good job and worked very hard during her Physical Therapy session this evening. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Stage 17 Of Le Tour de France ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Stage 17 of Le Tour de France this evening. What a great tour! Go Astana, Lance, and Alberto Contador! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Working With A Larger Energy : Going With The Flow ~

Tuesday, July 21st, 2009 ~ Mom Gets A Massage This Morning By Fern ~ Mom had a great massage with Fern this afternoon at Merle Norman in Lighthouse Point. She sure does give a great massage. Tracy Has Speech Therapy This Afternoon With Jodi At NSU In Davie ~ Tracy had her final Speech Therapy session with Jodi this afternoon at NSU in Davie. It is hard to believe that the semester is over and that Jodi is going to do her externship next semester! She did a great job over the past two semesters working on Speech Therapy with Tracy. Today, after performing her routine oral motor exercises with Tracy, she and Tracy worked on the Dynavox Imax, using eye gaze to advance the pictures on the screen. Tracy did a good job with her favorite activity: Abercrombie and Fitch models with no shirts on! She moves very quickly through these very motivating pictures of hunky male models. Then it was time to demonstrate some vocalization. Tracy was much more quiet today than she was yesterday. She did make some sounds, although very softly. Tania Reads Several Stories From Where Miracles Happen To Tracy ~ Tania read several inspirational stories from Where Miracles Happen to Tracy this afternoon. She really enjoys being read to. Dee Comes To Give Tracy A Massage & To Do Physical Therapy With Tracy This Evening ~ Dee came by to give Tracy a much needed massage and to work with Tracy on the mat. After massaging and ranging all of Tracy's major muscle groups, Dee and Tania got Tracy on the peanut for some trunk strengthening exercises. It had been over a week since Tracy had any Physical Therapy, and, as always, she worked very hard! Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Evening With Veronica At Awaken Hot Yoga ~ Dad had a great Traditional Hot Yoga practice this evening with Veronica in Lighthouse Point. He was definitely long overdue. Today Is A Rest Day For Le Tour de France ~ Today was a rest day for le Tour de France. They'll be back in the saddle for more climbing in the Alps tomorrow. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Stoking The Fire Within : Awakening The Inner Warrior ~

Monday, July 20th, 2009 ~ Mom Takes A Pass From Hard Body Yoga This Morning ~ After only three hours of sleep this morning, Mom took a pass from Hard Body Yoga this morning. She was wiped out! Tania Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Applesauce & Bananas This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job swallowing four ounces of Gerber's applesauce and bananas this afternoon. She is really enjoying her daily Mom Gets A Much Needed Manicure & Pedicure This Afternoon ~ Mom went to Boca Nails to get a much needed manicure and pedicure. Wow! She can see her toes again and feel her feet! Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Evening ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this evening. They were way overdue, and Tania does a great job making Tracy even more beautiful than she already is! Tracy Has Been Very Vocal All Day Long ~ Tracy has been so vocal all day long, laughing and crying. She has been very emotional since we returned from Louisiana. Tracy Relaxes On The CPM This Evening ~ Tracy relaxed on the CPM this evening, ranging and stretching each hip and hamstring for an hour and a half. Since she does not have any Physical Therapy until tomorrow night, this passive range of motion exercise really is helping to keep her flexible. Mom Takes A Pass From Spinning This Evening ~ Mom was still tired and decided to take a pass from Spinning this evening. Hopefully, she will be back to herself tomorrow! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Learn & Let Flow : We Don't Need To Suffer ~

Sunday, July 19th, 2009 ~ Happy Anniversary Tiffany & Benny! ~ Happy Anniversary Tiffany & Benny: One Year ~ Wow! What a difference a year makes! Tiffany & Benny's wedding was one year ago today! Where does the time go? Tiffany made it back safely from Louisiana yesterday, after spending the week in Independence with family for Papaw's funeral. Papaw passed away, Sunday, July 12th. (Click on link to go to F. Fanancy "Snow" Anzalone Tribute and The Advocate to sign the Guest Book.) He was a great person, and will be truly missed by all! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Relax After A 14-Hour Ride Back From Independence, Louisiana ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy spent the day recovering from a very emotional week and a very long ride back to Lighthouse Point. They returned home around 3:30 this morning and did not get to sleep until 5 AM. LuLu arrived at 8 AM to help us with Tracy. After spending the morning unpacking, reorganizing, and getting Tracy ready for the day, everyone chilled for some well-deserved rest. Mom & Dad Go In The Hot Tub This Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad relaxed in the hot tub this afternoon while Tracy rested. They were lucky to get some spa time in before the afternoon thunderstorms came through. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Definitely Maybe & Mama Mia In Tracy's Room This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched two fun movies this afternoon/evening:Definately Maybe & Mama MiaI! They were just what the doctor ordered. Mom., Dad & Tracy Watch Stage 15 Of Le Tour De France This Evening ~ Another great stage in le Tour de France, Lance is still in second place, with one minute and 37 seconds behind. Team Astana is in the lead again, with Contadora in the maillot jeune on Tuesday, after their rest day on Monday! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Nourishment For The Soul : Breaking Bread Together ~

Saturday, July 18th, 2009 ~ Uncle Mike Takes Tiffany To The Airport For Her 8:30 AM Flight To Honolulu ~ Thank goodness for Uncle Mike! He took Tiffany to the New Orleans airport at 5:45 AM for her 8:30 AM departure to Honolulu via Denver. She made it home before we did! Mom, Tracy, Dad, Luca & Luna Leave Independence For Long Trip To Florida ~ After getting Tracy ready for the 14 hour trip and packing up all of the stuff and the dogs, it was time to get in the van and start our drive home. Dad's 10 AM target departure was extended by an hour and fifteen minutes! (Oh well, he should know better with girls traveling!) With minimal pit stops, we made it home by 3:30 AM! After unpacking the van, and getting Tracy settled, we made it to bed by 5:00 AM! Needless to say, we were all beat, especially Dad, who drove all but an hour of the trip! He is such a trooper (plus he doesn't really like Mom driving! LOL!) Everyone was excited when we made it to Tallahassee where there is a Starbucks right off the interstate. It has become one of their favorite stopping points, especially since all of the Starbucks were replaced by Dunkin Donuts on the turnpike! Mom was sure disappointed to see that! Luca and Luna did great on the trip, and enjoyed their little walks at the rest stops. They love to travel! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Seasons Of Beauty : Aging Gracefully ~

Friday, July 17th, 2009 ~ Everyone Relaxes With Family & Friends ~ Everyone spent the day relaxing with family and friends. It was so nice to be together with family during these difficult times.The Magliolos Come By To Visit With Us ~ Jenny and Vincent came by to visit with us for a while this evening. It was really good to spend some time with them catching up! Cousin Paul Makes Impressions For Tracy's Night Guard ~ Cousin Paul (the dentist) came by to visit and recommended that he make Tracy a night guard to protect her teeth when she grinds. He is such a sweet cousin. Tracy did such a good job tolerating the impressions! She was very cooperative. He plans to mail the night guard to us once it is made! Thank you cousin Paul. We'll let you know how she likes it. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Valuable Information : The Message Of Pain ~

Thursday, July 16th, 2009 ~ Everyone Relaxes With Family & Friends ~ Everyone spent the day relaxing with family and friends. It was so nice to be together with family during these difficult times. Cousins Phyllis, Jeff, and Nancy came over to visit. It was great seeing them. Mom Feeds Tracy 3 Ounces Of Blueberry Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job eating 3 ounces of blueberry yogurt this afternoon. She is swallowing so well. Mom, Mamaw, Tiffany, Caroline, Elizabeth, Kathryn Jean, & Tracy Watch A Special On JK Rawling's Life ~ Everyone chilled and watched a special on the life of JK Rawlings, the creator of Harry Potter! It was very interesting! Tiffany, Kathryn Jean, Elizabeth, & Elyse See The New Harry Potter Movie In Hammond ~ The girls went to Hammond to see the new Harry Potter movie. It was the late showing, so Tracy decided to not go. Everyone was pretty exhausted from the week's events. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: No Hard Edges : Creating Space In The Body ~

Wednesday, July 15th, 2009 ~ Today Is Papaw's Memorial Service ~ (Click on link to go to F. Fanancy "Snow" Anzalone Tribute and The Advocate to sign the Guest Book.) The family assembled at Mater Dolorosa Church for 10:00 AM visitation. The church looked beautiful with so many flowers. Papaw's medical bag was filled with beautiful silk crimson roses. Next to it were his stethoscope and his Army medals, framed in a shadow box. It was so surreal. Friends Gather To Pay Their Respects ~ They had to be close to a thousand people who gathered to pay their respects to Papaw Snow! He touched so many lives. He treated as many as four generations of families in Independence. The church was packed with so many of his colleagues, family, friends, and acquaintances. It was very overwhelming! The Memorial Service Was Beautiful ~ The Mass was beautiful, with every detail done to perfection. Papaw's granddaughters created the program and Cousin Tony and Uncle Johnny sang. Dad gave a touching eulogy, commemorating Papaw Snow's rich life full of accomplishments. At the end, he asked everyone in the church to chant "Go Tigers" as a final send off! It was so fitting for this dedicated Tiger fan! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Healing Our Bodies : Touch ~

Tuesday, July 14th, 2009 ~ Everyone Visits With Family & Friends ~ Everyone spent the day visiting with family and friends. It was so nice to be together with family during these difficult times. Many friends brought food to the house. The outpouring of love and support was overwhelming! Everyone Works Together On Arrangements ~ Everyone worked together to quickly organize the arrangements for Papaw. All of the girls worked on the program for the Funeral Mass. Tracy Gets A Manicure This Afternoon ~ Ethel gave Tracy a manicure this afternoon. We decided to go with natural on her nails. They looked really pretty! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Analyzing The Path : Recognizing Happiness ~

Monday, July 13th, 2009 ~ Everyone Visits With Family & Friends ~ Everyone spent the day visiting with family and friends. It was so nice to be together with family during these difficult times. Many friends brought food to the house. The outpouring of love and support was overwhelming! Mom Feeds Tracy 5 Ounces Of Raspberry Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Mom fed Tracy five ounces of raspberry yogurt this afternoon. She did a great job moving her tongue and swallowing. It took her no time to finish the five ounces. Everyone Works Together On Arrangements ~ Everyone worked together to quickly organize the arrangements for Papaw. All of the girls worked on the program for the Funeral Mass. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Freeing Up Energy : Healing What Hurts ~

Sunday, July 12th, 2009 ~ Papaw Passes Away Today At North Oaks Medical Center In Hammond, Louisiana ~ We learned the sad news that Papaw passed away this afternoon at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. (Click on link to go to F. Fanancy "Snow" Anzalone Tribute and The Advocate to sign the Guest Book.) Mom, Dad. & LuLu Pack The Car For The 14 Hour Trip To Independence ~ Everyone started packing their stuff for the long road trip to Independence. Dad made arrangements for Tiffany to fly to Louisiana this afternoon. We were in the car and on the road by 3:45 PM, Luca and Luna too! It was a long trip, with stopping only for gas and to walk the dogs. We arrived around 4 AM (thank goodness for the extra hour) and Uncle Mike helped us unpack the van and get settled. Everyone was very tired and ready to hit the bed, especially Tracy! She was so relieved to stretch out in her bed, and was asleep in no time! She is such a trooper! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Messengers Of Light : Rainbows ~

Saturday, July 11th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom had a great Hard Body Yoga practice this morning with Diane. It was a huge class and the energy was incredible. Dad Goes To Traditional Hot Yoga This Morning With Liz ~ Dad had a great Traditional Hot Yoga practice this morning with Liz. It is the Bikramesque 26 poses! Very challenging! Melanie Comes To Work With Us This Afternoon ~ Melanie came to work on the family of tight muscles this afternoon. Melanie Does Cranial Sacral Therapy With Tracy This Afternoon ~ Melanie gave Tracy a Cranial Sacral Therapy session this afternoon. She was very vocal and receptive. Melanie Gives Dad A Cranial Sacral Treatment ~ Dad enjoyed his Cranial Sacral Treatment this afternoon. It really helps his SI and lower back. Mom Gets A Swedish Massage From Melanie This Afternoon ~ Mom opted for a Swedish massage this afternoon. It was just what the doctor ordered. Mom & Dad Go IN The Hot Tub This Evening ~ Mom and Dad enjoyed the hot tub between the afternoon thunder showers. It is incredible the amount of rain we have had in South Florida this summer. And to think that last year we were in a drought with water restrictions! Mom & Dad Watch The Two-Hour Finale Of Harper's Island This Evening ~ This was a very scary mini series that Mom had really enjoyed watching. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Beings Of Light : Human Angels ~

Friday, July 10th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Diane ~ Mom had a great Hot Flow Yoga practice with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga this morning. It was just what she needed and the energy was high! It's always fun and challenging in Diane's class! Namaste! Tania Offers Tracy Some Yogurt This Afternoon But She Declines ~ Tania offered Tracy some yogurt this afternoon but she declined. Guess she is sick of yogurt. Mom is going to explore some other yummy alternatives. Mmmmm! Good! Tracy Has Hippotherapy This Evening With Susan At Bit By Bit In Parkland ~ Tracy had her first Hippotherapy session after her Baclofen pump replacement surgery six weeks ago. She had her first ride on Gypsy too! Gypsy is a large pony and a lot easier to reach for Dad and Susan. Mom thinks that she may even be able to reach Tracy on Gypsy! Tracy had her best session ever, demonstrating excellent head and trunk control. We are looking forward to more successful sessions with Gypsy in the future. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Stage 7 Of le Tour de France This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched Stage 7 of le Tour de France this evening. It is definitely one of Mom's favorite times of the year, especially now that Lance is back! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Lightening The Soul : Soul Evolution ~

Thursday, July 9th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Physical Therapy This Morning ~ Mom had a great Physical Therapy session at Atlantic Rehab with Kurt this morning. He is working Mom very hard to get her left hip and core stronger, so that she can prevent further SI joint injury. He is already seeing some major improvement after four treatment sessions. Tania Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Vanilla Activia Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tania fed Tracy 4 ounces of vanilla Activia yogurt this afternoon. She did a great job moving her tongue to process the yogurt to the back of her mouth and then swallowing. Great job Tracy! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Fritz This Evening ~ Fritz came to do Physical Therapy with Tracy this evening. He and Tania got Tracy's lower extermities wrapped with ace wraps and then transferred her to the tilt table for therapy. Fritz took Tracy's baseline blood pressure, which were very low. Dad attributes Tracy's low blood pressure to Tracy's increased Baclofen dosage. A subsequent blood pressure was also low, so Dad decided that we should abort the tilt table idea and do some stretching and passive range of motion for the remainder of Tracy's session. Tracy's tone was so loose this evening, until her Baclofen pump re-regulated to Tracy's standard dose. Mom., Dad & Tracy Watch Stage 6 Of Le Tour De France This Evening ~ Another great stage in le Tour de France, from Gerone to Barcelona! Lance is still tied for second place, and Astana is looking very strong as a team! We are so excited that Lance is back on le Tour and Team Astana! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Conscious Decisions : Going Against What Is Popular ~

Wednesday, July 8th ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hot Flow Yoga this morning with Diane at Awaken Hot Yoga Studio. It was a great class and Mom felt really great! Mom, Tania & Tracy Have A 1:30 PM Appointment With Dr. Galvez At Cleveland Clinic For Baclofen Pump Refill ~ Mom, Tania and Tracy went to the Cleveland Clinic in Weston for Tracy's Baclofen refill. They decided to increase Tracy's Baclofen concentration from 500 to 2,000 mcg/ml, so she doesn't have to get refills so often. Her next appointment isn't until December 4th! Mom Goes To Nana's To Adjust Her Bandage On Her Leg ~ Mom went to Nana's to readjust her dressing on her leg wound. Her leg is looking better with her elevating it. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Fritz This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Fritz this afternoon. He and Tania got Tracy quadraped over the peanut ball for weight bearing and trunk strengthening. Then it was time to straddle the peanut for trunk and neck strengthening and balance. Finally, Fritz did some Passive Range of Motion and stretching exercises. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy sessions. We are all very proud of her! John, From Medtronic, Came By To Check On Tracy ~ John, from Medtronic, came by to check Tracy's pump 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 has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Embracing New Information : Be Open ~

Tuesday, July 7th ~ Mom Has Physical Therapy With Kurt This Morning ~ Mom had Physical Therapy with Kurt this morning at Atlantic Rehab in Lighthouse Point. Kurt is working with Mom to improve her hip stabilization and core strength. She is very pleased with her improvement. He is making her work really hard. Tracy Has Speech Therapy With Jodi At NSU In Davie ~ Tracy had a good Speech Therapy session with Jodi at NSU. Jodi is continuing to work with the Dynavox Imax, which requires that Tracy use her eye gaze for communication. Tracy's eye gaze is stronger in the upper levels than the lower levels, which seems more difficult for Tracy to see. She is working really hard to hold her gaze on the various photos, especially the Abercrombie model's pictures. She goes through those pictures very quickly. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Dee This Evening ~ Dee came by to work with Tracy this evening on Physical Therapy. He stretched and ranged Tracy's major muscle groups, and then gave her a massage. Tracy was so happy to have Dee back after his baby break. He brought us a cute photo of his new daughter: Kimani. She is so precious. Dad Returns From Louisiana Very Late This Evening ~ Dad returned from Louisiana very late this evening. It was great to have him home safely. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Exercising Flexibility : Mind Stretching ~

Monday, July 6th ~ Dad Flies To Louisiana This Morning ~ Dad flew to Louisiana this morning to spend some time with Papaw. Tania stayed with Mom and Tracy. Mom Goes To Hard Body Yoga With Diane This Morning ~ Mom went to Hard Body Yoga with Diane this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point. It was a challenging class with lots of heat and positive energy. Mom is so glad to be back to yoga. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. She does such a good job! Tracy looks so pretty! Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Fritz This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Fritz this afternoon. He stretched and ranged Tracy's major muscle groups and then it was time for e-stim for Neuromuscular Reeducation. Fritz put the electrodes on Tracy's quads and then on her perispinous muscles for strengthening. Fritz worked on trunk and neck strengthening exercises, while Tracy was seated in long sitting. She is working so hard during her therapy sessions. Mom Goes To Spinning With Aunt Diane This Evening ~ Mom had a great Spin class with Aunt Diane and Paul this evening. He really challenged all the riders. It was a lot of fun! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Walking Through : When Doors Open ~

Sunday, July 5th ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Mass This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu Go To 11 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu went to 11 AM Mass at St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. It was a nice Mass. Mom, Dad, Tracy & LuLu headed to Starbucks after Mass for lattes and scones. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Le Tour De France This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy watched Stage 2 of le Tour de France this evening. le Tour has gotten off to a great start and it proves to be an exciting Tour this year. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Permanently Parents : The Changing Nest ~

Saturday, July 4th ~ Happy Independence Day! ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Stage 1 Of Le Tour De France This Morning ~ Mom is so excited that it is time for le Tour de France again! Wow! Where did the year go? Another year, another tour. This year is especially exciting because Lance is back! We are looking forward to an exciting three weeks! Good luck Lance and Team Astana! Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial this morning. Tracy really enjoys her spa days! Wilmene Feeds Tracy 4 Ounces Of Activia Vanila Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy ate four ounces of Activia vanilla yogurt this afternoon. She did such a good job swallowing the yogurt very quickly. Great job Tracy! Tracy Does Not Have Speech Therapy This Afternoon ~ Aimee did not come to work with Tracy this afternoon because it was Independence Day! We miss her and will see her next Saturday for Speech Therapy! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Go To Palm Beach To Watch The 4th Of July Fireworks This Evening ~ It was fun going to Palm Beach to watch the fire works with Nana, Anita, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, and Jeff. Uncle Johnny had all sorts of Subway sandwiches, chicken legs, salads, and Mom's favorite: flan! It was really yummy! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Opportunity For Reflection : Hard Days ~

Friday, July 3rd, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Cousin Guy ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom is so grateful to be back at Hot Yoga this week. She really enjoys Diane's classes, and so does the other 29 yogis that were there! It was a huge class and everyone worked really hard this morning. Mom has promised to listen to her body and pace herself this time around, to avoid reinjuring herself. Namaste! Mom Picks Up Nana & They Head To Lake Worth For Hair Appointments ~ Mom picked up Nana for their hair appointments in Lake Worth with Kerri @the Hairnet. Kerri does such a good job making the girls beautiful! We love Kerri! Tracy, Tania, & Wilmene Sit Outside By The Pool For Some Solar Power ~ The girls sat outside by the pool for some solar power this afternoon. Tania read to Tracy from the book: Where Miracles Happen. Tracy Eats About 3 Ounces Of Peach Activia Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Wilmene fed Tracy about three ounces of peach Activia yogurt this afternoon. She did a good job swallowing and moving the yogurt back with her tongue. Great job Tracy! Dad Takes The Dogs For A Walk This Afternoon ~ Dad took Luca and Luna for a walk this afternoon. He is training them to heel when they go for a walk. They are very smart dogs! Tracy Goes Into The Pool For The First Time This Year ~ Tracy's return to the pool for aqua therapy was postponed due to her surgery. We were so glad that the thunderstorms held out until after Tracy's pool therapy session. Fritz, Lori, and Dad got Tracy in the pool and they worked with her for about forty-five minutes, until the thunder began. Then it was out of the pool pronto, and into the shower before it started to rain! Tracy had a great pool session. She will sleep like a baby tonight! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Listening To Our Bodies : Illness Lessons ~

Thursday, July 2nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Physical Therapy This Morning ~ Mom goes to Physical Therapy at Atlantic Rehab this morning with Kurt. He is really working with Mom to increase her core strength for improved hip stabilization. Mom has some exercises to do at home as well. Mom, Tania, Wilmene, & Tracy Go To See The Proposal With Sandra Bullock This Afternoon ~ It was a good day for a movie since it was pouring with lots of thunder and lightning. The girls really enjoyed the movie! Sandra Bullock is such a good actress. Tracy Has An Appointment With Dr. Applebaum This Evening ~ Tracy had a 6:30 PM appointment with Dr. Applebaum in Boca Raton this evening. He worked with Tracy on some myofascial release and lots of stretching. She really loves her sessions with Dr. Applebaum. He is an exceptional healer. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Fuel That Nurtures : Eating Right To Feel Better ~

Wednesday, July 1st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning ~ Mom is so grateful to be back at Hot Yoga this week. It was her first advanced class in nearly two months. (Thank you God!) She really enjoys Diane's classes, and so does the other 29 yogis that were there! It was a huge class and everyone worked really hard this morning. Mom has promised to listen to her body and pace herself this time around, to avoid reinjuring herself. Namaste! Tracy Eats 2 Ounces Of Vanilla Activia Yogurt This Afternoon ~ Tracy did a good job moving her tongue to get the vanilla yogurt to the back of her mouth, and swallowing. She had about two ounces of Activia this afternoon. Good job Tracy! Fritz & Tania Get Tracy Back On The Tilt Table After About Six Weeks ~ It had been about six weeks since Tracy was up on the tilt table. She had a reprieve due to her Baclofen pump surgery on May 27th. After obtaining baseline vital signs and wrapping Tracy's lower extremities with ace wraps, Fritz cranked Tracy up to 25 degrees to establish a strong base. Tracy remained at each incremental elevation for at least 20 minutes before advancing to 35, 42, and then to 50 degrees where she remained for 10 minutes. Her vital signs remained stable at each elevation. She did a really good job during her therapy session. Tania & Tracy Hang Out In Tracy's Room This Evening ~ Tracy and Tania enjoyed hanging out in Tracy's room this evening. It is such a cozy and comfortable room. They watched TV while Tania gave Tracy a hand and foot massage, Tracy's favorite! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several weeks. She has been sticking out her tongue on command as well. She has been a lot more vocal and really trying to talk to us. Some days she is so vocal that she is shouting! Unfortunately, she has been drooling more than ever too. It could be due to so much tongue movement or possibly due to the increase in Baclofen. 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: Listening To Our Bodies : Illness Lessons ~