Saturday, March 31st, 2007 ~ Tracy and Luca Complete Their First 4.2 mile Walk for the Broward Children's Center ~ Mom, Dad, Aunt Diane, Felicia, Tracy and Luca joined cousins Chip and Eileen and friends for their first Miles for Smiles Walk to support the Broward Children's Center. Luca wore his new Burberry plaid polo shirt and matching visor that Aunt Candy sent him. He looked so cute and was a huge hit! All of the kids really loved meeting him. Tracy did awesome in her jogger and everyone finished the walk! It was a great way to start the weekend! Daily OM: Eternally Present: Past Life Healing!

Friday, March 30th, 2007 ~ Tracy Sleeps In Her Chair Most Of The Day ~ Tracy was pretty sleepy today and chilled out in her chair outside on the patio with Luca most of the day. She must have been resting up for the long 4.2 mile walk tomorrow morning to raise funds for the Broward Children's Center! Tania Massages Tracy's Hands ~ Tania massaged Tracy's hands, fingers and wrists with lavender vanilla scented lotion. She really stretched and ranged her fingers, hands and wrists. Daily OM: Pausing To Drink: Beauty Day!

Thursday, March 29th, 2007: Happy Birthday Dad! ~ This evening, Mom, cousin Michelle, Tracy and Dad went to Houston's on the Intracoastal for dinner to celebrate Dad's Birthday! It was really crowded with an hour and a half wait! We decided to stay, since it was so beautiful out on the patio along the intracoastal with all the boats going by! We saw the sunset and the moonrise over the water. Our neighbor was there with her family and treated us to a glass of Pinot Noir in celebration of Dad's birthday! We met a nice guy named Dan who is in a motorized chair and came over to say Hi to Tracy. He was in a diving accident several years ago and broke his neck. He was so positive and an inspiration to Tracy and all of us! It was a lot of fun and a nice evening. Mom, Tania, and Tracy Continue Work on the Puzzle ~ Today, Mom, Tania and Tracy continued work on the Monkeyshine puzzle. They made a lot of headway, with over half completed. It sure is a relaxing way to pass the time while exercising the mind! Mom, Tania, and Tracy Take Luca For A Walk ~ Mom, Tania, and Tracy took Luca for an hour and a half walk around the neighborhood this afternoon. It was pretty hot and humid, and Luca fizzled out quickly. Mom ended up carrying him for most of the walk. He is scheduled for surgery on Monday morning for neutering. Ouch! Poor Luca! Daily OM: Your Most Vital Commitment: Finding Time For You!

Wednesday, March 28th, 2007: Luca Gets Groomed ~ This morning, Luca had a 9 AM appointment with Kristin to get groomed. He is still a little bit of a pistol when he is getting a hair cut! She gave him a puppy cut and he looks so cute. His fur has lightened up and he now has some blonde streaks, just like Mom. Luca is the son Mom never had! Mom tried to post a new picture of Luca and messed up the link! She is waiting for Dad to have some time to fix it! (She does not like it when computers are smarter than her! Good thing Dad is smarter than the computer!) Mom, Tania, Rose Marie, Nana and Tracy Work on a Puzzle! ~ Cousin Judy gave us a puzzle called Monkeyshines. It is so cute! Everyone worked on a little piece while they watched the Sony Ericcson Tennis Tournament in Key Biscayne (Miami)! (Tracy went to see Serena in 2002 and took some great photos of her! She really loves Serena!) Nana and Tracy were very happy that Serena defeated Maria Sharapova, winning the round! Dad, Chip and Eileen Go To A Panthers Hockey Game! ~ This evening, Mom hung out with Tracy and they watched American Idol while Tracy was on the CPM and Mom was Spinning! They also watched a segment about Venice on the Travel Channel. What a romantic city! (Is it a coincidence that we live in Venetian Isles and our canal is Canales Rialto, just like Venice!) Daily OM: Not Always Easy: Meant To Be!

Tuesday, March 27th, 2007: Tracy Gets A Massage With Dee ~ This morning around 10:30 AM, Dee came by to give Tracy a massage on her therapy mat. Dee worked on massaging and stretching Tracy's muscles for several hours. Tracy really seems to relax and enjoy her massages. He also worked on ranging Tracy's hips and hamstrings to maintain optimal flexibility. After Tracy's massage, Tania made everyone whole wheat pancakes and sausage. They were really good! Speech Therapy At FAU With Kristin and Joy ~ This afternoon, Tracy had her Speech Therapy session with Kristin at 4 PM. Tracy was pretty sleepy, most likely from her relaxing massage. Mom is going to check with Dee to see if there is another day that he can come. Tracy seems to have everything on the same day of the week! Tracy slept through most of the session. Mom, Tania, Joy and Kristin discussed Tracy's mid-semester goals and plans for next semester's Speech Therapy. We are hoping that Tracy will be able to attend FAU twice a week (Tuesday and Thursday at 4 PM) and Nova Southeastern (Wednesday afternoons) once a week for Speech. (During Tracy's session, Luca was mimicking Kristin's sounds MMM, Ahhh, etc. He is so smart! He was trying to talk to us!) Spinning At Home ~ This evening, Tracy and Mom hung out together and watch Dancing With The Stars! Tracy relaxed on the CPM while Mom did her Spinning and Dad did the taxes! Daily OM: Your Allies On Life's Journey: Finding Your Tribe!

Monday, March 26th, 2007: Tracy, Tania and Felicia take Luca for a Walk ~ This morning, Tracy, Tania and Felicia took Tracy for a walk around the neighborhood. It was a beautiful day with low humidity and lots of sunshine. Luca is walking more and hopping less on the leash. Mom swears he is part jack rabbit! (Luca does too!) Tracy Gets a Hand Massage: Tania spent an hour in the morning and evening giving Tracy a hand massage. The BoTox seems to be wearing off (she is due mid-April) and Tracy's hands and fingers are getting a little tighter. Tania used some yummy lotion to massage her hands, wrists and fingers. Tracy really seemed to enjoy her massage and even smiled and made MMM sounds! Monday Spin Class: Tania hung out with Tracy while Mom, Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane went to Spinning in Coral Springs. (Dad had a meeting to go to with cousin Chip!) Tracy spent some time LAUGHING really hard! Tania tried to figure out what was so funny, but Tracy was pretty secretive about it. As we all know, when Tracy laughs her beautiful face lights up like an angel! It is priceless! Tomorrow: Massage and Speech Therapy at FAU ~ Tomorrow, Tracy has massage and Physical Therapy with Dee at 10:30 AM and then Speech Therapy at 4 PM with Kristin at FAU! Daily OM: Transforming Anger to Light: Give Your Anger To The Earth!

Sunday, March 25th, 2007: Tracy, Dad, Mom and Joyce Perform Tracy's Therapy Outside ~ This morning, Mom, Dad, and Joyce got Tracy on the mat outside on the patio to do her Physical Therapy. They got Tracy on her tummy (prone) over the wedge on the mat so that she could weight bear through her shoulders. Tracy really relaxed and enjoyed being off her back, tolerating 30 minutes! Mom massaged Tracy's neck and shoulders while Dad worked on her feet and ankles. Then it was time for Dad to work on her habituation exercises to help with dizziness. Tracy really relaxed and enjoyed being outside by the pool. Dad and Chip's Birthday Celebration Dinner ~ The family went to Luna Pazza this evening to celebrate Dad's and Chip's Birthdays. Cousin Judy and Bryan, Eileen's parents Maria and Tony, and Nana's friend Rose Marie joined us. Daily OM: Fuel That Nurtures: Eating Right To Feel Better!

Saturday, March 24th, 2007: Mom, Dad. and Aunt Diane Head For Saturday Morning Spinning Class ~ Mom, Dad and Aunt Diane head to the health club in Coral Springs. Mom and Aunt Diane did the 9 AM Spin class while Dad worked out on the Elliptical and weights. Felicia hung out with Tracy and Luca. Tracy Soaks Up Some Rays Outside On The Patio ~ Tracy soaked up some rays on the patio in her chair this morning while Dad did her dizziness exercises. Tracy, Mom and Dad attend 5:30 PM Mass at St. Ambrose Church in Deerfield Beach ~ Tracy, Mom and Dad attended 5:30 PM Mass this evening at St. Ambrose Church. After Mass, the three of them watched the NCAA basketball playoffs. Daily OM: Treasures From Our Past: Inner Child Meditation!

Friday, March 23rd, 2007: Tracy Goes To Dizziness and Balance Center at North Broward Medical Center for Follow-up Visit ~ Tracy had a follow-up visit at the Dizziness and Balance Center at North Broward Medical Center. Jeff, the PT who specializes in vertigo, spent time demonstrating special exercises for us to perform at home. These exercises are meant to "habituate" Tracy to specific movement and help her resolve her vertigo and associated dizziness. Dad, Felicia, Tania and Mom participated in the hands-on educational demonstration. Jeff believes it will take several months for Tracy to "habituate" to the exercises and to see an improvement. Tracy's Music ~ Tracy continues to enjoy listening to music mixes with her switch and Power Link 2. She is listening to various tapes that Mom had made several years ago for Spinning class. Tracy would love to receive some new music mixes from all of you! Please send her a tape with your messages and music picks! (Please remember that only audiotapes will work with her Power Link!) NCAA Basketball Playoffs ~ Dad and Tracy hung out and watched the NCAA Basketball Playoffs this evening while Mom and Aunt Diane got pedicures and manicures; finally getting the time to cash in on their Christmas gift certificates. Everyone enjoyed a Veggie Pizza from Big Louie's for dinner! Daily OM: Tangible Enchantment: Magical Things!

Thursday, March 22nd, 2007: Tracy Goes To The Neurosurgeon to Get Her Pump Refilled and Her Dose Decreased! ~ Tracy had an appointment with Dr. Alberico at Imperial Point Hospital to get her baclofen pump refilled and her dose decreased from 441 to 393 mcgs per day. This is a huge difference from the megadose of 1850 mcgs that Tracy had over a year ago! We will monitor her tone to see if there is any significant difference in her spasticity. Mom believes that Tracy no longer needs the baclofen and that we will eventually be able to turn off and remove the pump. Tracy's Music ~ Tracy continues to enjoy listening to music mixes with her switch and Power Link 2. She is listening to various tapes that Mom had made several years ago for Spinning class. Tracy would love to receive some new music mixes from all of you! Please send her a tape with your messages and music picks! Please remember that only audiotapes will work with her Power Link! Spinning! ~ This evening, Dad hung out with Tracy while Mom went to the 6:30 PM Spinning class in Coral Springs. As always, it was a great workout! Follow-up Appointment at Dizziness and Balance Center ~ Tomorrow, Tracy has a 12:45 PM follow-up appointment with Jeff at the Dizziness and Balance Center at North Broward Medical Center. Daily OM: Exploring Our Readiness: In-between Times!

Wednesday, March 21st, 2007: Tracy Spends The Day Listening To Music She Controls! ~ Tracy used her switch and Power Link 2 to turn her radio on all day long. Mom hitched her switch on her right side of her head rest and set the timer on the Power Link 2 at one minute. This setting allowed Tracy to listen to music recorded on a tape for one minute before having to hit the switch to activate the music. Mom had some old spinning taped music she used which had mixes of Tracy's favorite artists: J Lo, Madonna, etc. It is not possible to use CDs or Tracy's Ipod with the Power Link 2 because when she hits the switch, the CD would start over again. So, Tracy hit the switch every minute to turn the music back on all day long. Mom wanted Tracy to get plenty of practice hitting the switch. She will advance the timer to every ten minutes tomorrow. Tracy stayed awake all day and really seemed to enjoy having control over her own music! (Anyone who would like to make an audiotape for Tracy, with music or messages for her to listen to, would be greatly appreciated!) Mom ordered the new Power Link 3 which will allow Tracy to use two switches at a time. For example, she will be able to control her music and a light, a fan, a blender, anything that can be plugged in! Mom also ordered the Step by Step sequential switch which will enable Tracy to converse with us in a dialogue. More on this later. Daily OM: Tending The Hearth: Women's Work!

Tuesday, March 20th, 2007: Tracy Gets Her Weekly Massage Therapy: This morning, Dee came by to give Tracy a much-needed massage. She really seems to like her massages, often laughing and smiling and making sounds! Dee is another one of Tracy's angels that we are very blessed to have working with us! Tracy Goes To Nova Southeastern University for Augmentative Assistive Communication Technology Evaluation Part II: Tracy had her second evaluation at Nova Southeastern University Speech, Language and Communications Clinic this afternoon. She seemed very excited when she met Dr. Mary Ann Lowe, and the two masters students, Maiete and Lauren, who visited Tracy last week at our home. Kristine, Tracy's masters speech therapy student from FAU was also there! Dr. Lowe began by explaining to Tracy the purpose of today's evaluation: to find a convenient way for Tracy to communicate with the use of the latest technology. Dr. Lowe quickly observed Tracy's amazing head control and tried several types of switches. Tracy really liked being able to turn on the radio with her right switch! The Power Link connecter was programmed to turn the radio off after 30 seconds of listening time. Tracy realized this and turned the radio back on each time it went off! She responded to the therapy students requests: "Let's listen to the rest of that song!" by turning the radio back on! In fact, she hit the right switch so many times to listen to the music that Maiete and Lauren stopped taking the data (excess of 50 times during the 1 hour evaluation). Next, Maiete gave Tracy a Memory Mini Photo Album with pictures of Tracy's favorite things from her website. Dr. Lowe showed us a sequential switch called Step By Step on which she recorded several conversation statements: "Come look at my pictures in my photo album!" "Would you like to add a picture to my album?" and "I love to look at pictures with my firiends when they visit me!" This special switch was connected to Tracy's left switch. She really got excited when she saw that she now has a means to carry on a conversation! She did a great job hitting the switch to talk more about her new photo album! Mom plans to purchase some of the new equipment that Dr. Lowe shared with her so that we can continue with some of the great communication ideas at home. Mom is also looking into bringing Tracy to Nova Southeastern for augmentative assistive communication therapy in May when the new semester begins! Tracy Goes To FAU for Tuesday Speech Therapy: We made it to Speech Therapy at FAU a little late! We had to make a pit stop at home to drop off Felicia and to pick up Luca on our way to FAU from Nova Southeastern University! Luca was really happy to see us and jumped into his travel bag! When we got to FAU, Kristin worked with Tracy's switches. Dr. Lowe had recommended that we use the switches strickly for helping Tracy control her environment and go back to two eye blinks for YES and vocalizations for NO! So Kristin recorded some new things on Tracy's switches: "I would like to listen to music and look at my new photo album for the remainder of my session!" or "I would like to spend the rest of the session playing with Luca!" Tracy chose to listen to music and look at her photo album. Of course, Luca still managed to get most of the attention while Tracy and Kristin looked at pictures; he is such a ham! Daily OM: An Astounding Affirmation : Springtime!

Monday, March 19th, 2007: Tracy's Spa Day Manicure: Tracy was pretty wiped out today from the residual effects of a busy weekend. Felicia gave her a well-deserved manicure this afternoon. Tracy picked a cute sparkly copper color for her fingernails. Felicia did a great job with the polish while Tracy relaxed and caught up on her beauty rest. This afternoon, Uncle Johnny and Nana came over for a visit. It is so nice to have family close by! Spinning: This evening, Mom, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, and Nana went to 7:30 PM Spinning in Coral Springs while Dad hung out with Tracy! As always, it was a fun class and a great workout! Nana and Mrs. Rand sat on the sidelines and cheered everyone on! Daily OM: The Art Of Focus: Energy Protection!

Sunday, March 18th, 2007: Mom, Dad. Joyce, and Tracy Went to Mass at St. Paul's The Apostle Church! ~ Mom, Dad, Joyce, and Tracy made it to 12 noon Mass at St. Pauls. Mom and Dad were chosen to bring up the gifts during the Offertory. Luca and Mom Go For A Kayak Ride: Mom and Luca went for a kayak ride this afternoon. Luca is getting used to the kayak and really seems to love it out on the water with the wind blowing his fur and the sun shining! Nana, Aunt Diane and Uncle Johnny Came Over for Dinner: Mom baked tilapia in the convection oven along with roasted vegetables. It was really good. Tracy Experienced Nausea and Vomiting Around 11 PM: Tracy was nauseous and vomited about four ounces late this evening. She was half asleep when she vomited. Thank goodness Mom and Dad were right there when she vomited! Daily OM: Owning Your Emotions: Name It And Claim It!

Saturday, March 17th, 2007: Mom and Luca go to the Hairdressers! ~ This afternoon, Mom and Luca went to Lake Worth for a hair appointment. Everyone at the beauty salon met Luca several months ago when he was very little. They were so happy to see him again and could not believe how big he has grown! Luca was such a good puppy and sat in Mom's lap the whole time. While in Lake Worth, Mom and Luca got to see the St. Patty's Day Parade! Everyone wanted to know where Luca's green collar was. Mom was so glad that Luca's collar really is green! It saved him from getting pinched! Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca's First Ride to Gumbo Limbo Nature Park on the Little Yellow Boat! ~ This afternoon, Mom, Dad, Tracy and Luca went for a long boat ride to Gumbo Limbo Nature Park on the little yellow boat. Mom packed a little picnic and it was a beautiful evening with lots of boats out to celebrate St. Patty's Day! Daily OM: A Softer Touch: Apply Gentleness To Everything!

Friday, March 16th, 2007: One Hour and Ten Minute Tilt Table Exercise! ~ Mom, Felicia and Tania got Tracy on the tilt table this afternoon. It had been about two weeks since Tracy was on the tilt table. She did a good job tolerating 18 minutes at 60 degrees, maintaining stable vital signs. About 19 minutes into her 60 degree session, Tracy's color starting getting ashen and her blood pressure dropped. Mom, Tania and Felicia responded quickly and lowered her down, applying a cold cloth to her pulse points. Tracy rapidly responded and her blood pressure came back up to baseline. The tilt table allows Tracy to weight bear through her hips, knees and feet. She was pretty tuckered out after her 1 hour and 10 minute session. Dinner at the Lighthouse Point Yacht and Raxquet Club: Dad, mom and Tracy had a quiet dinner at the club. It was a great way to start the weekend after a long and busy week! Daily OM: An Invitation To Love: Angel Meditation!

Thursday, March 15th, 2007: Project "Tracy's Room" Begins! ~ Mom and Yvonne worked in Tracy's room today, cleaning out her closet and getting her room ready for renovations. The plan is to put in French doors in Tracy's room where there is currently a window so that she will have access to the backyard, pool, patio, flowers, waterfall, etc. We will also be installing ramps so that Tracy will be able to access each level outside, including the dock! Additionally, renovations will include adapting the bathroom closest to Tracy's room so that she will have a roll-in shower! We are hoping to have these renovations completed by May. Tracy's First Taste of a Cherry Popsicle! ~ This afternoon, Tania and Felicia worked on Tracy's oral motor skills. Tania gave Tracy some cherry popsicle for her to taste. Tracy tried real hard to stick out her tongue and got it over her bottom teeth. She is getting close to sticking it out. Mom can't believe she spent years when Tracy was younger getting her to NOT stick out her tongue and now she is trying to get her to STICK out her tongue! Cosmo Update! ~ This evening, Tania read to Tracy from the new Cosmo magazine that came in the mail today. Tracy is up on all the latest fashions and celebrity gossip, thanks to Tania and Cosmo! This evening, Mom went to Spinning while Dad and Tracy hung out. Dad made Tuscan white bean soup for dinner. It was realy good! Daily OM: Constructive Connections: Sharing With Your Neighbors!

Wednesday, March 14th, 2007: Tracy's Evaluation at the Dizziness and Balance Center at North Broward Medical Center! ~ Tania and Mom took Tracy for her 2 PM appointment at the Dizziness and Balance Center at NBMC. Two Physical Therapists who specialize in vertigo (that's dizziness) evaluated Tracy. They put special goggles on Tracy and then spun her around in different directions and watched her eyes which were magnified through the goggles. They were looking for upward or downward beating. Tracy's eyes showed a downward beating after she was moved in different directions. The PTs, after careful observation, believe that Tracy does not have Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Instead, they think she has central vertigal resulting from her anoxic injury. The goal is for them to develop a plan for Tracy to improve her dizziness. Tracy ran into Genevieve, Edna, Tiffany and Duemarie, all of her friends from Outpatient Therapy, while at NBMC. It was so good to see them! This afternoon, Tracy hung out in her bed with Tania and watched the Take Home Chef! Both Tracy and Tania like Curtis, the hot host of the show. Tania's dream is to meet up with Curtis in Publix in Lighthouse Point some day! This evening, Tania read to Tracy from Marley and Me. It is a cute story about a bad dog who gets into all sorts of trouble. Sound familiar? (Hint: LUCA) Tracy did a good job answering some questions about Marley from the book with her YES/NO switches. Daily OM: Lifting Pain's Veil: Bitterness!

Tuesday, March 13th, 2007: Tracy's Massage with Dee: Tracy had a great massage with Dee this morning. Tania brought some of her Ginger and Italian Orange invigorating massage oil to help keep Tracy awake and alert. Dee was easy on Tracy today and did not make her sit on the therapy ball, since she needed to be awake for Nova Southeastern University's home visit and evaluation. Tracy really enjoys Dee's massages. He has great healing hands! Tracy's First Evaluation for Augmentative Assistive Communications by Nova Southeastern University: This afternoon, Maite and Lauren, two students from NSU Speech-Language and Communication Disorders Clinic, came to our home to perform the first part of Tracy's evaluation for an augmentative assistive communications system. They will generate a report by next Tuesday when we will bring Tracy to NSU for the second part of her evaluation. This time she will be evaluated by Dr. Lowe, SLP supervisor who will try different technology and assistive devices on Tracy. Tracy's Speech Language Pathology Session at FAU with Kristin: This afternoon, Tracy met with Kristin for her weekly Speech Therapy session at FAU. Tracy was a little sleepy, but managed to stay awake and made some good sounds for Kristin. Kristin spent some time working on oral motor skills with Tracy, applying different scented and flavored lip glosses for Tracy to taste. She helped Tracy close her lips to blot the lip gloss by pressing her lips together. Kristin also showed Tracy some hot guy pictures that were cut out of Cosmopolitan magazine. Tracy was especially drawn to Patrick Dempsey's picture, who plays the famous Dr. McDreamy from Grey's Anatomy. Kristin used the small hand massager on Tracy's hands, arms, cheek, etc. She also used her YES/NO switches to ask her questions about whether she felt the massager on her cheek, hands, etc. Daily OM: Shifting Into Gratitude: The Question Of Worthiness!

Monday, March 12th, 2007: Tracy's First Trip To The Beach! ~ Tania, Mom and Luca took Tracy to the beach today! It was her first trip and she really seemed to take in all the sights, sounds and smells. It is Spring Break and there was plenty of activity going on. Since it was a trial beach run, we were able to get Tracy down the steep ramp at the public beach right by the lifeguard station, which of course was right up Tracy's alley! (Remember Tracy was a life guard!) Imagine the smell of the sun, the sand, the ocean, and sun tan lotion! MMMM! If ever there was a scent to be bottled and sold, this would be it! Tracy had such a good time at the beach that we plan on going back soon; this time we will bring a beach blanket so that she can get closer to the sand (and the life guards!) This evening, Tracy chilled out in her bed during her CPM session while Mom and Aunt Diane went to Spinning! Dad caught up on the usual paper work and Luca caught up on some sleep! He is such a funny puppy. He is really getting into his chewy sticks! Daily OM: The Wisdom Of Surrender: Relying On Others!

Sunday, March 11, 2007: Luca's First Kayak Ride! ~ Mom took Luca on his first Kayak ride today! He has his own life jacket and really loved being out on the water! Mom, Luca and Sasha went exploring in the canals in Lighthouse Point! It was a lot of fun and a great workout. Tracy hung out on the patio with cousin Michelle, Aunt Diane, Nana, and Rose Marie, while Joyce gave Tracy a manicure and a pedicure; today's color is hot pink, a perfect Spring hue. Tracy really likes her spa days! She soaked up the rays and really enjoyed herself. This evening, Cousin Michelle cooked a feast; grilled pork loin and chicken with rice and fresh vegetables. It was YUMMY! Uncle Johnny joined us and everyone had a good time! After dinner, everyone watched a DVD about Padre Pio. Tracy seemed to enjoy it too! Daily OM: Decorating Life: The World As Home!

Saturday, March 10th, 2007: Sister Goddess Weekend ~ This is the weekend that Sister Goddesses Unite! The house was full of women, the only male allowed was Luca! Everyone, especially Tracy, had a great time doing girley things: Spinning, catching up on their tans, enjoying the pool and hot tub, kayaking, bike riding, cooking, getting massages, etc. Melanie came over to work with Tracy. She gave her a Cranial Sacral Therapy session on the patio. Tracy was laughing throughout her session, and at times was really "cracking up!" Her laugh was contagious and everyone started laughing right along with her! Melanie gave Mom and Cousin Michelle much needed massages too! Tracy and Sasha had a great visit out on the patio. Sasha read Tracy some of the articles from Fitness magazine. Tracy really enjoyed hearing about transfats, healthy foods, and tips to trim fat! Now if we can only get her eating and swallowing! Nana and Aunt Diane came over and Cousin Michelle (who puts Rachel Ray to shame in the kitchen) made a yummy dinner of whole wheat spaghetti with sausage and meat balls. All the Goddesses enjoyed dinner in the dining room and then it was time to watch the movie The Secret! Liz spent some quality time with Tracy, asking her Yes/No questions with her switches. She brought out Tracy's snare drum and drum sticks and helped Tracy hold them in her hand. Liz is such a natural therapist! Tracy seemed to enjoy the beat and was very attentive; remnants of her days as the number two base drummer in the Key West marching band. Daily OM: Moving As One: Leadership And Responsiveness!

Friday, March 9th, 2007: TGIF! ~ Tracy and Sasha hung out on the patio and worked on their tans, just like old times at UM! Sasha filled Tracy in on all of the "happenings" and her job with NOAA. Tracy is making some new sounds and looks so "ready" to talk. She sure must have a lot to say! Liz, Mom and Cousin Michelle went shopping in Lighthouse Point while Tania, Felicia, Tracy and Sasha enjoyed the outdoors. This afternoon, Mom and Sasha went kayaking while Tania, Liz and Tracy went for a walk in the neighborhood. Cousin Michelle and Liz treated everyone to sushi and Thai food. It was really good, especially the hot papaya salad! Very spicey! This evening, everyone hung out and watched a creepy movie on Lifetime called Step Sister! It gave everyone nightmares especially Sasha! Daily OM: Perceiving The Infinite: Using Your Psychic Gifts!

Thursday, March 8th, 2007: Sasha and Cousin Michelle Arrive! ~ Sasha and Cousin Michelle arrived this morning for a LONG Sister Goddess Weekend! It is so great to have them visiting us. Tracy was so happy to see Sasha! Everyone headed outside to spend some time in the sunshine. Sasha came from DC/NOVA where it has been snowing! Cousin Michelle flew in from the Boston area where it has been really, really cold. So, needless to say, everyone wanted to get in the sun ASAP! Mom got out Tracy's switches and asked Tracy if she was happy to see Liz and she hit the YES switch not once but twice! Liz brought Tracy the prettiest Vera Bradley turquoise and brown beach towel for her birthday. Tracy really seemed to like it! This afternoon, Cousin Michelle (aka Rachel Ray) cooked salmon in the convection oven with fresh asparagus, zucchini and yellow squash! It was so good and healthy. We ate outside and everyone really enjoyed it. This evening, everyone hung out and watched T.V. and relaxed. The Sister Goddessed were all tired after a busy day. Luca was even tired. Daily OM: Shifting Into Gratitude: The Question Of Worthiness!

Friday, March 9th, 2007: TGIF! ~ Tracy and Sasha hung out on the patio and worked on their tans, just like old times at UM! Sasha filled Tracy in on all of the "happenings" and her job with NOAA. Tracy is making some new sounds and looks so "ready" to talk. She sure must have a lot to say! Liz, Mom and Cousin Michelle went shopping in Lighthouse Point while Tania, Felicia, Tracy and Sasha enjoyed the outdoors. This afternoon, Mom and Sasha went kayaking while Tania, Liz and Tracy went for a walk in the neighborhood. Cousin Michelle and Liz treated everyone to sushi and Thai food. It was really good, especially the hot papaya salad! Very spicey! This evening, everyone hung out and watched a creepy movie on Lifetime called Step Sister! It gave everyone nightmares especially Sasha! Daily OM: Perceiving The Infinite: Using Your Psychic Gifts!

Thursday, March 8th, 2007: Sasha and Cousin Michelle Arrive! ~ Sasha and Cousin Michelle arrived this morning for a LONG Sister Goddess Weekend! It is so great to have them visiting us. Tracy was so happy to see Sasha! Everyone headed outside to spend some time in the sunshine. Sasha came from DC/NOVA where it has been snowing! Cousin Michelle flew in from the Boston area where it has been really, really cold. So, needless to say, everyone wanted to get in the sun ASAP! Mom got out Tracy's switches and asked Tracy if she was happy to see Liz and she hit the YES switch not once but twice! Liz brought Tracy the prettiest Vera Bradley turquoise and brown beach towel for her birthday. Tracy really seemed to like it! This afternoon, Cousin Michelle (aka Rachel Ray) cooked salmon in the convection oven with fresh asparagus, zucchini and yellow squash! It was so good and healthy. We ate outside and everyone really enjoyed it. This evening, everyone hung out and watched T.V. and relaxed. The Sister Goddessed were all tired after a busy day. Luca was even tired. Daily OM: Shifting Into Gratitude: The Question Of Worthiness!

Wednesday, March 7th, 2007: Luca and Tracy had another good nighrt's sleep last night. Last night, Tracy went to bed laughing with the most beautiful smile on her face. She even woke up laughing and smiling this morning too! Moments like these are very precious to Tracy and her family! This morning, Felicia and Annette performed Tracy's morning stretches and range of motion exercises. Then it was time to shower Tracy and get her ready for the day. Mom and Liz took Luca for a walk around the neighborhood. Then it was time for his vet appointment with Dr. Phillips. He now weighs 4.6 pounds. Mom feels certain that about a pound is fur! He is such a little fur ball! After Luca's vet appointment, Mom and Liz took Luca for his first grooming. Christian did such a good job. He looks so cute! This afternoon, Mom, Liz, Tania and Tracy went to Butterfly World. Tania brought her new camera and took some great pictures of all of the different species of butterflies. She helped Tracy hold her camera and Tracy giggled. [You might remember that Tracy was the Gulf Breeze High School photography editor of the year book her senior year, and was credited with several awards for her outstanding work. One of her passions is to one day become a National Geographic photographer. Mom plans to work with Nova Southeastern to create a switch system for Tracy to be able to take pictures again.] Tania held the camera in Tracy's hands to help her take a picture of Mom and Liz. Tracy smiled and seemed so happy to hold a camera. Tania helped Tracy take the picture; she captured a beautiful picture of Mom and Liz with tropical flowers and butterflies as the back drop. After our trip to Butterfly World, Mom, Liz, Tania and Tracy went to Horses And The Handicapped riding program at Tradeswind Park. There were four students participating in a riding lesson on four beautiful horses. Tracy was very interested in watching them perform. Mom and Liz got out Tracy's switches and asked Tracy questions about the riders and the horses. They asked Tracy if she would like to ride in the program. Tracy responded with two Yeses, hitting the YES switch twice. Tracy is #81 on the waiting list to be in the program. We'll keep you posted! This evening, Nana and Uncle Johnny brought over a pizza for dinner and everyone watched The Secret together. It is a great movie and everyone enjoyed it. This evening, while Tracy relaxed on her CPM ranging her right hip and hamstrings, she vomited about 4 ounces. She is still experiencing vertigo and nystagmus, especially when we change her position, and she will be evaluated on March 14th at NBMC Dizziness and Balance Center. We are looking forward to Sasha's and cousin Michelle's visit. They both arrive tomorrow afternoon. Liz is enjoying her stay and is such a big help! They are staying through the weekend with us. Tracy really loves having everyone visit her! We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about developing the strength to reach out to others when in need. "Most of us pride ourselves on our self-sufficiency. We like to be responsible for taking care of ourselves and pulling our own weight in the world. This is why it can be so challenging when we find ourselves in a situation in which we have to rely on someone else. This can happen as the result of an illness or an injury, or even in the case of a positive change, such as the arrival of a newborn. At times like these, it is essential that we let go of our feeling that we should be able to do it all by ourselves and accept the help of others. The first step is accepting the situation fully as it is. Too often we make things worse either by trying to do more than we should or by lapsing into feelings of uselessness. In both cases we run the risk of actually prolonging our dependency. In addition, we miss a valuable opportunity to practice acceptance and humility. The ego resists what is, so when we move into acceptance we move into the deeper realm of the soul. In needing others and allowing them to help us, we experience the full realization that we are not on our own in the world. While this may bring up feelings of vulnerability, a deep feeling of gratitude may also emerge as we open to the experience of being helped. This realization can enable us to be wiser in our service of others when we are called upon to help. It takes wisdom and strength to surrender to our own helplessness and to accept that we, just like every other human being, have limitations. The gifts of surrender are numerous. We discover humility, gratitude, and a deepening understanding of the human experience that enables us to be that much more compassionate and surrendered in the world." Lesson of the Day: The Wisdom Of Surrender: Relying On Others!

Tuesday, March 6th, 2007: Tracy and Luca enjoyed a good night's sleep last night. This morning, Felicia bathed Tracy and got her ready for the day. Mom had another dentist appointment at 10 AM with Dr. Camuccio. After her morning stretched and range of motion, Tracy had a 10:00 AM appoiintment with Dee, her Physical Therapy assistant and massage therapist. Tracy enjoyed her massage and then it was time to get her seated on the peanut ball for trunk and neck strengthening and vestibular exercises. Tracy did a good job tolerating side to side rocking with Dee seated behind her. He commented that she is improving each time he works with her. After her PT session, Tania worked on Tracy's switch training, asking her Yes/No questions. She showed Tracy some brochures of local attractions to see which ones Tracy would like to attend: the Palm Beach Zoo, Gumbo Limbo Nature Park, etc. Tracy picked the Palm Beach Zoo and Gumbo Limbo Nature Park as future sites for outtings. This afternoon, Liz arrived safely and Tracy and Mom were very happy to see her. They relaxed and had a light dinner while Tracy rested on her CPM. Tomorrow, they plan to take Liz to see Butterfly World and Horses and the Handicapped. We are looking forward to Sasha's and cousin Michelle's visit. They both arrive tomorrow afternoon. Liz is enjoying her stay and is such a big help! They are staying through the weekend with us. Tracy really loves having everyone visit her! We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about letting our imaginations create our world's energy, whether it be healing, passionate, or invigorating. "There are few things more thrilling than having a new house or an empty room to decorate. Our imaginations soar as we consider the many possibilities. In the same way, our lives offer us the opportunity to express ourselves within various contexts, to ask ourselves questions about what we want to see as we move through our days and how we want things to flow. Some people do this instinctively, moving through the various environments they inhabit and shifting the energy with their presence. These people have a knack for decorating life. This can be as simple as the way they dress, the way they speak, or the fact that they always bring a bouquet of wildflowers when they come for a visit. As we move through the world, we make a statement, whether we intend to or not. We shift the energy one way when we enter a room dressed elegantly and simply, and another when we show up in bright, cheerful colors and a floppy hat. One is not better than the other. It is simply a question of the mood we wish to create. What we wear is just one choice we can focus on. The way we speak to people, or touch them, shifts the energy more profoundly than almost anything else. The words we speak and the tone in which we say them are the music we choose to play in the world that is our home. Some of us fill the space with passionate arias, others with healing hymns. Again, one is not better than the other. We are all called to contribute. Just as we consciously create an environment within our homes, we can consciously choose to decorate life itself with our particular energy. Ideally, in doing so, we express our deeper selves, so that the adornments we add to the world make it more meaningful, more beautiful, and as welcoming as a beloved home. Lesson of the Day: Decorating Life: The World As Home!

Monday, March 5th, 2007: Luca and Tracy slept well last night. Dad had been turning Tracy on her side around 5 AM, removing all of her splinting devices. She really seems to like stretching out on her side and sleeps a lot better in this position! This morning, Felicia and Annette performed Tracy's morning stretches and range of motion exercises. Then it was time to shower Tracy and get her ready for the day. Mom had an 11 AM dental appointment for her annual check up and cleaning. After her shower, it was time for Tracy's CPM session to stretch her right leg and hamstring. Tracy relaxed in her bed while the machine was doing it's work. This afternoon, Mom, Felicia, Tania, Tracy and Luca met Uncle Johnny, Nana and two friends at Watercolors Cafe at the Bridge Hotel in Boca Raton. It was a pretty day with low humidity and a cool breeze. They sat outside along the intracoastal and watched all the boats go by. Luca was not on his best behavior and was acting like a mischievious puppy. The restaurant manager came over and told Mom that Luca had to leave! The nerve of her! He retreated into his puppy bag for the remainder of the meal and was not very happy about that! This evening, Mom, Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane went to the 7:30 PM Spinning class with Jason. It was a fun class and a tough workout. Aunt Diane is getting better and better at Spinning each time she goes. Uncle Johnny is a natural athlete! This evening, while Tracy relaxed on her CPM ranging her left hip and hamstrings, she vomited about 4 ounces. She is still experiencing vertigo and nystagmus, especially when we change her position, and she will be evaluated on March 14th at NBMC Dizziness and Balance Center. We are looking forward to Liz's and Sasha's visit this week. Liz arrives Tuesday, March 6th and Sasha arrives Thursday, March 8th. They will stay through the weekend with us. Cousin Michelle arrives on Thursday too. Betty left yesterday and arrives in Naples today. We really enjoyed her visit. We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about making a wish, the process of becoming open to setting our intentions to the universe. "From blowing dandelion seeds into the air to throwing a penny into a fountain, we have all felt inspired to make a wish, to whisper our secret desires into the ears of the universe and wait for signs that we have been heard. Some wishes come true while others remain ethereal visions that either stay with us or fade like a star in the light of morning. Whether they come true or not, wishes are important missives, expressing our heart's desire as well as our intention to create something new in our lives. When we wish for something, our consciousness opens to receiving it, like a flower unfolding its petals to receive a bee. There is something innocent and magical about making a wish, something that recalls the energy of childhood. Wishing is not about formulating a plan and following it step by step to attain a goal, which is the realm of adulthood. Wishing is more like a playful volley across the universe, an invitation to play. Waiting for the response is an integral part of the process. Wishing inspires an innocent opening to the possibility of magic as we wait to see if the invisible realm will bring our wish to life. This opening is a beautiful gesture in and of itself, regardless of the outcome. We place ourselves in a magical mind, and this mind is arguably as wonderful as the fulfillment of our wish itself. In our straightforward, action-oriented society, we may tend to dismiss the power of this seemingly passive process, yet the power of a wish is well known, hence the cautionary phrase, "Be careful what you wish for." If you have given up wishing in favor of more adult pursuits, you might want to bring its magic back into your life. The next time you see the first star of the evening, or find yourself in front of a birthday cake covered in flaming candles, give yourself the gift of the magical realm that you knew so well as a child-close your eyes, open your mind, and make your wish." Lesson of the Day: A Magical Mind: Wish!

Sunday, March 4th, 2007: Tracy and Luca enjoyed a peaceful night's sleep last night! Luca was very happy to see us when we returned from the drumming experience. He could not come with us because we were concerned that the loud noises would frighten him. This morning, Mom and Joyce bathed Tracy and got her ready for the day. Then it was time to head to Boca Raton to rendez-vous with Nana, Aunt Diane, and Rose Marie and continue on to Pahokee. We arrived in Pahokee just in time for the 12 noon Mass. It was a beautiful celebration with lots and lots of kids of all ages. The hall was packed with people attending the healing Mass in honor of Padre Pio. A very devote follower of St. Padre Pio, Jacomo, brought first order relics of St. Padre Pio, a piece of his robe, beard, and glove. Ruth, a healer, prayed over Tracy and laid hands on her, Mom and Dad. There was so much energy in the room, with everyone praying for Tracy! It was an inspirational experience! After Mass, everyone had lunch made by some very special women of the Church. They made enchiladas, empanadas, tomales, and flan. It was all very delicious. This evening, Nana's good friend Rose Marie cooked an Italian feast for us. It was so good. Tomorrow, Mom has a dentist appointment at 11 AM and Betty leaves for Naples on the 10:34 train. We are looking forward to Liz's and Sasha's visit next week. Liz arrives Tuesday, March 6th and Sasha arrives Thursday, March 8th, they will stay through the weekend with us. Cousin Michelle arrives on Thursday too. Betty leaves Monday to return to Italy. We really enjoyed her visit. We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about the healing ability of each one of us. "Touch is the first tool we turn to when confronting pain. We react similarly to a stubbed toe and a broken heart, tenderly grasping the affected area. This need to apply physical contact is part of the innate healing instinct present within each of us. We are all born with the ability to heal ourselves and to heal others. Because healing energy does not come from within but from outside our ourselves, the energy is there for anyone to use, and thus no formal training is required. When you have the intent to heal and love is your only motive, you become a conduit for healing energy. Through the simple laying on of hands, you can direct that universal healing energy in order to comfort those who are experiencing pain or distress. In performing healing energy work, it is imperative that you ground yourself both before you begin and afterward. The illnesses and issues others face can be absorbed into our energy field, and healing can exhaust our own energy reserves. Address the universe directly, stating that you wish to be a one-way channel through which healing energy flows through you and that your energy supply should not be depleted. Next, speak your intention and place your hands on the individual you are endeavoring to heal. Let your intuition guide you to the afflicted area and imagine a healing white light being drawn in through the top of your head and emanating through your hands. The energy will begin to flow once you have made a physical connection, and your touch will help awaken the body's capacity for self-healing. The afflicted areas of the body, which were initially tense or tight, will relax once imbued with enough healing energy. Not everybody is sensitive to subtle energy, so try not to feel like you aren't helping if you don't feel the flow. The work you are doing is indeed helping. Finally, thank the universe. Disconnect yourself from the person being healed by speaking your intention to sever your connection and then wash your hands. Understanding how energy works is less important than consciously choosing to make use of it. Performing a loving healing session on your loved ones can be a wonderfully intimate experience that brings you closer together. And as the rejuvenating healing energy passes through you, it can awaken a profound compassion within you that helps you better understand the interactions between the spiritual, physical, and mental selves." Lesson of the Day: Restorative Energy: Everyone Can Heal!

Saturday, March 3rd, 2007: Tracy and Luca slept well last night. This morning, Mom and Aunt Diane went to 9 AM Spinning in Coral Springs. It was a great class and they had a good time. Meanwhile, Dad and Joyce worked on ranging and stretching Tracy's extremities to maintain optimal range of motion. Dad inserviced Joyce on proper stretching techniques and then it was time for Tracy's bath. After her bath, Mom and Joyce worked on Tracy's switch training. Mom asked Tracy several questions about pictures that she held up for Tracy to look at. She asked Tracy who each picture portrayed and Tracy did a good job identifying the correct person using her Yes/No switches. We wll continue to practice using her switches every day so that Tracy is well prepared for her upcoming evaluation by Nova Southeastern for an augmentative assistive communication system. This afternoon, Tracy rested on her CPM while it ranged and stretched her hips and hamstrings. Then it was time to head North to pick up Betty in Delray at the bus station. She was returning from visiting her sister in Cocoa Beach. We continued North to Jupiter, where we met Melanie at the Transformational Studies Institute for a Drum Circle. This is an ancient tradition to celebrate the full moon. This evening was also a lunar eclipse so it was doubly powerful. It was an amazing experience filled with lots of spiritual, physical and mental energy! Tracy really seemed tuned in and into the rhythm of the drumming. We are looking forward to the next Drum Circle on April 7th, which is the next full moon! Tomorrow, we plan to attend a healing Mass in honor of St. Padre Pio at Uncle Johnny's church, St. Mary's of Pahokee. We are looking forward to Liz's and Sasha's visit next week. Liz arrives Tuesday, March 6th and Sasha arrives Thursday, March 8th, they will stay through the weekend with us. Cousin Michelle arrives on Thursday too. Betty leaves Monday to return to Italy. We really enjoyed her visit. We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about the healing effects of drumming. "That rhythm renews us is no secret. Drumming is the oldest form of music on the planet. Virtually every culture that exists or has existed on earth has practiced some form of drumming. In Africa, the beating of a drum continues to be an important part of significant ceremonies and holiday celebrations. Native American cultures use drumming as a means to reconnect an individual's mental and physical selves. Throughout history, drumming has been a part of performing rituals, marking significant transitions, and celebrating life's cycles. Our lives are infused with rhythm beginning at the very moment we first sense our mother's heartbeat in her womb. All manner of drumming has the ability to put us in touch with our own natural rhythms, the rhythms of the earth, and the rhythms of the people we choose to drum with. The drum can represent the heart, and drumming awakens the mind while stirring the soul. Drumming can take you to a place deep inside you where you are keenly aware of your mind and your body, as well as the vital bond between the two. Much like human beings, each drum has its own vibration and voice. Drumming alone can help you release tension, dispel stress and aggressive feelings, and restore your energy. It can also give you an opportunity to reestablish your connection to Mother Earth, as the beat of a drum can represent a crack of lightning, pounding ocean waves, or the tumult of an earthquake. Drumming with others brings with it many benefits. Taking part in a drumming circle attunes us to the invisible energy that exists between us while uniting us in a common purpose. Drumming can be relaxing as well as energizing. It quiets mental chatter and can create a peaceful meditative state. In Navajo lore, the drum is the Great Spirit's favorite instrument. It is said that this is why all human beings were given a heartbeat. The rhythmic beating of a drum can move us into new realms of consciousness. There is no right or wrong way to drum, and everyone has the innate ability to create rhythm. When you drum with intention, you'll discover the rhythms that move you." Lesson of the Day: Heart Beats: Drumming!

Friday, March 2nd, 2007: Luca slept well last night, but Tracy was up quite a bit. Not sure why she was awake, maybe the approaching full moon! This morning, Felicia and Annette performed Tracy's morning stretches and range of motion exercises. Then it was time to shower Tracy and get her ready for the day. After her shower, Annette and Felicia practiced Tracy's switch training, using the same exercises that Anita used at NBMC. They warmed up Tracy lightly stroking Tracy's left cheek with the various sensory stim items: the feather, the comb, the brush, etc. and Felicia held the Yes switch up to Tracy's right cheek. Tracy hit the Yes switch (by turning her head to the right) each time Annette stroked her right cheek. She responded very quickly, within a matter of seconds. Then it was time for Yes/No questions. Tracy did a good job answering questions, although she was pretty sleepy. We will continue to practice use of the switch until Tracy is evaluated by Nova Southeastern for an augmentative assistive communications program/system in two weeks. This afternoon, Mom, Felicia and Luca took Tracy to Speech Therapy at NBMC with Anita for a 3 PM appointment. She was a little sleepy throughout the session but fought to stay awake. Tracy responded within seconds to the tactile stimulation exercises on her left cheek by hitting her Yes switch when she felt the various textured items. When it came time for questions, Tracy answered some using her switch but had to be awakened several times with a cool, moist cloth. This evening, Mom, Dad, and Tracy went to our neighbor's house for a visit. Everyone had a good time and it was nice to make some new friends. Tracy is still experiencing vertigo and nystagmus, especially when we change her position, and she will be evaluated on March 14th at NBMC Dizziness and Balance Center. This evening, Tracy relaxed on her CPM while it ranged her hips and hamstrings. Mom and Dad caught up on their paper work and watched past episodes of 24. We are looking forward to Liz's and Sasha's visit next week. Liz arrives Tuesday, March 6th and Sasha arrives Thursday, March 8th, they will stay through the weekend with us. Cousin Michelle arrives on Thursday too. Betty leaves Monday to return to Italy. We really enjoyed her visit. We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about the ocean as a metaphor for healing meditation. "Like us, the sea is ever-changing. And, like us, the earth's vast oceans appear at a distance to be stable and homogenous. But beneath the mask of solidity that both we and the sea wear, there lies unpredictability, sensitivity, and power. There is much we can learn from the ocean, representative as it is of our inner landscapes. The rough sounds of the sea's waves are spiritually soothing, and its salt can purify our physical selves. Yet not everyone has the luxury of living by the shore or even visiting the coastlines where water and land meet. The ocean, however, exists in our conscious minds, put there by images we have seen and descriptions we have read. Wherever we are, we can access that mental image and use it as the starting point from which we can help to heal our emotions by meditating on the sea. To begin, gather together any ocean artifacts you may have on hand. Seashells, a vial of sand, beach glass, stones rubbed smooth by the pounding surf, or a recording of ocean sounds can help you slip more deeply into this meditation, but they are not necessary. Sit quietly and visualize the ocean in your mind's eye. Allow all of your senses to participate in your mental journey. Feel the tiny grains of sand beneath your feet and the cool spray of mist; hear the sea's rhythmic roar as the waves meet the beach and retreat; smell the tang of salt in the air. Watch the sun's rays play over the ocean's surface, creating shifting spots of teal, cerulean, cobalt, and green. Don't be surprised if you see dolphins or whales frolicking in the waves-they are there to assist you. Spend a few minutes drinking in the ocean's beauty and appreciating its vast splendor. Once you are fully engaged with the setting before you, visualize yourself sitting on the beach, facing the ocean, and watching the waves advance and retreat. As each new wave of seawater approaches, imagine it carrying healing energy toward you. The magnificent ocean in your thoughts is sending you light and love while the sun supports your healing efforts and Mother Earth grounds you in the moment so healing can occur. When you feel you are finished, grant the ocean your earnest gratitude for the aid it has given you. Thank the sun, the sand, and any other elements of your visualization that offered you guidance. Perform this meditation daily or monthly in order to rid yourself of negativity and reestablish emotional equilibrium. Just as the ocean's tides sweep the shores free of detritus, restoring balance, so can the waves in our mind's eye cleanse our souls of what no longer serves us." Lesson of the Day: Waves Of Healing: Ocean Meditation!

Thursday, March 1st, 2007: Luca and Tracy slept well again last night. Dad made it home safely from Tampa this afternoon. We missed him so much and it is great to have him back with us! This morning, Felicia performed Tracy's morning stretches and range of motion exercises. Then it was time to bathe Tracy and get her ready for the day. Tracy selected (using her switches) a pretty maroon paisley long skirt that Dad bought her in Italy paired with a long-sleeved soft shirt with European scenes on it that Aunt Candy gave her. She looked so cute! After her bath, Tania and Felicia practiced Tracy's switch training, using the same exercises that Anita used at NBMC. They warmed up Tracy lightly stroking Tracy's left cheek with the various sensory stim items: the feather, the comb, the brush, etc. and Felicia held the Yes switch up to Tracy's right cheek. Tracy hit the Yes switch (by turning her head to the right) each time Annette stroked her right cheek. She responded very quickly, within a matter of seconds. Then it was time for Yes/No questions. Tracy answered YES when Tania asked her if she wanted to go to Macys to get a makeover. We all know how much Tracy LOVES makeup! Tania asked Tracy if she could be still long enough for the Clinique consultant to apply Tracy's make up. Tracy answered YES, hitting the YES switch! We will continue to practice use of the switch until Tracy is evaluated by Nova Southeastern for an augmentative assistive communications program/system in two weeks. This afternoon, Mom, Tania, Felicia and Luca took Tracy to Macys for shopping and a makeover with the Clinique consultant. Yoshee, the Clinique consultant, did a beautiful job applying Tracy's makeup. Tracy laughed and smiled during her beauty makeover, and was very cooperative while Yoshee applied different colored lip gloss and eye shadow. She really enjoyed the experience and looked so pretty when she was done. Fran, the Este Lauder sales associate, gave Tracy a pretty bracelet with pictures of Jesus and the saints! Tracy is blessed to have so many beautiful angels surrounding her wherever she goes! This evening, Mom, Dad. Tania, Luca and Tracy went on the little boat for a ride. It was the first time that Tania had been on the boat and everyone enjoyed the pretty sunset. Tracy really loves riding on the boat! They explored the different canals in Lighthouse Point and saw many pretty homes. The boat is good therapy for Tracy's vestibular issues. She is still experiencing vertigo and nystagmus, especially when we change her position, and she will be evaluated on March 14th at NBMC Dizziness and Balance Center. This evening, Tracy relaxed on her CPM while it ranged her hips and hamstrings. Mom and Dad caught up on their paper work and watched past episodes of 24. Tomorrow, we plan to take Tracy to NBMC for her 3 PM Speech Therapy session with Anita. We are looking forward to Liz's and Sasha's visit next week. Liz arrives Tuesday, March 6th and Sasha arrives Thursday, March 8th, they will stay through the weekend with us. Luca continues to amaze us all with his personality! He figured out how to activate the ON button on Tiffany's mechanical cow and loves to jump on for a ride! Mom calls it Luca's mechanical cow ride, instead of the mechanical bull! It is totally priceless! Maybe we should send it in to the Funniest Videos Show! It would definitely win! We are all very hopeful that 2007 will bring great improvements and many miracles to Tracy and our family. Many thanks to all of you who continue to pray for Tracy's recovery! Please keep those prayers and powerful wishes coming Tracy's way! Take a look at today's daily OM. It talks about rediscovering and revealing our true selves during our life time. "Identity is an elusive concept. We feel we must define ourselves using a relatively small selection of roles and conscious character traits, even if none accurately represents our notion of "self." The confusion surrounding our true natures is further compounded by the fact that society regularly asks us to suppress so much of our emotional, intellectual, and spiritual vibrancy. Yet we are, in truth, beings of light-pure energy inhabiting physical bodies, striving for enlightenment while living earthly lives. Our true selves exist whether we acknowledge them or not, often buried under fears and learned behavior. When we recognize our power, our luminosity, and our divinity, we cannot help but live authentic lives of appreciation, potential, fulfillment, and grace. At birth and throughout your childhood, your thoughts and feelings were more than likely expressions of your true self. Though you may have learned quickly that to speak and act in a certain fashion would win others' approval, you understood innately that you were no ordinary being. There are many ways you can recapture the authenticity you once articulated so freely. Meditation can liberate you from the bonds of those earthly customs that compel you to downplay your uniqueness. Also, communing with nature can remind you of the special role you were meant to play in this lifetime. In order to realize your purpose, you must embrace your true self by letting your light shine forth, no matter the consequences. Rediscovering who you are apart from your roles and traits takes time and also courage. If, like many, you have denied your authenticity for a long while, you may find it difficult to separate your true identity from the identity you have created to cope with the world around you. Once you do find this authentic self, however, you will be overcome by a wonderful sense of wholeness as you reconcile your spiritual aspect and your physical aspect, as well as your inner- and outer-world personas. As you gradually adjust to this developing unity, your role as a being of light will reveal itself to you, and you will discover that you have a marvelous destiny to fulfill." Lesson of the Day: Essential Authenticity: Revealing Your True Self!

Tracy's Daily Routine:

Tracy's day begins with Dad giving her morning medications at 6 AM! She usually goes back to sleep for a few more winks before Felicia arrives at 8 AM, when Tracy has her breakfast. Then it is time for morning stretches and range of motion exercises which take about thirty minutes. Around 8:30 AM, Tracy gets either a bed bath or a shower, which are alternated throughout the week. Tracy selects from two outfits using her Yes/No switches and then it is time to get Tracy in her chair to practice her switch training and sensory/oral motor stimulation exercises. On Tuesday mornings, Tracy has a massage and Physical Therapy with Dee and on Tuesday afternoons, Tracy has Speech Therapy with Kristin at FAU at 4 PM. Some days Tracy goes for walks around the neighborhood, hangs out on the patio by the pool to catch some rays, on outings to Butterfly World, shopping at the mall, to doctor's appointments, out to lunch, to the park, etc. Every day at 11 AM and 4 PM, Tracy gets a smoothie (in her G-tube) full of nutrients such as Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Glucosamine, Vitamins, Antioxidants, Glyconutrients, and Phytonutients. Three times a day, Tracy gets Jevity 1.2 (5 cans in her G-tube) at 8 AM, 1 PM, and 9 PM. This is a nutritional supplement loaded with protein, vitamins and calories. She also receives medication at 6 PM and 11 PM, mostly to help control her gi reflux. Every evening, Tracy spends about an hour and a half on each leg on the CPM machine to range and stretch her hamstrings and hips. She seems to relax and enjoy the motion, and enjoys listening to music or television during her sessions. Every night, Tracy sleeps with a Dynasplint on her right leg to give her hamstring a prolonged static stretch. She also sleeps with bilateral hand/wrist splints (also dynamic splints) and multi-podus boots to keep her feet dorsi-flexed. Tracy also sleeps with a pulse oximiter on her ear which monitors her Oxygen saturation and her heart rate. Tracy usually goes to sleep around 11 PM and sleeps through most nights.

Current Events:

seductress TracyHighlights Of Ongoing And Special Events:

NEWSLASH! NEWSFLASH! NEWSFLASH! NEWSFLASH! NEWSFLASH! NEWSFLASH! NEWSFLASH! NEWSFLASH!

Wednesday, March 13th, 2007: Tania and Mom took Tracy for her 2 PM appointment at the Dizziness and Balance Center at NBMC. Two Physical Therapists who specialize in vertigo (that's dizziness) evaluated Tracy. They put special goggles on Tracy and then spun her around in different directions and watched her eyes which were magnified through the goggles. They were looking for upward or downward beating. Tracy's eyes showed a downward beating after she was moved in different directions. The PTs, after careful observation, believe that Tracy does not have Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Instead, they think she has central vertigal resulting from her anoxic injury. The goal is for them to develop a plan for Tracy to improve her dizziness.

Sunday, March 4th, 2007: This morning, Mom, Dad, Betty, Tracy, Nana, Aunt Diane, and Rose Marie, attended a healing Mass in honor of St. Padre Pio at Uncle Johnny's church, St. Mary's of Pahokee. It was a beautiful celebration with lots and lots of kids of all ages. The hall was packed with people attending the healing Mass in honor of Padre Pio. A very devote follower of St. Padre Pio, Jacomo, brought first order relics of St. Padre Pio, a piece of his robe, beard, and glove. Ruth, a healer, prayed over Tracy and laid hands on her, Mom and Dad. There was so much energy in the room, with everyone praying for Tracy! It was an inspirational experience!

Saturday, March 3rd, 2007: Celebration of the Full Moom and Lunar Eclipse: This evening Mom, Dad, Tracy, and Betty went to the Transformational Studies Institute in Jupiter, where we met Melanie, Tracy's Cranial Sacral Therapist to participate in a Drum Circle. This is an ancient tradition to celebrate the full moon. This evening was also a lunar eclipse so it was doubly powerful. It was an amazing experience filled with lots of spiritual, physical and mental energy! Tracy really seemed tuned in and into the rhythm of the drumming. We are looking forward to the next Drum Circle on April 7th, which is the next full moon!

Wednesday, January 10th, 2007: Genevieve, Mom, Felicia, Tania and Tiffany (rehab assistant) got Tracy suited up to try a new piece of rehab equipment: the Lite Gait. (Click on the link to learn more about the Lite Gait). The Lite Gait suspends Tracy and provides her some partial weight bearing. Tracy did really well standing with maximum assistance. This is a big step for Tracy and we hope she will be able to contiue to progress on this equipment. The goal is to get her comfortable in a standing position and then begin simulating walking, with the premise that muscle has memory. Tracy was so happy to be standing on her own two feet (with maximum assistance) that she laughed and smiled when Mom called Mawmaw and Nana to tell them. Mom put the cell phone up to Tracy ear so that she could hear how proud they were of her accomplishments.

Click on this link to view the story of Rick and Dick Hoyt, the father-son inspirational team! Life Is A Gift: Today~ How Will You Live?

IMPORTANT: PRAY THE ROSARY! (Click on the link to learn how to pray the rosary!) The day that Tracy was injured, family members received rosary beads in the mail that she had bought for them while visiting the sacred place where the Blessed Mother has been known to appear to children in Medjugorje . On Mother's Day in 2004, Mom found a beautiful pair of rosary beads on the wall outside Jackson Memorial Hospital with a holy card of the Blessed Mother! Mom believes this to be a gift from Our Lady on Mother's Day! She found these beautiful blue beads after she prayed to the Blessed Mother for a sign! Mom received a pair of rosary beads from Fr. McDuffy from Mater Dolorosa Church which were given to him from the late Pope John Paul II, who is in need of two miracles to become a Saint!

Tracy is making lots of sounds and trying very hard to talk to us! During her study abroad program with Gonzaga University in Florence, Tracy had visited the birthplace of the Blessed Mother in Ephesus. She was also very close to Our Lady during her early years and well into her adult life. We ask that you please pray the rosary as often as possible with the specific intention that Tracy will speak to us soon.

"Miracles From Mary" is a heartwarming story about Tracy's uncle, who is a simple priest at St. Mary's Church in Pahokee, Florida and the miracles that occur through faith, hard work and prayer to a 16th century Russian Icon of Mary created by a monk. (Please click on the link above to view.) To view the brief documentary "Miracles From Mary" aired recently on Boston's WGBH network click the preceding link.

Check out our good friend and Tracy's massage therapist's website: EmilArt He has some very beautiful paintings and sculptures to share. Emil painted a beautiful portrait of Tracy that truly captures her spirit and beauty! You can see it on his website!

Dad brought a very special gift to Tracy from his hometown parish pastor, Fr. McDuffy: rosaries personally given to him when he had a private audience at the Vatican with Pope John Paul II. These rosaries are very special because they are considered a secondary relic, something that the prospective saint has personally touched. Thank you cousin Frank Arthur for the beautiful St. Theresa medal. She is Tracy's patron saint.

Pope Benedict XVI has approved an expedited process for Beatification and ultimate Sanctification of Pope John Paul II. Please pray to Pope John Paul II specifically requesting that he make Tracy one of the two miracles needed for his Sainthood! Here is his prayer: "Prayer for John Paul II's Intercession". We found Tracy's old files and want to share her last AP English Essay and a paper for her Biology Class from Gulf Breeze High School. This will give you some insight into how special she is and why she will come back to us. Here they are: BLESSED and Euthanasia: Filling God's Shoes.