Monday, November 30th, 2009 ~

Monday, November 30th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Flow Yoga This Morning With Paige ~ Mom had a great Hot Yog practice with Paige this morning at Awaken Hot Yoga. What a challenging and inspiring class, with lots of energy and heat! Tracy Rests & Relaxes In Her Bed On Her Side ~ Tracy spent the day relaxing and recovering from her crazy Sunday. The GasX really seems to be helping to relieve her cramping. Tania and Wilmene positioned Tracy on her side in her bed to maintain her comfort. Mom Goes To Her First Spin Class In Three Months With Aunt Diane & Uncle Johnny ~ Mom had a great Spin class at LA Fitness with Uncle Johnny and Aunt Diane this evening. Emily taught a great class, very challenging and fun! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: An Instrument Of Change : Wealth Is Neutral ~

Sunday, November 29th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To See Bryan Kest With Diane, Wade, & Andrew This Afternoon ~ Mom was so excited to see Bryan Kest, power yoga guru, in Ft. Lauderdale this afternoon. He was so inspiring and worked the group really hard, making us hold the poses for extended periods of time. Dad and LuLu hung out and spent the day putting little white lights on the palm trees in the back yard. Tracy Goes To The Emergency Room At North Broward General Medical Center With Abdominal Pains ~ Tracy started crying real tears (for the first time since her anoxic brain injury) starting at 3 PM. Dad listened to Tracy's stomach with a stethoscope and heard lots of tinkling sounds, apparently signs of lots of air in her stomach. Two Extra Strength Tylenols would not relieve her cramping, so Dad gave Tracy a half of Zelnorm, hoping that this would help to relieve Tracy's abdominal discomfort. When her cramping continued, Dad called the doctor and he recommended that Tracy go to the ER for an abdominal xray. The xray showed lots of air in Tracy's abdomen. Mom gave Tracy two GasX which really seemed to help. We think that the air in Tracy's stomach could be due to her standing up during therapy, shifting things around. We will continue to monitor her for this issue. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Setting A Limit To Sit With Emotions : How Long ~

Saturday, November 28th, 2009 ~ Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. She sure does love her spa Saturdays! Mom & Dad Go For A Long Motorcycle Ride To Lake Worth This Afternoon ~ It was a beautiful day this afternoon, perfect for a motorcycle ride to Lake Worth. Mom and Dad made a pit stop at Starbucks for lattes and scones. Mmm! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The LSU vs Arkansas Football Game ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched LSU beat Arkansas (33-30) in overtime. What a great game! Dad & Gio Put Up The Christmas Decorations This Afternoon ~ Dad and Gio put up the Christmas decorations this afternoon. Thank goodness Gio is over 6 feet tall! It sure helps to put the holly and the big wreath over the front door. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: If Only : Locating The Underlying Cause ~

Friday, November 27th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Yoga This Morning With Veronica ~ Mom had a great hot yoga practice this morning with Veronica. Dad went to the Bikram Yoga studio in Boca Raton for his practice. It was his first time going to this studio and he really enjoyed his practice. Tracy Has Physical Therapy At Therapies 4 Kids In Lauderdale-By-The-Sea This Afternoon ~ Mom and Tania brought Tracy to Therapies 4 Kids this afternoon for Physical Therapy. Lenny was not there today, but Jackie spent about an hour and a half stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups. Tracy is still having discomfort in her left shoulder, especially when ranged. Tracy especially likes Jackie to massage her shoulder, usually at the end of the session. Jackie and Tania got Tracy suited up in her Pediasuit and it was time to stand her up in the spider cage. Leo and Jackie tried to stand Tracy up, but neither of them were tall enough to succeed. In fact, Tracy even got a little dizzy and nauseous when Leo tried to stand her up, her head falling back beyond 30 degrees. Aunt Diane and Jeff were a little disappointed since they went to see Tracy stand in the suit. Looks like they will need to take a rain check! Tracy spent the rest of her session sitting on the bench in her suit, and working on head control. Jackie got the ice pack to stimulate Tracy's neck muscles. She really works hard during her therapy sessions. Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, & Jeff Come Over For TurkeyLeftovers & Help Put Up The Christmas Tree This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed Thanksgiving leftovers while they decorated the Christmas tree this evening. It feels like we just decorated the tree and it was a whole year ago! Where does the time go? Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Redefining Health : Throw Away Your Scale ~

Thursday, November 26th, 2009 ~ Happy Thanksgiving ~ Mom Goes To The Two-Hour Thanksgiving Yoga Challenge This Morning ~ The girls had the day off and Dad hung out with Tracy and watched the parade while Mom went to the two-hour Thanksgiving Yoga Challenge. It was a great class taught by Veronica and Keri, and a perfect way to show gratitude in this Thanksgiving Day! Dad & Mom Fix Thanksgiving Dinner With The Help Of Honey Baked Ham ~ Mom and Dad fixed Thanksgiving Dinner with the help of Honey Baked Ham. Mom's take on this is why cook your own turkey when Honey Baked Hams has been roasting hundreds of thousands of turkeys for years? So, she picked the no-fault turkey plan this Thanksgiving! Aunt Diane and Jeff brought some yummy desserts and Nana brought the eggplant. Everyone came over this afternoon to enjoy dinner, and, of course, to watch football! The weather was perfect for sitting outside and relaxing by the pool. The hot tub was a toasty 104 degrees and the pool a chilly 71 degrees! Tracy enjoyed chilaxin with family! Tiffany & Benny Are Enjoying A Maui Getaway ~ Tiffany and Benny are enjoying exploring the beautiful island of Maui. We sure do miss them and can't wait for them to visit us for Christmas! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Finding Unqualified Happiness : If Only ~

Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Pilates With Christine This Morning ~ Mom had a great one on one session with Christine this morning at Wellness & Motion Pilates Studio in Pompano. Christine really worked Mom hard! She is feeling a lot stronger already! Tracy Has Speech Therapy At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy this afternoon at Therapies 4 Kids. Her tummy was distended so Patty took it easy on her. She exhibited some good swallows, even though her tummy was upset. Patty did not give her any meltables today, but focused very heavily on her oral motor exercises. She gave her red and yellow peppers and some cucumber in her Safe Feeder. Then she gave her some honeydew melon. Tracy worked very hard as usual throughout her session. Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Afternoon At Therapies 4 Kids ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy with Jackie this afternoon. Jackie spent an hour or so stretching and ranging all of Tracy's major muscle groups. Then it was time to put Tracy in the Pediasuit. Braz and Jackie stood Tracy up in the spider cage. Tracy tolerated about ten minutes standing, and then they sat her down on the bench for some additional head control. Tracy appeared nauseous and then vomited about 3 ounces. It seems as though her stomach is a little upset. We will have Dad check her out when we get home.Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Leaving A Positive Footprint : Blessing Space ~

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 ~ Mom Has An Appointment With Dr. Fishman, Physiatrist, In Weston This Afternoon ~ Mom had a follow-up appointment with Dr. Fishman, her physiatrist, in Weston this afternoon. He examined her and was very happy with her recovery. He recommended that she practice moderation when she exercised! Oh, this is going to be very difficult! Tracy Gets Her Baclofen Pump Refilled With Dr. Galvez This Afternoon ~ After Mom's appointment, the girls proceeded to the Cleveland Clinic for Tracy's pump refill appointment. Dr. Galvez decided to keep Tracy's baclofen dose at 226 mcgs/day since there was no change in her tone. Dad Starts Tracy On Septra For Her UTI ~ Thank goodness that Dad is a doctor! He prescribed Septra DS for Tracy's apparent UTI today ( 5 day regimen). Hopefully her tummy will be feeling better soon! Tracy Has A Massage By Dee This Evening ~ Tracy had a much-needed massage this evening by Dee. It had been several weeks since she had one of Dee's massages, and she really enjoyed it. He has such magical hands! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Season Finale Of Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy enjoyed watching the season finale of Dancing With The Stars this evening. It was no surprise that Donny Osmond won the coveted mirrorball trophy! How could he miss, with half of Utah as his relatives? Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Your Comfort Zone : Creating A Soft Place To Land ~

Monday, November 23rd, 2009 ~ Mom Has A Private Session With Christine At Wellness & Motion This Morning ~ Mom had a great Pilates session with Christine this morning Tracy Has Speech Therapy At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a good Speech Therapy session today with Patty at Therapies 4 Kids. Patty gave Tracy red peppers, garlic and cucumbers in her Safe Feeder and Tracy did a good job swallowing, some even immediately. She is working so hard and doing a great job. Tracy Stands For 23 Minutes During Her Physical Therapy Session At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had her best Physical Therapy session ever today at Therapies 4 Kids. After her extensive stretching session with Jackie, Lenny and Jackie got her in ther Pediasuit and then stood her up in the spider cage. She worked so hard to hold up her head, and even looked at herself in the mirror, laughing a lot throughout her session. She tolerated 23 minutes standing before Lenny and Jackie sat her down on the bench for an additional 20 minutes to work on her head control. Nana & Uncle Johnny Come To Watch Tracy During Her Therapy Session Today ~ Tracy was so excited to have Nana and Uncle Johnny watching her during her therapy session today. She was even looking over at them while standing, laughing and giggling at Uncle Johnny's jokes. She really is more and more engaged each day! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The Finals Of Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy enjoyed watching the Finals of Dancing With The Stars this evening. They are still rooting for Mya and Dimitry to win it all. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Know Your Food : Eating Close To The Earth ~

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 ~ Mom, Dad, Tracy, & LuLu Meet Nana, Aunt Diane, & Jeff At Uncle Johnny's Church In Pahokee This Morning ~ Everyone surprised Uncle Johnny at his church in Pahokee to celebrate his birthday. The parishioners arranged a grand celebration in his honor after the noon Mass. It was amazing, complete with medals, trophies, and plaques honoring Fr. John in the year of the priest! After Mass, everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by some of the parishioners. Mom & Dad Pick Up The Turkey At Honey Baked Ham This Afternoon ~ In an effort to beat the holiday rush, Mom and Dad picked up the turkey and all of the fixins this afternoon. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch The American Music Awards This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching the American Music Awards this evening. Boy, was this year's show over the top or what? Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Life's Transitions : The Death & Rebirth Of Self ~

Saturday, November 21st, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Hot Yoga This Morning With Jessica ~ Mom had a great hot yoga practice this morning with Jessica at Awaken Hot Yoga Studio. Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much-needed facial this morning. She sure does love her spa days! Tracy Has Hippotherapy On Gypsy With Susan At Sand & Spurs This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a great Hippotherapy session this afternoon at Sand & Spurs in Pompano. She exhibited good trunk control and worked really hard on her head control. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch College Football This Afternoon ~ Everyone enjoyed watching college football this afternoon. LSU really blew their chances with Ole Miss at the end of the game with their bad planning! Oh well! Maybe next year! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Every Step Is Forward : Not Going Back ~

Friday, November 20th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Uncle Johnny! ~ Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much needed manicure this morning. This week's shade is French Pink. Very pretty! Mom Goes To Her Last Physical Therapy Session This Morning ~ Mom had her last Physical Therapy session this morning with Kurt at Atlantic Rehab. He started out as usual with heat and e-stim to Mom's lower back, then ultrasound and massage. Then it was time for exercises, and Mom did her hip stabilization circuit, standing on the half roll for balance training. The key is to continue these exercises once she is discharged. Kurt gave Mom several lateral exercises to work on hip stabilization, as well as some exercises with dumb bells, the theraband, and several pilates balls. She ended her session with ice to her lower back. It sure did feel good! Mom Picks Up Nana & They Head North To Lake Worth For Hair Appointments With Kerri @thehairnet ~ Kerri worked her magic and Nana and Mom were transformed right before their eyes. They really like their hair. Now let's see if Dad likes it as much! Tania & Wilmene Work With Tracy On Her Safe Feeder This Afternoon ~ Tania and Wilmene worked with Tracy on her Safe Feeder protocol this afternoon following the protocol that Patty set up for Tracy and the tracking sheet that Tania designed. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Tania gave Tracy some purple onion and yellow pepper as a combo. Tracy started off pretty engaged, but then got a little bored and was finished. She had some good swallows throughout her session. Maybe she was looking for the meltables, and was disappointed when she did not get any. She works so hard during her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad & Tracy Meet Nana, Uncle Johnny, Aunt Diane, Jeff, Anita & Claire At The Lighthouse Point Yacht Club For Uncle Johnny's Birthday Dinner ~ Everyone had a great time at dinner this evening at the yacht club celebrating Uncle Johnny's birthday. Chip and Eileen dropped in to say Hi from their fundraising banquet next door. Aunt Candy sent Johnny an edible fruit bouquet in a bowl that was shaped as a baseball ~ very cute. Uncle Johnny enjoyed his ice cream cake and black and silver balloons. Everyone had a fun evening. Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: The Reciprocal Flow Of Abundance : Giving Without Expectations ~

Thursday, November 19th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To American Yoga To Diane's Class This Mornng ~ Diane taught a great class this morning at American Yoga at the Cove in Hillsborough. It is a beautiful studio and the class was great. Mom is trying to pace herself with yoga, no more than four classes per week. Tracy Has Physical Therapy At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had another very good session with Jackie and Lenny this afternoon. After Jackie stretched and ranged Tracy, it was time to put on the Pediasuit for standing. Once the suit was on and the bungee cords connected, Lenny and Jackie stood Tracy up in the cage and connected her to the spider cage. Lenny stood behind Tracy and worked with an ice pack on her head control. Tracy is working so hard during her therapy. She tolerated 20 minutes, with stable vital signs. After twenty minutes, Lenny sat Tracy down on the bench and continued to work on her head control. She tolerated 20 more minutes sitting on the bench. Then it was time for her massage. Tracy sure does love her massage by Jackie. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Flash Forward, Grey's Anatomy, and Private Practice This Evening ~ Mom sure does love Thursday evenings for television! She and Dad watched their favorite shows this evening: Flash Forward, Desperatee Housewives, and Private Practice. Daily OM: Like No One Is Watching : Shake Your Tail Feathers ~

Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 ~ Mom Has A Private Pilates Session With Christine This Morning ~ Mom had a private Pilates session with Christine this morning at Wellness Motion Pilates Studio this morning. She really put Mom through a tough workout. Pilates is just what the doctor ordered to strengthen Mom's hip stabilizers. Tracy Has Speech Therapy This Afternoon At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Mom, Tania, and Patty worked with Tracy on her Speech Therapy protocol this afternoon. Patty began with Tracy's facial warmup exercises, and then she used the tongue depressor and the lemon and glycerin swabs to elicit a swallow. Tracy was very engaged and produced many swallows with the stimulation. Patty used a slightly frozen fruit combo of cantaloupe and honeydew melon, to help with saliva secretions. Tracy swallowed numerous times, and then Patty gave Tracy a whole meltable. She worked it back with some help from Patty's tongue depressor, and then she swallowed. Patty worked some more with the fruit combo, and then she gave Tracy another meltable. Tracy did such a good job working it back with her tongue, and then she swallowed it. Patty was so pleased with Tracy's progress, and Tracy was very excited. Tracy Vomits About 6 Ounces After Her Session ~ Tracy was so excited about eating the meltable that she threw up about 6 ounces after Speech Therapy. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Jackie & Lenny This Afternoon ~ Patty recommended that Jackie keep Tracy's head up at least 45 degrees for an hour after she vomitted, so Jackie stretched and ranged Tracy in her chair. After they stretched her for an hour, they moved her to the therapy table and put on the Pediasuit with bungee cords. Then it was time to move Tracy to the spider cage and hook her up in standing. Lenny stood behind Tracy and worked on her head control. Jackie did not need to support Tracy's legs, she was standing up well without her support. Tracy's vital signs remained stable throughout her session, and she tolerated 20 minutes in standing. Then it was time to sit her down on the bench for more head control exercises. Tracy did such a good job, working very hard throughout her session. She was more than ready for her post-therapy massage. Dad Returns Safely From DC This Evening ~ Dad made it home safely from his meeting in DC this evening. Mom and Tracy were really happy to see Dad this evening. They really missed him! Daily OM: Unexpected Enlightenment : You Never Know Who You'll Meet ~

Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 ~ ~ Mom Picks Up Nana & Takes Her To The Wound Clinic For Her Appointment ~ Mom took Nana to her 9:30 AM appointment this morning at the Davis Therapy Center in Boca Raton. Her wounds are healing well. Keep your fingers crossed that she heals quickly and is discharged soon. Mom, Tania, & Tracy Go To Speech Therapy At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Patty this afternoon at Therapies 4 Kids in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Patty worked on Tracy's prefeeding warm-up exercises, with Tracy responding very well to her facial exercises, tongue depressor, and lemon and glycerin swabs. Patty used some slightly frozen cantaloupe in the Safe Feeder mesh bag and Tracy initiated some very good swallows. After several more swallows, Patty gave Tracy half of a banana pineapple meltable and Tracy worked hard to move it back with her tongue. She then swallowed half of the meltable, which made everyone happy, especially Tracy! Patty continued on with another meltable, and Tracy swallowed it well. She even displayed a rotary chew with many more swallows. Patty was really pleased with Tracy's progress. Tracy Has Physical Therapy With Jackie & Lenny At Therapies 5 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a good session this afternoon with Jackie and Lenny. Jackie started with stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscle groups, and then it was time to don Tracy's Pediasuit for standing. It takes about thirty minutes to don the suit and all of the bungee cords, and then Lenny and Jackie moved Tracy to the spider cage. They hooked her up to the cage and stood her up. She tolerated twenty minutes standing with only Lenny standing behind her, vital signs remaining stable throughout her session. After twenty minutes, Lenny sat Tracy down on a bench for more head control exercises. Tracy is working so hard, and was totally deserving of her post-therapy massage. Jackie does such a good job massaging Tracy's shoulder and neck, and Tracy really relaxes. Dad Leaves For An AsMA Meeting In DC This Evening ~ Dad left for his AsMA planning meeting in DC this evening. LuLu is staying with Mom and Tracy. She does a really good job helping Mom to hold down the fort. Mom, LuLu & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening ~ Mom, LuLu and Tracy watched Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening and could not believe that Johanna is off the show! She is a beautiful dancer and should have been included in the Finals! Guess the fans did not agree! ~ Daily OM: Decorating Life : The World As Home ~

Monday, November 16th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Yoga This Morning With Paige At Awaken Hot Yoga ~ Mom had a great practice this morning with Paige at Awaken Hot Yoga. What a wonderful surprise to have Paige guiding us through our Monday morning practice! Mom had never taken a class with Paige, and she was fantastic. Mom enjoyed her second Yoga class since she returned to Yoga to days ago (after 7 weeks off for a hip injury). It felt great to be back! Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebroes this afternoon. She does such a good job with her eyebrows. Tracy Was Too Sleepy To Work On Her Swallowing This Afternoon ~ Tania offered Tracy some fruit and veggies in her Safe Feeder during her lunch time feeding, but she declined. She was too sleepy to work on her swallowing protocol today! Why are Mondays always so sleepy? Mom Gets A Much Needed Manicure & Pedicure This Afternoon ~ Mom had a great manicure and pedicure this afternoon. She was really overdue. Tania Works With Tracy On Her Hand, Wrist, & Shoulder Stretches This Afternoon ~ Tania stretched and ranged Tracy's hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders this afternoon. She paid particulat attention to Tracy's left shoulder which has been giving her a lot of pain lately. Melanie Comes To Do Cranial Sacral Therapy This Evening ~ Mom had a Swedish massage with Melanie this evening. Then it was Tracy's turn for a Cranial Sacral session. She really opened up and relaxed during her session, and even laughed several times. Dad went last and had his Cranial Sacral Therapy session this evening. He was well overdue and the session really helped his lower back and hut. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy watched Dancing With The Stars this evening. Mom is still rooting for Maya and Dmitry. This week's results will send three couples to the Finals. Daily OM: Owning Your Emotions : Name It & Claim It ~

Sunday, November 15th, 2009 ~ LuLu & Mom Get Tracy Ready For 11:30 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Catholic Church This Morning ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy went to 11:30 AM Mass this morning at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. Mom & Dad Catch Up On Household Chores While Tracy Relaxes In Her Chair ~ Mom and Dad caught up on chores while Tracy relaxed in her chair. Mom & Dad Go In The Hot Tub & Relax In The Sunshine This Afternoon ~ Mom and Dad enjoyed the sunshine and the hot tub this afternoon. It was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch NCIS & NCIS LA This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched last week's recorded shows: NCIS and NCIS LA this afternoon. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Desperate Housewives And Brothers & Sisters This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched their favorite Sunday shows this evening. Daily OM: Removing Obstructions : Allowing Our Light To Shine ~

Saturday, November 14th, 2009 ~ Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much needed facial this morning. She really seemed to enjoy it! Mom, Dad, & Wilmene Take Tracy To Hippotherapy At Bit-By-Bit At Sand & Spurs In Pompano This Afternoon ~ Tracy had a great session on Gypsy this afternoon at Sand & Spurs at the Pompano Park. She sat up so tall and demonstrated good trunk control. Her head control seemed much better today! Mom, Dad, Wilmene & Tracy Stop Off At Atlantic Jewelers To Do Some Shopping ~ Everyone stopped off at Atlantic Jewelers to pick up a belated birthday present for Aunt Candy! What girl doesn't like jewelry? Mom Goes Back To Hot Flow Yoga After More Than Six Weeks Off Due To An Injury ~ Mom had a great hot flow class with Veronica this afternoon at Awaken Hot Yoga in Lighthouse Point It felt so good to finally be back after more than six weeks! Mom, Dad & Tracy Watch LSU vs Louisiana Tech This Evening ~ Mom, Dad and Tracy watched LSU beat Louisiana Tech this evening. It looked a little shaky at times, but thank goodness the Tigers won the game! Mom was happy that Boston College won their game, but Tracy was not very happy that the Canes lost! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Create Time For Self-Compassion: Being Gentle With Ourselves ~

Friday, November 13th, 2009 ~ Tracy Relaxes Most Of The Day ~ Tracy was pretty sleepy and chilled out most of the day at home. She deserved the day off after working so hard at therapy during the week. Tracy Is Too Tired To Work On Her Safe Feeder Today ~ Tracy was too tired to work on her safe feeder today. Tania Stretches & Ranges Tracy's Hands & Wrists This Afternoon ~ Tania worked on Tracy's wrist and finger flexibility this afternoon. Mom Visits Nana This Afternoon ~ Mom stopped by to visit Nana this afternoon. She was really happy to see Mom. Mom & Dad Go To Dinner At Fifth Avenue Grill This Evening ~ Tania stayed with Tracy while Mom and Dad went to the Fifth Avenue Grill for dinner. They had a really good time. Daily OM: The Heart Of Unknowing: Who Am I? ~

Thursday, November 12th, 2009 ~ Mom Has Physical Therapy This Morning With Kurt At Atlantic Rehab ~ Mom had her sixth Physical Therapy session this morning at Atlantic Rehab with Kurt. He applied e-stim and heat and then it was time for some ultrasound. Then she did her hip and core stabilization exercises and then it was time for ice at the end of her session. The treatments feel so good! Mom & Tania Take Tracy To Speech Therapy At Therapies 4 Kids This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy with Ashley at Therapies 4 Kids in Laudedale-By-The-Sea. Patty is still away in Portugal. We sure do miss her, and can't wait for her to return. Ashley is doing a good job taking her place. Ashley worked with Tracy on her Safe Feeder protocol, since Patty is working in Portugal doing Speech evaluations. Ashley, Mom, & Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Ashley gave Tracy some fruit combos using honeydew melon and cantaloupe. Tracy was a little sleepy today, since she did not sleep much last night. It took her some time to warm up and begin swallowing. She does much better with fruit than she does with peppers. The fruit is much more juicy than the peppers. Tracy Has Physical Therapy Next At Therapies 4 Kids ~ Next, Tracy had Physical Therapy at Therapies 4 Kids. Jackie spent about an hour stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscles, then it was time for her and Lenny to don Tracy's Pediasuit. It takes a minimum of 30 minutes to put on the suit, especially with all of the bungee cords, belts, and clips. Tracy was really strong today, and stood with assistance in the Pediasuit for twenty minutes. Her vital signs remained stable throughout her session, and she did a good job holding her head up while standing. Then, Tracy sat on the bench for twelve minutes, continuing to work on head control. At the end of the twelve minutes, Tracy vomited about 6 ounces. Everyone was so surprised when she threw up. Tracy seemed congested and possibly coughed up some mucus. She may have a cold. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Flash Forward, Grey's Anatomy, & Private Practice This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching their Thursday evening shows: Flash Forward, Grey's Anatomy, & Private Practice. Daily OM: Not Always Easy: Meant To Be ~

Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 ~ Happy Anniversary Uncle Mike & Aunt Cheryl (9 Years) ~ Remember Our Veterans ~ Mom Has Pilates This Morning With Christine At Wellness Motion ~ Mom had a great one on one Pilates session with Christine this morning. She really worked Mom hard on both the reformer and the tower. She worked with Mom on the chair too. When Mom was finished with her workout, she got a great massage on the Power Plate. Mom & Tania Take Tracy To Therapies 4 Kids For Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Mom and Tania took Tracy to Therapies 4 Kids this afternoon for Physical Therapy. Jackie spent about an hour stretching and ranging Tracy's major muscles, then it was time for her and Lenny to don Tracy's Pediasuit. It takes a minimum of 30 minutes to put on the suit, especially with all of the bungee cords, belts, and clips. Tracy was really strong today, and stood with assistance in the Pediasuit for twenty minutes. Her vital signs remained stable throughout her session, and she did a good job holding her head up while standing. Everyone is so loving and caring at Therapies 4 Kids. It is really amazing to hear Italian and Portuguese spoken all around us. Mom is remembering a lot of her Italian and is able to communicate with the other families there. She understands more than she can speak. At the end of Tracy's session, Jackie gives Tracy a massage. She really enjoys Jackie's massage after her therapy session. She especially likes when Jackie massages her left shoulder, which seems to really bother her. Dad Returns Safely From New York This Evening ~ Dad made it back safely this evening from his monthly pilot meeting in New York. Daily OM: Echoes Of Happiness: Belly Laughes ~

Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 ~ Happy Birthday Aunt Kathy Sue ~ Wilmene Gives Tracy A Manicure This Morning ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a much needed manicure this morning. She really seemed to enjoy it! The color is a shimmery white. So pretty! Mom & Tania Take Tracy To Therapies 4 Kids For Speech Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy this afternoon at Therapies 4 Kids. Ashley worked with Tracy on her Safe Feeder protocol, since Patty is working in Portugal doing Speech evaluations. Ashley, Mom, & Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Ashley (Patty is still away in Portugal) gave Tracy some fruit combos using honeydew melon and cantaloupe. She also used some red pepper and celery combos and cucumber and red pepper. Tracy is doing a good job biting the wedge, working the juice back with her tongue, and swallowing. Today, it took about thirty minutes for Tracy to warm up and begin swallowing. She responded well to Ashley's cue: "Chomp, chomp, taste, taste, swallow, swallow." Using this jingle, Tracy swallowed several times on cue. She works so hard, almost swallowing several times until she finally does. Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy immediately following Speech Therapy. She was so happy to see Jackie, who is a Physical and Occupational Therapist. She stretched and ranged all of Tracy's major muscle groups, especially Tracy's left shoulder and pects. After about an hour of stretching, it was time to donn the Pediasuit. It takes nearly thirty minutes to get the suit and bungee cords on. Then Lenny and Jackie moved Tracy to the spider cage where they stood her up in the Pediasuit. Lenny stood behind Tracy and coached her through her head control exercises. Tracy worked very hard to hold her head up. She seems to be getting stronger with every session. Tracy tolerated standing in the Pediasuit for about 12 minutes, and then Lenny and Jackie sat her down on a bench. Tracy is working really hard and she seems to really enjoy her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Mom, Dad and Tracy watched the Dancing With The Stars this evening. Mom is still rooting for Mya and Dmitry and Johanna and Derek. She was so surprised to see Aaron voted off the show before Donny Osmond! Tracy Has Been Really Trying To Talk Lately ~ Tracy has been moving her tongue and mouth a lot over the past several months. 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. She also has been moving her lips more and getting some mouth closure. This is a very slow process, and is very inconsistent! Please pray that she continues to progress and that she can get her G-tube out some day in the future! Daily OM: Transitioning Through Life's Phases : Midlife Crisis ~

Monday, November 9th, 2009 ~ Dad Is Off Today To Be With Tracy While Mom Is On Her Way Home From NH ~ Dad is doing a great job working with Tracy while Mom is away visiting Aunt Candy with Aunt Diane in New Hampshire. She is having a great time and returns this evening. Tania & Wilmene Work With Tracy On Her Feeding Protocol ~Wilmene & Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Tania gave Tracy some veggie combos using red pepper and purple onion. Tracy is doing a good job biting the wedge, working the juice back with her tongue, and swallowing. Today, Tracy did a pretty good job swallowing. Tania Shapes Tracy's Eyebrows This Afternoon ~ Tania shaped Tracy's eyebrows this afternoon. They look so pretty! Tania does such a good job! Dad, Tania & Tracy Work On Tracy Facebook Fanpage Today ~ Dad and Tania worked on Tracy's Facebook Fanpage today, uploading all of the pretty pictures that Tania took of Tracy's therapy sessions at Therapies 4 Kids! They even watched some of Tracy's videos that Tania took. Way to go Tania! Tania Massages & Ranges Tracy's Left Shoulder This Evening ~ Tania applied some Biofreeze to Tracy's left shoulder and massaged and ranged it this evening. Her shoulder has been really tender and causing her some pain when ranged. Tania Stretched & Ranged Tracy's Wrists & Hands This Evening ~ Tania stretched and ranged Tracy's wrists and hands this evening. The Botox should be peaked now, since it has been about six weeks. Mom Returns This Evening From New Hampshire With Aunt Diane ~ Jeff picked up Mom and Aunt Diane this evening at the Ft. Lauderdale Airport from their New Hampshire trip. They had a great time visiting Aunt Candy and Tanya! It was great seeing cousin Michelle too! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Dancing With The Stars this evening. Daily OM: A Living Dwelling: Creating A Beautiful Home ~

Sunday, November 8th, 2009 ~ Dad, LuLu & Tracy Go To 11:30 AM Mass At St. Paul The Apostle Church In Lighthouse Point ~ Dad, LuLu and Tracy went to 11:30 AM Mass at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point. Then, after Mass, they headed to Starbucks (bet you're surprised, right?) for lattes and scones. Diva Weekend Update ~ Mom, Aunt Diane, Aunt Candy, Tanya & Cousin Michelle Go To Breakfast After 9:30 AM Mass ~ Mom and cousin Michelle enjoyed a very brisk walk this morning before 9:30 AM Mass. The Mass was amazing, Fr. John anointed the sick, and there was a palpable energy throughout the church. After Mass, everyone went out for a delicious breakfast! The weather was cool, crisp, and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 26 and 50 degrees! Mom and Aunt Diane really enjoyed the cool, clean air; a nice change from Florida's humidity. Then the girls hit the little shops in Woodstock and walked to the river for a photo op! That evening, everyone enjoyed a delicious Chinese meal from Jade Garden. Tracy, Dad, & LuLu Watch NFL Football This Afternoon ~ Dad, Tracy and LuLu watched the Saints win another footbball game this afternoon. Geaux Saints! Dad, LuLu & Tracy Watch Desperate Housewives and Brothers & Sisters This Evening ~ Dad, LuLu and Tracy watched their favorite Sunday evening shows. Mom, Aunt Diane, Aunt Candy and Tanya watched them in New Hampshire. Daily OM: Keeping Things In Perspective: Mountains ~

Saturday, November 7th, 2009 ~ Wilmene Gives Tracy A Facial ~ Wilmene gave Tracy a facial. She sure does love her spa days! Tracy's Hippotherapy Gets Cancelled Due To Windy Weather ~ Tracy's Hippotherapy was cancelled due to high winds. She and Gypsy do not like windy weather. Diva Weekend Update ~ Mom, Aunt Diane, Aunt Candy, & Tanya Go To The Spa For Massages & Pedicures This Morning ~ The girls enjoyed their day at the spa! Mom had the best hot stone massage ever! Aunt Diane had a great Swedish massage, and Candy and Tanya had great pedicures. The hot tub, sauna and steam were great! Then it was off to North Conway via the Kancamangus Highway for shopping and sightseeing. Dad, Wilmene, & Tracy Stop Off At Subway For Lunch ~ Dad, Wilmene, and Tracy stop off at Subway for lunch. Dad, Wilmene, & Tracy Watch College Football This Afternoon ~ Everyone watched NCAA College Game Day this afternoon. Everyone Watched LSU vs. Alabama This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed the LSU vs. Alabama game this evening. Too bad LSU did not win! Mom, Aunt Diane, Aunt Candy, Tanya & Cousin Michelle Go To Dinner At Woodstock Station ~ The girls had a great dinner at Woodstock Station this evening after they detoxed in Michelle's ionic detox machine. They make the best hamburgers and the band played a lot of Dave Matthews, Bruce Springsteen, and John Mayer! Daily OM: Balancing Heaven & Earth: Importance Of Being Grounded ~

Friday, November 6th, 2009 ~ Mom Leaves For New Hampshire With Aunt Diane Early This Mo rning ~ Jeff took Mom and Aunt Diane to the airport to catch an early plane to Manchester. It was a little windy and they had some serious turbulence upon their approach to Philly. They were really glad when the plane finally touched down in Philly and they made their connecting flight. Tania & Wilmene Work With Tracy On Her Feeding Protocol ~Wilmene & Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Tania gave Tracy some veggie combos using red pepper and purple onion. Tracy is doing a good job biting the wedge, working the juice back with her tongue, and swallowing. Today, Tracy was a little stingy with her swallowing. Mom, Aunt Diane, Aunt Candy & Tanya Drive To Loon Mountain This Evening For Diva Weekend ~ The girls drove to Loon Mountain this evening. It was cold and, believe it or not, they even saw some snow flurries! It was a beautiful night with lots and lots of stars! Daily OM: Uncover Your True Face: Underneath The Mask ~

Thursday, November 5th, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Physical Therapy With Kurt This Morning ~ Mom had a great therapy session with Kurt this morning. He started her back on some of her exercises. The heat, ultrasound, and e-stim really make her hip feel better. She is looking forward to returning to Yoga soon. Mom, Tania & Ashley Work With Tracy On Her Feeding Protocol ~ Ashley, Mom and Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Ashley (Patty is away in Portugal) gave Tracy some honeydew melon and some cantaloupe. Tracy is doing a good job biting the wedge, working the juice back with her tongue, and swallowing. Today, Tracy was a little stingy with her swallowing today. Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy immediately following Speech Therapy. She was so happy to see Jackie, who is a Physical and Occupational Therapist. She stretched and ranged all of Tracy's major muscle groups, especially Tracy's left shoulder and pects. After about an hour of stretching, it was time to donn the Pediasuit. It takes nearly thirty minutes to get the suit and bungee cords on. Then Lenny and Jackie moved Tracy to the spider cage where they stood her up in the Pediasuit. Lenny stood behind Tracy and coached her through her head control exercises. Tracy worked very hard to hold her head up. She seems to be getting stronger with every session. Tracy tolerated standing in the Pediasuit for about 12 minutes, and then Lenny and Jackie sat her down on a bench. Tracy is working really hard and she seems to really enjoy her therapy sessions. After her therapy, Jackie gives Tracy a much-needed massage. Mom has been putting Lidoderm patches on Tracy's left shoulder to help with the pain. It seems to be working pretty well. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Flash Forward, Grey's Anatomy & Private Practice This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching their new fav show: Flash Forward, and then it was time for Grey's Anatomy & Private Practice. Mom sure does love Thursday evenings! Daily OM: Making It Happen: Go For It ~

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009 ~ Mom Has A Private Pilates Session With Christine ~ Mom had a great Pilates session with Christine this morning. She is really working her hard. She still misses hot yoga! Hope she can get back there soon! Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy this afternoon with Jackie, Lenny and Braz. She was so happy to see Jackie, who is a Physical and Occupational Therapist. She stretched and ranged all of Tracy's major muscle groups, especially Tracy's left shoulder and pects. After about an hour of stretching, it was time to donn the Pediasuit. It takes nearly thirty minutes to get the suit and bungee cords on. Then Braz, Lenny and Jackie moved Tracy to the spider cage where they stood her up in the Pediasuit. Braz stood behind Tracy and coached her through her head control exercises. Tracy worked very hard to hold her head up. She seems to be getting stronger with every session. Tracy tolerated standing in the Pediasuit for about 10 minutes, and then Lenny and Jackie sat her down on a bench. Tracy is working really hard and she seems to really enjoy her therapy sessions. After her therapy, Jackie gives Tracy a much-needed massage. Mom has been putting Lidoderm patches on Tracy's left shoulder to help with the pain. It seems to be working pretty well. Tracy was excited to have Wilmene there to see her in the Pediasuit. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Castle, Flash Forward, & The Mentalist This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching their new fav shows: Flash Forward, Castle, & The Mentalist that they tivoed. Mom Packs For New Hampshire This Evening ~ Mom packed her suitcase this evening for her trip to New Hampshire. Daily OM: Making It Happen: Go For It ~

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Physical Therapy With Kurt This Morning ~Mom had a great Physical Therapy session with Kurt this mornng. He is gradually adding more exercises to Mom's therapy program. The treatment modalities: heat, e-stim, ultrasound, and ice really seem to help with healing. Mom & Tania Take Tracy To Therapies 4 Kids For Speech Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Speech Therapy this afternoon at Therapies 4 Kids. Ashley worked with Tracy on her Safe Feeder protocol, since Patty is working in Portugal doing Speech evaluations. Ashley, Mom, & Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Patty gave Tracy some Meltables, which are dehydrated bits of fruit similar to the pink hearts in Lucky Charms cereal. She worked very hard to get them back and to swallow. She also used some honeydew melon and some cantaloupe wedges. Tracy is doing a good job biting the wedge, working the juice back with her tongue, and swallowing. She works so hard, almost swallowing several times until she finally does, like trying to start a car that hasn't been started in a few years! Tracy Has Physical Therapy This Afternoon ~ Tracy had Physical Therapy immediately following Speech Therapy. She was so happy to see Jackie, who is a Physical and Occupational Therapist. She stretched and ranged all of Tracy's major muscle groups, especially Tracy's left shoulder and pects. After about an hour of stretching, it was time to donn the Pediasuit. It takes nearly thirty minutes to get the suit and bungee cords on. Then Braz and Jackie moved Tracy to the spider cage where they stood her up in the Pediasuit. Braz stood behind Tracy and coached her through her head control exercises. Tracy worked very hard to hold her head up. She seems to be getting stronger with every session. Tracy tolerated standing in the Pediasuit for about 10 minutes, and then Braz and Jackie sat her down on a bench. She was so excited to see Greg who came to watch Tracy standing in the suit. Tracy is working really hard and she seems to really enjoy her therapy sessions. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars: The Results This Evening ~ Mom, Dad, and Tracy watched Dancing With The Stars: The Results this evening. Mom is still rooting for Mya and Dmitry and Johanna and Derek! Daily OM: The Whole Is Greater: Women's Circles ~

Monday, November 2nd, 2009 ~ Mom Goes To Physical Therapy ~ Mom Goes To Appointment With Dr. Logue ~ Mom Goes To Pilates Consultation ~ Tania & Wilmene Work With Tracy On Her Feeding Protocol ~Wilmene & Tania worked on Tracy's feeding protocol for her lunchtime feeding. Patty, Tracy's new Speech Therapist, set up a feeding protocol for them to follow. Tania developed a tracking sheet for data collection, to record such variables as the number of swallows, hiccups, burps, tongue pumps, etc. She wants us to feed Tracy her 8 ounce can of Jevity 1.2 over about 40 minutes, which results in 2 ounces (one syringe) per 10 minutes. It takes three people to feed her following this protocol, one to hold the syringe, one to hold Tracy's head, and the other to feed her orally and record her progress. We have been using a Safe Feeder, a mesh-like bag with a handle/adapter. We have been filling the mesh bag with a frozen wedge of nectarine, cantaloupe, peaches, or honey dew melon. Today, Tania gave Tracy some honeydew melon wedges.. Tracy is doing a good job biting the wedge, working the juice back with her tongue, and swallowing. Today, Tracy was very sleepy after a very busy week! Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Dancing With The Stars This Evening ~ Everyone enjoyed watching Dancing With The Stars this evening. Mom is still rooting for her facorites: Mya and Dmitry and Johanna and Derek. Daily OM: The Time You Find: Simplifying Your Schedule ~

Sunday, November 1st, 2009 ~ Mom, Dad, & Tracy Catch Up On Chores Today ~ Everyone was busy catching up with their chores today. Dad took down the Halloween decorations in preparation for M & C Pavers to come tomorrow to pressure wash and seal the pavers. They leveled off some areas that had sunk around the pool and they rebuilt the steps by the hot tub. This is the fun part about living on the water, everything sinks towards the sea wall. Argh! We are also getting railings and fences installed around the pool to make the area safer. Mom, Dad, & Tracy Watch Football This Afternoon ~ Everyone enjoyed watching NFL Pro Football this afternoon, and as usual, are rooting for the New Orleans Saints! Geaux Saints! Daily OM: Loving Presence: Surround Yourself With Love ~