Howard Family

SNOW!

2012-01-17T18:39:00.001-08:00

It was cold all weekend, and rumors of snow kept surfacing.Sunday was clear- we met some friends out for happy hour at the Copper Hog after a late afternoon hike by Boone's Pond.

Monday morning, we woke up to snow, and happy, happy children. Ian was outside as soon as he could get dressed, with Cooper close behind. We had a great afternoon sledding with our neighbors at a nearby hill, and had some friends over for a new dinner: Jap Chae- a Korean dish made with sweet potato starch noodles-delicious! Here's the recipe: http://www.whats4eats.com/pastas/jap-chae-recipe

We had a snow day today- the boys made a big snowman in our back yard, and both boys tried out. A neighbor's little skis (with questionable results....)

They're calling for more snow tonight, so who knows if we'll have school again tomorrow. My goal is to get out skiing in the neighborhood before the snow melts away.

Happy winter!

Dedication pays off

2012-01-08T21:08:00.001-08:00

YouTube Video

Location:Mill Ave,Bellingham,United States

The Christmas Spirit

2011-12-23T21:28:00.001-08:00

Since he was pretty young, Cooper has loved Santa. Not just on a "the guy who brings me presents"love, but the long- lost-favorite- relative-who-knows-me-better-than-anyone love. Some of hi first words were "Santa Pom-Pom", complete with a little hand gesture to indicate the pom Pom at the tip of Santa's hat (in case you weren't bright enough to figure that out...) We listen to Christmas carols all year long ,and generally every third drawing Cooper has done is of Santa. He talks about traveling to the North Pole as his next vacation plan. This boy loves Santa. That said, until this year, he's not quite been able to follow along with the story lines for more complicated Christmas stories (think Polar Express), and his carols were pretty limited. This year, however, has been a banner year for Santa- not only have we had 4 or 5 official sightings, but he's added "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus", "Silent Night", and "All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth" to his musical repertoire.

The highlight, however, is a two part story: on Wednesday, we went to my mom and stepdad's YMCA for a "Breakfast with Santa" deal. Cooper spotted him before he'd even entered the room, and peppered him with questions: "Where's Mrs. Claus? Who's watching the reindeer? Are you going back to the North Pole? Where's your sleigh?" It was clear that the affection was mutual, and Santa chatted him up for as long as the elves would let him. BUT, here's the highlight: this morning, we were back at the YMCA, finishing up when who should walk in, ready for his workout, but Santa!! Sure enough, in case you wondered, Santa works out at the La Jolla YMCA on a regular basis! Cooper recognized him immediately, and rushed to greet him. He asked about the Claus family, the reindeer, and, of course, what kind of exercises Santa does. It was a magical moment- to see that window of true belief, where Santa is as likely to be seen, sitting kids on his lap, ringing the Salvation Army bell, or going in for a workout.

And on that note, we send you our warmest wishes, with love and affection to each of you, and the hope that we each may work to see the good in people, and to act in ways that bring our dreams one step closer to reality.

Untitled

2011-09-30T18:40:00.001-07:00

Well, we've survived the first month of the school year- and it's been something. Millworks, the cohousing next door to us, opened this summer. We've more than doubled the number of kids on our block in less than a month!Ian started at The Cottage School. It's a little mixed age preschool for 3-6 year olds. I'm thrilled with it. Our neighbor, Leah, goes there as well, so they're getting a chance to build their own relationship. It reminds me a lot of the preschool that I went to as a kid, and feels like just the right match for Ian.Cooper had the opportunity to repeat kindergarten, and stay with the fabulous teacher he had last year. Sadly, two weeks into the school year we were told that Happy Valley was overstaffed, and Cooper's teacher had to move to an understaffed school across town. sigh...it's settled now, and Cooper's happy with his new teacher- when I pick him up, he tells me, "I like that new classroom!" He's doing great, and has already added two hours to his day compared to last year.I started at a new building too. I'm teaching 5th grade for the first time since 2005, when Cooper was born. We began with 38 kids in the class, but are now settled in with 28 ( which has never looked so small!) I'm just teaching language arts, working from 8:30-12:15. It's the perfect schedule because I'm home in time to pick up both boys from school, and enjoy the afternoon with them. This week, Cooper woke up at 2am with the croup. Wheezy, coughy, hard to catch your breath- yuk. Scared Chris and I, but once the spell was over, he was okay. t one point he said, "I'm sick and coughing, and I need Fireman Sam to rescue me!" hysterical.I finally have my 45 minutes a week for this project- Cooper has speech after school, and Chris is home in time to keep Ian at home. Hurrah!

The Triple- Double

2011-09-11T08:25:00.001-07:00

When we got this tandem in Spring, I was thrilled to be able to ride with Cooper. Of course, the dilemma I hadn't anticipated is that, generally, I'm home with both kids. I finally stumbled across a picture of a set up like this, and realized the bike seat in back was identical to ours...so here we are- the Triple-Double, so named by our niece, Molly. Let me just say that, while it's awesome, pedaling 100 pounds of cargo definitely limits my biking range, particularly when there are hills involved. Nevertheless, I can get them to school and to the park by myself, on the bike, which makes me really happy! Now if only Cooper would learn to pedal....

Camping

2011-09-04T08:21:00.001-07:00

Camping at San Juan County Park
We have been camping here for more than ten years now. Most years, the Orcas pass through regularly, and we sit on the bluff - everything coming to a silent standstill to watch. We throw rocks on the beach, walk in the nearby sculpture garden, sit by the campfire, and mostly, enjoy this first family tradition.

Bet you can guess the parents of Mr. I-don't-want-to-be-in-a-picture.....

Bring on The Rain!

2011-07-02T07:32:00.001-07:00

It's been quite the winter here (and elsewhere, too, I know). I feel like it's been 45 and raining for as long as I can remember, with little bursts of 55 and sunny to keep us from going off the deep end. This year, I realized that it's not so much the rain, as it is being cooped up with the boys. On top of that, we got our new bicycle and it proceeded to rain for the next 10 days straight. So, after much digging around, I finally found a solution: foul weather gear! One piece, rainproof oversuits that should allow me to throw the boys outside or on the bike no matter the weather... I even have one of my own from my pre- kid sailing days. So, bring it on, northwest weather, we're ready!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Bellingham

It's here!

2011-04-28T22:22:00.001-07:00

Yep, here it is, our fabulous new tandem that has foot pegs, shortened pedals, and a rear seat with back support. Cooper is thrilled, and I almost cried when we got out on our first ride. It's been such a struggle to get Cooper to even attempt anything with wheels- bikes, scooters....the trail-a-bike was a total flop...so, last summer I'd gotten to where I'd almost given up trying to ride with Coop. And that made me so sad- biking really is one of my favorite things, and its such a good family activity. But by the end of last summer, I'd pretty much given up....until we got this grant (and a big thanks to you, United Healthcare Children's Foundation) that helped pay for our new bike. So now, we can ride together, and Cooper can get practice balancing, and gaining the comfort and skills he'll need to ride on his own one day. Today, I feel like we won the lottery.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Spring fun

2011-04-21T22:39:00.001-07:00

Highlights from this spring....where to start? A fabulous visit to Kentucky to see Chris's parents, a surprise
detour through San Diego on our return, Easter egg hunting, and, yes, you guessed it, more rock throwing.

Cooper started buddy soccer and an "adaptive" aquatics program this week ( on an aside, I couldn't actually say what's adaptive about
the swimming, but it's one on one time in the water with a pair of volunteers who can get way more out of Cooper than I can!)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

New bike

2011-04-21T22:24:00.001-07:00

A friend gave us this balance bike over the weekend, and it is clearly the love of Ian's
life! For my own self, it means I can go on a fairly good paced walk without pushing a stroller or carrying a kid in a backpack. I'm Floored by how fast he's gotten the hang of it!

YouTube Video

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

One determined kid...

2011-02-26T17:55:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't noticed, or heard, it's cold here. Cold, and snowy and icy. And for all of you who live south of me and are complaining about the "freezing" 50 degree winters, I have just one thing to say, "Whaaaaa!" Seriously. (And, to all of you who live where it's far colder than here- I know, I know, I shouldn't complain.)

Nevertheless, we're here, the chickens are scratching out grassy spots in the snow, Cooper's trying to build a snowman in 1/4 inch of snow, I've learned to park the van on the street anytime anyone mentions the word snow, and Ian, well, Ian's learning to milk it. He's banging on the door as soon as he's awake to go out, push his bike to the top of the driveway, and careen back down. Without insistence from his parents, he would do this in his pajamas, or even a t-shirt and jeans. I finally made the declaration that his clothing had to include at least a hat and coat. Sheesh.
Here are two videos that kept me laughing.

Fast Friends

2011-02-09T06:55:00.000-08:00

Fun to see how much these kids change year to year...

It's coming into birthday season around here- Chris turns 46 this weekend, and Cooper will be 6 two weeks later. Late February/Early March brings a run of birthdays in our family/friend group that fills almost every day for three weeks. Crazy.

MLK Day- Happy Valley School Garden Project

2011-01-19T06:36:00.000-08:00

A fabulous start to Cooper's school garden. I so enjoyed watching Cooper jump right in and work. He stayed focused on the project really the whole time- moving cardboard, digging & dumping dirt. One of the his favorite kids in class was there, which was awesome. A highly successful "day on!"

My New Year's Resolution

2011-01-09T13:38:00.000-08:00

I went to make our annual picture album this past December, and realized how much I use this blog as a reference. So, I'm thinking months between entries isn't such a hot idea. Hence, my resolution: Sunday night picture upload, and quick entry. Bug me if I fall of the wagon, please...

Woke up to snow this morning- just the perfect amount: enough to build snowmen, throw snowballs, and to keep my skis moving. The truth is that cross country skiing ranks right up there with sailing for me (and for anyone who knows me, that's saying a lot.) But opportunities are few and far between here in Bellingham.

I was spoiled by my six winter months in Wolverine, Michigan 15 years ago. I worked at an outdoor camp there, teaching inner city Detroit kids about snowshoeing, skiing, and how to build a fire in the snow. The camp backed up on 200 acres of state forest land, and every weekend once we'd cleared the remnants of the hundred or so kids from the week, we'd put on skis and head out into the forest. The snow was fabulous, the deciduous forest bright and silent-full of birds, porcupines, even a couple of ermine who kept watch on our movements. Trees bent over with the weight of snow.

Nevertheless, this morning was the kind I dream of and Ian and I made the best of it- skiing through town to the Firehouse Cafe for a cookie-and-a-coffee date. A perfect morning.
Cooper asked for a turn, but I'm thinking we wouldn't have made it far with him in the backpack- apparently he needs his own skis. Below is a picture from his first ski trip.

Wiggles!!

2010-10-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

Many of you know how well-loved the Wiggles are in our house. Cooper's been a fan for a good long time- running to get his pirate costume on when Captan Feathersword appears; singing along with all the songs; and lots and lots of pretending to wake Jeff up. SO, when we saw that they were coming to Everett, we had to go. Chris and I were a little nervous, because Cooper has a history of flipping out at big loud events. BUT, it was a total success- he smiled the whole time. We'll definitely be going again.

Fall Fun

2010-10-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

We're settling in to the school year- lots and lots of changes for our family this year, and I have to say all of them have been great. It's the first year in a long time where I feel like things are actually easier than last year. Cooper's loving school, and volunteering once a week has really helped me feel like I know how things are going for him & how he fits into the classroom. I had a very sweet phone call Friday night from the mom of a girl in his class. They'd been talking about Cooper, and a potential playdate next week. The little girl says to her mom, "You know what's special about Cooper, Mom? He's always smiling. Even when people are upset or grumpy, Cooper's still smiling." Made my heart so happy to hear that!

Cooper's joined the band at the annual Buddy Walk

One last fall party (chasing chickens was a highlight!)

...notice that Ian couldn't be bothered with the cooking part.

My first friend in college, Jordan, who lives in Anchorage showed up w/his wife for a quick visit- first time in 15 years I've seen him.

Fun in the hammock!

First Day of Kindergarten

2010-09-13T11:06:00.001-07:00

Cooper was thrilled to start school today-not that I'm surprised. He walked in like he's been there forever, knew just where to put his lunchbox, and spent his free time working a puzzle.

I loved being able to walk, getting to meet the other parents, and (of course) seeing Cooper be so comfortable there. Ian, however,was pretty sure he ought to be staying....

Here are some shots from the morning.

Practicing his lunchroom routine last night (and mighty proud of his tower).

Working a puzzle with the instructional assistant who will be there to help in the mornings.

Ready to listen.

Back to School

2010-09-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

So, here it is, the end of our first week back to school We're getting back into our routine, and frankly, much as I love summer and the warm weather, I'm ready for it. The boys are at Ian's daycare this week & loving it- Ian's lead teacher for his little group of 6 is Teacher Gabe. Ian likes him because he's silly and animated (and tosses him in the air.) Cooper was in with the Kinders there this week, as school doesn't start for him until Monday, and that'll be his care when he has a half day every so often. He's thrilled that he shares a big playground space with the "big kids"- the elementary students from the afterschool program.

We had Cooper's kinder assessment on Wednesday, and he marched himself right into Mrs. Clark's room & sat down to work with her- he got a couple of the shapes, letters and numbers right and then said, "can't remember"- which might be interpreted as, "I'm done naming things for you and I want to read books and play with the adults in the room!" Ian was in heaven to play w/all the things in Coop's classroom while I filled out paperwork- he'd go get a car from the bin and march it over to me to show me (in his most enthusiastic voice), "Mama! Car! Car!" Let me just say that I got to study every single one of the 20 cars in the bin quite well.

The big news for kindergarten is that the Special Ed. department in his school was allocated a half-time assistant for Cooper. She'll be there three hours a day and seems awesome! She's a special ed. teacher who just moved up here, so we couldn't ask for anything better. I had written off Cooper getting any aide time after our last meeting in Spring- I felt like the message from the director of Sp. Ed was that if he needed a one-on-one aide, he should be in a contained classroom. So, great news! (And no fight to get the time!)

I'm getting settled in at my job too. I love, love, love that it is so close to our house (and that the kids eat lunch at daycare.) I load them all up in the bike trailer and drop them and the trailer at Hillcrest Kids, and then literally cross the street and a bridge and am at work. I've even managed to sneak in some runs after school this week!

All and all, a pretty successful transition (ask me again in a week...). The kids have been totally exhausted at night- I've literally been shoving food into them the minute we walk in the house, and am barely avoiding total break down. Fortunately, the food seems to do the trick. Today was our first slow morning, and when Cooper got up, the first thing he said to me was, "Cooper have quiet time?" (Cooper!) So, yes, we had quiet time.

My new commuter vehicle

Kiawah

2010-09-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Every year we fly to South Carolina to spend a week on the beach with Chris's family- all 18 of us in one house (10 adults, 8 kids under 9...) It's always a fun week, and a great way to connect with our spread out family. I thought I'd share some highlights.

The 12 scoop Vacation Sundae from Vincents

Let me just add here that the sundaes at Vincents are some of the best things I've ever eaten. My favorite: Coconut Madness: 2 Scoops of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Topped with Hot Fudge, Slivered Almonds, Toasted Coconut, Whipped Cream and a Cherry. I have to limit myself to one per vacation. (But I think I could make a good mock up at home....)

Photo Op

I think the most astounding thing about this pictures is that all of the children are actually in it!

Fun with the cousins

I think this was the easiest trip we've had in a while. The kids are all getting old enough that some of the drama is subsiding. Can you see how intently Cooper is following his cousin's lead??

Bumped! (relaxing while we wait for the next day's flight.)

Here's a little secret that some of you might not know: we've managed to get ourselves bumped every trip home from Charleston since we started going. So, yes, this year we got bumped, and acquired a good chunk of travel vouchers to put toward next year's trip. We had to stay an extra day in Charleston (and you can tell the boys are really suffering through that...), but it was worth it.

Nothing I can really say about this last picture....

San Diego Highlights-Part 3

2010-07-15T23:33:00.000-07:00

San Diego Highlights- Part 2

2010-07-15T23:19:00.000-07:00

A sweet moment between brothers...

....I did say "moment" right?

In order to put on his cousin Audrey's socks, Ian had to take off every stitch of clothing he was wearing...except his own socks. Hmmm...

Coop was thrilled to have a slumber party at his cousin's house.

San Diego Highlights- Part 1

2010-07-15T23:15:00.000-07:00

Beach Time

2010-07-15T23:08:00.000-07:00

Nothing like the beach for hanging out (and giving smooches)

Can you see how BIG this hole is???

Why I Love My Husband

2010-06-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

So, this blog- the link attached below- is one I've stumbled across before, but I have to say, this post made my fall over laughing, because really, you could change the names to Chris and Gretchen and it would be about right.

http://www.amalah.com/amalah/2005/08/ikea_jones_and_.html

Author's note: I was going to title this post: Why I Love IKEA, but really, it's more a reflection on the patience &tolerance (most of the time) of my hubby. I'll tell you about the sheep, goats and turkeys another time...

2010-05-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

This is the first night Jasper's ever asked to sleep with Cooper.

Dressed for the day. I asked Cooper what he needed to put on before going outside, and he said, "shoes!!" So, here he is...

Soccer!!

2010-04-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

And, I stumbled upon it and wondered if it might be a match for Cooper. It's advertised as an adaptive soccer program, but the age range is 5-19, so I thought it might be something Cooper wasn't ready for yet. But hey, it's free, so off we went...
Cooper LOVED it! He talked about it the whole way there:
"Cooper play soccer. Like big boys!"
"And Barney and Wiggles play soccer, too!"
"No, probably not," I say.
"Oh darn..." (My new favorite Cooper phrase.)

We get there, and there are our friends Amy and Max. Let me just say, here, that Cooper talks about these two more than anyone else in our lives (sorry grandparents..). I know he likes Max, but frankly, I think he's in love with Amy- in fact, as we left, he had to hold her hand (nevermind the water bottle.."Move that!" he declared.) And then when I tried to hold his other hand he says, "No, just one" [hand].
Finally, at the car, he tried to talk us into a trade: he'd go home w/Amy and he'd volunteer his spot at our house for Max. The only way we got him out of Max's carseat was to promise a pizza date with them next week.

But, back to soccer...he had a blast- his buddy, Lucy, is terrific, and he still hasn't taken off his soccer dress--- I mean shirt (somehow we wound up with a youth large.)
So, there's this program: Top Soccer http://whatcomsoccer.com/Youth%20Information/TOPSoccer%20flyer%202010.pdf

Hurray! (and thanks to Amy for actually bringing her camera

Love My Sink...

2010-03-02T06:31:00.000-08:00

So, there are a few reasons that the sink is one of my favorite parts of our new addition:
1.It's huge and deep, so you can fill it full of dishes and it looks like your kitchen is totally free of dirty dishes from across the room.
2. It's brown- the color of coffee, compost, and most other grubby things, which means I rarely have to scrub it.
3. But maybe the best reason is that it's the perfect playpen for Ian- who has to have the water running at all times when he's in the bath.

Language

2010-01-24T15:21:00.000-08:00

So, generally, I feel so pleased with Coop's language. He's made big changes this year and is SO much more successfully communicating without help. This weekend, we went to a big bird sanctuary (we really mostly saw ducks..) for the day. The kids LOVED it! Of particular interest, of course, was throwing birdseed for the ducks. Cooper asked me for more, and knew exactly what he intended with his request. What stood out to me when I watched this video was how much effort it really took him to get what was in his head out...I always tell people that what Cooper is able to say far less than he truly understands- which, in itself, is a substantial part of his challenge. I feel like that's SO evident here!

A Visit from the Koontz Family

2010-01-17T20:59:00.001-08:00

We always love it when our friends from Olympia come to visit. I think we’ve spent the majority of the last ten New Years together.

Here are our kiddos together: Trouble, huh?? I think it’s the only time they all stood still at once.

We had a great New Year’s Day hike with the kids, including a stop at our little cooperative school, just in time to see the goats being milked.

I love the look on Graham’s Face here….

Christmas Eve

2010-01-13T20:08:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've had enough comments about my slacker blogging, sorry about that. I really did leave the camera in San Diego when we left town, but that explains nothing about November and December.

So, in the next few days, I'll try to update gradually.

Here are the boys setting out food for the reindeer and cookies for Santa (and a beer- bet you can guess who suggested that!) The thing to pay attention to is Ian's cheeks in every picture. He was mooching the reindeer food the entire time!

Halloween and other fall shots

2009-11-15T20:22:00.000-08:00

Fall beach day.

Ian was determined to stay out in the rain. And it was a DOWNPOUR! There he is: happily soaked.

"Rock Guys" Cooper's favorite part of our visit to the University for Speech Therapy

My GapBaby photoshoot. (kidding, kidding)

Cooper spent this whole walk directing Dad and Diane on exactly how to walk.

It's been quite a month: I was recruited by our school district to take a 1/2 time reading specialist position about a month ago, and, while we hadn't planned for me to work this year, the job was one I couldn't turn down. It's every afternoon for 4 hours. Cooper's in school at that time, and Ian's generally asleep, so I still get mornings with the boys. In that next week, we found some really fabulous childcare, bought a second car (yes, a minivan), and shifted into a different mode. It's been a good change. I like what I'm doing, the boys are happy, and it seems like a job I could do part time for a lot of years.

Our remodel is officially done. I put in the last paint and shelving today, and it is SUCH a relief to get it done. (Pictures below)

Ian is too funny for words- he spends all day toddling around from one place to another, carrying random objects, and holding them out to you, with a loud declaration of, "DA!" He has figured out all kinds of funny noises he can make with his tongue, and has started dancing- which just looks like walking really fast in place.

Cooper's really having a good fall. His language, which has always been my biggest worry (after the chronic hair pulling..) is really growing this year. Lots and lots of 3 and 4 word sentences that I think most people can understand without help. My recent favorites:" Awwww, whats'a'matter baby?" and "Cooper NEED gum!"-the second is particularly funny because I've never heard him say he needs anything before! He's taking a gymnastics class in town, which makes me happy for so many reasons:
1. It's drop off, and I can actually drop him off. The teacher loves him, and doesn't see any need for him to have extra supervision.
2. His gross motor skills are really benefiting. He is walking a few steps on a balance beam, and working on summersaults and rolls. It's a bit of a dilemma because we dropped physical therapy a year ago, as we didn't see the progress we were hoping for. So now we've picked up gymnastics, and I'd like to have him go more than once a week, but that feels cost-prohibitive. Ironically, a gymnastics class is 1/10th the cost of each physical therapy session, but insurance isn't interested in covering it. Sigh. I'm on the hunt for a good grant.
3. Okay, this is terrible, but it's true: he's not the highest impact kid in the class. Everytime this happens I breathe this sigh of relief. It makes me so happy to see him participating in so many activities successfully.

The bits that stick out are all new.

Fall is Here

2009-09-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

In Bellingham, Mondays are the general Early Release day for the school district. For preschool and kindergarten, that means no school, so yesterday we joined a group of friends for a tour of one of the apple orchards in our county. The kids got to take a tour of the orchard by golf cart, see the cider press and sorting tables, and sample four kinds of apples. It was a great day!

Cooper, in his new "afraid of everything" mode, had to be really convinced to ride on the cart, but once he was on, he was happy.

Every time we stopped, he'd get out of our cart and go find someone else to ride with.

We asked them to hold hands in the sorting room. Coop was on the end, so he grabbed the leader's hand, trying to start a game of Ring Around the Rosie.

He saw the raised display area with the gourds, said, "Show!" and did a great dance!

A career possibility?

2009-09-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

My current favorite pictures. Cooper and I were on a walk in the neighborhood, when he spotted this sign. He picked it up, and stood on the sidewalk facing the road and swinging it around like those guys with the ad boards on the curb! Quite pleased with himself about it, too!

Coming home

2009-09-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

We've been in San Diego for 3 weeks, and out of our house since June 26th-avoiding the dust and the damage from our kitchen addition. Tomorrow night, finally, we really get to go home. Ironically, we'll be there about 7 hours, before bringing Cooper to St. Joseph's Hospital for the adeniod/tonsil surgery that we hope will decrease his chronic school year sinus infections. My dad says he's going to equate vacations w/surgeries from now on, and refuse to leave the house. I say, he's going to equate surgery with unlimited ice cream, and ask to go back to the hospital whenever he's feeling deprived of ice cream. (If you're a Facebook frequenter, sorry for the repeat. It's late.) I'm failing miserably to keep track of both my camera, and the cord needed to upload pictures, but I'll work on it.

San Juan Island County Park

2009-08-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

One of our longstanding traditions is the San Juan County Park camping trip. This year we saw more Orcas than we have in years, and Chris and I saw glimpses of a future trip where things might be a little easier with the boys. Thankfully, we have good friends who keep us buoyed when things are feeling hard.

Just like Grandpa

2009-06-10T07:49:00.000-07:00

My dad is notorious for eating peanut butter right out of the jar... This morning, I had the spoon and the pb out to make sandwiches, looked over, and there's Coop, eating the PB (and almond butter, and sunflower butter- we were trying to clear out almost empty jars) right out of the jar!

Ian's First Birthday

2009-06-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

We had a great visit with the Uter Family at their new place in Pacifica, CA. Ian & Cooper both loved getting to play with their cousins, Connor & Dylan, and of course, Uncle Nate, Auntie Jen, Nana and Pop Pop. Our friends the Largays came up from Santa Cruz to help celebrate.

Hey, who blew out my candle???

Hmmm, I'm not sure what I think of this chocolate cake.

Speechless

2009-04-28T19:20:00.000-07:00

Cooper's never been a hard kid to put to bed, but since he moved out of his crib, and into a big bed, he's always wanted someone to lay down, and be there with him until he fell asleep. Tonight, he walked upstairs with me, and as I went to get his toothbrush, continued on down the hall to his bedroom and shut his door behind him. Smart mama that I am, I turned around and went straight back downstairs. Chris just checked on him, and yep. he's in his bed. Asleep. Of his own accord. We really can't believe it. (Do you thing it was the threat of toothbrushing???)

Yum.

2009-04-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the card, Aunt Carolyn

It tastes great!

For the Uter Fam.

2009-03-25T09:27:00.001-07:00

Thanks for the great firetruck, guys- it’s quite a hit, as you can see:

Peek-a-Boo!

2009-03-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

Fun with Friends

2009-03-14T15:47:00.000-07:00

What a nice rainy weekend to spend with friends...
We took a 12 person field trip on the bus downtown, grabbed pizza, ice cream, and made it back home safely. The little ones are asleep, and the big ones are all piled on an airbed watching a video. Pretty good for 9 people in one house..

2009-03-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

I just found these pictures of my cousin, Brett, with Ian at 7 months and Cooper at 6 months.

Pre-school Concert

2009-01-22T11:01:00.000-08:00

Okay, let me start by saying that between our broken laptop, and minimally functioning camera, the picture taking these days is minimal- I'll get some up I promise. For now, check out the link to Eva Claire's Sunny Days & the Pinata song- Cooper's in there on the far left (just sitting..)

Back to Bellingham..

2009-01-06T15:46:00.000-08:00

We head back to Bellingham at the end of this week, after a nice long family & friend visit in San Diego. While I'll be glad to get back home and see Chris, and all our Bellingham friends, it's always a hard transition for me, so I'm trying to prep for it better this time. Cooper's started talking about school every day this week, so I know he's ready to get back to his routine.

The boys have changed so much, even in the time we've been down here. Cooper's consistently using 2-4 word phrases, and his vocabulary is just growing like crazy. My favorites have been watching him take on grandparent phrases from my parents, and listening to him sing all of the Christmas carols that he's been demanding (for a year now...) Ian's become quite the eater, and bounces up and down in his seat after each bite- kicking his legs and saying, "mmm, mmm, mmm!!" He's also started to feed himself finger foods, which keeps him occupied for big chunks of time!

We've been to the beach a bunch, and it's been warm enough to run in shorts (not, of course, according to the San Diegans...)I've had so much fun watching my kids with their grandparents, and getting to connect with friends here in town. I've been terrible about pictures, but will post some soon.

I'v

Santa

2008-12-20T08:05:00.000-08:00

Ian, of course, was a little bored by all the festivities...

For Meril

2008-12-20T07:59:00.001-08:00

Down Syndrome Outreach Calendar

2008-12-14T08:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm lame, I'm only now managing to mention that Cooper is Mister October in the Down Syndrome Outreach Calendar for next year. Anyone want one?? In total lame-ness I can't even remember how much they are. Between $10 and $15 each. If you live in San Diego and want one, Chris can bring one down for you next Sunday if we know about it!

2008-11-24T15:38:00.000-08:00

Lots of laundry happening in our house. Ian's cutting his first tooth, and has started to eat his first foods. So far he's had rice cereal, winter squash, and today he ate an entire avocado! To say he likes to eat is an understatement- he gets mad if you don't keep his mouth full of food at all times when he's eating.

Cooper's found a new fashion style, and has discovered whole carrots!

Halloween Pictures (Finally)

2008-11-18T07:31:00.000-08:00

Visit with Nana (or, "Thank you, Allegiant Air!")

2008-11-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

Allegiant Air has been such a gift for us, with their cheap, direct service to San Diego. Case in point was my mom's visit this weekend. Cooper was so thrilled to wake up Friday morning and see his Nana, and Chris and I were thrilled to have some "project" time. Chris has been building bookshelves for the boys, and I managed to dig through a bunch of stuff that we moved from our other house, but have not looked at since. We even got to have a date!

Here are some pictures from the weekend:

Farmers' Market

Cooper must have eaten a full serving of Pad Thai!

The Fish Hatchery
The kids loved watching all the big salmon swimming.

A Treat...

2008-11-11T08:52:00.000-08:00

It is 9 a.m. on Tuesday,it's rainy and stormy, and I'm doing something I haven't done in months- laying in bed. After being up from 3:30-5:30 this morning, Ian's still asleep. Chris is off today, and got up with Cooper about 7, and then brought me coffee & the laptop
(since we don't get the paper) about 8:45. What a treat.

Flashback to summer.

Two boys. One dragon.

The Progression...

2008-10-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Ian's decided it's time to sit up. He works pretty hard at it, and I'm amazed at how quickly he's getting stable. BUT he's still an early sitter, and there's a funny progression between upright and down.

Upright
Leaning
Down

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

2008-10-18T20:37:00.000-07:00

So, Friday I learned a lesson- never stick your fingers into a wand blender before unplugging it. Yep- one finger in by the blade, the other hand on the power button- a BAD combination...So, a quick trip to ER, seven stitches and one very awkward bandage later, I'm on the mend- but these'll be short notes until I can use my fingers again...

Here are some great pictures from our outing to the Pumpkin Patch today with our friends Becka, Caileigh & Keagan.

Highlights from the Week

2008-10-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

Ian's been working on getting ALL of his fingers in his mouth at once.

A visit with our new friend Bronwyn.

Thanks for the great Thomas puzzle Bonnie & Paul!

Ian's first run.

New Tricks

2008-10-04T22:24:00.000-07:00

It seems both of our boys have new tricks to share...

Ian's starting to laugh- he's been a pretty reluctant smiler/laugher so far- not that he won't, but he just wants you to really work for it. He's also doing a lot more tummy time without complaint- keeping his head up really high and trying to grab for toys. He had a run of nights where he slept for 12 hours straight, uninterrupted even by feeding. Now he's back to one wake up, and then right back to sleep. No complaints on our end.

Cooper's new tricks have to do with language. One of the things we're always asked in evaluations is whether Cooper asks questions. Until recently, Cooper really only had one question, "Whazzat?" Loosely translated as either "What's that?" or "Who's that?" to help him label things. In the last two weeks, he's started this one: "Doin'?" As in, "Whatcha doin', Mom?" I love it because it's so different from anything else he says or does. He's also starting to ask Where questions- particularly at naptime and bedtime, they're a great delaying tactic. As in: "Where's dolly? Where's Red Dog? Where's bear? Where's Elmo?" And on, and on, and on...Gotta love it.

We've signed Cooper up for a 2-3 year olds gymnastics class here in town. I've struggled with Occupational Therapy for a while now because, while the therapist we see is great, there is such high demand that therapists really don't see kids more than every two weeks, which doesn't feel that effective to me. So, I figured we'd try out gymnastics and hopefully combine more socializing with typical peers, with developing his gross motor skills. He was hysterical in his first class- adapting all the activities to his own level. The teacher, Hillary, had them do pencil jumps down the trampoline ramp (?) with their hands over their heads. Cooper's barely jumping in one place these days (lots of effort for those 4" off the ground!), nevermind jumping with forward progression. So after a couple of turns of jumping and falling down, he put his hands over his head and ran down the ramp. Hey, whatever works. I think it'll be a good match for him.

Last ones..

2008-10-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry, it made me dizzy having both slide shows going at once!

More San Diego Pictures

2008-10-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

I finally managed to get everything downloaded...We had so much fun with friends and family, and I loved taking Cooper to all of the places I enjoyed as a kid (and still do!)

Cape Cod

2008-10-02T10:53:00.001-07:00

My new attempt to share far too many pictures...Cape Cod was a blast- lots of family time, and a ton of cousins!

Look out Cassidy

2008-09-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

Here's cousin Cassidy checking out Ian. He thought Ian was pretty neat, but if you asked him if he wanted a baby at his house, he gave a solid "No!" Sadly, things will not go as he has planned this year...enjoy single child-hood while you can, Cassidy!

This I Believe

2008-09-22T21:21:00.000-07:00

Driving today, this fell into my lap via our local NPR station. Not all of it is an exact match, but it's darn close.

**and a note from NPR this was recorded BEFORE Ms. Palin was recruited by McCain.
If you'd rather hear it, here's the link: .
I Am Capable of More Than I Think I Am

As heard on NPR's All Things Considered, September 22, 2008.

"It is Trisomy 21. It is Down Syndrome."

Beyond those words I heard nothing, sitting in the obstetrician's office. The doctor was talking about my unborn daughter, and the results of an amniocentesis. I know there were words after that statement, but I don't remember them. I do remember returning home with my wife and crying on the sofa. I distinctly remember saying, "I don't want this." I didn't want this situation. I didn't want this responsibility. I didn't want to become one of those parents—the parents of a child with a disability.

People told me, "If anyone can handle it, you can."

"Easy for you to say," I thought.

"God never gives you more than you can handle," they reassured me.

"Really? Then why do people have nervous breakdowns?"

"We'll help however we can," they said.

"Fine," I thought. "You have the kid with the developmental delay, and I'll help you out."

For months I was terrified. My wife Lucy and I now refer to the period of time leading up to my daughter's birth as "The Pit." We barely spoke to each other because we didn't know what to say. We simply suffered through each day, together, but feeling terribly alone. And then Genevieve was born.

She spent her first eight days in the neonatal intensive care unit at a regional medical center. On each of those eight days I made the 150-mile round trip to see her, because she was my daughter. I sat in a surgical gown in intensive care, holding her in a tangle of tubes and wires, singing the same songs I had sung to other daughters.

On the ninth day, she came home, and I began to realize that my feelings of fear and anxiety had changed in a way that that no prenatal screening could ever have predicted.

I now believe Genevieve is here for everyone. I believe Genevieve is taking over the world, one heart at a time—beginning with mine. I believe that what was once our perceived damnation has now become our unexpected salvation.

Genevieve recently turned three and is doing very well for herself. She runs and climbs on everything, and loves to wrestle with her two older sisters and her younger brother. She doesn't have a lot of spoken words yet, although her first full sentence turned out to be, "What's up with that?" She does have over 100 signs that allow her to ask for strawberries, pizza or ice cream, or tell us when she wants to sleep, or play on her computer. She goes to a regular preschool three days a week and seems to know more people around town than I do. I laugh every day because of Genevieve.

On my right wrist, I wear a simple silver chain with three little beads on it. I used to say the three beads signified the third chromosome that results in Trisomy 21, Down Syndrome. Now when I look at those beads, they simply remind me that I don't ever know as much as I think I do, but I'm always capable of more than I think I am.

Gregg Rogers is an English professor at Pennsylvania State University. He spent 10 years as a writer, reporter and editor in New York and Los Angeles. Rogers and his wife host a website for other families with children with Down Syndrome in their area.

Independently produced for NPR by Jay Allison and Dan Gediman with John Gregory and Viki Merrick

Year to year...

2008-09-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

Here are Calvin and Cooper. Calvin's mom, Leila, and I have been friends for 34 years now. Crazy. We see each other when we come to San Diego. I was thinking- the only people who've known me longer than Leila & her family are my parents and relatives.)

Fun in San Diego

2008-09-08T13:29:00.000-07:00

The highlight of San Diego, of course, is seeing our family and friends, and particularly, getting lots of quality time with the grandparents.. We've been to the beach more times than I can count, Sea World twice, the Zoo, and multiple new parks. Cooper's getting really good at climbing (which I mostly think is a good thing...)

___
Hurrah for Nana!!
The perfect bathing spot for Ian. He's so funny right now- he can be really worked up, but if I pop him in water, he calms down immediately.
Picnic dinner on the beach with Nana & Pop Pop (and, Ian and I too). Cooper's gotten so comfortable with the water- he loves to run into the waves and "jump" over them (All six inches of them..) He's still pretty surprised when multiple waves come in and raise the depth of the water by a foot or more instantaneously. I'm always trying to balance keeping him safe with letting him learn how to balance in moving water and to stay respectfully cautious.
The new favorite activity: Helping. Help clean up the garden, help get the newspaper, help get things for Baby Ian...all good things. (and Nana got her garden cleaned up, too!)
___

A trip to the Zoo with Grandma Diane and Grandpa Tom. Cooper was enthralled with the Rhino, who was sitting in a pool. Cooper kept talking about him having a bath!

See the big orangutang on the other side of the glass?
Oh, did I mention the wanting to climb everything phase??

"I'm so amazed at this elephant I have to sit down!"

Acceptance...

2008-08-31T16:42:00.000-07:00

One of the things that stands out most to me, in thinking about Cooper and what I want for him in life, is the issue of acceptance, and equally, respect. For years "retard" has been used as an insult, "retarded" as a description of something stupid, or not right. Of course, now I've got this kiddo who fits the category of "retard" and, in the way of things, my awareness of the impact of the word "retard" has changed.

This post includes an ad by Special Olympics supporting the "Ban the R word" campaign, as well as some much overdue information from the national Down syndrome Organization that is well worth a read.

I know that some of this may seem like just a matter of semantics, but when you think about a group of people for whom acceptance is not a guarantee, semantics matters.

Below are tips for the proper use of language for ‘Down syndrome’. The National Down Syndrome Society and the National Down Syndrome Congress encourages all media to use the below language:

• Down vs. Down’s. NDSS and NDSC use the preferred spelling, Down syndrome, rather than Down’s syndrome. While Down syndrome is listed in many dictionaries with both popular spellings (with or without an apostrophe s), the preferred usage in the United States is Down syndrome. This is because an “apostrophe s” connotes ownership or possession. Down syndrome is named for the English physician John Langdon Down, who characterized the condition, but did not have it. The AP Stylebook recommends using “Down syndrome” as well.

• People with Down syndrome should always be referred to as people first. Instead of “a Down syndrome child,” it should be “a child with Down syndrome.” Also avoid “Down’s child” and describing the condition as “Down’s,” as in, “He has Down’s.”

• Down syndrome is a condition or a syndrome, not a disease.

• People “have” Down syndrome, they do not “suffer from” it and are not “afflicted by” it.

• It is clinically acceptable to say “mental retardation,” but you may want to use the more socially acceptable “cognitive disability” or “cognitive impairment.”

Down Syndrome Myths and Truths

Myth: Down syndrome is a rare genetic disorder.
Truth: Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition. One in every 733 live births is a child with Down syndrome, representing approximately 5,000 births per year in the United States alone. Today, more than 400,000 people in the United States have Down syndrome.

Myth: People with Down syndrome have a short life span.
Truth: Life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent years, with the average life expectancy approaching that of peers without Down syndrome.

Myth: Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.
Truth: Most children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35-years-old simply because younger women have more children. However, the incidence of births of children with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother.

Myth: People with Down syndrome are severely “retarded.”
Truth: Most people with Down syndrome have IQs that fall in the mild to moderate range of intellectual disability (formerly known as “retardation”). Children with Down syndrome fully participate in public and private educational programs. Educators and researchers are still discovering the full educational potential of people with Down syndrome.

Myth: Most people with Down syndrome are institutionalized.
Truth: Today people with Down syndrome live at home with their families and are active participants in the educational, vocational, social, and recreational activities of the community. They are integrated into the regular education system and take part in sports, camping, music, art programs and all the other activities of their communities. People with Down syndrome are valued members of their families and their communities, contributing to society in a variety of ways.

Myth: Parents will not find community support in bringing up their child with Down syndrome.
Truth: In almost every community of the United States there are parent support groups and other community organizations directly involved in providing services to families of individuals with Down syndrome.

Myth: Children with Down syndrome must be placed in segregated special education programs.
Truth: Children with Down syndrome have been included in regular academic classrooms in schools across the country. In some instances they are integrated into specific courses, while in other situations students are fully included in the regular classroom for all subjects. The current trend in education is for full inclusion in the social and educational life of the community. Increasingly, individuals with Down syndrome graduate from high school with regular diplomas, participate in post-secondary academic and college experiences and, in some cases, receive college degrees.

Myth: Adults with Down syndrome are unemployable.
Truth: Businesses are seeking young adults with Down syndrome for a variety of positions. They are being employed in small- and medium-sized offices: by banks, corporations, nursing homes, hotels and restaurants. They work in the music and entertainment industry, in clerical positions, childcare, the sports field and in the computer industry. People with Down syndrome bring to their jobs enthusiasm, reliability and dedication.

Myth: People with Down syndrome are always happy.
Truth: People with Down syndrome have feelings just like everyone else in the population. They experience the full range of emotions. They respond to positive expressions of friendship and they are hurt and upset by inconsiderate behavior.

Myth: Adults with Down syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationships leading to marriage.
Truth: People with Down syndrome date, socialize, form ongoing relationships and marry.

Myth: Down syndrome can never be cured.
Truth: Research on Down syndrome is making great strides in identifying the genes on chromosome 21 that cause the characteristics of Down syndrome. Scientists now feel strongly that it will be possible to improve, correct or prevent many of the problems associated with Down syndrome in the future.

For more information visit: www.ndss.org or www.ndsccenter.org

Cooper & Ian at 6 weeks

2008-08-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

2008-08-28T22:22:00.000-07:00

Berry Picking with Nana & Kati

2008-08-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

San Juan Island

2008-08-28T22:14:00.000-07:00

Phew..

2008-08-20T16:37:00.001-07:00

Sorry we've been so out of touch- we did in fact survive the camping trip- although we were exhausted. We had a great time with our friends Sue & Tim and their kids Maggie & baby Graham on San Juan Island- only a bit of rain to keep us stuck inside the Koontz family's HUGE tent! Chris and I had a different strategy for sleeping: we brought two tents- one for Chris and Cooper, and one for Ian and I. That worked out great- everyone slept pretty darn well.

While we were there we met another family who have an adult brother, who's in his 50's, with Down syndrome. They were amazing with Cooper- playing with him, and singing songs, and generally acting as surrogate grandparents. For me, that's been one of the gifts that Cooper has brought to us- we've got this special little hook into so many people's lives. We hear all the stories about the generations of people that have come before Cooper, and we feel so lucky that he's had so many people fighting for his right to a high quality life.

One of my favorite adventures was to the outdoor sculpture garden by Roche Harbor with the Koontz fam. In particular, I loved watching Coop and Maggie tear through the meadows, running from one sculpture to another. Last year, when we were there, he was still bear crawling, so my early morning trip to the garden entailed carrying him in the backpack. I watch him go now, and am astounded at how far he's come since he started walking in January!!

Pictures

2008-07-27T20:49:00.001-07:00

Here are some current pictures. We had a great visit with my mom last weekend, while Chris was at "Man Camp" (I'm not kidding, that's what they called it!) Now we're off for the big adventure- 3 nights camping on San Juan Island.
Let's just hope:
a) it doesn't rain
b) Ian doesn't take this week to start screaming all night
c) Cooper, who's beginning to be potty trained (with VERY regular reminders) doesn't run through all his clothes in one day.

Wish us luck...I'll post pictures if we survive.

Just starting to smile.

My mom, my great-aunt, and my aunt- see any family resemblances?

Summer Fun

2008-07-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Well,we're into summer now- The weather's been great and we've had so much fun playing in town. The blog updates have been sketchy, mostly because Cooper's become a computer junkie- we can't have it out while he's around without a cry for movies/videos! So I have to sneak away.

Ian's doing great- he's seven weeks old now and about 11 1/2 pounds. He's sleeping really well, and has just started to smile at us- about the sweetest thing yet.

What could be more relaxing??

Thanks to the Durand family for the fabulous meal, and for introducing Coop to the joys of ice cream cones.

Cooper, my new sous-chef...Everytime I get out the baking supplies, he's right there with me, "Coooook!!" He's getting better at dumping ingredients, but he really likes to keep dumping- even if it's not something on the ingredient list! I haven't let him break eggs yet..

A great visit with my Aunt Carolyn. The boys both loved having her here- she was able to soothe Ian when neither Chris or I could, and Cooper was in heaven going through all of our magazines over, and over, and over identifying everything with her.

Crawling!

2008-07-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Okay..for all of you who briefly thought we must have the most physically developed 7 week old ever, sorry- it's Cooper. Two years after starting his bear crawl; 6 months after walking, he's finally crawling on his hands and knees- go figure!

Kiawah, SC

2008-07-03T12:28:00.001-07:00

Here we are on our annual Howard Family trip to Kiawah Island, South Carolina. Ten adults and eight children under 7 in one house. Look out world!!

Grandma Betty leads a yoga session with the grandkids...

Almost a Month Old

2008-06-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

Brotherly Love...

2008-06-19T20:47:00.000-07:00

Who me? I don't have any idea why he's crying....

Fun with Grandparents

2008-06-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

We have been so lucky to have Cooper and Ian's grandparents visiting this last month. And we're off tomorrow to see the last set. Pretty cool that all 3 sets will have met Ian before he's a month old!

Report Cards..

2008-06-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

Turns out report cards suck. Cooper met exactly two out of of the goals we set on his Individualized Education Plan in May, and exactly one out of three of the goals we set with his speech therapist.

Okay, I know Cooper's doing great, I know we're working hard with him, I know all that stuff, and I don't feel badly about any bit of my world, but it's always a bit harsh to see his delays documented in writing. No, he's not saying four (or three, or even two for the most part) words at a time, no he's not jumping, or following multiple step directions. He doesn't know his colors solidly, or his letters, and he's just barely figuring out how to interact appropriately with kids his own age. So, it's just a bit overwhelming to get it all put in front of you at once. Which, I guess, is why we always try to take him exactly where he is and just keep moving forward- which is all anyone can do.

Ian's Birthday song

2008-06-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

This was Cooper's first meeting with Ian.

New Pictures

2008-06-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

"Duuude!"

Gretchen and her boys.
So, this was when the visiting nurse came to weigh Ian. She says most babies cry when they're put on the scale. My kid- he falls asleep!
Check out my cute new outfit- I had to wear it to the farmers' market.

Welcome Home Baby Ian

2008-05-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

Chris, Ian and I had just come home from the hospital..

Welcome baby Ian!

2008-05-25T21:54:00.000-07:00

Ian Russell Howard
Born: May 24, 2:18ish am
8 pounds, 14 ounces
21 3/4 inches long

Everyone's healthy, Gretchen's recovering well from surgery, Ian's healthy, happy (sleepy) and nursing, Chris and Cooper are loving the new addition to our family...

Love to you all.

Still waiting,...

2008-05-18T20:42:00.000-07:00

Yep. No baby, and the camera isn't even downloading to the computer right now, so not even any new pictures. Boring, huh? We'll keep you posted...

No baby yet...

2008-05-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official- even my biggest shirts don't cover my belly any longer. Fortunately I'm done with work, so I rarely have to look presentable. Here's how I know this is our second child- no pictures of me (or Chris, or the cat, or anything besides Cooper, really.) But, really almost no pregnancy pictures at all. Here are the few I could dig up:

Spring??

2008-04-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

I've been terribly delinquent with photos, and am attempting to actually get to my prenatal yoga class tonight, so I'll just post photos for now, with a promise of more commentary to come...

Helping Papa feed the birds.

Look at me- eating an apple all by myself!!

Who IS that handsome guy??

Still trying to find Mama's lap...

Time...

2008-04-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Cooper and Chris made it to Kentucky successfully, and all reports are that they are having a fine time.

I've got the house torn all apart, attempting to get a bit organized. I never thought I would SO appreciate quiet time in the morning, or being able to leave projects unfinished around the house over a period of time...

Olympia

2008-03-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

Cooper and I are spending the weekend in Olympia with our good friends: Tim, Sue, Maggie & baby Graham. It's been great to get out of the house, and Chris gets some time to himself. Cooper's been really good with the baby, which is nice to see- gentle hugs and kisses for the most part- I'm a little nervous about that for when our baby comes in May. Two big highlights: going to the gymnasium for toddler tumble time yesterday, and a big walk with two four year olds at the nearby bird refuge today. Cooper walked SO much! It's a great set up for him- a boardwalk to help him know where to go, and very few hazards to require him to hold my hand!

Cooper and Maggie probably spent 45 minutes in the pack and play, in laundry baskets playing with the laundry- remind me again- why do I buy him toys???

Graham, watching all the excitement.
Gymnastics

Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

The Koontz family chickens were another hit for Coop.

Riding the Bus

2008-03-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

Putting Cooper on the bus to go to school may well be the strangest thing I've done yet in his life- almost as odd as when he was transported to Children's via helicopter without us. Even stranger to come back in to an empty house.

Here are a couple of pictures from the morning:

Look Out World

2008-03-14T13:31:00.000-07:00

My big boy bed..
Yep. While I was at Nana and Pop Pop's house in San Diego, Mom and Dad got me a big boy bed (it actually takes up WAAAYYY less space than the crib!) I love it!! From the day I got home, I insisted that I get put to bed in my bed every night. I'd snuggle in with my books and animals, and mom would sit next to me on the beanbag (just picture that- at 7 1/2 months pregnant!) She'd read my books, then sing me songs 'till I fell asleep.
That was great, except that it took 30 or more minutes to actually fall asleep. If she left before I fell asleep, she'd tell me, "Stay in your bed. If you get out, you'll have to go in your crib." I'd say, "Okay," wait 'till she was out the door, and then climb right out of bed and rattle the door. As soon as Mom opened the door back up, I'd turn right around and book it for my bed! Such a fun game. So, I mostly slept in the crib this week. BUT, last night, Mom wondered what would happen if she just let me rattle the door for a while. Sure enough, after a couple of trips to and from the bed (with no intervention from Mom) I made it back to my bed, climbed in, and slept there all night! Mom and Dad were SO impressed! Of course, Mom says she's keeping the crib in my room as back up for a good long time still!

And on another note, here's my birthday playhouse. Thanks to all the grandparents, Uncle Tim & Aunt Suz, Uncle Steve & Aunt Lib, and Uncle Nate and Aunt Jen for the great birthday present- I love it!

Preschool

2008-03-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's finally come- Cooper's started preschool. Today was his first day, and here he is in his spiffy first day outfit, complete with his own little backpack.

All reports are that he had a great time at school. It was particularly nice to have a long time friend, Eva, in class with him. He'd been looking a little hesitant when we first got there, and he didn't know anyone, but when Kati and Eva walked through the door, his face lit up. He wasn't too pleased with me leaving at first, but when I did finally go, he said, "Bye!"Kati and I celebrated his first day by doing NO errands, chores, or miscellany, but instead having coffee and treats in town!

He was happily eating his snack when I came back to pick him up two hours later. The highlight, however was walking out into the main school hallways right at lunchtime and seeing a hundred (I kid you not!) third graders walking to lunch with their teachers!! Everytime a class passed by us, he'd say, "Hi!" and wave to the kids, and when they'd made it into the cafeteria, he'd look at me and sign, "More!" So, of course we had to go into the cafeteria to see them all again, and then he saw them all eating, and so he wanted to get his own tray and lunch and eat with them...and, well, what's a mom to do?? He got to choose chocolate milk, carrots, an apple and french fries. Mmmmm! A few third grade girls took him under their wing, so we sat at their table and ate with the big kids. I think he was in heaven!

All and all, a successful first day.

Whatcom Center for Early Learning

2008-03-07T13:19:00.000-08:00

I'll get a birthday post in soon, I promise. But, for now, I'm posting the link to our friend Max's blog so you can see some pictures from WCEL, where Cooper has gone to "school" since he was 6 months old. It's an amazing place, and we'll miss being there.

http://mightymaxupdate.blogspot.com/2008/03/meet-maxs-friends.html

More Vacations...

2008-02-28T21:57:00.000-08:00

Chris and I don't know what to do with ourselves...

Cooper left town with Nana yesterday for his own little vacation to San Diego. All reports are that he is doing great- they went to the zoo today, and he was having quite the time bossing Nana and PopPop around. (Is he even going to want to come home??)

It's such a funny time right now, with a new baby coming soon, and Cooper moving so quickly into preschool. The school where I teach houses the preschool where our little group will go. He got his backpack right before he left for points south, and has been wearing it all around the house the last few days, making sure, of course that everyone noticed it. "Back...pack..."

I met with the specialists in the school district Wednesday for the "qualification" meeting. This basically says that he's delayed enough to qualify for special education preschool. Hmmmm...how does a mom think about that? On one hand, I want him not to need it, so I point out how far he's come, how much he can do, and how well he adapts. On the other hand, he does need specialized instruction, or at least extra support to continue to do as well as he's doing so far. So, do I want his scores to be low, or high???

I feel like the impact of speech delays is just becoming clear to me. Cooper's just now beginnning to put two words together- "Go cat!", or "Oooooh baby!", or his favorite, "No, that (dat)!" It's not that he's not coming along swimmingly, but it's just hard for him. It takes his little brain so much work to get the words out sounding right. I can see how, as he gets older, his delays will continue to have an increased impact on his relationships with his peers, and I'm sad for that possibility. Even in our community that is so supportive and loving, it's just different- it takes more work for kids to communicate with Coop, and to understand what he's trying to say. Blah.

So, I'm thankful for all the things that are going well, and the amazing community that we get to be a part of, and looking for the best in all of us.

I don't want to go!!!

2008-02-22T13:08:00.001-08:00

Walking

2008-02-21T19:20:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about being down here is all the walking Cooper's been able to do. We walk the malecon every day on our way to and from the beach, and pass the central plaza where the basketball court is set up. Cooper always hopes the kids from the nearby school will be doing their marching drills, or, that at least there will be a basketball game to watch. But, his favorite place to walk is on the beach... Here are some of the kids we met in Ixtapa- they sat down and played with Cooper while their respective families ate. One of the little girls had a dead fish that she had gotten from some nearby fishermen to feed to the pelicans. In typical three year old way, she decided she couldn't let it go, and carried it with her.

New beach, different day

2008-02-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

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Our beach of choice-Playa La Ropa. There's our transport vehicle in the background. This has become our morning routine: breakfast on the boat, watch the birds and the fish around the boat, lather up w/sunscreen and take the dinghy to shore for beach time. Cooper makes friends everyday- particulary the grandparent crowd who are missing their grandchildren.

I told Cooper it wasn't polite to laugh at my big belly, but clearly we still have some manners work!

Helping Papa carry water.

Ice Cream

2008-02-17T12:14:00.000-08:00

This holding the cup and scooping with the other hand is a skill we've been working on, fairly unsuccessfully, for a couple of months. But, here we are, our first night in Mexico, having our first ice cream, and by god he's got it down! Apparently I wasn't using the right medium.

I love ice cream!

Warmth...

2008-02-16T19:36:00.000-08:00

Ahhh.....we got up this morning and took the dinghy in to the beach in Zijuatenejo. Cooper made it three steps onto shore before parking his sweet self in the sand, and digging for a good 30 minutes. Needless to say, his parents were pleased too. It is just (sorry all you northwesterners) SO wonderful to be warm.

Pepsi Ad

2008-02-04T16:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm sure this is on every blog out there within the signing community, but I've got to put it up in case you missed it. It's always great to see a bit of acknowledgement of anything outside of the mainstream on big TV.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffrq6cUoE5A

Getting Ready for Preschool

2008-01-31T19:51:00.000-08:00

We've been gearing up for Cooper's entry into the public school system. He'll be eligible for school district services when he turns three, so that's coming really soon. Over this past week, he's had a speech/language (SLP) assessment, a physical therapy (PT) assessment, and an occupational therapy (OT) assessment. Basically, the PT looks at gross motor skills: walking, climbing stairs or ladders, jumping, kicking a ball, throwing a ball, riding a trike (okay, the kind you push with your feet...) and the OT looks at fine motor skills: drawing a vertical line, a horizontal line, a circle, putting cereal in a container, threading beads on a string, sorting shapes, stacking blocks. All of this so that he can officially "qualify" for special education services. (Which, of course, he does....) I spend so much time with him, cheering all of his successes and looking at how far he's come that I find that I'm often blind to his delays. Not that I don't know they're there, but that he seems to get around them so well, I forget to think of them as delays. Even before he was walking, I'd truly forget that his gross motor skills were around those of a one year old (hence the not walking bit..) Ah well. I guess I've been well trained by my job to always focus on a person's strengths.

I'm still really torn about the role of a "typical" (read: private) preschool and the role of special education in Cooper's next few years. It's been quite a process (thanks to all you listeners...) for me to really identify and articulate what it is that concerns me about entirely special education preschool. It's not that I don't want him around other kids with special needs, or that I don't think the preschool teachers will be fabulous. Instead it's this cultural message that is implicit to me in a separate preschool- that our kids with special needs should be pulled out of the mainstream. I want to believe that we live in a community that values all different sorts of children, and what I've seen from the parents and children in our playgroups, kindergym, library and music classes is that that's true. We just have to work on convincing the schools that it's worth the extra hassle to include a variety of kids in their programs.

We got the funk...

2008-01-30T20:37:00.000-08:00

Now that he's up, one of Cooper's favorite things to do is dance (he's particular to Chris's funk music CD). Today we had the added bonus of two dancers under the age of 3.

Signing songs

2008-01-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

Cooper's nana has been singing these songs to him since he was a baby. He's got the hand movements down, and is often caught singing the songs to himself.