lovin' life...

And Baby Makes Four!!

2011-06-08T16:48:00.009-05:00

Jack is going to be a big brother!! Jasper Alan will hopefully make his debut in late October!! We are thrilled beyond words and aware of how blessed we truely are! We have wanted this child for a while, so we cannot wait to meet the sweet guy. All appointments have went well, ultrasounds look good. Our chance of having another child with DS is probably 1 in 100. We are not interested in AFP or amnio, we trust that the Lord knows what we need and will prepare us.

And now on to our first love : ) Jack has been a busy boy with learning his ABCs, numbers, shapes and colors. He already misses school and can't wait to go back to see his friends and teachers! We could not be happier with his progress or his teachers...so glad that we made this decision!

His first art program with the school...he got to show off the things he has been working on this year.

Showing off his self portrait to daddy

It's BEACH TIME!

Baby bump

Happy Easter!

Jack with his two friends, KK and Benson

2011!

2011-01-15T12:34:00.025-06:00

We have had a pretty busy past few months...birthdays, school, new house, holidays, fighting Medicaid...so we are really excited about the new year and what all it has to offer and hoping things will be a little calmer around here!

Jack started school in November. It took about a week for him to get adjusted to the new teachers, classmates and schedule but her truely loves going. I mean, like getting ready in the morning, smiling and eager, ready to see "skool" and "buses", running for the door to head out and then telling you bye and waving big when you drop him off kind of LOVE! We could not be more thrilled with his school and his wonderful teachers. Jack is in a class with 7 other 3-4 year olds, he is the only one with DS. He goes Mon-Fri, all day. He is working on potty training and is eating the school food...which is a big surprise since he likes to be SUCH a picky eater for mom and dad. He also stays very busy all day...art, computer, library, music. He brings home little projects daily. We know that we made the right decision for Jack and can't wait to see what's next for him. His speech has exploded since school also, coincidence or timing?? Not sure, but he will repeat anything you ask him to and is starting to put words together.

We are still fighting with Medicaid. A supposed crack down on the Disabled Child Living at Home program has left us with denial after denial. The word is that DS is a diagnosis they are cracking down on. It all boils down to Jack "not meeting the medical criteria for institutional level of care". We have joined with Disability Rights of MS and like many other parents, are fighting! We are still working on our new house...maybe in around Spring??

First day of school

Jack's 3rd Birthday Bash...

christmas card 2010

2010-11-22T12:48:00.001-06:00

Merry Moments Christmas Card

Shop Shutterfly.com for elegant Christmas photo cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

School Update!

2010-09-29T20:51:00.005-05:00

Well, it looks like Lauderdale Co Schools will accept Jack BUT he must be released from Clarke Co Schools first. We have applied for a transfer and wrote in detail of how important a transfer would be for Jack. We go before the school board on Oct 11th...pray, pray, pray!

One of his favorite things...book!

Moving along....

My sweet boy turns 3 Oct 10th and he is IN LOVE with trains, so a train party it is!!!! We have rented a small train for all of the kids to ride. I hope the day is a blast!! Lori from Little Bean Boutique did the invites...found her on Etsy. She did a phenomenal job, cute envelopes, address labels and favor stickers too!!! I had to give her a shout out!

Time for school, already?!?!?

2010-09-26T23:16:00.002-05:00

Yep, Jacky is almost three and that means...SCHOOL! Well, maybe! He went for his eval with the Lauderdale Co School system two weeks ago and he performed like a ROCK STAR! He was tested in 5 areas, he passed Cognitive (woo hoo!) and Social and he was right on the line to refer for Adaptive/self help skills, motor, and communication. Self help and communication was not a surprise. We knew not being potty trained and his obvious speech delays would get us. BUT the whole not passing motor makes me FURIOUS, since our PT and OT has been cut back dramatically due to "very minimal delays". So of course, we had to address that at therapy last week hoping if we add this to his chart, HSM and Medicaid will reconsider cutting him back.

So, since he referred on 3 of 5 he qualifies for services within the school system BUT since we are not actually living in our house yet, he can't go when he turns 3...we have to wait until we are in the house...which should be January. I completely disagree with this and I have made numerous phone calls. I honestly don't see the harm in letting him go ahead and start now so he can start building relationships and get familiar with the new setting. It just makes sense! And the program that he is allowed to go to now in Clarke Co does not even compare to the Lauderdale Co program.

If they absolutely will not make an exception...Do I leave him in his day care? Do I put him in one of the bigger private daycare/preschools? Ideally I want him with typical kids in a school setting, but he's still to young for that. So I thought going with the school system would give him structure, smaller class room setting and certified teachers. I honestly do not know what in the heck to to do!!! So if anyone has any advice about the whole school issue, please give!!!!!

CMDSS GALA

2010-09-26T22:09:00.005-05:00

The whole family getting ready to support Jack!

The hotel was right beside the train depot...Jack loved it! Wonderful Grammie stayed with him while we went to the Gala : )

The 2011 calendar turned out great!

The Gala was a success and we had a huge turnout! It just gets better and better every year. I am just so thankful to be part of such a great organization!

2010-07-22T13:36:00.010-05:00

SO...it's been awhile since I've posted : ( We have been living life and staying super busy! Jack is doing great...growing, saying new words daily now (big smile), learning his numbers and colors, staying healthy...just to name a few! We start him on daily fish oil in March after some research, so not sure of his progress is due to that or just coincidence?? He is absolutely loving playing outdoors and getting in the pool...the beach was a blast for him. He loves the water! We have also started building our house in a great school district, so we went to visit his possible school and teacher. We are still praying about this one! We just want to make the best decision for Jack. We still have time before he turns 3.

Spring

Easter

Destin Beach Trip

Happy Father's Day!

Riding on Pop's boat

Our land...future house!

Gala Time!!!

2010-07-21T21:36:00.002-05:00

It is time for the Central MS Down Syndrome Society Gala again!!! This year it is going to be at the newly remodeled King Edward Hotel in Jackson on Saturday, August 28th. It will be the usual...food, live band, drinks, dancing, visiting, the oh-so-fun silent auction, and the 2011 calendar reveal. Like I say every year, it is a blast and it makes me so proud to see so many come out and support our cause and our loved ones. The tickets are now for sale at the CMDSS website: http://www.cmdss.org/index.php

You've got to be kidding me...

2010-03-16T12:20:00.006-05:00

You know some people really amaze me...they shock, disappoint and break hearts. That is how I feel about the recent idiots that stole images from the NDSC's More Alike campaign. NDSC is doing a great job promoting DS awareness by letting parents make and post their own poster for the We're More Alike Than Different Awareness Campaign. The public will vote and the top 3 posters will be produced and used for awareness in the community. Well, some jack a%# stole the images, changed the wording of the posters and posted them on a web forum. You can pretty much guess how ignorant and tasteless the posters were and not to mention the disgusting comments and conversations that took place on the forum. NDSC has closed the campaign for now and are currently discussing legal action. Thankfully, the offensive forum has been taken down.

It is situations like this that make you realize how lost and cold the world can be. How ignorant and heartless people can be...for what...a good laugh?? And yes, Jack did have a poster in the campaign. Was his image one of the ones stolen? Honestly, I don't really know. I went to the site on my phone, glanced through a few and was so heart broken I closed the page. I did not need to see anymore. I am not sure what this all means for the More Alike campaign, but I know I will not remove Jack's poster. I would love to see my baby's face all over the community!!! Maybe his sweet face could change one jerk at at time!

Now on to JACK! He got to play in the snow for the first time. He was not to impressed, it was cold and wet, so it was a short play! We did occupy him long enough for pics and building of the snowman.

It has finally been warm enough to go to the park a few times...great photo op! Jack is still in weekly OT and ST, and PT twice a month. He continues to do well, saying a few new words and getting a lot more independent. We just continue to expect Jack to do things and he does. I really, really think that is what it is all about. Jack is just Jack...to my friends, family, co-workers, everyone around him. He is a typical child and we know he will do great things. He might go about it a different way but he gets there!!! Life seems so much easier now than in the beginning of the diagnosis...whew, don't miss that feeling!

So sad...Christmas is over!

2010-01-18T14:23:00.011-06:00

We had a very busy but great holiday with family and friends. Jack was not to impressed with Christmas, he did enjoy opening some things, but not much kept his attention for long. Anything that had to do with a train was a big hit. I got him a dry erase/chalk board and surpisingly he really likes it, which is great for those fine motor skills, so I'm pumped about that! Now we are getting back on our normal schedule and he is back at day care. He had a good first week back and also had a very good week at therapy, so all is good! His new words are still coming and he has quite a few we cannot understand, but he is really trying.

Jack and KK's handprints that grammie collects

All of our cards...love it!

Playing with daddy on Christmas Eve

Christmas morning

Sweet Boy!

Christmas at Dad's

Pop with the boys

My daddy

My mom

Christmas at Aunt Lisa's

Baby Hayden

Christmas at grammies'

Ash with Hayden and Jack

Happy Holidays!!!!

2009-12-21T20:06:00.001-06:00

Here is our Christmas card for 2009...it definitely captures Jack as we all know him! He is doing wonderful. He loves daycare more and more every week and he is starting to pick up a few new words! And for some reason, "mama" is still not one of them! HSM cut back his PT to twice a month which was no surprise. We will see how he does and just hope he doesn't start to slow down his progress. He is acting like a typical 2 year...likes his independence and can throw a good tantrum when he doesn't get his way! He is starting to learn about Christmas and he definitely knows who Santa is...Santa is one of his new words actually : ) The whole speech issue is going to be a hard and challenging one for all of us. It is amazing all that he knows and remembers, but he just can't express it like other 2 year olds. We have found a lot of help in flashcards, because he can just point to the objects he knows. He does know a few signs but his new speech therapist does not sign, so we have kinda stalled in that area. Any advice on the issue would be nice!

I hope everyone has a safe and peaceful holiday...Merry Christmas!!!

Fall Snapshots and the Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-15T15:25:00.019-06:00

Petting zoo

The three boys taking a stroll

One of his bday outfits...thanks Jerica aka Izzy B Designs!

About to ride the train with dad

Asleep in the pumpkin patch

Em, Darb and me

Looks so uncomfortable!!

KK with his green pumpkin

The cutest puppy ever!!!

2009-11-09T17:42:00.002-06:00

He pulled on the ears all night long...they kept falling over his eyes : ) And you have no idea how hard he fought me to put this outfit on...the black make up almost pushed him over the edge!!! He has definitely developed a little temper and likes things his way...someone must have told him that he turned 2!!

Schools??

2009-11-02T10:58:00.002-06:00

Ok, where to put Jack in school is just about to drive me crazy! I mean, this is a HUGE decision and I do not want to mess this up...I even dream about it at night. I know that Lauderdale County-Northeast Elementary has a great program...I've talked to many parents that are pleased and I've even talked to the school. I am also lookin into two schools in Jackson...First Presbyterian Day School and Christ Covenant. These two schools have a small program just for DS kids. But how in the world do I know which one is best for Jack??? This is really the hardest decision I've ever had to make...this shapes his future! Ideally, I want Jack to be mainstreamed but still get the education that he needs...not fall through the cracks. I would love for Jack to got to "normal" classes and maybe have an assistant to help him out? I want him to be pushed so that he functions with society and not just assume "oh, he can't do that" and him miss out on a good education and a normal life with his peers. I am trying my best to make sure he's gonna get that one day! All I know to do is visit all of the schools this Spring and continue to pray, pray, pray! Surely I will have peace about soon : ) And please ANYONE with any advice or guidance please give!!!!

VEGAS!!!

2009-10-15T15:14:00.008-05:00

Happy 30th Bday!!!!!

Jeramy has always wanted to go to Vegas, so I surprised him for his 30th bday with a couple of days hanging out in the city. He had no idea where we were going until we got to the airport! We had a such a good time! We saw "Lion King" and "O", watched the fountains at the Bellagio, toured a couple of casinos, had a day at the pool, did some shopping and a tons of walking. There is so much to do, but we could not get it all in.

The Grand Canyon

The airport right off the strip!

View from our balcony

We stayed at The Signature at MGM...very nice!

Our first day in Vegas...headed to the strip

New York New York

The Bellagio

Elvis and Indiana Jones!!!

Our hotel

MGM Grand Lobby

The Venetian

J posing with the Rock ; )

Our last night : (

Jack's Bday party

2009-10-15T14:51:00.007-05:00

We had Jack' s birthday party at Clarkco State Park 2 weekends ago. It was a beautiful day...great day for a party!!! We had tons of kids show up to play! I did the best I could taking pics along with keeping the party flowing and chasing a 2 year old around...missed the heck out of my photographer...love you Rhonda!

Happy Birthday Jack!!!!!

2009-10-10T13:51:00.006-05:00

Has it already been 2 years?? I can't believe it, but my little boy turns 2 today! What a great 2 years it has been. This child has given me so much joy that words cannot describe. I really had no idea how he would change my world!

October 10th, 2007...when it all began!

Happy 7 Years!

2009-10-05T15:21:00.004-05:00

Today, Jeramy & I have been married for 7 years! He is the love of my life, my bestfriend, a wonderful father and pretty darn good looking : ) This has been a great 7 years...can't wait to see what's next!!!

CMDSS Gala

2009-09-04T13:24:00.006-05:00

We had a great time at the gala again this year. It was held at Luckett Lodge in Brandon...really pretty place. We had a good time eating, bidding at the silent auction, watching the slide show, dancing, glancing at next year's calendar and catching up with everyone. I was also able to meet a couple of DS parents which was neat. I have connected with some new moms on Facebook, so it was great to actually meet them!

We did have a bigger group in support for Jack and I hope each year his team will grow!! It REALLY meant alot to me and Jeramy for everyone to take the time and spend the money for CMDSS. We would have never guessed we would be doing things like this, it is just great to have the support! Wonderful friends and family have been with us since the very beginning and we couldn't function without them : )

My two best friends...since elementary school!

My dad and brother

Mom and stepdad Gary

J's parents

...having a ball!

J and Hill

Fun Times!!

Another old friend, Amanda...friends since kindergarten!

2009-08-29T12:35:00.004-05:00

August has been a pretty busy month...church, beach, baby showers, and trying to keep Jack well. He was put on antibiotics for the first time a couple of weeks ago and now the cough and runny nose is back! We pretty much expected this due to day care...which he is doing really well with!!! He goes to Ms. Tammy's house 2-3 days a week and has adjusted well. There are about 5-6 kids there and so far so good!!! He really needs the interaction with the other kids and we can already tell he is picking some things up. Tonight is the CMDSS gala...so excited...will post pics soon!!

Not cooperating with pic session!!

He loves his Hill!!

Brandy's baby shower cake

Beach trip with mom and Lisa

CMDSS GALA

2009-08-19T20:43:00.003-05:00

The gala is coming up...August 29th! CMDSS has updated the web site and has info on how to purchase tickets...http://www.cmdss.org/index.php Go check it out!!!

Say a little prayer

2009-08-15T22:41:00.002-05:00

Please pray for little Liam. He is 2 months old and just underwent repair of his heart. He was born with an AV canal defect. He is still on the ventilator and really needs your prayers. Liam needs for his heart and lungs to get stronger so he can come off the vent. So please, please keep Liam and his parents in your prayers. As a mother, I cannot ever imagine dealing with something like this and it breaks my heart to know what little Liam has, is and will go through...PRAY.

http://littleliamburns.blogspot.com/

Sunday Fun

2009-08-13T13:36:00.007-05:00

The church took all of the kids to Gaddis Pizza and to the carousel in Meridian on Sunday. Luckily Jack had been fever free for a couple of days so he was able to go. The kids had a blast! We will definitely have to do it again. Jack was in awe of the gameroom at the pizza place. He literally touched everything in there. We were a little hesitant about all the commotion and the noises scaring him, but since he knew where all the sounds were coming from he was good to go!

Kat with the kids

He was not to crazy about this seat...he did better riding than sitting!

B!

Paisley and Jack

Running around the game room

We will definitely take him back : )

Then it was off to the carousel. Jack was not to sure about it at first...he had to warm up to the idea!

Hanging close to Grammie

He came around and loved it!

...even started to look a little bored.

Darb and KK

Eating their cotton candy afterwards, which none of them liked!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-05T06:19:00.001-05:00

CMDSS Gala 2009

2009-08-01T16:00:00.000-05:00

It is time again for the Central Mississippi Down Sydrome Society Gala. It is being held at Luckett Lodge on August 29th. There will be a silent auction, the premiere of the 2010 CMDSS calendar, entertainment by Hunter and the Gators and Marion & Gary Silber will be taking photos again at a special price to benefit CMDSS. Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $75 at the door.

My family and I had a great time last year and would love for anyone to join us this year!!! The silent auction was so much fun with great things to bid on...2 night stay at the Beau, football tickets, pottery, photo session with Marion & Gary, gift certificates to yummy restaurants and so much more! There was also dinner and dancing : ) We also have great family portraits from the gala taken by Gary Silber. Jeramy and I had a wonderful time and were very proud that CMDSS showcased Jack and others with DS with such respect, positivity and class.

Tickets can be purchased at http://www.cmdss.org/ or by contacting Shanna Lumpkin 601 487 6218 or 601 953 1340.

FINALLY!

2009-07-18T18:18:00.003-05:00

I got a certified letter in the mail today from the Division of Medicaid...they have decided to overturn the denial from HSM!!! Woo hoo! Jack will get weekly 30 minute PT sessions through November. Thanks everyone for the prayers and support.

And more big news...guess who is starting day care on Tuesday??? Yes, I finally made the call. He will be going to a lady who keeps a few kids at her home. His friend/cousin Benson also goes to her and loves it, so we feel pretty good about the situation. He will probably end up going 2-3 days a week. Say a little prayer because it is not going to be easy for any of us!! And of course, I had to post a pic. I took this right after he woke up from a nap in the car and his hair was a hot mess!!! But obviously, he could care less : )

Happy 4th!

2009-07-07T23:44:00.003-05:00

We spent our 4th hanging out with family and friends. It was WAY to hot, but we had a great time!

The boys were hot, so we stripped them down, threw them in the pool and let them play!

KK taking a boat ride

This was before he got hot and sweaty and down to his diaper!

Jack is doing excellent with his walking...more control and walking long distances. I am really considering putting him in daycare a couple of days a week. I think he needs more time with other kids. I have been thinking about it for awhile...I feel it is time. He loves to be around other kids, and plays well with certain kids, but he is a sensitive little soul. Sudden loud noises and kids rough housing scare him. Like all the kids at church LOVE jumping in the space jump but it scares him...he's quite uncomfortable in it. And if a kid suddenly screams out, he immediately looks for comfort. I am hoping that he can accommodate if I expose him more??? Any suggestions or advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

Pool times...

2009-06-28T22:38:00.002-05:00

Jack loves the pool and is not afraid of the water, at all...which scares me to death! He loves to jump off the side of the pool when you count to 3...no fear. He just assumes someone will catch him! He is so proud of himself and he makes sure that someone sees him jumping. It's the simple things that makes you smile : )

He's getting ready to jump...

One, two...

Three!!!

Family Beach Trip

2009-06-22T19:07:00.007-05:00

It's now back to reality, but we had a blast the past week in Destin...beautiful weather, crystal clear water, super nice condo http://www.vrbo.com/99946 , good times and plenty of R & R. And Jack walked his little legs off in that condo...woo hoo!

View from our balcony

singing with grammie

Blue, blue eyes that he got from grammie

Hanging out with grammie in the shade...it was sooo hot!

All of the girls, and kk, at Bayou Bills

Yes, I actually caught them playing good together!

Jana, me, Hill and Hannah

Sweet, sweet boy

Jack Jack sleeping in...he LOVED the king bed and HATED the pack and play!

The boy loves his juice : )

Not to sure about sand this year??

Cheese...I love it when you can see his cute little teeth!

He loves the fact that he can walk around like a big boy.

Summer Fun...

2009-06-13T23:35:00.006-05:00

What has Jack been up to this summer????

Having a blast playing the drums...

Going to vacation bible school...

Hanging out with KK...

Playing in the pool...

And walking up a storm!!! He is actually walking just as much as crawling. He just went for his 18 month check up and all was good...growth, development, ears and thyriod levels all in check! His next check will be when he turns 2...so proud of little Jack! He did get approved for speech therapy, so we have added that to his weekly routine. And HSM has still not contacted us regarding the appeal. Jack is still getting weekly PT until they decide otherwise.

I am actually packing as I write this for the fam beach trip to Destin. I am really hoping for a relaxing, beautiful 7 days!!!

And to anyone interested...we are selling our lot in Clarkdale. It is 2.8 wooded acres in Southern Hills subdivision. It is a beautiful lot and we were really hoping to put our dream home there one day, but Jack needs to be in Northeast Lauderdale school district, so we have had to change our plans. I still remember how excited we were when we purchased the lot, but Jack is our priority now.

Another great check up!

2009-05-16T14:47:00.003-05:00

Jack went to see Dr. Mungan yesterday (Ophthalmologist @ UMC) and got a great report...no check up for another year, WOO HOO!!! The last appt. Mungan was concerned about his farsightedness, but it has since corrected. GO JACK : ) We had a good time in Jax...saw CK, Penn and the whole Watson crew; did some shopping, and enjoyed Walker's and Bonsai! Needless to say, Jack was worn out and was out as soon as we got on the road.

Mother's Day and Baby shower

2009-05-11T16:10:00.003-05:00

Fun weekend...my cousin Ashley's baby shower, Mother's Day and presents!! Jeramy gave me a new camera...so excited and can't wait to play with it.

The cake at Ashley's baby shower.

What can I say...Jenkins girls love black and white!

Our grandfather was named Jack

me and Ash

My aunt Lisa, cousins Ali and Ashley

Walking to his daddy

Grammie, me and Jack

He's a mama's boy!

2009-05-07T10:37:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

More pics and more battles!!

2009-05-05T10:17:00.005-05:00

Jack with Grammie

...cold, cold water

...getting ready to nap in my lap

and he's out!

me, Ash (28 weeks preg) and Hill

long day and getting ILL

Jack and Hill...along with a friend he found on the beach.

Pool time...Seawinds in Gulf Shores...great kiddie pool

We had a nice, relaxing beach trip and then I come home to find a letter about Jack's therapy. HSM has now denied his requested OT...big surprise! I knew it was coming, so I guess it is now time to fight for his OT. And keep in mind, that I STILL have not heard from HSM regarding the appeal for the PT. They say the hold up is due to case overload, but they sure had the time to process a few denials!!! So now we are up in the air with PT and OT. He will continue to get speech therapy until June (remember the lovely "cut backs") and then we have to start going through HSM approval for that too...they are so going to deny him! I am also starting to get bills for his PT/OT...our private insurance and Medicaid will not pay if HSM does not approve the therapy. I will definitely be making some calls this week ; )

BEACH BUMS

2009-04-30T16:09:00.003-05:00

This is where we are this week...white, sandy beaches in Gulf Shores. Jack is having the time of his life exploring the condo and playing in the water. He LOVES the water again this year, but not sure about the sand! And he is doing so well with taking steps...when your not looking, we will catch him letting go and taking a few steps (he is up to about 6 on his own). He is also doing good with standing. I just cannot believe how much he is changing.

His new word this week is BUS! We can thank Grammie and KK for that!

Easter

2009-04-22T16:11:00.007-05:00

Jack trying out one of KK's presents

Collecting eggs at KK's party

KK IS 2!!!!

Easter morning, after the 6 a.m. service!

KK and Jack...one of their favorite pastimes!

Easter morning

After Easter church, on way to Moo and Poo's, looking so cute!

Jack's goodies from Moo, Hannah and Hill

Jack and B

KK, Jack and B digging in Jack's basket

Eat him up!

Church Easter egg hunt

Putting eggs in his basket...we've been practicing at home!

Finding an egg

We had a great Easter, very busy, but enjoyable...Easter Egg Hunts and bday parties. And of course, Jack got several Easter baskets!

And yes, Jack is still amazing us and his therapists...learning new words, drinking from a straw (big one...oral muscle tone) and starting to take steps!!!! We have also discovered that he likes to sing...no surprise there, we really do sing to him A LOT. We also found out that he will be losing Early Intervention Services due to state funding and "cutbacks". This will really not affect Jack that much, but it will other kids. He will just lose his speech therapist Brooke and he will still continue PT/OT at Rush. We are really sad to loose Mrs. Brooke. Jack just loves her and so do I! So, it looks like in June we will have to find a speech therapist. And I have not heard a thing from HSM...did they accept my appeal or not??? It is going on weeks now? I'm really anxious to see what the hold up is.

And so sorry for the long break between posts...Facebook has been keeping me busy!

2009-03-09T15:24:00.002-05:00

Hey guys...it has been awhile! We are finally settled at my mom's and I have my laptop up and running. We are doing good, but have been busy.

Jack is great. He is now 24 lbs and 31 inches...he is in the 90th percentile for DS boys and his Ped is thrilled with his progress. Jack is saying a couple of words and tries to repeat others, so we are good with that! He is getting really brave with cruising and walking. He is more steady walking holding onto one hand and if you have something he wants, he goes right for it!! He is still in weekly therapy although I do not know how long it will last. He did get approved for Medicaid but HSM is still undecided. I went through the hearing 2 weeks ago and I haven't heard anything. But considering the tone of the hearing, I am thinking they are leaning towards less therapy. He is just excelling so well and HSM feels that is more due to us not the sessions with PT. Whatever. I love our PT and I need the weekly direction from her!

I am also currently without a camera! I will get on that and post pics of Jack soon.

HSM verdict

2009-02-11T16:56:00.002-06:00

I have finally heard from HSM! The physician that looked at his case suggested that we continue weekly therapy for four more months. After reading through MOUNDS of paper work and evals, it is pretty obvious that this verdict is just to appease me for now. The physician also added that after Jack's four months with a new therapist that the coordination of care will be solid and Jack will need much less therapy. Hey, we will take what we can get for now! I have to admit that all of the confidential paperwork that I read was very positive. It was awesome to see things like..."developing well above average rate for DS", "minimal delays even compared with the non-DS population"...that makes you want to smile!!

I am just hoping that Medicaid will be just as generous as HSM so we can have some help with paying for all of the therapy! And Jack's new thing this week...he says "moo" when he sees the cow in one of his favorite books and when you ask him, "What does a cow do?" Pretty impressive!

I hope everyone has a Happy Valentine's Day. We will start packing up the house on Saturday. My most romantic Vday yet!

We have a contract!!

2009-01-26T11:42:00.002-06:00

More good news...we have a contract on the house! Everyone knows that we love our house but Jack needs to be in a different school district and I need to be closer to the hospitals. We are praying that everything goes smoothly and we will be able to close at the end of February.

This was taken right after we moved in...May 2006

And now for a Jack update! He is amazing...saying three words- Hey, Bye-Bye and Hot! He is pulling up and cruising really well. He is clapping, playing pat-a-cake, waving, stacking, releasing objects into your hand. He is also doing great with the eating. He now will eat anything, no gagging or spitting. As I mentioned in a previous post, HSM cut back Jack's therapy. I appealed the decision and I have not heard anything. However, during the appeals process HSM has to reinstate his previous therapy, so he is back to weekly therapy! And now Medicaid has thrown a kink into the whole situation...they have not re approved Jack. I got a letter reading that they needed more information about his health and diagnosis before they can justify approving him...WHAT A JOKE! He is very healthy (Thank God), but his diagnosis will not change and he will need long term therapies that our private insurance will not cover 100%. SO, now I am fighting with them, too!!! Please keep us in your prayer for a smooth closing on the house and resolution of our HSM and Medicaid issues.

BIG NEWS!

2009-01-04T10:48:00.005-06:00

Jack said his first "official" word today...hot! He has been doing the typical babbling and saying da da, but nothing as purposeful as this! Of course, J and I were not there... we're working. Jack was with his Grammie and said "hot" to the lit candle in the hallway and has been repeating it for her. We are absolutely thrilled and feel very blessed to have such an amazing child . He brings us more joy than we could have ever imagined!

Look at that kissable face!!!

Christmas Day

2008-12-30T16:56:00.001-06:00

Christmas morning

Gift from Santa

His own little desk

...lost in all the presents

...checking out his stocking.

He loves music. This was his other gift from Santa.

He loves his chair from Nana and Pop

All the kids at the Watson Christmas...Jack's not the baby this year.

I love this picture...Me, Jack and my daddy (aka Pop) on Christmas night...good times!

Christmas Eve

2008-12-26T16:34:00.000-06:00

Jack with Grammie

My little monkey

Jack with Uncle Martin and his new toy

Me and Ashley...she's 7 weeks pregnant!!! We are all hoping for a girl!

...loves the paper!

We did the usual for Christmas Eve...eat a good meal and exchage gifts at Meme's house. Jack came home with more gifts, of course!! I seriously do not know where we are going to put all of his toys.

And more on Jack's developmental progress...well, looks like he is doing to good. We finally heard back from Medicaid and HSM and it appears that they feel Jack has a "minimal delay" and they are not going to approve all of his therapy. So, I am now writing a letter to appeal this action because it is VITAL for Jack to stay in weekly therapy. I mean, give me a break...why do you think Jack is doing so well and only has a "minimal delay"? He has been in weekly therapy since 3 months old and we work our tails off at home! So please say a little prayer that my letter will change their minds.

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-24T00:18:00.003-06:00

Christmas at Grammie's

I hope everyone has a happy holiday!

Beau trip

2008-12-22T00:06:00.003-06:00

Jeramy and I went to the Beau last week for a little "getaway". It was so nice and relaxing. We did the usual...sleeping in, shopping, Mary Mahoney's and a little gambling!

Beau Rivage lobby

Busy decorating...

2008-12-17T23:11:00.008-06:00

I think I am finally done decorating the house for Christmas...woo hoo! Of course, Jack was a big help...playing with all the deco mesh and Christmas balls!! Jack doesn't really care for his tree, but he is drawn to the one in the living room, but no major incidents yet. And we found out that he HATES Santa...Christmas party at church...threw a fit once he realized he was in Santa's lap...will definitely scan and post pic soon!

And for the developmental updates : ) He is doing so good...crawling distances, like to other rooms and getting into cabinets, closing doors, becoming quite the roamer...putting things "in" like cubes in a bucket and a ball through a hoop...waving bye bye...trying to feed you while he is eating...and the BIG one, he is actually chewing and swallowing table food!!! I know most of you reading this see nothing spectacular about a 14 month old doing these things, but they are HUGE in our world....we take nothing for granted.

My favorite ornament...Jack's 1 yr footprint

Our finished tree...black, white, lime and red is the theme!

Jack checking out his first Mickey ears

He found a toy!!

Jack's tree

Our Christmas card

2008-12-14T23:06:00.003-06:00

2008-11-30T22:13:00.007-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! Jeramy and I were actually off so we were able to have family time at mom's house. We took Jack and KK to the park behind her house...still to small to enjoy, but good photo opp!

This is what I LOVE waking up to!

Enjoying one of his bday toys

No, he doesn't have on shorts...but darn it, we are going to get the most wear out of these cute outfits!

Taking a stroll

Trying the slide with dad...he wasn't impressed.

...but he loved the swing!

Family pics

2008-11-17T13:45:00.008-06:00

Well, it is that time again...Christmas cards!!! All of you guys know how obsessed I am with finding the perfect Christmas card pic. A good friend came in town and took a few pics for us. http://www.purplestork.com/ is creating our card as we speak!

And we also finally made it to Jack's 1 year check up. He is 22 lbs and 29 inches. He is healthy, thank Lord, and doing amazing...thyroid levels were within normal limits and getting his one year eye check up tomorrow. Oh, and...HE IS CRAWLING!!! I REALLY wanted him to crawl by his first bday. Well, he decided a week after his bday he would start crawling. When am I going to realize that he is just going to do it when and how he wants??

Happy Halloween...Wizard of Oz style!!

2008-11-02T12:16:00.001-06:00

Jack as the Scarecrow

He actually left the hat on all night...BIG shock!

Jeramy convinced me to put make up on him...it did turn out cute.

B as the Lion

KK as the Tin Man

...and Paisley as Dorothy.

We finally got a pic of the whole crew and all are unhappy!

Down Syndrome Awareness month

2008-10-27T00:15:00.006-05:00

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month so I thought I should do my part and educate!!

WHAT IS DS? ...a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. It occurs in approximately one in every 800 live births. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46 with extra genetic material on the 21st chromosome... Trisomy 21. It is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder. Down syndrome is not related to race, nationality, religion or socioeconomic status. The most important fact to know about individuals with Down syndrome is that they are more like others than they are different. Remember that only one chromosome is affected (meaning there is more of it), so all other 46 chromosomes are "normal", that is why Jack has so many of mine and Jeramy's features and has his own unique personality!

DIAGNOSIS...Down syndrome is usually identified at birth or shortly thereafter. Initially the diagnosis is based on physical characteristics that are commonly seen in babies with Down syndrome. These include low muscle tone, a single crease across the palm of the hand, a slightly flattened facial profile and an upward slant to the eyes. The diagnosis must be confirmed by a chromosome study (karyotype). A karyotype provides a visual display of the chromosomes grouped by their size, number and shape. Jack's karyotype is 47xy-nondisjunction Trisomy 21 which comprises 95% of the diagnoses. Nondisjunction simply means that the 21st chromosome did not divide evenly.

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT...It is important to remember that while children and adults with Down syndrome experience developmental delays, they also have many talents and gifts and should be given the opportunity and encouragement to develop them.

People with Down syndrome are not severely impaired. Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate impairments but it is important to note that they are more like other children than they are different. Early Intervention services should be provided shortly after birth. These services should include physical, speech and developmental therapies. Most children attend their neighborhood schools in regular classes with special attention given where needed.

Jack was enrolled in Early Intervention Services right after birth and started receiving therapy by 3 months of age. He is currently receiving weekly physical therapy and speech therapy with occupational therapy evaluations done monthly, so once there is a delay in that area he can also add OT to the list. Small things like rolling over and sitting up have been HUGE in our house and when he begins to walk (which is usually around 2-3 years of age) I'm sure it will be like he won a gold medal!!

HEALTH ISSUES...Many children with Down syndrome have health complications beyond the usual childhood illnesses. Approximately 50% of the children have congenital heart defects. It is very important that an echocardiogram be performed on all newborns with Down syndrome in order to identify any serious cardiac problems that might be present. Some of the heart conditions require surgery while others only require careful monitoring. Children with Down syndrome have a higher incidence of infection, respiratory, vision and hearing problems as well as thyroid and other medical conditions. However, with appropriate medical care most children and adults with Down syndrome can lead healthy lives. The average life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome is 55 years, with many living into their sixties and seventies.

Many of you know how healthy Jack has been, so we are truly blessed. Jack is currently following up with ENT every 3 months due to his small ear canals and to check for any wax build up. Jack's hearing is great. He coos, laughs, babbles, hates loud noises and says "da da" ALL the time! We also have his first visit with ophthalmology in November, so we will see how that goes.

AND...People with Down syndrome are not always happy (they have a full range of feelings, like everyone else).

Please don't ever tell a new DS mom "I'm so sorry"...that cuts like a knife.

And if you use the "R" word for slang, which society is REALLY bad about, please stop. You have no idea how bad it hurts to hear you say it. Do it for Jack.

Our anniversary trip

2008-10-17T19:06:00.000-05:00

Jeramy and I just celebrated our 6th year anniversary...we celebrated by going to Gatlinburg, TN for a couple of days. We had a great time. We did the usual...Cade's Cove, Dollywood, walking around downtown, the Christmas Store, Fanny Farkles & The Park Grill. We also stayed at a Bed and Breakfast for the first time...it was amazing!! If anyone needs a nice romantic get away, Hippensteal's is divine! You wake up to the yummiest breakfast and you come home to the best desserts in the afternoon. We will definitely be going back.

Our quick stop at Ruby Falls on the way to Gatlingburg

Our view from our room

The porch on the main floor

Our room...we stayed in "Bright Eyes"

The room was imaculent with all the special touches that every woman loves!!! We also had a nice bathroom with a huge jacuzzi tub.

More bday party pics

2008-10-12T21:37:00.001-05:00

Here are some more of my favorites...thanks Rhonda for taking such good pics for us!!!

Taking a spin in his wagon from uncle darb

Nat's little one...don't you love the hair?

Nat & Andrew

...in case you have never seen the pitiful face!

Naptime...in the middle of his party

Darb, Em & KK

Bday boy is wore out

Nat's son...again, love the hair!

My beautiful KK

Brandy, Conner, Madison and Heather

Just some of the wonderful men in my life!

KK with Grammie

Our newest edition...B

Ash

Happy Birthday Jack!!

2008-10-11T21:01:00.000-05:00

Jackson Daniel

6 lbs 9 oz

Happy Birthday!

Our little one is now one year old!! I cannot believe how fast the past year has gone by. It has been a wild ride at times, but oh so worth it! A lot of you guys might not know, but me getting pregnant was not planned...we were actually shocked, but a good shock. I had just started a new job and we were planning on building a house...kids would come later. Obviously, God had other plans! I had a great pregnancy and I absolutely loved every minute of it. We found out we were having a boy and he was immediately named Jackson Daniel....I am one of those that has had her baby names picked out for ages. Jack was always a healthy baby on ultrasound...no heart or gut defect, nothing to worry about on my multiple 4D ultrasounds, and he was always very active. He came very quickly into this world...he looked just like Jeramy, but there was something a little different. We found out two days later that Jack had Trisomy 21, which is also called Down syndrome. I do not have to tell you how we felt...words will never describe how we felt those first couple of days. I really felt like my world was absolutely falling apart and there was no fixing it. I loved him so much already and it killed me knowing that not everyone would love him and accept him...things would not be easy for Jack and I could not bear to think about it.

Now, it is a year later and I never dreamed that I could be as happy as I am right now. I wish I could have known this a year ago. I prayed for God to bless me with a healthy child and that is just what he gave me. He might look a little different and need extra help along the way, but he is a blessing. Jack will do all the things other kids do, he just might need a little more time to accomplish little goals like walking, talking, & riding a bike. There is so much out there for kids like him. Due to all of the therapy and knowledge we now have about DS, it is possible for Jack to be mainstreamed with the "normal" kids in school, graduate from high school, drive a car and even go to college!!! When I look at Jack I see a beautiful little boy with sweet blue eyes, oh so kissable lips, his dad's feet, my nose, a contagious smile...I could go on and on. The point is that I want people to look past the DS and see what Jack is really all about!

With his Pop Pop

Pen and Nat

Hannah, Sara, Hill and Jana

Starting to get sleepy...he took a nap in the middle of his party!

My daddy

Mam maw and Grammie

6 Years!!

2008-10-09T16:31:00.002-05:00

October 5th was our sixth year anniversary! Jeramy got me a beautiful diamond necklace and took me out for sushi! Mom watched Jack so that we could spend the day together...it was great. We are also going to a B & B in Gatlingburg for a couple of days after Jack's bday party. We are soooo looking forward to it!

And, of course, I can't post without pics off my little pumpkin!

He is almost one year old!!!

2008-10-07T12:47:00.003-05:00

Well, my baby is almost one year old!! He is doing so good...pulling up, getting on all fours! We are so proud of him. We are having his party on Saturday...I will post pics soon.

Ashley's wedding!! 9-27-2008

2008-10-04T09:16:00.005-05:00

My cousin Ashley

Bridesmaids

Lisa, mom and me

Mom and Jack

Lisa, Ashley and me

First Hair Cut!!!

2008-09-23T15:39:00.004-05:00

The curls!

Pre hair cut

And it begans...

My little man!

I finally gave in and had Jack's hair cut yesterday...the curls are gone! I am a little depressed about the issue...I know, that's stupid, but I am. He did really well with Lori until he felt the scissors touch his ear and then he freaked out...looked are her like she was killing him! Now he looks like a little boy, not a baby. Maybe we are done with the "that is the prettiest little girl" comment...I mean ALL the time!

CMDSS Gala

2008-09-09T11:17:00.003-05:00

The calendar pic

Derek, Darb and J

Display of calendar photos

On Saturday night, we went to the CMDSS Gala. We had such a good time visiting, eating, dancing and bidding on the silent auction items. Of course, the highlight of the night was seeing Jack's calendar photo!! Gary and Marion Silber are such phenomenal people. They were so good with Jack and we are so blessed to have this great photo! The calendars are on sale now, so anyone interested can go to the CMDSS web site. Oh, Jack is Mr. January!!!

http://www.cmdss.org/Forms/CalendarOrder.html

CMDSS Calendar

2008-08-20T16:49:00.002-05:00

Friends have been asking me about how Jack's calendar pics turned out...I have no idea and it is killing me! CMDSS is hosting a Gala on September 6th at River Hills County Club where they will unveil the 2009 calendar...so exciting! I have added the link to the brochure for anyone interested. I will definitely let you guys know how it turns out.

http://www.cmdss.org/Events/Gala%202008.pdf

Thanks for the table Pop Pop Butch : )

2008-08-19T11:27:00.002-05:00

His Pop found this table...he absolutely loves it. Of course, in five minutes everything is on the floor for me to fetch!

...such a ham for the camera

You can see his two and only teeth!

Had to throw this one in there...holding the sippy cup is a BIG deal in our house!

One last beach trip...

2008-08-18T21:37:00.004-05:00

Jack loves a ball!

...loves daddy's bald head too.

Jack getting ready to jump to mom...he had the best time doing that :)

Well everyone knows how I love the beach, so we took one last trip. This time I had to see some blue water, so it was off to Destin! I killed my digital...pool water, so not that many pics.

Ashley is getting married!!

2008-08-07T00:38:00.005-05:00

This is me and Ashley from my wedding and now it is her turn...OMG I feel old! She is like a sister to me, so I am really happy for her. The wedding is in late September, so the showers are just now getting started. We had Jason's Honey Do Shower on Saturday night and Ashley's shower on Sunday...they both got tons of goodies! I have posted some pics from the family shower on Sunday.

The beautiful bride to be!

Ashley & her Bridesmaids...minus a few

The family

The yummy cake!

Back Home!!

2008-08-04T15:23:00.004-05:00

Bright and early...6 a.m.

Showing dad how the book works...one of his favorite toys

Back home... checking out the balloons from Grammie

He liked the tissue paper more than the stuff in the bag!

Scoping out the toys...

First of all, thanks so much to everyone for all of the prayers!! Jack did great...ears look good, no need for tubes and Jack never missed a beat. It took all of 5 minutes and then he woke up ready for some apple juice. Dr Reed was very positive and recommended that we just follow up with him every couple of months...Praise God! Jack is now back at home playing with all of his new goodies. Grammie & I fixed him up with a few things for his first hospital trip!

It's been too long!!

2008-08-03T19:24:00.004-05:00

Sleeping hard in his new seat

Loves a mirror

Digging in his toy basket

Happy 4th!

Sleeping in with mom...we don't get to do that often!

Another new toy

This summer has been crazy busy...sorry for the poor posting! Jack is doing great. We are still working like mad on crawling. He gets stronger every week which is so encouraging. He is now in a big boy seat and weighs 21 lbs. He's not a baby any more!

We are going to Batson Children's Hospital in the morning to follow up on his ear. DS kids have small ear canals, so there are usually issues with their ears. Eventhough Jack has never had any ear infections and can obviously hear it is still recommended that we follow with ENT. Anyway, we took him a couple of weeks ago...right ear looks good, but Dr Reed could not see the ear drum on the left due to hardened wax. We tried to remove the wax with a little H2O2 daily for 3 weeks, but no luck. So now Dr Reed has to put him to sleep so that he can remove it and get a good look at his left ear. PLEASE say a little prayer for him in the morning. We just hope for no complications, good report and for Jack to not feel any pain. I will keep everyone updated and I hope you enjoy the recent pics of our monkey!!

Great video!!

2008-07-14T21:53:00.002-05:00

If you have some free time you must watch this video...Conny Wenk is a wonderful photographer and she just happens to see the beauty in little ones like Jack!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJWoKMy8X44

Family Beach Trip

2008-06-30T22:52:00.008-05:00

We recently went to Orange Beach for our annual family beach trip. We had a great time! Jack loved the water and the sand. He's definitely gonna be a beach bum like mom!

Grammie and her boys

He had the time of his life in the pool...bouncing and laughing!

He was amazed by the feel of sand on his feet

naptime at the beach!

Jack, me, Hannah, Hill, Jana, & KK at Sea n Suds

I know, our "boyish bubble" looks like a dress...sorry, Jack.

My boys

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-11T16:39:00.005-05:00

We are leaving for our annual family beach trip on Saturday, so I just wanted to wish an early Happy Father's Day to all the men in my life!!! You guys are amazing and I love you so much!!

Good news!!

2008-06-11T14:53:00.004-05:00

The neuro appointment went great! Dr. Parent immediately said his head was fine and his head shape was just positional...not even any xrays needed!! He said that Jack's head will mold into shape over time especially since he is sitting up and rolling around...keeping pressure off the back of his head. Dr. Parent was also VERY impressed with Jack's development, saying he was an amazing little boy...we knew that, though! Thanks everyone for all the prayers...he has been bathed in them since he was conceived.

Neuro appt

2008-06-06T12:27:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to ask you guys to keep Jack in your prayers. He has a neuro appt on Monday and we are praying that all is good. Jack has brachycephaly...the back of his head is flat. Alot of infants have this because of sleeping on their backs and it is also a common variant in DS, but we are being cautious and just getting a follow up. We are praying that everything is "normal" and he will not need any more follow ups...like cardio & genetics. We have been SO blessed. Jack is a beautiful, healthy little boy that has surpassed all the odds...I do not think anyone has told him that he has an extra chromosome!!

2008-05-31T11:37:00.003-05:00

Patiently awaiting his lunch!

He loves bath time

Playing with Aunt Hill...see how thick his hair is getting!

Just one of the crazy positions I find him in the morning : )

Riding with KK

It has been while since I've posted...sorry, but I have really been enjoying my time off!! I just wanted to post a few pics so you can see how big Jack is getting. He now has two teeth and his hair is growing like crazy!! And his cousin KK is walking everywhere...woo hooo!!

Been Tagged!!

2008-05-21T22:25:00.002-05:00

I have been tagged by Christina...Prince Vince's mom. Here goes:

What was I doing 10 years ago?
I had just turned 20 and I was finishing up my last semester at Hinds. Jeramy and I had been dating for almost three years and I was applying for nursing school at Mississippi College. I remember being soooo excited about moving in the dorms with my BFF Penni!!

Five Things on my to-do list:
1. Clean my house
2. Finish up buying Father's Day gifts
3. Do a little shopping for the upcoming beach trip
4. Get on the eliptical
5. RELAX on my week off

Bad Habits:
1. Eating ice
2. Fast food
3. Shopping
4. Texting while driving

Five places I have lived, all in Mississippi:
1. Jackson
2. Waynesboro
3. Clinton
4. Richland
5. Quitman

Five Jobs I've had:
1. American Eagle Outfitters
2. Worked in the gift shop for the Splendors of Versailles exhibit for about 3 seconds!
3. RN in the NICU at UMC...miss those days...miss my girls!!
4. RN in the NICU at Anderson’s Hospital in Meridian
5. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for Neonatal Services in Meridian

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-14T10:20:00.007-05:00

Good morning mommy!!

Jack playing with Uncle Darb at the pool

Hanging out in the shade with Grammie

Helping Dad dress me : )

Grammie & Pappy

My first Mother's Day was great!! My whole family went to Beau Rivage...good food, good shopping and pool time! We had a wonderful time. Oh, and Jack's first tooth has appeared!! We went to Marion & Silber on Saturday for the calender photo shoot...he was not his normal self. We were there for almost two hours...NOT ONE SMILE. And everyone that knows Jack knows that is NOT him, so we figured his gums were bothering him. The next day, the tooth broke through! So, needless to say, I am a little worried about the pics for the calender...we will see!

Turning 30 and Jack's new 'do!!

2008-04-29T10:56:00.005-05:00

Going out for my 30th bday!

Me and Mom

Paisley's 1st bday/swim party...can you tell he is ready for a nap!!

Sitting up like a big boy

Jack finally has enough hair for me to play with!! Check out his mohawk...

Well, I am now officially thirty! I had a great bday...spent the whole day with Jack and then Jeramy took me out to my favorite restaurant in Meridian for dinner while Grammie baby sat. Jack is doing great. He is sitting up on his own, just working on his posture...loves to go for the toes!! He is still sleeping well at night, lovin his juices, still no teeth and he absolutely loves to watch himself in the mirror. I just found out that he was picked to be in the 2009 calender for Central MS Down Syndrome Society!! I am so excited and cannot wait. We are going to Marion & Silber in the next couple of weeks for our pics.

His first PT visit was yesterday. He did very well...lots of exercises focusing on upper body strength. After 30 min. he was DONE...he threw a fit and would cry anytime a toy came into his vision. He took a 10 minute power nap and he was ready to go again!! We are so proud of him and never new what we've been missing all this time : )

Surprise Party!!

2008-04-24T22:52:00.004-05:00

The whole crew

Pen & Nat

Our little family

Pen helping me open my gifts

Pen lovin on Jack

Last Saturday afternoon, my wonderful husband and family threw a surprise party for my 30th bday!! I was truly shocked...my birthday is not until tomorrow, so I was NOT expecting it. I was told all kinds of dirty lies to hide this from me...did not realize my fam was so darn sneaky!

I had a great time...tons of family and friends, great presents, and good food. Jeramy also designed t-shirts for everyone to wear...gotta love a t-shirt! And to make the party even more perfect, not only was my whole family there, but my very best friends from Jackson drove over...good times!

6 month check up

2008-04-17T14:17:00.004-05:00

I cannot believe Jack is 6 months old!! We had his check up yesterday...he weighs 17 lbs 3 oz and is 26 inches long. He got three different shots, had to drink the yummy Rototec liquid and also got blood drawn...so he was not a happy camper!! The blood draw was to check his thyroid levels...a lot of DS kids have hypothyroidism, so we have to keep a close watch. The Ped was very pleased with his eating, growth, & development...wooo hoooo! Earlier this week he also had his monthly physical therapy and occupational therapy evals...we cannot get therapy until he has a delay, how ridiculous is that!! Anyway, Jack showed Greta (PT) and Amanda (OT) all of his tricks and he did great, as usual. He is right on target with OT, but he is borderline with PT...Greta wants him to be sitting up for longer and supporting himself with his arms while on his tummy. Based on his DS diagnosis and being borderline for motor skills, Greta offered weekly PT or to wait a month and reevaluate...we jumped on the weekly sessions!! So now we have Early Intervention on Tuesdays and PT on Thursday...he is definitely going to be one busy boy.

Jack's Christening

2008-04-15T19:58:00.005-05:00

On Sunday, we had Jack's Christening. He looked so handsome in his outfit and he was wonderful, as always!! He did get a little fussy during the ceremony...the water on his head ticked him off! All of the family/extended family/friends were there, so we had a really good crowd on his special day.

Kason is 1!!!

2008-04-15T16:43:00.006-05:00

Jack found something to entertain himself!

KK's very own cake...he really didn't make a big mess

His police car from Moo and Aunt Krissy

Jack being silly with Grammie

His picnic table from me & Grammie

Jack and Benson

Sitting in his adirondack chair from Nana and Papaw

We had Kason's (Jack's cousin) 1st bday safari party at his Grammie's house on Saturday. Everything went great. KK's party was a hit...tons of friends and presents!

2008-04-07T19:50:00.002-05:00

I wanted to share with ya'll Jack's first "professional pics"...not a big fan usually, but we had a fundraiser for March of Dimes at one of the hospital's I work in...so it was for a good cause. Enjoy!

2008-04-05T20:09:00.003-05:00

Jack is almost 6 months now...loves his fruits and veggies, but the bottle is still his fave. I cannot wait for his check up so we can see how much he has grown! He is such a sweet and happy boy, but he can throw a FIT when he does not get his way. I wonder who he gets that from??

Jack's Christening and Kason's bday party are next weekend, so I will have plenty of pics soon!

Who am I meme...tagged by Jenny

2008-03-31T18:22:00.003-05:00

I was tagged by Jenny to play a “Who Are You?” Meme
-The rules of the game get posted at the beginning.
-Each player answers the questions about themselves.
-At the end of the post, the player then tags people, posts their names, and then leaves a comment on their blogs, letting them know they've been tagged.

What was I doing 10 years ago?
Well, that would be when I was 19. I was in my second year at Hinds, dating Jeramy and applying for nursing school at MC.

Five Things on my to-do list today.
1. Order my nephew’s bday present
2. Pay bills
3. Find out from Jeramy how the meeting went with the accountant and how much we owe in taxes!
4. Address Jack's Christening invites
5. Check on Jack a couple of more times before bedtime…I am on call, away from home, until Wed morning.

Five Snacks I enjoy.
1. Potato chips
2. Almonds
3. Peanut butter
4. Ice
5. Anything chocolate

Five Things I would do if I were a billionaire.
1. Quit work and stay at home with Jack
2. Buy a beach house
3. Travel like crazy
4. Tithe/Donate
5. Make sure my family/extended family was well taken care of

Five bad habits.
1. Eating ice…pregnancy started this and I am trying to quit!!
2. Being a perfectionist…wish I wasn’t.
3. Shopping
4. Eating late at night
5. My computer

Five places I have lived. (So sad, all in MS)
1. Jackson
2. Waynesboro
3. Clinton
4. Richland
5. Quitman

Five Jobs I've had.
1. American Eagle
2. Worked in the gift shop for the Splendors of Versailles exhibit
3. RN in the NICU at UMC
4. RN in the NICU at Anderson’s Hospital in Meridian
5. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for Neonatal Services in Meridian

People I want to know more about (a nice way of saying TAG):
1. Kristi
2. Allison McGee

Happy Easter

2008-03-24T21:55:00.004-05:00

Jack's first Easter was great. He received tons of gifts, including his very own red wagon! We actually had all of the boys together for the first time...Kason 11 mos, Jack 5 mos, and Benson 2 weeks. What did we do before they came along?

Guess who is turning over??

2008-03-22T21:46:00.000-05:00

YES, Jack turned over today...woooooo hoooooo!! Of course, I left the room, came back, and he was on his tummy...missed the whole thing. He loves the fact that he can do something new and so do we!

Back to church...

2008-03-17T11:46:00.004-05:00

Jack actually went to church yesterday!! Our Ped told us to keep him on lock down during RSV and flu season, so he hasn't been getting out much...so no church. Since the weather has been nice and all the viruses have calmed down, we took the plunge. He did well in church and he looked soooo handsome!! Everyone had a FIT over him...couldn't believe how big he's gotten.

Jack is 5 months old

2008-03-15T23:15:00.007-05:00

Jack turned 5 months on the 10th and he has become a pro at this eating business!! He has done great with the cereal and most veggies...HATES green beans, LOVES sweet potatoes. He is now onto fruits and he is loving every bite, but his bottle is still his fave! He is doing great and he's becoming such a chunk. Just think...this time last year, I was just realizing I was pregnant. Time flies when you're having fun!!

Jack's 1st trip to Disney!

2008-03-07T17:32:00.000-06:00

Jack is almost 5 months old and he has already been on his first plane ride and to Disneyworld! I had a neonatology conference in Feb., so my mom, Jeramy and Jack came along. We had wonderful, warm and sunny weather the whole time. Jack did great on the plane ride over and once we were in Disney, he loved the carousel in Magic Kingdom and the 3D shows. We will definitely have to go back when he will actually remember going!!

Benson is here!

2008-03-06T17:53:00.000-06:00

James Benson Oates was born at 8:28 this morning. He was 8 lbs 9 oz and 21 inches long...just like Kason. I was able to attend Kristen's c-section...so exciting! He came out pink and screaming with white hair...just like Jack. Kristen, Michael and Benson are doing great! What is the deal with all these boys?? A girl in the mix would be nice!

2008-03-04T15:09:00.000-06:00

I have finally found the time to get our blog going!! I am so excited to get this going, so I can update everyone on what is going on with us and baby Jack. He is almost 5 months old and he is changing so fast! He is 15 lbs, loving his cereal and his veggies, and he loves to coo, babble and laugh. Jack will not be the baby too much longer, cousin Benson will be here on Thursday!