Got Thomas and the Year of Lasts

August 13 2023

Horrible photo, but I got ‘em. Thomas got home last night about 11:00. My mama heart is drenched in joy and happiness that they got to have this experience. Here’s to you, Thomas. A beautiful, talented, creative, sweet, kind human. ❤️❤️❤️

August 18 2023

Thomas was off to Senior Sunrise this morning. First day of last year of high school, first day of second year of college. Last end of summer at home with me. This is the school year of “lasts”, leading to a lifetime of firsts for this beautiful, amazing person.

I’ve tried to enjoy all the moments with you, Thomas. I always see people saying that “it went so fast.” That was not my experience. I can’t explain why, but it doesn’t feel like your life from birth to now went fast. I hope it’s because I slowed down and tried my best to be mindful and be in the present moment during our time together.

I know this for sure. You have been the most amazing blessing to me. You literally changed my life, my world view, my opinions, shifting the lens through which I view others and life events. My love for you cannot be described using mere words. It’s the feeling one has when witnessing the miracles in life. Stunning sunsets, sunrises, the birth of a child, the quiet of the snow, the sound of the ocean, the twinkling of the stars, the loving touch of another.

I had only intended to post Thomas’s photo with a brief message. But there’s no stopping the words when they want to flow. Hope everyone has a lovely day, enjoying all the moments.

Throwback Post: Hot Baths in Vegas With Donuts

**THROWBACK POST**

December 5 2013:

Tonight = Quiet, candle lit soak in a relaxing, hot bath …. Water is amazing stuff! Candles are amazing stuff! Now off to dreamland with this tune, “Three little birds outside my window ….. every little thing’s gonna be alright” … xoxo


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December 5 2011:

A favorite from our Vegas Thanksgiving . . . Lillian, my Mom and Thomas at the park . . .


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December 5 2009:

Dough boy donuts for dessert. Yum!!!

Step Eleventy Billion Towards Independence

August 2 2023

Step eleventy billion on helping Lillian be more independent.

A fancy toaster with no knobs as Lillian’s poor motor skills prevent her from effectively using the toaster oven we have.

And most importantly does not make a loud noise, popping the toast up when done. It slowly rises, also having a button for checking the toast. My toast making duties are officially over!!

This is working towards our goal of me getting a vacation, with Lillian staying home alone, with helpers checking in on her. I haven’t had a vacation since about 2008.

Thanks to The Millers for sharing how they went through this process with Macy.

Throwback Post: Movie Night: It’s A Wonderful Life

**THROWBACK POST**

November 26 2015:

Team TLC movie night … “It’s a Wonderful Life” …

My favorite Frank Capra movie. Life is indeed a precious gift. And richness is indeed within.

Thomas says, “Suspenceful, fast-paced, good-feeling, funny, spiritual, Christmasy.”

Lillian says, “Good, Christmasy, good spirited, good energy, good movie title, nice effects, funny, romantic, musical, amazing, and Christmas tradition.”

Throwback Post: Respite with New Friends While Digging in the Dirt With Comfort Food and Tea

**THROWBACK POST**

December 5 2015:

Took Lillian to Ms. Kat’s place about an hour ago and now experiencing 3 uninterrupted hours of pure bliss and quiet respite. Now I shall write or read or take a nap or just sit. There’s so much I want to do … I’ll breath into the moment and listen with my heart ….. (Picture at little Washoe lake in October 2015).


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December 4 2014:

Here’s to new friendships! Had such a great time chatting with you Michaela Koenig! YAY!


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December 4 2013:

The other night I asked Thomas what the absolute, most spectacular and favorite thing that he got do at school that day was. His answer was that he got to dig in the dirt today and it was so much fun. They are making a garden area in front of the school and he got to be a part of the students cleaning it up and getting it ready for when planting time rolls around. Love this school!

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Dinner was enjoyed by all tonight! All 3 Team Members could taste the love! T & C loved the mashed potatoes made with sweet potato and russet potato… all smooshed up with 3 kinds of cheese and a little bit of butter. T & L loved the different colored carrots … red, yellow and orange. They still aren’t going for the brussel sprouts, but I keep trying! Meatloaf made with grass fed beef and some other goodies. Soooo yummy!


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December 4 2011:

Chromosome 18 friends … Vanilla Caramel Truffle … Celebrating Phantom Tea in spirit … Sending a donation in honor of Lillian later this week. Any of FB friends want to join? Research performed benefits all with genetic differences.


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December 4 2008:

taking Thomas on a date today – probably to the airport and then the toy store!