August 9 2018:
Just Moo
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Tag Archives: camilla downs writer
Touring the TESLA Gigafactory – FUN
August 8 2018:
Thomas and I got to tour the Tesla Gigafactory this morning with a homeschool group. No photos allowed so here’s a lovely photo of my badge.
So incredibly interesting and our tour guide, Adam, was amazing!!!! Just WOW!!!! Adults sign an NDA before entering. So …. 🤐🤐
Thomas asked great questions and made some great jokes!! Thomas loved it!!
The Depths of My Love
August 7 2018:
This child knows not the depths of my love. And, that is okay. For I do not have and hold that love for it to be known or reciprocated.
Although there are times when our eyes meet and I Know that Thomas Knows and we Know that the other Knows.
At times, I may fall short of it being clear by way of my words and actions. Yet, it is there, within, where my soul holds it for an eternity, in all times and all dimensions.
It’s been a journey this past 20 years or so of remembering the True meaning of the word Love. I am blessed I get to do it with Thomas and Lillian by my side.
At times, I don’t feel strong enough or capable enough to continue. Yet, in the next moment I know that is simply a trick of the mind. It is only the stories I attach to what I’m experiencing that cause me to feel this way.
This afternoon was for Thomas. May the Love and support I hold for Thomas, and my desire to always make choices that are in Thomas’ highest and best interest, travel far and wide for any and all who feel in need of Love and support.
I’m feeling mushy and woo woo and the Love floweth over … xoxo (photo from July 2018 at Audrey Harris Park)
Yummy Good Thoughts and Jackfruit and Tummy Full of Love
July 8 2018:
I have a pivotal meeting tomorrow morning at 11:00 PST.
Would you please send yummy good thoughts, prayers, and energy that all aligns for Team TLC’s highest and best interest, that I am overcome with clarity and knowing, and that the path I am to take is clear beyond a doubt. Thank you!
I’ll be wearing this dreamy moonstone necklace that was waiting in the mail for me when we got back from Baltimore.
Thank you Tania Marie for this amazingly beautiful gift. Please thank Astrid too for her help! I know that having this around my neck and close to my heart will deepen the knowing and clarity. Love you!!!
July 9 2018:
Such a yum lunch. Jackfruit tacos with baby kale, baby chard, baby spinach, tomatillo and roasted yellow chili salsa, topped with a sweet and hot jalapeño and daiya cheese. Ahhhhh ….
July 13 2018:
Divinely yummy lunch today. Oceans of thanks for treating me to lunch Michaela Koenig! I have been wanting to eat here for months. Yay!!!!
I had the Kuzhi Paniyaram and Michaela had the Masala Dosa. Washed down with an oh so refreshing Panakam!! I floated out with a tummy full of love!
The restaurant is Maya’s for lunch and Thali for dinner. Now I just need to try Thali!!!
Calm and Smooth and Peace and Incredible Stillness and Refreshing Breeze
July 9 2018:
Today’s morning walk brought the message of calm, smooth, peace, and just BEing with what is.
July 10 2018:
Sunset walk with a Thomas last night. Incredible stillness. Incredible clouds. Incredible Nature.
July 12 2018:
Sunset walk with Lillian last night. A refreshing breeze invited us to linger just a bit longer. I love you Mother Nature.
The Alchemy of Writing by Camilla Downs
July 14 2018:
Why do you write? And what happens when you write? xoxo
The Alchemy of Writing
“I learn by going where I have to go.” -Theodore Roethke
Why
I Know that I am supposed to share that which I experience, that which I live. I know that I am supposed to share it by way of writing, so I do. I release it to fly free …
I feel it is my purpose to openly share my own life experiences with others. I freely explain and share lessons I’ve learned and practices I use that work for me and my family. If needed, I listen with love and compassion and intuitively share thoughts and ….
The 2018 Chromosome 18 Conference – Baltimore, Maryland
The 2018 Chromosome 18 Conference was enjoyed by all three Team TLC members!
We shout a huge and hearty THANK YOU to The For Kids Foundation who paid for my and Lillian’s registration fee and airfare … AND … to friends who supported Lillian’s fundraiser and purchased her book, my book, and Thomas’ book! That covered our food and a wee bit of the hotel stay!! ….. AND … The Nevada Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities’ Consumer Leadership fund which covered the remainder of the hotel stay!
We are deeply and incredibly grateful for everyone’s support and loving kindness in making sure that we got to the conference this year! The conference is always packed with tons of useful and informative sessions and is a once per year chance for Lillian to see her friends face to face. Friends who get her, who are like her, who laugh at her jokes, and just giggle with her for no reason! Attending the conference every summer inspires and encourages Lillian to face fears and accomplish goals … As you will read about below.
Oceans of love to all! xoxo
June 29 2018:
We made it! Almost all of us anyway. One suitcase was a flight behind us. One piece of luggage made the flight and one missed it. Hmmmm.
Beautiful Sue Rose Bentivenga met us with a smile and gave us these gorgeous flowers to brighten our room while here.
I’ve been up since 3:00 am PST. I may just pass out after we actually eat. We’ve not had a meal since our cereal at 3:30 this morning.
Yet. Yay we’re here. And. Oh my gosh. My seat mate from Vegas to Baltimore. Just wait. I’ve got to process it all. Then, I’ll share.
June 30 2018:
Thomas and I toured the USS Constellation this morning. Had to come back to the room to cool off. I was dripping more sweat than I have since moving from Mississippi! Holy heck!! I love our dry heat in Nevada!
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After coming back to the the room and cooling down, Thomas and I went to see the USCGC Taney. I’d rather be touring a forest or arboretum, yet, this brings joy to Thomas. So, two more ships tomorrow.
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One more shout out to Sue Rose Bentivenga!!! She and her daughter drove to the airport yesterday evening to pick up the piece of luggage that missed our flight. And then they delivered it to us.
And, a side note … If I had been in charge of driving us in that traffic and the style of driving here, I would have crawled under my seat and cried. We needed a Jersey native driving us through that craziness! Sue was a pro!!
Loving kindness is in the air! Thank you sweet Sue!!! Oceans of gratitude for supporting Lillian too!!! We’re so happy to hear y’all are enjoying it!!
July 1 2018:
Last tour for Thomas and I yesterday. Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse. I’ve always dreamed of living or staying for a while in a lighthouse. The work of it sounds difficult yet the beauty is amazing. Now. That’s tiny house living!
July 1 2018:
Today with Thomas was the Lightship Chesapeake. I think I’m done stepping out into the million degree sauna. 😜😂
We toured one more after this one. So glad I did this with Thomas! Even though I almost suffocated! 🙃😜
July 1 2018:
Lillian signing books! We are super grateful!!
July 1 2018:
Today with Thomas was the USS Torsk. Last one! I think I’m done stepping out into the million degree sauna. 😜😂
This one tested the ole claustrophobia. I did good. Came close to a panic attack due to the heat, confined space, and so many people ahead of us blocking the way out! This was good for me as I was able to confront it, breathe, drink water, and know that I was okay, and not suffocating! So glad I did this with Thomas! 🙃😜
July 1 2018:
Best friends! Together again! Macy Miller and Lillian. Someone asked if they are twins! They both love to laugh and giggle!
We had dinner with The Miller’s and just look at these two lovelies! The Giggle Duo, indeed! Look how happy they are! Lillian and Macy = Happy to see one another after a year apart!
July 2 2018:
First conference for Jaclyn. She is very excited to meet other people who have an 18p- diagnosis. And! Excited to have one of Lillian’s books!! Thank you to Jaclyn and to Mike Fudala for supporting Lillian. Much gratitude!!!!
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Horrible lighting! Great and wonderful people!Love these Miller folks! Always so kind! And their Macy and my Lillian are The Giggling Duo.
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Lillian just went out to eat with a group of friends. Alone. Like. Without me. FIRST TIME she has joined the self advocates doing anything! YES!!! Hallelujah!!
She typed her order in her phone before leaving so she can show it to the host. I put money in her name badge and texted her instructions for paying her bill after explaining verbally how to pay.
She’s worried. And keeps texting me. Yet, at least she finally took that first step! The hardest one! Wahoo!!
(This post received 242 likes/loves/wows and 142 comments on facebook. Deep gratitude for everyone cheering for Lillian!)
And the below post announcing the success received 121 likes/loves and 31 comments! Thank you everyone!
July 3 2018:
Here’s another first!! Lillian has never participated in the self advocate panel!!! Listening. A first step!! Wahooo!!!!
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Thomas and his buddy Kellan at lunch today. Thomas loves chatting with Kellan.
I’ve had two different people reply to my response of “Thank You” with: “Ah, no worries. We’re family.” Loving kindness is a beautiful thing.
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I’m a wimp. This is how I spent ladies night. A nearly scalding hot soak in the tub followed by a cold water cool down; while Thomas had dinner with his friend. Then, hanging with The Giggling Duo. They think I’m funny.
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18p- Friends
July 4 2018:
Thomas and Alex on the sibling panel. There were about 20 siblings ranging in age from 10 – 35 years old.
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More friends …… After group photos.
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Dinner and Farewell Dance!! What an incredible blessing all of these people are …. to one another ….. and the World!!!!
July 4 2018:
Group photo. Clearly not everyone. Yet, a whole heck of a lot of us!!!! Lillian and I are definitely in there. Hopefully, Thomas is too!
I think the total was around 350. I’m sure The Registry will post official numbers soon. Love these wonderful people! (This is not my photo. I think it was taken by Rick of Positive Exposure or Stacey Gallardo.)
July 5 2018:
One last visit to The Inner Harbor. We didn’t even last an hour out there. Whew!!! 🔥🔥🔥
But. We got to walk down the opposite side this time. And found a wee bit of nature to photograph.
July 5 2018:
Nearly home! YaY!!!
July 6 2018:
Fear of escalators: We’ve always had to use the stairs or elevator when Lillian was with us in the past.
No longer! Lillian rode the escalator on Friday, the 29th, at the Reno-Tahoe Airport! She held tight to me and was worried. Yet, she did it! The ultimate goal is to ride the escalator without me beside her. Wahoooooo!!!!xoxo
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During the Chromosome 18 Conference there’s always an ongoing silent auction and all money stays with The Registry. I usually bid on a couple of items; yet, they quickly surpass my wee budget.
Not this time! I won this clutch bag and tote hand made in Guatemala using recycled materials. I can still feel the excitement in my chest for having won something so full of love, color, and beautiful energy!
The clutch bag can be used alone or thrown in the tote bag so to have handles. It’s just my size purse. Thank you so much Ivette Ruiz for donating this treasure to the auction and for supporting native people in Guatemala!
I also bid on a pair of boldly colored and beautiful oven mitts handmade in Kenya. We were blessed with attendees from Kenya and they donated some beautiful items. Missed out on those beauties, yet all for a good cause!!!
July 7 2018:
Another fear bites the dust. In the past Lillian has chosen to walk throughout the airport attached to my arm. Not the easiest for me while pulling a carry on bag plus her bag.
When we got to the airport in Baltimore readying to leave, I explained I needed her not to hold onto my arm and to just walk beside me.
After sighing, she said “Okay”. And did just that. Throughout the entire Baltimore, Vegas, and Reno airport!
PLUS! This included the HUGEST fear at the airport ….. The PBB. She walked through the passenger boarding bridge NOT attached to me!!! She stepped from the PBB into the airplane NOT attached to me AND walked the aisle of the airplane NOT attached to me!
Hallelujah!! Ahhhhhhh …. Freedom for both of us!!! (Picture from 2016 – Another first! First time catching air for a photo!)
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Do you have a game plan? On the four hour flight from Vegas to Baltimore I sat next to Mark Everest.
For nearly the entire flight we shared about his family – wife, daughter, son, grand daughter -, books he’s written, his company, his workshops and speaking, his hippie friend who lives above Santa Monica. And I shared about the conference, Chromosome 18, my family, Thomas and Lillian, our books, my path.
Then we talked about Stephen Covey, Zig Ziglar, Earl Nightingale, Charlie Tremendous Jones, Wayne Dyer, Deepak Chopra, and some I’m forgetting.
I just read the first 50 pages of his first book which he gifted to me. Quote from the book, “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” -Mahatma Gandhi
I shared with him I am most likely the most Woo Woo person at the conference; he said, “You are needed there.” This same comment was repeated to me by someone dear to me on the last night of the conference. Messages it did my heart good to hear!
It’s a wonderful feeling to truly connect with others. I feel we bless one another and are sharing a gift with one another when we do this. Now. That’s what I call a Gameplan!! And, that’s my GamePlan!
July 8 2018:
Okay. Here’s the last one …. For this time around … Thank you to everyone for celebrating in our joy of laying to rest some fears and for having many firsts!!
While in the airports on the way back home, Lillian went into the airport restrooms without me!! We went from the first traveling experiences all those years ago of having to travel with post it notes to cover up the automatic flush sensor, to going in alone!! Yes, Yes, Yes!!!
Much gratitude to our friends and family for celebrating these seemingly small, yet HUGE, accomplishments at 16 years old for Lillian!! Wahoooo!!!
A Haunting Memory by Camilla Downs
June 10 2018:
A Haunting Memory
Why does this memory haunt her? Why does it keep returning? She does not remember the exact age of when this happened. She would have been 5, 6 or 7 years old. The past couple of years when this memory surfaced she has taken the time to feel emotions she buried from that time …. sadness and anger. Even though she remembers not who was involved, she has forgiven whoever it was.
She used to ignore it. Telling herself either she imagined it or if it happened …
Beautiful and Fun and Silly and Love and Beauties and Small World
June 11 2018:
Team TLC sunset walk tonight with The Romano Duo and Robert. Beautiful night. And fun being silly with pictures. They head back to Surprise, Arizona tomorrow morning. A few more pictures to follow. xoxo
June 12 2018:
I’m in love with the leaves of this tree. The little veins, the color, the blue shimmery speckles, and the shadows. I have probably taken about 15 pictures of them.
June 12 2018:
Such beauties …. xoxo
June 13 2018:
It’s like a small miniature world in there.
June 14 2018:
Sunset walk with Lillian last night. It was a beautiful night and just what we both needed as we’re both experiencing “re-entry pains” from our respite from one another.
We followed this with a swim in the pool and a soak in the hot tub. Ahhhhhhh …. Just what we needed. xoxo
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Another sunset walk tonight with Lillian and I just had to give this one its own post. There’s just something about this one that pulls me In. Ahhhhhhh ….. xoxo ….
Sunset walk with Lillian tonight. I could not stop making pictures. So incredibly gorgeous and dreamy.
Ok. So, I had to give this one its own post too. Because I don’t think I’ve ever seen the sun make an arrow pointing directly back at me. Just WOW!! Thank you Sun. Thank you Nature.
Camilla and Lillian Update for Chromosome 18 Conference in Baltimore and the Fundraiser
June 23 2018:
Lillian and I share that Lillian would like to have a birthday party in Baltimore so that she can actually celebrate in person with her best friends.
And we talk about Lillian selling her artwork as a fundraiser … https://lilliandarnell.com/…/fundraising-for-the-2018-chrom…/
Thanks so much everyone! xoxo