Becky and Scott

Day at the beach (sort of)...St Simons/Jekyll Island

2011-10-05T14:35:00.000-04:00

The sixth month

2011-10-04T15:19:00.001-04:00

These days, Eliza, you often look like this:

That open mouth…doesn’t matter if you’re smiling or staring at something with curiousity it makes me laugh.

If you can’t tell you’re a pretty happy baby most days, though you have your ‘fussed up moments’ as well.

You’re continuing to grow and develop. Physically you’re sitting up better and better and for a few minutes at a time by yourself. If you play sitting up one of us had better be close b/c you’re likely to fall over as you reach for toys. You play with all toys we give you, but do have a few favorites and you’re pretty content to play for periods of time so I can do a few things around the house. I can tell your fine motor control is better — the other day you firmly closed the lid on one a toy and you looked like you’d done it forever though it was the first time. Just recently you rolled from back to front and now you’ll roll for something if you really want it, but it better be pretty impressive.
You’re starting to wear more nine month clothes. As we start to get some cooler weather pants are a little challenging — your waist is so small, but you need the length in 6 month pants. Still wearing size two diapers. We estimate your weight to be about 15 and a half or so and height about 27 inches, but we’ll see come thursday.

The day you turned six months I thought I heard you say ‘mama’, but was across the room and discounted it. Ever since then though it seems like you’ve taken off with your babbling — you’ll say mama, baba, papa and will even mix them up on occasion. I love it. They are the sweetest sounds to hear and I’m not saying that b/c I’m an SLP either. ;-) Dad’s still waiting for dada though :-) Guess I won that bet, ha ha.

This weekend I looked at some photos/video of you from when you were about two weeks old. Its amazing the difference.

Meli knows the difference too. She’s good with you, but I think we’re going to need to work on being gentle. Mel’s not lovin’ it when you grab her fur, but she’ll just remove herself from the situation.

The day you turned six months we had a celebration. We sang happy half birthday and had some cake. We gave you some to play in. I’ve noticed you love to explore different textures by touch, you rarely put things in your mouth. I’m not sure if its b/c we haven’t seriously started solids yet or what, but you have no problem digging in with your hands. No, we weren’t going to let you eat it but it wasn’t a concern b/c you didn’t even try.

You know, its so sad I hardly take any pictures of you…but honestly every time I turn around it seems like you’re doing something new. I can’t believe you’re six months.

Happy half birthday!

p.s. no need to hurry on being more mobile...really its ok... ;-)

Six months old!

2011-09-28T15:19:00.001-04:00

Dad and daughter...

2011-09-19T15:06:00.001-04:00

Working on sitting up...

2011-09-14T19:45:00.000-04:00

7.2.2011

2011-07-05T11:23:00.003-04:00

Its a shame she's never happy...

E checks out the beach ... and finds it super sunny and H-O-T!

2011-06-22T13:32:00.000-04:00

The last month...

2011-06-11T13:55:00.000-04:00

The days are just flying by...

Cake pops...attempt number 4ish?

Eliza goes swimming!

2011-05-23T10:19:00.000-04:00

At 7 weeks (8 today!) we decided we'd see how Eliza likes the pool...she's a fan of bathtime so we'd thought this would be more of the same....

At first there was this....

But once she got used to the water she calmed down and was pretty relaxed for the rest of our time in the pool...she even started cooing near the end so we declared it a success!

6 weeks

2011-05-13T18:30:00.000-04:00

This week Eliza is 6 weeks old ... time sure flies! She's gone from this at 7 days old:

images from Michelle Morris Photography

to this:

gotta be a supporter ;-)

Aunt Emily!

meeting great-grandpa

We know that she's getting longer and a bit plumper ... staying awake for longer periods ... smiling ... working on finding her thumb ... becoming a better night sleeper ... loves to swing ... more aware of her surroundings and people ... and we can't wait to see what else we learn about her as time goes by!

Week two with E...

2011-04-17T16:03:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe she's three weeks old tomorrow! According to her two week visit she's growing and doing well -- already surpassed her birth weight and getting some chubby cheeks :-)

How she really sleeps at night...

More Eliza...

2011-04-09T17:13:00.001-04:00

Who doesn't love pictures of a cute baby?!?! Oh, and one of the dog...think she's been a little neglected lately ;-)

March 28, 2011

2011-04-05T18:01:00.000-04:00

The past few months have been busy with lots of different changes. We moved off Ohau and back to the mainland, bought a house, moved into said house a few months later ... all the while being flexible and making plans/back-up plans and just all-around rolling with the punches. Somehow the details were sorted out and we ended up with everything and everyone in one place. Which seems kinda amazing given that we shipped two cars, all of our household goods, flew with the dog for three flights and lived out of suitcases from Jan. till March in various locations/states. Whew, pcsing (permanent change of station) with the Army is always an adventure!

But ... the biggest change arrived March 28th, 2011 in the form of 8 lbs. 3 oz. and 21 inches long. Once she decided to arrive she came quickly and we made it to the hospital with about 17 minutes to spare. Not exactly a pain free experience ... that saying about no pain no gain? So so so so true!

Its hard to believe she's been around 8 days already, but we are head over heels for her and can't wait to get to know her as she grows.

Below are some pictures from our last week with our newest addition: Eliza Madeline!

2010-12-20T20:58:00.000-05:00

Happy Veterans Day...

2010-11-11T14:02:00.000-05:00

For those past and present...

On another note...not sure what to think of this...

HALLOWEEN

2010-11-03T01:20:00.000-04:00

Long time no see? Although we've been busy the past few months with thinking about our upcoming move, actually moving down the street since where we were sold, going back to work full time and as always...enjoying Hawaii while we can. At least for a few more months before we're Georgia bound! We've been taking pictures, but haven't put anything up till now...

It may be Hawaii and not entirely fall like most people experience, but there's still a pumpkin patch to visit!

They were only open the last two weekends in Oct. so there were quite a few people visiting - luckily lines moved and people were in and out pretty quickly.

White pumpkins!

The fraggles made an appearance the friday night before Halloween!

As did the hot dog...though she moped and sulked until we took it off and ran around the house like the crazy dog she really is...

What a day!

2010-07-13T21:50:00.000-04:00

After 10 months I can finally say....

He's back!

He was in the first group to leave Kuwait..after crossing 13 time zones and traveling for a little over 23 hours Scott (and a few others) arrived at Hickam Air Force Base around lunchtime. The re-deployment ceremony was short and sweet (after it started 1/2 hour or so late) and then they were released...until PT on friday at least...

off to the left was a screen where we could see them check in and doing whatever it is they do

the band...

here they come...all 206 of them..

there he is...you know, the one in front on the right...

Happy 5th of July!

2010-07-05T22:34:00.001-04:00

I hope that everyone had a fun-filled 4th!

Here while other units are deploying we are getting ready for the 25th CAB (Combat Aviation Brigade) to redeploy (come home) soon. Exciting stuff! Hopefully Scott won't have to deploy again too soon, but who really knows. The future is always up in the air with the Army; no matter how good of a plan you thought you have you're probably going to end up with plan c or d before all is said and done. We do know that we're pcsing (permanent change of station) sometime in the near future, but nothing's for sure until we have orders in hand!

Anywhoo, here's a video to celebrate nearing end of deployment #2! I had to put it on youtube b/c it won't upload into blogger no matter how hard I try for some reason, ugh its been SUCH a pain.

2010 Vaca...to Chicago

2010-06-26T00:46:00.000-04:00

When you live in Hawaii where do you go to get "off island?" If you're local Las Vegas is a good bet, but if you're not its usually back to the mainland to visit family. After Scott got on a plane to go back to the land of sand I got on a plane to Chicago where my sister lives. She's not far from Navy Pier so there's lots to see and do...

Only a few pictures...really...

Nothin' like seeing yourself in a gigantic mirror!

the sister...the one in the sunglasses...

not the sister..,just getting stared down by a giraffe at the Lincoln Park Zoo

time to sail!

view from the Sears (a.k.a. the Willis) tower

the scary ferris wheel...

Down by the lake

Buckingham fountain...its H-U-G-E

Nothing like drinking mojitos and playing poker for pennies with the family!

Head meet brickwall...

2010-06-25T01:25:00.000-04:00

Oh Boy.

I've only been gone from work for a week. ONE week.

How many referrals do we have for s/l testing?

FIVE.

"Only" 4/5 are pre-k.

You know, I've tested at LEAST 80 kids within the past 2 years (plus a few months). Only one crawled under the table, but those pre-k...some have good knowledge of the word no. Crossing my fingers that some of these 4 will be cooperative...I'm not betting so much on the twins. Haven't had very good luck with twins since ...well since a year ago.

And, who thought it was a GOOD decision to pick up a child who scored 105 (average) or better? My fill-in SLP that wasn't supposed to even be handling meetings this summer for me that's who...which is why I didn't want her there in the first place! But, now we get to see him for 60 minutes a week when he's three, speaking in long sentences and rhyming! She's not one to say no...

I'm thinking she needs a lesson (or two) from those pre-schoolers...

Thursday night fun...

2010-06-04T17:03:00.000-04:00

Last night we went down to the usual sunset spot and took Meli with us. We drove since it was getting late and we didn't want to miss it...but Mel hadn't been feeling very well...

Next thing I know Meli's gagging and showing all the signs she's going to throw up. There's not really a spot to pull over and stop plus she was sitting in my lap...so, do you let her throw up over you or the car?

I chose the car and just stuck her head out the window...an interesting visual for anyone watching! But, it was an easy clean up/hose down.

While we were at the beach we saw a sea turtle up close and personal. Usually we can see them when we go snorkeling here, but this one was really close to the beach eating off the rocks.

Never know what's going to happen in paradise...

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T16:39:00.000-04:00

Today is Memorial Day ... barbeques, baseball games, the end of school and beach picnics here in Hawaii as well as a day to remember those who have served in the Armed Forces and given everything. Here in Hawaii they are honored and remembered with leis -- from Pearl Harbor to Punchbowl Cememtery. Today is a day to remember ... honor ... and celebrate.

Almost there!

2010-05-12T00:54:00.000-04:00

11 more days of school -- 9 with the kids! The end can't come soon enough! This week the kids are only here Mon.-Wed. and I have 8 meetings either before/after school those three days...gotta cram everything in these last few days. We're still having incoming SSTs for testing as well, oh these pre-schoolers...

And then there's summer school (mandatory recall), but we're not thinking about that just yet...

Crossing another day off the calendar -- or well adding another day on the calendar at school. Either way the end of May will come!

Happy Birthday to YOU!

2010-05-04T03:09:00.006-04:00

Happy Birthday to Scott, my brother Tim and our favorite just-turned-3-year-old Madeline!! Hope you all have a wonderful day..eat some cake for me ;-)

A Look Down

2010-04-14T23:40:00.000-04:00

Can't beat the scenery here! We'll miss it for sure when we leave next fall!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

2010-03-17T15:16:00.000-04:00

*courtesy of Emily in Chicago

YouTube Fun...

2010-03-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

Ok Go

Happy Friday!!!

We survived Tsunami 2010

2010-02-28T01:06:00.000-05:00

Even if it was just 3 feet high -- better that than the alternative! Meli and I evacuated just before 6 this morning and got home a little after 2. So, our plans were changed for this Saturday, but we're glad that nothing major happened around here and hope nothing else happens as it heads on its way.

The lines were crazy long at various stores and gas stations around the island, but highway traffic wasn't to bad. Sirens went off at 6, 10:30 and 11...it was a bit eerie heading down the highway and hearing them this morning!

All is well here and I'm sure many people are breathing a sigh of relief -- us included!

2010-02-12T01:23:00.005-05:00

Just a reminder...for when:
a four year old throws anything within his reach across the room and laughs--every time you see him...
you don't know what to do with this student...or this one over there...or that one...
parents ask for more minutes...
school staff/parents think all we do is play games...
the 4th graders act like preschoolers...
But also for when...
a 5 year old calls hopscotch hip hop and hop hop in the same session and makes you laugh
a pre-k stops carrying his lunch to start a conversation with you
a K student tells you heck no when asked to repeat using his good sounds (it really was funny at the time..)
a 3 year old asks "what is it?" while he'd rarely put two words together before he started school this year.
the week is NEVER dull...even if it is only 4 days!
I AM THE CHILD

(Author Unknown)

I am the child who cannot talk.
You often pity me, I see it in your eyes.
You wonder how much I am aware of -- I see that as well.
I am aware of much, whether you are happy or sad or fearful,
patient or impatient, full of love and desire,
or if you are just doing your duty by me.
I marvel at your frustration, knowing mine to be far greater,
for I cannot express myself or my needs as you do.

You cannot conceive my isolation, so complete it is at times.
I do not gift you with clever conversation, cute remarks to be laughed over and repeated.
I do not give you answers to your everyday questions,
responses over my well-being, sharing my needs,
or comments about the world about me.

I do not give you rewards as defined by the world's standards -- great strides in
development that you can credit yourself;
I do not give you understanding as you know it.
What I give you is so much more valuable -- I give you instead opportunities.
Opportunities to discover the depth of your character, not mine;
the depth of your love, your commitment, your patience, your abilities;
the opportunity to explore your spirit more deeply than you imagined possible.
I drive you further than you would ever go on your own, working harder,
seeking answers to your many questions with no answers.
I am the child who cannot talk.

I am the child who cannot walk.
The world seems to pass me by.
You see the longing in my eyes to get out of this chair, to run and play like other children.
There is much you take for granted.
I want the toys on the shelf, I need to go to the bathroom, oh I've dropped my fork again.
I am dependent on you in these ways.
My gift to you is to make you more aware of your great fortune,
your healthy back and legs, your ability to do for yourself.
Sometimes people appear not to notice me; I always notice them.
I feel not so much envy as desire, desire to stand upright,
to put one foot in front of the other, to be independent.
I give you awareness.
I am the child who cannot walk.

I am the child who is mentally impaired.
I don't learn easily, if you judge me by the world's measuring stick,
what I do know is infinite joy in simple things.
I am not burdened as you are with the strife's and conflicts of a more complicated life.
My gift to you is to grant you the freedom to enjoy things as a child,
to teach you how much your arms around me mean, to give you love.
I give you the gift of simplicity.
I am the child who is mentally impaired.

I am the disabled child.
I am your teacher. If you allow me,
I will teach you what is really important in life.
I will give you and teach you unconditional love.
I gift you with my innocent trust, my dependency upon you.
I teach you about how precious this life is and about not taking things for granted.
I teach you about forgetting your own needs and desires and dreams.
I teach you giving.
Most of all I teach you hope and faith.
I am the disabled child.

Day Flying In Iraq

2010-01-28T08:25:00.003-05:00

Today was the first day flight for me since 2007 in Iraq. Not much has changed but there is sure a lot more oil production going on.

An oil spill by Baji, that is the Tigris River that the oil is flowing into. It has been going for a few days now.

The Baji Oil Refinery that is just to the north of Speicher, got to love the air we breather over here!!

Just a little formation flying on a clear day, it sure was cold -2 degrees Celsius.

Who says Iraq is just desert, there is a lot of farm land up in the north, kind of reminds me of Illinois.

The life of a dog...rough

2010-01-20T22:38:00.001-05:00

2010-01-20T00:22:00.000-05:00

Pet's Only

2009-12-15T03:07:00.003-05:00

This week's photo challenge at I heart faces is pet's only -- so I couldn't resist putting up one of Meli. Go and check out lots of other awesome animals!

Look Out

2009-12-11T00:10:00.004-05:00

2009-12-10T03:11:00.002-05:00

Eddie Went!

2009-12-09T01:08:00.004-05:00

This morning there was a lot of hemming and hawing -- would "the eddie" go or not? It wasn't until I was at work after 7 this morning that they decided it was on! People had been lining up since before the sun was up; thousands of people turned out to see 28 of the world's greatest big wave surfers take to Waimea Bay. We were even watching it live on our computers at work on and off -- its just amazing to see surfers take on 30+ ft. waves. There were quite a few wipeouts and broken boards. But, there were lots of 'wow' moments too. Turns out the Greg Long won in the last round. Not that I know who that is...but he's from California!

After work Meli and I went up the beach to see what we could see. Waves were supposed to be 15-25 ft. by us. They were higher and more frequent than usual and a few surfers were out trying to catch a wave or two. Not nearly as spectacular as on the North Shore, but nothing to sneeze at either.

Eddie Would Go

2009-12-08T03:05:00.004-05:00

The waves are getting pretty high up on the North Shore...the question is...are they going to run the Eddie or not tomorrow? Looks likely, but we'll see. Last time it was run was 2004.

Eddie Aiku is quite the legend around these parts; the first lifeguard at Waimea Bay among other accomplishments.

Good luck surfers! I think I'll stay on the sidelines....

Thanksgiving In Iraq!!!!!

2009-12-01T20:37:00.006-05:00

This picture is not from Thanksgiving, but I just wanted to prove to everyone that it does rain here, and when it does it makes a mess. Not to mention the fog that rolls in a few days after.

So this is how we celebrated Thanksgiving Iraq style. We get the food from the cooks in green containers. Then we put it out and we just dig in. If you notice the frozen pumpkin pie, I think it is still frozen to this day.

The little things in life. Getting to sit down and eat dinner off a plate and not out of a to-go box. Yes we even had fresh bread.

More food, think we had turkey, shrimp, crab legs, and everything else that you would have for thanksgiving dinner. I never thought about crab legs on Thanksgiving.

We even got a nice sunset. Well it only lasted a few seconds and no you do not get the green flash over here.

Just one of the passengers that night. A bomb sniffing dog, pretty cool I think.

Well over all Thanksgiving was ok. The food was good, but that is not as good as home cooked food, but I guess I can not complain.

Past Weekend

2009-11-17T00:55:00.002-05:00

Happy Veteran's Day!

2009-11-11T22:27:00.002-05:00

To our past, present and future veterans and their families! (I'm not partial to those flying a chinook...really)

Consider supporting a member of the armed services...I am sure it would brighten their day.

Wounded Warrior Project

The USO

Holiday Mail For Heroes

And many more....

One more...keeping her busy

2009-11-11T02:36:00.003-05:00

Here you go Scott!

2009-11-10T23:19:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween!!

2009-10-31T22:12:00.002-04:00

2009-10-29T02:01:00.001-04:00

Put The Big Red Button on your site

Wacky Work Wednesday

2009-10-22T01:19:00.004-04:00

This afternoon after this kids had all left for the day we were working away on the back nine (or, far far away from the actual school) and being rather productive..Melisa was organizing and tossing old materials and I was on the phone talking about our newest prek entering the wonderful world of special ed. when all of a sudden the person I'm talking to says...

Wait - why is everyone walking out to the field? All the K, 1 and 2 teachers are walking out with their stuff....

He checks with someone walking by....

I hear:

Get your stuff and get out to the field, there's an evacuation.

Me: are you joking?!?! what -- why?

Him: They found an unexploded ordinance out in the parking lot. (They started to dig today to put in a new sidewalk)

Only on a military post...though I suppose we shouldn't be to surprised considering pearl harbor and all, but still -- we park in that parking lot everyday. Makes you wonder where else they might be.

But the best part?

We never would've known if I hadn't been on the phone. We'd been having wasps in and out of our room all day so we'd closed the doors/windows and turned on the a/c (more like a high powered fan -- we're in a portable). No announcements were made. We would've had no clue.

THAT is how our school operates.

AND....

No more friday work days until Nov. 13th. Yep, we're all furloughed. Well, except the custodians -- their union hasn't reached an agreement yet. Marches and speeches galore are planned for this friday -- the first furlough friday, with a performance by Jack Johnson. Note to self: stay away from town (a.k.a. honolulu).

Road to Iraq

2009-10-21T15:58:00.004-04:00

Yes, the Cardinals are even in Iraq

Sunrise in Kuwait

Just hanging out in Kuwait after landing from the long flight

Well as you can see the travels back to Iraq went without any problems. Not to say everyone really wanted to come back to this wonderful place but there was not much we could do about that. We ended up spending about 3 weeks in Kuwait and then came up here to our former home of Camp Speicher. Not much has changed from last time we were here, the major difference is we have "prime" power. You might ask what does that mean, well we no longer require generators to power anything here. Now that is not to say that we still don't use generators, we do only when "prime" power goes out, but that is not to often.
Everthing here as I said is going ok. We are flying a lot and have very little down time which makes the time go by fast. You can tell a big difference from last time when you fly, a lot of the small bases are closed and people are moving out, back to the states, again which is good. I will try to post more pictures but since we fly at night everything is dark and well pictures of darkness are boring and not much to see but some city lights.

The Good, Bad, Ridiculous and the Best

2009-10-17T02:17:00.013-04:00

"Kids have strengths. Everyone has gifts and graces. We as a society need to do everything we can to lift them up."

- Kevin Drollinger, Executive Director, Epworth

The Good

-my head-butter sitting for 20 minutes today; he came in with a big smile on his face ready to work (or as some people would think, play). He actually shook his head no instead of acting out when offered a toy he didn't want. not.one.temper.tantrum.

-a good (short) week with all of my more "challenging" kiddos. They'd just come back from fall break and I think we all needed a break. The one that cries the entire time? Reached for bubbles and actually chose the right picture when asked, just once, but still! The one who is a screamer/hitter in group situations? requests favorite items using pictures in one-on-one sessions. The one I was at my wits end with? Actually seemed to engage and not just cry/be miserable. (are you seeing a trend with some of my pre-k? They aren't ALL like that -- we do have some non-tearful sessions)

The Bad

-That /r/ sound. Its my nemesis.

-5 IEPs in 3 days.

-Going over that 50 mark

-Probable furloughs=pay cut

-Paranoia over due process (oh that clarification of services blurb...)

The Ridiculous

-My fellow SLP has a K student that's in a wheelchair and not independent; he needs a 1:1 to get through the day. What did the administration do this week? Oh, they just took the 1:1 away. Came down to wording in the IEP (or budget cuts, honestly). Every team member said no, he needs it, but that didn't matter. Sure, the school said the aids would help him throughout the day...and there are 8 other K kids in this fully self-contained class. huh. like that's really realistic.

AB-SO-LUTE-LY RIDICULOUS.

And that's how we roll at our school...sigh...

The Balance Sheet

-The good outweighs the bad no doubt, but I'm thinking its a wash between the good and the ridiculous. But honestly? That's just a typical week at our school.

The Best

-There's two of us...we are not alone on this planet called public school.

-(most) of my kids coming in happy...good-a-mornin-miss-a-becky is how one of my prek says it and its the cutest. He makes all of us smile. I wish you could hear it.

-knowing that you earn every penny. I do not have the answers for every child; I am not a miracle worker. But small success are amazing.

Go Cards!

2009-10-10T18:20:00.003-04:00

Hawaiian weather

2009-10-07T19:57:00.004-04:00

Updated: Canceled!

We are under another tsunami advisory -- this is our second in the past few weeks. Its not something you necessarily expect, even when living on a rock in the middle of the ocean. But, I suppose back in StL there are tornado watches/warnings, winter weather advisories and so on. Here we get hurricanes/tropical storms and tsunami watches/advisories. Never fear though, the lawn maintenance people are outside going at it with their weed wackers (they're always out somewhere around here). We shall see what develops. Last time we just got waves of about 3 feet.

Leaving on a Jet Plane....well...not quite

2009-09-26T15:44:00.011-04:00

A few weeks ago Scott left on a business trip for work. I'm not going to give exact specifics -- you know the whole internet security thing. Meli and I have been getting into a new routine since he left. We won't see him again for quite some time yet -- probably some time this summer after the school year ends. However, he's doing well but as you can expect is busy.

The night before he left was checked baggage drop off.

They lined up bags by type

Looks like some sort of organizational attempt

Carry-on bags lined up

Inspection by the fruit/veggie sniffing dog...those items were not allowed

Lining up to walk out

Away they went

2009-09-22T01:18:00.002-04:00

The state of Hawaii is in a bit of a budget crises (who isn't these days?). They've been talking about salary cuts & furloughs (days of no work and no pay) for awhile now. Most state employees are already being furloughed two days a month or so.

The teacher's union has been under negotiations since this summer. They finally reached a tentative agreement that will be voted on tomorrow. If its ratified (and from what I hear its expected) it means 17 furlough days from now till the end of the year, which means about an 8% pay cut. They've already come up with the schedule and they're going to be on fridays starting with two next month. And the month of december? Nothing but 4 day work weeks. Supposed to save the union 5 million dollars every furlough day.

We as SLPs are not a part of the teacher's union here...we're a part of the hawaii government employees union. They have not completed negotiations with the DOE/BOE yet. So, who knows, but the likelihood of us getting furloughed is high.

I have my once a week kids on fridays -- not a lot of them, but enough to make me think about re-doing the schedule. That would mean I have to fit 50 kids in 3 1/2 days (they get out at 12:45 every wednesday). That means...pre-k class groups and higher numbers of kids in a group. Small groups are headed out the window for the most part anyways, but they'll be even higher. I don't know what we're going to do about service minutes as an IEP is a legally binding document.

In a way, the public schools are a business like any other. I know my kids are getting the short end of the stick. And there's nothing we can do about it. A few extra days off are nice I suppose, but its turning into quite a mess.

At least its Friday....

2009-09-19T00:10:00.002-04:00

That's about the only good thing I can say about today.

It all started with one of my pre-k this morning. He was actually doing great -- trying to verbally imitate some words (open, pig, cow, duck, car, etc.) and attempting to sign open with a model...all things he's never done before. Until the last 5-10 min. He quickly climbed under the table and refused to come out. We eventually got him out and he really threw a fit when asked to sit. And the tantrum began. He cried and screamed, he hit, he kicked, he laid on the floor and cried...everybody was fine and safe until an inopportune moment when I was to close and let go of his hands...he promptly pulled off my glasses and then head butted me in the nose. That was a first. Luckily, I was fine. He, however continued to scream and carry on until he finally calmed and sat. 15 minutes past when his session was over. This child has no real words of his own and yet he knew he was choosing to not comply.

Let's say we have a couple different strategies to try next week. I really wish I had a rule book. How much is to much? When do you hold a child and when do you back off? When do they need physical prompting and when do they see that as a tool to escalate? Behavior, behavior, behavior....sigh You think you have a plan and then it turns out you didn't. But, I have one week till I see him again. So, we shall see.

That was enough, right? I'd say so!

But, it didn't stop there.

My next little one cried. That, I'm used to. She does it all the time. But, I'm starting to think our motto should be...send them to speech; where we make them cry and act out.

Next up is the K group after morning recess. Easy kids for the most part. Most K kids walk on their own in groups to us...however, that plan didn't work out today. The other SLP was absent so our communication aid was seeing those kids. She called for her K kiddo and the teacher started to send him and she left to go meet him. She must've JUST missed him somehow. Can you see where this is going?

Yes. We lost him.

We walked around for a minute and then had an ABP put out on the radio for him. Everyone from the custodians to counselors were looking for him.

Oh, they found him....in an ELL classroom with some other kids from his class. He was fine, but clearly needs to be walked from door to door from now on. My kids didn't get seen, but hey we practiced conversation skills!

The rest of the day went better. Thank goodness. Luckily there wasn't any fallout for us losing him; we are not....highly regarded individuals within our school community; by admin or some of the staff.

At LEAST it is friday. If it was Monday...I don't know what I would've done.

Happy Tuesday!

2009-09-15T02:30:00.003-04:00

Is it wrong to be excited that pre-k has a field trip tomorrow and I won't have any kids till my K group at 10? That's almost half of my days worth of kids! (9 kids in 4 groups over 80 minutes; a little over 20 total on tuesdays)

That and NO meetings tomorrow!

Its all about the little things...

Overnight Guest

2009-09-13T20:04:00.004-04:00

This weekend was quiet..and a little busy at the same time. The highlight was dog sitting for a friend till Sunday morning. Sammy the beagle came for a 2 night 1.5 day visit...and I'm sure she's glad to be back in her own place with some peace and quiet. Meli wasn't sure what to think at first, but soon spent most of her time trying to get Sammy to play...and Sammy spent most of her time avoiding/growling at Meli to leave her alone. No real fighting though and they even spent some time on the couch together.

I also tried to make pita bread. It turned out ok, but didn't puff up quite as much as it should have. Recipe here.

Sammy the beagle checking out the digs

(note Scott's green socks..he doesn't even have to be here for them to be all over the place!)

Meli laying on Sammy's bed...just trying to start something

Action shot...she's always bouncing off something or other....

You know you're grown-up when....

2009-09-11T02:19:00.003-04:00

You find yourself telling second graders "I have eyes in the back of my head..."

HA!

My group of 4 second graders are a rowdy bunch on tues/thurs. They're SLI only and loooove to have social time instead of work time. One of them didn't have all 4 chair legs on the floor and as I was taking data I told him to put his chair down. He was amazed that I noticed. Another one asked if when you become an adult you get eyes in the back of your head. Good to know that you can still impress them when they're 7!

He Just Can't Stand the Dog

2009-09-10T02:17:00.001-04:00

Raw & Unedited: Caught on Camera

2009-09-08T19:09:00.001-04:00

I think I may have done it...judge for yourself....

I present the green flash!

You Might Be A Redneck: Hawaii Edition

2009-09-06T01:17:00.006-04:00

You might be a redneck if.........

you put a kayak on top of a golf cart and take it to the beach...along with two beach chairs, two paddles, two kayak seats, towels, a cooler, an ipod & portable stereo, a camera and a dog!

view from the water

Meli's first adventure kayaking...and sporting a new life jacket!

checking out the scenery

chillin' on the golf cart

A fun afternoon was had by all...although we have a few scratches from Mel who wasn't completely fond of the ocean, but took it in stride. Luckily we had some help getting in the ocean as we almost flipped heading out. Meli even swam around in the water a little when we went in. She had a few other dogs to run around with as well. It seems everytime we go we meet someone else with a dog or two. All in all it was a great place to hang out on a saturday!

2009-09-03T02:07:00.003-04:00

I walked in the backyard with Meli earlier this evening and a golf ball came hurling at me and hit the wall. I know we're close to the golf course, but not that close! I think someone either has it out for me or has quite a swing. Behind the yard is a road and there are houses facing that road. The golf course is behind those houses.

We often find golf balls while going up to the beach in the golf cart. Just this past weekend we found 6 in one trip! Definitely a record so far.

Below are pictures from this evening. Ignore the mess in the background. Meli's ears in the second one are huge.

Version 3.0

2009-08-25T13:30:00.002-04:00

Becky & Scott versions 1.0 & 2.0 have been completed and v3.0 is starting production today.

Current upgrades include: one mission to the middle east, one hyper puppy, possibly moving (again), one golf cart, one new computer and increased experienced with stealing the covers, being in charge of the remote, washing lots of 'green' clothing and all around living/being together.

Here's to a wonderful 2 years and many more!

To mucch...waaaay to much already!

2009-08-25T03:42:00.002-04:00

You KNOW yt ou're in over your head at school when your first look at a sign in the grocery store looks like this: pre-k...

But, the reality says: per pk.

Oh dear.

We're working on 9 kids a class for pre-k...and we've been in school a month now! There's "talk" of hiring another teacher, but nothing official just yet.

Weekly Recap

2009-08-15T22:20:00.003-04:00

Number of rainy days b/c of Felicia remanents: 2 (total fake out...it dissipated as it came towards us so no hurricane/tropical storm this week!)

Speech/language sessions this week: Eh...between 20-30

Number of homework folders given out: 43

Number of temper tantrums/refusals: 3

Number of pre-k to test: 3

Number of kids to observe: 4

Unbelievable comments this week:

*Kindergarten teachers that want to refer kids as 'speech' only instead of academic concerns to avoid RTI paperwork/implementation. Ooooh, that makes me so mad. No, you cannot push your kids to be SLI (speech/language impaired) to make your life easier. No, we are NOT that expendable and we will make you go through the entire process. And...just so you know, SLI kids do not count towards your special ed. teacher allocation -- not that that's the point....

*A FSC (fully self-contained) teacher's comment that she wished she had our job where we just see kids in small groups and send them back 20/30 min. later...our job must be easier. Yes, we sympathize with you -- you have a hard class this year. However the grass is not greener on the other side. Believe you me -- we write at least 50+ IEPs a year, attend ridiculous amounts of meetings and test test test. Our job isn't harder or easier than yours -- just different.

Positive Experiences of Note:

*Reassuring one parent that yes, her pre-k's sound development is completely age-appropriate. Saying /b/ for /v/ is completely normal at 4.

*Establishing rapport with one of my pre-k kiddos. Super challenging -- limited attention/focus, very limited language skills and tantrums when he doesn't want to do something -- which is....often. Walks all over his skills trainer (1:1 aid). Had a major meltdown last week, ran out of the room and threw himself on the ground hitting anyone within reach. His skills trainer took him back to class (...sigh...) Went in his room at circle time on friday and by the end he was sitting on my lap and following along with hand over hand assistance while being held tightly (sensory need; not being restrained). Once we were done he initiated communication by asking me sit again...AND he attempted to imitate the sign sit when modeled. He doesn't know many words...hasn't really been asked to do much in his 4 years..but this is a good starting point. I was really surprised at how quickly it all happened--we'll see how things progress this year. And I hope his skills trainer gets on board.

Next week is a 4 day week -- yay for Statehood Day!

Batten Down the Hatches

2009-08-10T01:28:00.003-04:00

Tropical Storm Felicia is still approaching and (as of now) set to grace the island of Ohau with its presence on tuesday....bring on the flashlights!

Let's take inventory

2009-08-08T02:35:00.002-04:00

Days of s/l therapy this week: 4

Number of total kids on 2 SLPs caseloads: 98 give or take a few

Number of temper tantrums: Approx. 5ish

Number of homework folders made: 100

Number of phone calls to the office to check on student location/registration: 10+

Children tested: 4

Number of children running out of the room: 2

Number of snarky comments made regarding mainland IEPs, procedures by other school personnel, etc: to numerous to count

Friday afternoon: Priceless

Interesting News

2009-08-02T23:15:00.002-04:00

Two links of interest today...

Deployment in the News - talks about loading up equipment on the boat...

Scott Speicher Remains Found

Starring Meli

2009-08-02T01:52:00.002-04:00

Meli's Inspection

2009-07-20T22:38:00.005-04:00

Last week Scott was packing anything and everything he wanted to take with him to Iraq that was going to be shipped by boat -- clothes, rice cooker, 50 lbs. of rice, one desk chair, a toaster oven, silverware, plates/cups are some of the things he'll see again around the end of September. Meli got into the act checking out what he was taking and made sure it was all Meli approved.

How I Spent My Summer Vacation: part 1

2009-07-20T01:41:00.006-04:00

After our two weeks trip back to the midwest, we're slowly settling back into the day to day. Scott's packing to leave for Iraq early to mid September and I've been doing some pre-k screenings/testing, meetings, etc. before school starts in another week (gotta love summer recall!). We have a set of triplets starting this year, among others. Our pre-k class count is already up to 6-7 per class and right now we're slated for 5 classes (2 less than last year). Its looking like another busy year from the get-go. Fun times.

Week one of our trip to the land of StL. mainly focused around Nick and Sarah's wedding. It was a hot day for an outside wedding, but everyone had a great time. There was also golfing, swimming and hang out time.

2009-07-12T01:40:00.002-04:00

Grrrrrr.....

2009-06-09T01:06:00.001-04:00

6.7.2009

2009-06-08T03:18:00.001-04:00

6.4.2009

2009-06-05T02:47:00.000-04:00

Caught in the Act

2009-06-04T02:54:00.000-04:00

6.1.2009

2009-06-02T02:14:00.000-04:00

5.27.2009

2009-05-28T01:31:00.004-04:00

Scott was supposed to fly this evening, but he was told to go home shortly after arriving at work. I know we'll be thinking of the families and friends of these two individuals.

Some Recent Pictures

2009-05-25T01:14:00.006-04:00

In no particular order...

forget the pope mobile....its the pup mobile..

this is what we usually see...a blur

Scott got to put out a real fire

Celebrate Speech & Hearing

2009-05-02T16:29:00.003-04:00

May is better hearing and speech month and we put up a bulletin board at work. We had the kids help us out by writing what they're working on some "speech bubbles" and coloring them for our border.

P.S. the color purple you see is the color the school is painted...its a bit...bright to say the least...

What do you do with a puppy with endless energy?

2009-04-18T21:28:00.002-04:00

You try rollerblading! Last weekend Scott got out the skates and took her around the neighborhood to try it out and then took her out for a mile run. She's more into the sprint than long distance. Meli was a bit tired, but perked right up again later.

She's started barking at a few things when she sees them -- which is new. Usually she only barks when she's having a temper tantrum b/c we've put her in her crate during the day when we're home. And, she's chewing like crazy/ripping up paper products -- still teething. But, at least she doesn't chew the furniture! She loves to play chase with something and run under the bed where we can't get her. We've also started puppy classes. She's either on or off, no in between. Life with a six month old puppy....

Comin' round the corner

Movin' right along

Look at me go -- try to keep up!

Ok, I'm a little tired now...

Still some energy to wrestle a stick...

Meli's P.S.A.

2009-04-10T16:40:00.004-04:00

Three things of note.

1. I am not a whippet.

2. I am not a going to be a greyhound. Way to big in my opinion and I find that size has nothing to do with who is "in charge".

3. I AM an italian greyhound. I'm smart, but stubborn. I love to chase birds/leaves that move outside and play tag inside. I burrow under the covers when I'm allowed in bed -- not enough in my opinion. I love to be around "my people" and am most aggrieved when they leave. I will chew cardboard and tear up newspapers to get your attention when I'm bored. Tug of war and de-stuffing toys are two of my hobbies. I LOVE to eat -- carrots, snap peas, chicken, bananas, peas...and oh yea my food isn't bad either. Big dogs are scary, but I'll play with ones closer to my size. I find the most comfortable places I can to relax. In short -- I'm glad that people recognize I'm in the sighthound family, but I do not fit into the above two categories.

I also am a fan of sunbathing

Checking things out...

This is how my ears look day to day...

This is how an IG's ears are supposed to be....if you're being all "technical"

Time for a walk! Let's go people!

A little break...hey, I have little legs!

Water for you....and some for me...

Where's Meli? Betcha can't find me!

Waimea Falls

2009-03-25T03:04:00.003-04:00

Today after Meli's vet appointment (she gained almost a pound and a half!) we drove up the North Shore to see Waimea Falls/Gardens...lots of people were out walking the trails and swimming at the bottom of the falls. Definitely a fun place to see and one to recommend to others!

More pics

2009-03-25T02:52:00.002-04:00

We also visited the Valley of the Temples...it was located on the windward side in a japanese cemetery. It was quiet with the occasional ring of the 300 ton bell for good luck!

Ring that bell....

Spring Break

2009-03-25T02:39:00.002-04:00

Its finally spring break! Wooohooo -- 2 weeks of no school! Emily has been visiting so we've been trying to get out and about a little and see some different places. We went up to Kailua beach on the windward side (windy for sure!) and also visited the Bishop museum -- history museum meets the science center.

lava demonstration

The past few weeks

2009-03-14T23:49:00.005-04:00

Here are some recent pictures of Meli (maylee). She loves her toys! Its hard to get pictures of her when she's on the move quite a bit when she's awake. Always into something -- never a dull moment!

Try...just try to take my rainbow...

I love my new toy....another one I can de-stuff!

Watchin' tv and chillin

This is what we have to look forward to....

2009-03-02T02:30:00.004-05:00

Wish we had a video camera to share Meli's antics with you all, but this will have to suffice for now...

Our future

And this is funny too....

A new addition

2009-02-21T01:59:00.004-05:00

Within the last week we acquired an italian greyhound puppy, Meli. She's 4 months old and is quite the handful! She's energetic and loves to play -- she runs up and down the stairs and has figured out how to jump up on the couch. At the same time, she loves to be around us and will fall asleep anywhere comfortable. We're still working on getting used to her and vice versa. Meli is slowly getting better about staying by herself during the day and being crated when we can't watch her when we're home (although she still cries). She won't get to be very big -- somewhere around 15 inches tall and 10-12 pounds. We thought that it'd be better to have a smaller size dog since we don't have a yard. So far she's been entertaining and frustrating as we slowly work on settling into life with a pet.

Here are some pictures from our first week of adventures in puppyhood!

not a good picture, but you get the idea

2.16.2009

2009-02-17T00:46:00.002-05:00

Tornado.....in Hawaii?!?!?!

2009-02-13T00:32:00.003-05:00

Yep...a tornado in Hawaii...Kapolei to be more precise, which isn't far from us at all -- about 10 minutes. It was surprising hearing it on the news!! Check it out

Who knew? Not me!

Fake Out...

2009-01-19T22:15:00.003-05:00

So much for the huge windstorms with gusts of 50-60 mph. It WAS more windy than usual, but not as bad as they expected.

This is IT. This is the Big One.....

2009-01-16T01:53:00.002-05:00

Currently, a "cold front" is working its way across the islands. High winds and rain are expected at least through tomorrow. Winds are predicted as high as 60 mph and a few places on the windward side had already lost power this afternoon. Surf has been high as well -- on the north shore and higher than normal even in the lagoons here at Ko Olina.

I'm not gonna lie...everyone at school was kinda hoping we wouldn't have school tomorrow. Its not that we don't (well, I at least) love the job...but come on...an extra day off? Especially when its the first week and I've already acquired three pre-k for testing? And, when you're temporarily in the library living out of boxes? And, 43 progress reports are due asap? And, more IEPs are coming in? Honestly, its never dull and really -- that's a typical week at our school. There's always something brewing.

On the way home today the announcement comes over the radio...I'm driving down the highway...oh about 15 minutes from home or so, listening to the radio...when they stop the music to report: ALL DOE schools are closed tomorrow. ALL. OF. THEM. That's like the whole state. I dunno...I was a little impressed I guess...never heard of that happening tomorrow.

So, we'll see what happens tonight and tomorrow. It figures that I left my raincoat/umbrella at school today when I left. Sure didn't forget files to work on progress notes. Huh.

We went out to eat tonight and stopped at the grocery store for a few things on the way home. We haven't been since we've gotten back and didn't get a lot, but just a few things for now.

Its pricey...$7.00 for a case of water...$6.00 for a small box of cereal...$4.00 for a bag of chips...

I dare you...guess how much a bag of ice was? GUESS.

$2.29. Yeah. Frozen water for $2.29. The life we live.

Stay dry and warm everyone!

Check it out

2008-12-27T10:51:00.002-05:00

While we're here in StL. enjoying some cold/warm weather and some rain, back on the island people are without power. Apparently they had a big thunderstorm and the whole island of Ohau lost power for a while...slowly its coming back. Check out the article if you like. Looks like we missed the weather there, but we still get to experience the rain here in StL.

Whew....

2008-12-20T04:33:00.004-05:00

Today is the day that came to fast and we never thought would come -- the last day of school before winter break! 3 whole weeks! The kids got out at 11, so yesterday was our last day of therapy, but we had lots to do. Right now the school is being renovated a few rooms at a time. The time for us to move out of our room for a few weeks falls right around when break ends. So we had to be ready to go. Black writing on labels of boxes going into storage and red writing on the labels of the boxes going with us into our "temporary classroom". a.k.a. the library -- with a few other programs...school based behavioral health, primary school adjustment project and I think the school wellness program. This is going to be....interesting? Especially when there's only one key to the library and we have 24 boxes going with us (yeah, we're high maintenance). But, 24 out of over a 100 isn't bad...yes, we have speech/language related items and "stuff" galore!

And, now its the mad rush to pack to go to St.Louis for Christmas. We'll see what winter clothes we can dig up. Oh -- and we've found out we're staying in Hawaii till 2011 (feb.). So, we'll be sticking around here a little longer than initially anticipated. And yes, its in writing! This means another deployment in '09. We still have to move as well...that'll be fun...but I think we've found another place.

Below are photos from Nov./Dec. In no particular order:

Part of our room near the end of packing, labeling and taping

Our Pre-k's putting on their winter program. Most of them we claim as speech kids.
You know, we have 7 preschool classrooms...

After all the rain we had...this is what part of the area around the golf course
looked like. What was usually dry, turned into a lake.

Self-portrait before the ball

During Kathy's visit in November.

We're Finishers!

2008-12-14T23:44:00.004-05:00

Today was THE BIG DAY a.k.a. MARATHON RACE DAY

We were out the door a little past three and made it downtown by 3:45. We met up with others from scott's work around 4:30 and walked to the start. We started together at 5, but everyone ran their own race so we didn't all finish together.

For the first 10 miles, it rained. It wasn't a fun experience trying to see where I was going with my glasses on; we were soaked. That wasn't all bad once the sun came out -- we did stay a little cooler and the clouds helped give us some cover from direct sun.

We stopped at every water stop and walked through them, which was a nice break. We met some more of Scott's fellow 3/25 members between 17 & 18 and they had food/water for us -- it was nice to see a familiar face.

We did pretty well from mile 10-20. We stayed motivated and steady. Mile 20 is where it started to get challenging. My legs were on fire and by mile 23 Scott was miserable too with leg cramps. At that point it was only 3 miles left, but it was a LONG 3 miles -- especially considering we had to go back up diamond head before heading to the finish.

The last mile was a killer -- we could see the finish as we went around Kapiolani park, but it felt like it took forever. We ran it out to the finish and finished in 5:21 according to my watch.

We ran the whole way, which was pretty impressive. Hard to believe that we actually did it!

We hung around this afternoon; alternating sleeping and eating. I don't know how we'll feel tomorrow, but if today is any indication it may be a bit rough being mobile at work tomorrow.

It was a good experience; people cheered, bands played, and we ran with 25,000 of our closest friends. And the t-shirt: the most important part.

Rain, rain, rain!!!

2008-12-11T16:49:00.003-05:00

Today is crazy weather day around here!

Rain has been coming down since last night. It was so heavy we couldn't really see the other condo buildings around us and rain was blowing in our windows b/c of the wind. This morning Scott and I drove to work together -- though that isn't the norm. His report time was pushed back so he was going to drop me off at school and then go to work. We left the house a little before 6:30 and got a little ways before we ran into traffic. Eventually we found out that school was canceled for the day and his report time was pushed back even further. So, we were back at the house by 9. Today was a good day to have a jeep -- there were some big puddles!

So, now we're under a flash flooding warning, several streets have been closed, some schools are closed, several areas are without power (not us thank goodness!) and its just a mess. So much for paradise today! Hopefully we'll have good conditions for the marathon on Sunday.

October revisited

2008-12-07T15:02:00.003-05:00

A few from October when Tim visited. Better late than never!

Long time no see

2008-12-06T18:24:00.002-05:00

We know we haven't posted in awhile (for the 5 people that read this), but its been really busy. There's the whole work thing and then training for the upcoming marathon has taken up quite a bit of time. Yes, marathon. I'm not sure what we were thinking either when we signed up.

Last night was the "single soldier and family holiday party" a.k.a. "the ball" and as you can see we got dressed up and spent the evening down at a hotel in waikiki. I do have a few more pictures to share, but they're still on my camera. Actually -- I've got quite a few pictures to share, not just the ball. But anyways....we got stuck in traffic (not as bad as others though), got ready in less than an hour, waited around for it to start, ate/drank, watched videos from every company and then the formalities ended and music began. Today we're hanging out a bit and gearing up for our last 12 mile run before THE BIG RACE next weekend.

Happy weekend!

He he he....

2008-10-20T00:12:00.000-04:00

We are in trouble...

The population of this country is 300 million.

160 million are retired.

That leaves 140 million to do the work.

There are 85 million in school.

Which leaves 55 million to do the work.

Of this there are 35 million employed by the federal government.

Leaving 15 million to do the work.

2.8 million are in the armed forces preoccupied with killing Osama

Bin-Laden.

Which leaves 12.2 million to do the work.

Take from that total the 10.8 million people who work for state and

city

Governments. And that leaves 1.4 million to do the work.

At any given time there are 188,000 people in hospitals.

Leaving 1,212,000 to do the work.

Now, there are 1,211,998 people in prisons.

That leaves just two people to do the work.

You and me.

And there you are,

sitting on your butt,

at your computer, reading blogs.

Nice. Real nice

Field trip

2008-10-04T21:50:00.004-04:00

A few pictures from Scott's flight to the Big Island and Maui the past week...

The Big Island, Part 4 (without photoshop)

2008-09-29T03:32:00.003-04:00

And they just keep coming...I told you I had a lot! All of these are from Mauna Kea -- pretty close but not all the way to the top (which is a little over 13,000 ft.). That night we stayed up there for the sunset and then drove down to the visitors center and checked out some stars/planets they had set up on telescopes. Scott may not have looked cold but he stayed in the car for most of the time we were hanging out. He just got out to chase a receipt that blew out of the car when I opened the door. We aren't fans of littering -- on the sidewalk or a mountain!

The Big Island, Part 3 (and photoshop part 2)

2008-09-27T00:46:00.006-04:00

9.24.2008

2008-09-24T13:33:00.001-04:00

Happy National Punctuation Day!! Let's whoop it up!!!