A Kindred Spirit "Cranio" Buddy

I was reading the TinySuperheroes Blog last week. May I give a shout-out to this amazing Website? Robyn {As I have mentioned before} is a truly awesome woman with an enormous heart who sews capes for diverse "special needs" children. Then she sends them via snail mail. This organization is also in need of money, so, if you can, I encourage donations!! Last week, I "met" a Beautifully Unique little boy--named Mikey--who {Like me!!} was born with craniosynostosis!! This is a rare birth defect. 1 out of 2,000 babies born are affected by craniosynostosis, which mostly occurs in boys. {I am a rebel!! What can I say?} A Kindred Spirit "Cranio" Buddy!! I was thrilled!! Like with Ramsey and Zoe, I asked for permission to repost this story on Beautifully Unique. And, as expected, a gracious Robyn said "yes"!! With one request. That I link her post to my Blog and make it like hers. Okay!! Hopefully, I am doing Robyn's post justice!! It is an honor and a privilege to present to you all.... Mikey!!     

July 24, 2013

Super Mikey

All of our TinySuperheroes are small and mighty, and Super Mikey is no different. Super Mikey revealed his personality right off the bat. In fact, his mom and dad were prepared to welcome a daughter into the world when he was born! They had a name picked out and surely lots of pink clothes, so imagine their surprise when Michael appeared! Mikey has kept them on their toes ever since.

Super Mikey was born in the summer of 2012 and was a beautiful, happy, squeezable bundle of joy. Everyone loved him, which isn’t hard to believe, but he especially had his mom and dad wrapped around his finger!


They were shocked, terrified, and overwhelmed when at his 4-month check up in October 2012, they learned that their little Mikey had craniosynostosis. Craniosynostosis is a birth defect that causes sutures on a baby’s head to close earlier than normal. A suture is a type of fibrous joint found in the skull. The skull typically takes time to fuse together, giving the brain time to grow. For kids with craniosynostosis, this fusion happens prematurely, when these sutures turn into bone too soon. Not treating this defect early can cause seizures, developmental delays and/or blindness later in life. On the day of his diagnosis, Mikey became Superman to his parents, and together the three of them embarked on a journey that would reveal just how strong their TinySuperhero really was.
Timing is very important for this major surgery, so Mikey would have to wait several months until his surgery. During that timehe received surgery for ear tubes, got pneumonia, and wore an eye patch to strengthen one of his eyes. Just two months ago on May 22, Super Mikey went into surgery which was expected to last 4-5 hours.

This is the synopsis of the surgery from his mom, “Basically, though, Dr. Matthews will cut Michael’s head from ear to ear and remove several parts of his skull and reconstruct them correctly. He will create a hole on the right side of the head about 3/4 of an inch which we hope the brain will move into during the next few months — we need that to happen for surgery success and to reduce the chances for a repeat surgery.” Super Mikey was geared up TinySuperhero style at the hospital before surgery, so no doubt these doctors knew they were dealing with someone special!
And here are Super Mikey’s post surgery thoughts, “Really, almost a week ago I am rolling around the hospital with a superman cape on with cute nurses cooing over me and the next thing I know I’m wearing a turban and have tons of cords hanging out of me, and I can’t open my eyes nor sleep on my belly and I literally can’t eat — these big people are full of lies! What’s next? Santa isn’t real? And they think giving me some balloons and a bear is going to make things all better?”

Well, he does have a pretty rad scar that he left the hospital with – one sign of a true TinySuperhero. Super Mikey’s family has an amazing ability to keep faith and humor throughout their journey, something that surely translates to Mikey’s surgical success.
Super Mikey did great during surgery, but the recovery process was far from easy. In recovery, Super Mikey couldn’t sleep on his right side for up to 6 weeks, and once all of the swelling was gone he received a band to wear around his head for 23 hours a day, for 3-4 months. (They plan to decorate his band to match a Panther’s helmet – we think it will look great with his TinySuperhero cape and hope to see photos!)
Here you’ll see a strong Super Mikey before surgery and a stronger Super Mikey just 10 days after surgery!
Today, Super Mikey is doing great. He’s been wearing his band for over a month now and is successfully sleeping in his crib again. Most importantly, his sweet, sweet smile is back!
“For me, unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, this has changed me as a person and I think it’s going to take me sometimeto figure it all out. As I said, I am fortunate Mikey will not remember anything and may only ask in a few years why he hates superheroes — what a story that will be!” – Super Mikey’s Mom
Super Mikey has been surrounded by love and excitement from the day his parents found out they were pregnant. In fact, it was several of his parents college friends (AKA his Syracuse Aunties) that wrote to us here at TinySuperheroes to tell us all about how extraordinary Mikey was! We’re sure glad they did because the TinySuperhero Squad wouldn’t be the same without him!

Posted by Robyn Rosenberger

 

Here is the Website.

 

http://tinysuperheroes.com.s136952.gridserver.com/ .

A Modern-Day Emily Dickinson

Blogging Friends.... I am a self-declared "modern-day Emily Dickinson". That poetess would write lovely poems about locations which she had never travelled to. Such as the beach. All she needed was books to read and an active imagination!! I am a modern-day Emily Dickinson, because, Robert Downey Jr.? I never followed him during his addiction years. I was kind of too busy being a kid!! Thus, I read about Robert Downey Jr.'s past last Summer. {Which I would never recommend, by the way!! But I am a better person because I learned about him!!} Then, one year later, my poems were born!! Like Emily Dickinson, only a much weightier subject!! Thank-you for your comments on the other day's post!! I truly appreciated them!! It was much needed, too, because I had still been battling mood swing-infused pity parties regarding being learning disabled. Your votes/comments brought smiles, and laughter to my face!! Thank-you for that!! I am now {Cross your fingers and toes!!} "out of the woods", as that phrase goes. See, metaphorically speaking, I am a hardboiled egg. Ever notice how challenging they are to break? You can crack a hardboiled egg. But it is a lot of freakin' hard work to actually break its shell as you peel and peel and peel!! I am a hardboiled egg. I can crack, and I always eventually do. But I am hard to break!! Well, I finally "cracked", and spent my weekend fighting tears. Anyway. Back to the Robert Downey Jr. poems. Honestly? I do not have a favorite between the two!! And I composed them!! "Roads" basically "covers the bases", as that phrase goes. His addictions. Career struggles. The very grave fact that he could have {And all logic screams should have} killed himself. And "Chocolate Diamonds"? It was about how he was unhappy for so many years. And now? He is so happy, his eyes sparkle like chocolate diamonds!! That one was, I think, much more poetic than the first. However. I think that I would still give Robert Downey Jr. "Roads". Especially because it was such a "happy accident"!! Thus far, "Chocolate Diamonds" received three votes, and "Roads" got one. Which truly warms my heart!! Why? Because I wanted "Chocolate Diamonds" to be "better"!! Oh, and lest I forget. I also received one vote for both!! Thanks again!!

Insane Or Crazy

Blogging Friends.... I did it again. I composed yet another poem about Robert Downey Jr., once again celebrating him being ten years drug-free this month!! Why? Because I'm insane, or crazy, or obsessed with Robert Downey Jr., or I really, really enjoy composing poetry.... Or I'm insane, or crazy, or all of the above!! {Why, yes. I did mean to repeat the "insane or crazy" part, lest anybody wonder!!} Also. I wanted to take on the challenge of composing another poem in Roads' setup. Artsy. Different. With "Roads", the first line has thirteen syllables, and its repeated line ten. There is a pattern going. That was done quite by accident!! Thus, I wanted to attempt it on purpose this time around!! Not just the result of a "happy accident". This poem is centered on Robert Downey Jr.'s eyes. It's a "second chance" from one which I composed last Summer. {Ironic? Perhaps just a bit!!} This poem was--for reasons beyond my comprehension--more challenging to write than "Roads". On one hand. I felt much more in control. But, on the other hand? It was daunting to compose for several reasons!! A challenge was making this poem different from "Roads". Then, about halfway through writing, I realized something. It was not artsy enough!! So. I went back to correct that!! Unlike with "Roads", emotions never washed over me. My biggest obstacle, actually, was Writer's Block!! Ah!! But I love, love, love Writer's Block!! It was emotional to compose nonetheless, even though my eyes never filled with tears. For inspiration, I Google-searched images of Robert Downey Jr. young. Yes, young. I had some pictures in mind. The lower he sank, the better for this poem. Yes, you read that correctly. The lower he sank, the better for this poem. There was one specific picture which I had in mind. Snapped during a court appearance. The year was--maybe--1996. Word of experience. If you sincerely love Robert Downey Jr., do not make eye contact with him in this picture. Why? Just trust me on this. No eye contact, okay? However. This picture did inspire my poem's second two lines!! And it was followed by a cosmic bout of Writer's Block!! Score!! After pounding those second two lines on this black desktop computer keyboard, I silently bid the picture good-bye, and thanked "him" for inspiring my poem {I am an oddball!! This I know!!}. Yes, his eyes which then were filled with such despair and sorrow did inspire my poem. Enough said. Then, after composing its final two lines, I pumped my fist!! In sincere jubilation for Robert Downey Jr.!! The top line of this poem has twelve syllables, and its repeated line nine. Okay. I am also reposting "Roads", so that you can compare the two. Enjoy!! Do please tell me which one you like best!!

 

Afterthought. My poetry is never traditional. I like that!! I make--and break!!--my own rules. That is just how this born-to-be-a-rebel rolls!! But one of the freedoms which comes with my approach is I can experiment!! I love that part!! Oh. And I'll never look at Robert Downey Jr.'s "Chocolate Diamond" eyes the same ever again!! Will you?  

 

"Chocolate Diamonds"

 

Written on 7-23-13

 

They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul;

The eyes are the windows to the soul;

Well, his reflected despair, and were sorrowful;

So much despair, they were sorrowful;

As a "bad boy" he glared at cameras with those eyes;

He glared at cameras with those brown eyes;

Reflecting a lost, lost, lost addict in disguise;

Reflecting an addict in disguise;

They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul;

The eyes are the windows to the soul;

His now reflect such happiness that they twinkle;

Oh, such happiness that they twinkle;

Like chocolate diamonds, his eyes glisten and sparkle;

With joy, his eyes glisten and sparkle;

Now, they reflect one decade of living drug-free;

Yes, one decade of living drug-free!!

 

 

"Roads"

 

Written on 7-18-13

 

My, he has an incredibly attractive smile;

An incredibly attractive smile;

Which has travelled with him upon dark roads for miles;

For miles, miles, miles and miles;

Wayward roads tampered by life choices, plus addictions;

Tampered by life choices, plus addictions;

On such roads, his death was many people's predictions;

His death was many people's predictions;

My, he has an incredibly attractive smile;

An incredibly attractive smile;

Which has travelled with him upon sweet roads for miles;

For miles, miles, miles and miles;

Ah, those dark roads which could have ended his film career;

Roads which could have ended his film career;

He has now been drug-free for ten miraculous years;

Yes, drug-free for ten miraculous years!!

 

 

Word Document Journal

Blogging Friends.... Thank-you for your comments on the other day's post!! I truly appreciated them!! I feel the need to clarify on several things regarding the poem which I posted. Ready? First off, my poem wrote itself. Allow me to explain. Okay. See, I had been considering for several days to compose a poem centered on Robert Downey Jr.'s smile. And I mentally laid out the "blueprint" regarding how it would be "built". Like a good "carpenter". But then Hollywood lost yet another young actor to substance abuse. Heroin was among one of the narcotics which Robert Downey Jr. used. I then allowed myself to "go there" and realize that that could have been Robert Downey Jr. years ago. This ripped me up inside. Question. How can I love someone who I've never even met so much it hurts? How does he do that? It's a mystery. Thank God that Robert Downey Jr. is hard to kill. Thank God. Then, I remembered something. Robert Downey Jr. has been drug-free ten years this month!! Thus the poem was born. My creative Brain Juices took over and flowed like some rushing river. And I was running on emotions. I had no idea that I'd compose an artsy celebration of Robert Downey Jr. being drug-free for ten years in poetry!! Wow. Again, I am pleased with how it turned out!! I have made twain changes to the poem since first clicking "publish". Its title is "Roads", not "Incredibly Attractive Smile". And, initially, I wrote "addiction". I'm afraid that word should have been plural, thus I added an "s". Again, I am so very proud of my poem!! I would even give it to Robert Downey Jr. himself!! Somehow. Anyhoo....

 

I am personally sending a heartfelt congrats to Prince William and Duchess Kate--from America--for welcoming into the Royal Family a handsome baby boy!!

Mood swing-infused pity parties. They lurk about hiding out like the paparazzi for celebrities. Within my feelings and emotions. Mood-swing infused pity parties are not always felt, but they never completely disappear. Then come moments when I'm the most vulnerable. I am woman, hear me weep. Okay, perhaps that is not how the phrase goes. But "to each one her own", right? So, as previously mentioned the other day, I was battling mood swing-infused pity parties. I am battling mood swing-infused pity parties. That's right. I still am. All on account of being learning disabled, wishing I were "normal", and feeling left behind in life. Same old, same old issues. Well. During the writing of my Life Story, I began to keep a private Word document journal on our desktop computer of feelings/emotions regarding this ongoing journey called Self-Acceptance. There are some negative postings. Many positive thoughts. Bible verses which remind of God's promises to me, His daughter. Quotes. Movie lines. And there are posts reflecting on my self-acceptance journey. Well. Lately, I discovered that, because writing frees my soul, this Word document journal has helped evade mood swing-infused pity parties, thus keeping me mentally and emotionally strong!! "I can use all the help I can get", as that phrase goes!! I call them my "Therapy Sessions". You know what? Writing is such an amazing outlet to get emotions "out of my system", as that phrase goes. Whenever I'm feeling a mood swing-infused pity party on the horizon, I think this. "Therapy Session. Now". Yes, I demand from myself a "Therapy Session" as emotions and feelings play me like an electric guitar, strumming away every single thought. I literally stop what I'm partaking in, march to this very desktop computer, and pound on its black keyboard. Then I feel okay. For a minute. "Lather, rinse and repeat", as necessary. When I'm away, I carry in my purse a mostly-unused journal. Plus, several church bulletins which have accumulated over the weeks!! You know what? These "Therapy Sessions" truly work for me!! Knock on wood!!  

 

Now. To make this Blog about Rose, I decided that I'd repost a poem which I composed quite some time ago. Enjoy!!

 

Mama loves your big light brown Beagle eyes;
They are expressive, so playful and sly;
Mama loves that German Shepherd body;
Which neighbors could determine before me;
Mama loves those soft, floppy Beagle ears;
You are special to me, is that not clear?

                   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Incredibly Attractive Smile

Blogging Friends.... We are driving toward our local mall this morning for "Red 2". Which is a film about "old guys" {Plus girls!!} kicking butt and saving the world!! My kind of movie!! Afterward, we plan to walk the mall. So, I haven't any time for a "normal" post right now!! {Or commenting!!} "Red 2" has come at the most perfect time, because I have been battling mood swing-infused pity parties lately. I am just trying to work some issues out. Now. I understand that I'm most likely being a pain in the butt with all of these consecutive Robert Downey Jr. Blog posts. However. I composed a poem yesterday in honor of the fact that Robert Downey Jr. has apparently been drug-free ten years this month. Ten years. Do you realize what an accomplishment that is for him?! I repeat. Ten freakin' years!! No turning back. I am so very proud of him!! Enjoy my poem. I became emotional about midway through while composing it. You will understand why. This poem is quite different from anything that I have ever composed before!! Artsy, even!! Plus it was challenging to create. But I need some challenges right now.... Heedless to mention, I am proud of it!! Sorry about the smaller font size for my poem. It was the only way I could make it fit!!

"Roads"

My, he has an incredibly attractive smile;
An incredibly attractive smile;
Which has travelled with him upon dark roads for miles;
For miles, miles, miles and miles;
Wayward roads tampered by life choices, plus addictions;
Tampered by life choices, plus addictions;
On such roads, his death was many people's predictions;
His death was many people's predictions;
My, he has an incredibly attractive smile;
An incredibly attractive smile;
Which has travelled with him upon sweet roads for miles;
For miles, miles, miles and miles;
Ah, those dark roads which could have ended his film career;
Roads which could have ended his film career;
He has now been drug-free for ten miraculous years;
Yes, drug-free for ten miraculous years!!

Just Another Schmuck?!

Blogging Friends.... As I sit here typing away at this computer, I'm at a loss in what, exactly, to post!! You can call it "Blogger's Block". But then again. Stories about Rose keep coming my way!! Is it the opposite of Blogger's Block, when you are simply feeling indecisive on what to write? Hmmm. Thank-you for your comments on the other day's post!! I truly appreciated them!! Something which I neglected to mention, however. I don't think of Robert Downey Jr. as being "perfect"--and his "notorious" past has very little, if not nothing, to do with that--he is merely evolving. For nobody's perfect. We are all, as Jo March--played by actress Winona Ryder--said in the Hollywood film "Little Women", "hopelessly flawed". That being mentioned. For me, this all makes Robert Downey Jr. even more wonderful!! Because you needn't be "perfect" to inspire people!! There. I got that "out of my system", as the phrase goes!!

 

"Nothing pleases me more than when somebody who was awe-inspired to be working with me realizes I'm just another schmuck that they're bored of hanging out with on a set. I love that moment. I like it when that persistent illusion is smashed." --Robert Downey Jr.

 

This quote--taken from the May 2013 issue of G.Q. Magazine--never ceases to crack me up!! Robert Downey Jr. is a self-described "schmuck". I do not see it. {Go ahead. Look up the definition of "schmuck"!! I had to!!} But then again. I am not in close proximity to the actor, either!! I don't work with him on movie sets. I am not Susan Downey, his wife. Nonetheless. Nothing pleases me more than to find true stories about Robert Downey Jr. as the absolute opposite of a schmuck!! Yes, nothing pleases me more. I've since watched a fan-made video of Robert Downey Jr. and the very special boy which I wrote about on Friday. Repeatedly. Because I am an obsessed fanatic like that!! You can find it on Tumblr. Have tissues nearby, though!! You will definitely need them!! In the video, somebody breathlessly says this. "It's his dream come true!!". Robert Downey Jr.--flanked by twain "bodyguards"--then walked toward the Beautifully Unique boy, and made a hand gesture to him, for encouragement. Not that he needed any!! The brave boy--who I still think has cerebral palsy--practically ran, walker in tow, dragging behind his feet, dressed as Iron Man, toward Robert Downey Jr.!! Robert Downey Jr. immediately crouched down to be on his special fanatic's level. Robert Downey Jr. then conversed with the boy one-on-one, which is ideal for many C.P. kids. Both posed as cameras and cell-phones snapped pictures, meanwhile smiling big. The two looked at an Iron Man comic book-like article together. Which, of course, Robert Downey Jr. autographed. Robert Downey Jr. then handed back to his young fanatic's Mom and/or caregiver the signed comic book-like item. Soon, Robert Downey Jr. was off on his way. I do believe that Robert Downey Jr. spent more time with this unique boy than everybody else. Bless. His. Heart!! I wonder if Robert Downey Jr. wrote some special message on that comic book-like article? "Just another schmuck"? I respectfully disagree. Remember. Robert Downey Jr. didn't have to do that. So many celebrities, I'm afraid, would overlook this boy, ignoring him completely, and greet other "normal" fanatics, meanwhile leaving the child heartbroken. Not Robert Downey Jr..... 

    

 

When I Grow Up

I would like to take a moment, and send some prayers toward country singer Randy Travis' direction. He has suffered from some viral heart condition. As of Wednesday, Randy Travis had a stroke, but fortunately was already hospitalized when that occurred. He then underwent surgery to relieve pressure in his brain. Pray for his family. Kids. Fiancée. Close friends. Pray for Randy Travis' healing, and recovery!!    

Growing up in Third Grade Sunday school class, kids were assigned an art project. Of figuring out what they wanted to be career-wise as adults. How this was even in correlation to learning about Bible stories, I do not recall!! And, furthermore, why teachers were posing us--mere 9-year olds--with such a pondering, beats me!! We drew pictures expressing our ambitions. Teachers displayed them on walls. I knew, sans any doubt, what I wanted to be. A doctor, like our WONDERFUL pediatrician, Dr. F. She was, probably, my very first role model. And, I also wanted to be a Mom. I'm artistically-challenged when it concerns drawing, but--if memory serves me!!--I drew myself cradling an infant, while wearing a pair of stethoscopes like some unusual necklace. Because Dr. F. always, always, always greeted us like that. {Sans the baby, of course!!}. Fast forward. I am swiftly pushin' 30, and neither of those dreams have been realized. Not to depress myself here. Heaven knows that mood swing-infused pity parties need zero encouragement with me!! Anyhoo. Remember one month ago, when Robert Downey Jr. met this toddler named Jaxson who threw a tantrum and cried because "Robert was not Iron Man"? Remember that? A horrified expression written on Robert Downey Jr.'s face, the actor then stood by Jaxson, cheering him up? Remember that? Well, immediately following this story, I reached a newfound ambition. One that will not, in any way, shape, or form, be easy to obtain. At. All!! I want to be like Robert Downey Jr. when I grow up!! I do mean that. Now, allow me to clarify on something here. Ready? I do not wish to be Robert Downey Jr., for I must figure out this ongoing mystery. Who am I? I want to be like Robert Downey Jr. There is a difference. Earlier this afternoon, I was cruising through "fangirl's" Robert Downey Jr. Tumblr Blogs. And I came across twain blurry, yet touching images. Robert Downey Jr.--still working on his upcoming film--was meeting a young Beautifully Unique fanatic. There is something so very special about this nameless boy. Very special, indeed. Dressed as Iron Man, and holding a green walker, this little boy looked as though he may have cerebral palsy. One photograph shows Robert Downey Jr. touching the child's shoulder, as though lending some support. My favorite image? Robert Downey Jr. is crouched down, on this unique boy's level, and both are looking at something. You know what? So many celebrities, I'm afraid, would overlook this boy, ignoring him completely, and greet other "normal" fanatics, meanwhile leaving the child heartbroken. Not Robert Downey Jr.!! Wearing a suit and tie, looking quite movie star-like, he conversed with this "Little Iron Man" best as possible. It was so sweet, I could have cried!! Once again, Robert Downey Jr. has touched my deepest, most profound emotions. He does that a lot!! So. I want to be like Robert Downey Jr. when I grow up. {He would roll his huge brown eyes upon reading that!! Do I look like I care?} I want to be like Robert Downey Jr. when I grow up. How so? It's between myself, and God. First, I still have a bit of growing up to do....           

July 4th, 2013

My Dad suffers from a sensitivity to loud noises. They hurt his ears and overwhelm him. This has, perhaps, progressively worsened with age. Watching Independence Day fireworks outside? He tolerates them. I cannot say the same for Rose, however!! We actually enjoyed ourselves an eerily quiet Independence Day. No pops. No screams. No booms. Nothing!! It was so weird!! Didn't our calendars say Independence Day on them?! I continuously wondered. I awoke, and, as tradition, created my ever-changing red/white/blue getup. Normally, I plan this outfit long in advance. I make lists, check them, and purchase a brand new T-shirt. Not this year!! See, I had been a bit preoccupied with working on My Life Story. Plus, we could not find very many patriotic T-shirts!! And after what occurred in Boston? Where is the patriotism these days? So, I had very few ideas, exactly, as to how my Independence Day getup would look like!! Very few ideas. I wore the Star Spangled Bandana around my ponytail. A red/white checkered blouse with blue stars stitched into it. Two different necklaces. One was a red/white/blue cross. The other? It was this "silver" dog tag which features a heart-shaped American flag. They jingled against each other all day long, and I loved it!! Around my left wrist were three rubber red/white/blue bracelets. I flipped them around in an effort to hide their messages. And, lastly, I wore my American flag socks!! Not bad for on-the-whim planning!! After a strangely quiet day, fireworks began around 9PM, later than last year's 6:00 time. I'd skeptically hoped that Rose and I could sort of compromise by camping out in our great room while watching some July Fourth special on television. We did that on New Year's Eve, me stroking her velvet-soft fur, the red leash connected, bottle rockets exploding periodically. Not a chance!! See, we have this truck driver who resides behind the great room. He snuggles in illegal fireworks, which are extremely loud. But they produce gorgeous sky lit explosions!! Plus, I could not torment poor Rose. So, I watched her body language closely. She wanted to flee, far, far away from the booms, screams and pops. With all doors securely closed, I unlinked Rose's red leash. She slunk away, ears back, shoulders slumped, tail tucked. I followed closely behind. Rose crept toward the Boy's Bathroom, which muffles noise considerably!! Our house is, unfortunately, one level, so we haven't a cool, musty-smelling basement to "den". It is the same scenario every single Independence Day. Bottle rockets {Which I call "bombs"!!} are set off in every north, west, east and south of outside. Plus normal fireworks, as well. This can carry on until well after midnight. So, Rose and I hung together, on the hard Boy's Bathroom floor. I hummed loudly to her {Any tune. Patriotic, church songs, even Christmas carols!!} as "bombs" resounded high above our roof. I stroked Rose's velvet-soft fur, gluing ebony hair to our pearly-white bathtub. I can vacuum later!! I sang various songs to her. Rose loves it when I hum and sing!! I even read selective paragraphs aloud from the book which I'm currently reading, "Soul Surfer", by Bethany Hamilton. I could sense thoughts, prayers and positive vibes from my Blogging Friends all around the world. Because Rose handled those fireworks quite well!! Tremors never shot their way through her body. Never. She even fell asleep, slipping into Dreamland, as "bombs" exploded!! {No, Rose was not under the influence of any medication, thank-you very much!!} Occasionally, she would awaken, pop open her colossal brown eyes, and sigh deeply. I was the one who felt unsafe!! But I could not show it, because Rose will sense my fears and apprehensions. As tradition, I get a can of lemon lime soda from our garage--for the sugar high--knowing full well that I'll stay up very, very late. Walking out there, I always feel extremely insecure!! It literally gives you an illusion that the garage will blow up, your limbs will fly off, blood will spill everywhere, and you'll die!! {No, I am not being a Drama Queen!!} So, I ran out there, opened our refrigerator, snatched my Sprite, and bolted back inside!! I was also apart from Rose. To quote Tony Stark from "Iron Man 2". "Not okay. Not okay with that.". Rose needed me within her sight. You know what? The Boy's Bathroom is an excellent place to camp out in. Not only does it have an incredible "bomb"-barrier. But it also has a toilet {Which I used. Three times!!} that converts into a makeshift table!! Plus the bathtub. It is a wonderful flat surface, as well!! Unfortunately, however, while using the toilet, I had to maneuver around Rose's lying body, so I would not step on her. Tricky, tricky!! And once, my jean shorts accidentally caught the toilet's seat, slamming it closed with a loud BANG, thus frightening an already terrified Rose!! I felt so bad!! But Rose recovered with a bit of coaxing from her Mama!! For reasons beyond my comprehension, staying up late makes me hungry. Yes, hungry!! So, around 11:30PM, I ventured out of the Boy's Bathroom, and walked toward our kitchen. I needed to stretch my legs, anyway!! So, I found a large-sized sourdough croissant, and ate that, its buttery flavoring touching my taste buds. Mmmm!! Meanwhile, my little black clock ticked away, midnight lurking, as the "bombs" slowly reached a close. I could no longer read "Soul Surfer", which sucked, because Bethany Hamilton's arm had just been ripped off by that unsuspecting shark. But my eyelids were drooping, and I was getting sleepy. Then as the horizon appeared silent at last, something surprising occurred. Our feline, Katrina--who is also terrified of fireworks--paid Rose and I a visit!! Katrina's designated person is my Mom, so she seldom ever seeks attention from anyone else. I recall asking her this. "What are you doing here?". I extended my right hand to stroke Katrina's soft grey fur, which she accepted gratefully. Then, Katrina nervously slunk away. Weird. Looking back, I wondered if by exhaustion, I hallucinated that!! No, I was actually quite alert!! I always am in the middle of the night!! Somehow. I am glad that I spent the night alongside Rose. I only witnessed one "bomb" explode in orange colors outside our great room window while stretching my legs. No regrets....   

 

"Good Morning, Friends!!"

Well, I am still awake because our Independence Day fireworks have finally ended {I think!! Every time I consider them over, somebody shoots off yet another one!!} So here is a bit of humor for you before I gently encourage Rose out of our "Boy's Bathroom", and into my bedroom!! Enjoy!! 

 

And the {bottle} rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there/Oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave

 

I would write "Good night" to close this, but since it is past 12AM, I will instead say "Good morning, Friends!!"  

Independence Day

Blogging Friends.... Thank-you for your comments on yesterday's post. I appreciated them!! As per usual, all of my feelings and thoughts concerning Teresa's passing remained numb until today. Yes, numb. Then, they spilled out of my soul!! Although we mere humans cannot understand why some loving Catholic family would adopt a Beautifully Unique then-three year old--from China--just to eventually watch her suffer and die, I can still see God's Sovereignty in this sad occurrence. See, if Teresa weren't adopted, chances are, she never would have lived as long. It is China, not America. We have more advanced medical technology here!! Correct? Plus, they prefer boys over there!! Teresa might have died alone, rather than being surrounded by her large loving adoptive family!! How tragic would that have been? And, as I wrote in Ann's Blog post, they made a cosmic difference throughout Teresa's short life. They shared the Love of Jesus with this very special child. She knew her Lord and Savior!! Not that any of this wipes clean the pangs of her passing, or makes grieving any easier. It doesn't. {Sorry. I did not mean to get all "preachy" on you!! I will stop.} 

 

Not to distract from the sorrow of Teresa's death, but I'm afraid that it overshadowed my Independence Day post about fireworks!! Whoops. For it is an important post, if you are like me, and love a noise-phobic canine!! So. I am now re-posting it!!

 

This information was taken from a Summer 2011 local dog newsletter issue:

 

"Every year, many companion pets escape and are lost or injured because of their fear of fireworks. While many of us love the big bangs and beautiful lights, our companion pets do not share our sentiment. Many dogs and cats escape their homes, some never to be reunited with their families. We encourage each of you to please take the necessary precautions to make sure your companion pet remains safe, at home and healthy. If your pet is easily frightened by sudden noises or bright lights, talk with your veterinarian about a mild sedative to ease your pet's anxiety. Keep your pet in a safe place when the fireworks begin. Options include the pet's crate, a safe room or the basement. Turn on a radio for background noise to help muffle some of the bangs. Provide a high quality chew toy to help keep them busy and distracted. Provide their favorite stuffed toy, blanket or other item that helps them feel safe. Every year all animal shelters see many pets that have escaped over the July 4th holiday."

 

And.... Its veterinarian writes:

 

"With the Fourth of July right around the corner, fireworks and loud noises are plentiful and for some pets, it's anything but a happy time. They can become anxious, stressed, terrified or uncomfortable and can suffer from a fear of loud noises known as noise phobia. Learn to recognize the signs of a noise phobia. Signs commonly seen are: shaking or trembling, excessive drooling, barking or howling, hiding, and trying to escape from the house, fence, or other enclosure. Some animals will lose control of their bladder or bowels and some may experience prolonged diarrhea from the stress. Keep in mind, dogs that escape can end up with wounds, lacerations or worse-hit by a car. To help you manage your dog's anxiety, try these tips: keep you dogs at home. Keep dogs inside in a safe, quiet room, turn on music and pull the window blinds. Remove any items that might be chewed. Take your dog for a walk prior to the start of the noise. Provide a safe "escape" place. For safety measures, make sure your pet's ID is current. If needed, visit your favorite vet for medical help with the noise phobia/anxiety behavior to ensure a safe holiday for you and your pet."

 

I acknowledge completely that some facts were repeated in this Blog post. My apologies!!

 

Have a happy--and safe!!--Independence Day, Friends!!

 

 

A Chinese "Angel"

Blogging Friends.... It is with deep heartbreak and sorrow that I share this news with you. {Taken from Teresa's family's Blog.}

 

At 3:23 pm on July 1st, Teresa has ridden her princess bike into Heaven to meet Jesus. She had her ears pierced shortly before her last breath. While we were not there when she took her first breath, God blessed us to be there when she took her last.

 

Then I commented with this.

 

Ann....

I was vacuuming earlier today when I felt God send me these words in case sweet Teresa did pass away. They were intended for you. I protested in my head that I'd never need to pass these words unto your family, because Teresa would survive. But God knew otherwise. This is what He spoke to my heart and soul.

"You had only three years with Teresa. But throughout that time, you made a cosmic difference in her short life. You shared the Love of Jesus with this child. She knew her Lord and Savior. And now Teresa has truly met Him. She is in Heaven. Healed. All because of you.

I'll find Teresa a special angel figurine for my bedroom, as I collect them.

--Peace.

--Raelyn

 

Their Blog address is: http://www.ourplacecalledhome.blogspot.com/, if you feel so inclined to send your love. They would appreciate it.

 

 

 

 

A Scattered Post

Blogging Friends..... Thank-you for your sweet comments and prayers on behalf of Teresa the other day. I--as well as her family--appreciated them!! This was yesterday's Blog post. Nothing new yet.  

 

Surgery is at 7:30am Monday morning. {Today. Philadelphia time.} God must move another huge mountain. They feel her pulmonary pressure may be too high for the Berlin to work. It is not looking hopeful but they are going to try. She said she would not give up on her but If the pressure is too high the blood will not be able to go to the left side and nothing else can be done. She will bring her out of the O.R. for us to hold her so she will not die alone. We always promised Teresa we would never leave her. Please pray and beg God to keep her with us. If it is His will to take her Home we would ask for prayers to accept this also. Please share and ask the world to not stop praying!

 

Now. I am adding a little "happy" to this Blog of mine since the last twain consecutive posts have been depressing. Enter Charlie Chaplin!! {Drum roll, please!!}

 

"A day without laughter is a day wasted." --Charlie Chaplin. I like that!! So take Charlie Chaplin's advice. Laugh!!

 

It seems to me that, what with being preoccupied by My Life Story {Which, I just finished yesterday, by the way!! I mean it this time!! Now, I shall allow My Life Story to rest for a few days, adding whatever minuscule facts which seem necessary!! Wow, nearly eight months later, and it is completed!! I cannot wait to start my next Writing Project!! Because having an agenda for this work of art is oddly addictive!!} has made Independence Day sneak up to me. You know what? I haven't even given much thought to my eccentric patriotic getup!! Not that I can ignore exploding bottle rockets which have kept me up late since Saturday with a noise phobic Rose. Repeat after me. Those things are illegal around here!! Alright, now that I got that out of my system.... Here are some July Fourth precautions for those who love canines which experience anxiety attacks associated with fireworks like Tony Stark's episodes in "Iron Man 3".

 

This information was taken from a Summer 2011 local dog newsletter issue:

 

"Every year, many companion pets escape and are lost or injured because of their fear of fireworks. While many of us love the big bangs and beautiful lights, our companion pets do not share our sentiment. Many dogs and cats escape their homes, some never to be reunited with their families. We encourage each of you to please take the necessary precautions to make sure your companion pet remains safe, at home and healthy. If your pet is easily frightened by sudden noises or bright lights, talk with your veterinarian about a mild sedative to ease your pet's anxiety. Keep your pet in a safe place when the fireworks begin. Options include the pet's crate, a safe room or the basement. Turn on a radio for background noise to help muffle some of the bangs. Provide a high quality chew toy to help keep them busy and distracted. Provide their favorite stuffed toy, blanket or other item that helps them feel safe. Every year all animal shelters see many pets that have escaped over the July 4th holiday."

 

And.... Its veterinarian writes:

 

"With the Fourth of July right around the corner, fireworks and loud noises are plentiful and for some pets, it's anything but a happy time. They can become anxious, stressed, terrified or uncomfortable and can suffer from a fear of loud noises known as noise phobia. Learn to recognize the signs of a noise phobia. Signs commonly seen are: shaking or trembling, excessive drooling, barking or howling, hiding, and trying to escape from the house, fence, or other enclosure. Some animals will lose control of their bladder or bowels and some may experience prolonged diarrhea from the stress. Keep in mind, dogs that escape can end up with wounds, lacerations or worse-hit by a car. To help you manage your dog's anxiety, try these tips: keep you dogs at home. Keep dogs inside in a safe, quiet room, turn on music and pull the window blinds. Remove any items that might be chewed. Take your dog for a walk prior to the start of the noise. Provide a safe "escape" place. For safety measures, make sure your pet's ID is current. If needed, visit your favorite vet for medical help with the noise phobia/anxiety behavior to ensure a safe holiday for you and your pet."

 

I acknowledge completely that some facts were repeated in this Blog post. My apologies!!

 

Now. "The day is still young", as that phrase goes. It is nearly 7:00 AM, and I'm awake because I could not sleep. I am finished with My Life Story. So, it is time for some much-needed catch-up on everybody's Blogs!!