Today marks the kick off of my 28 day wellness challenge. Inspired by a friend taking on the same task I decided to give it a go as well. It’s basically whole food cleanse to rid the body of toxins* but not the kind of cleanse where you practically starve yourself. Don’t get me wrong,...
My name is Erica and my youngest son, Alex, is three and a half. He has a very rare genetic condition; he has a duplication on his 4th chromosome. There is no syndrome or name for his genetic condition. In fact, many doctors have tried to find a similar case and Alex is the only...
What an amazing post! I'm the proud aunt of Charlie and Alex and extremely proud sister of Erica. Alex has brought so much dimension and joy to all of our lives I don't know what we would do without him. Alex gives me perspective on life in a way that keeps petty discontentment at bay…Thank you for this blog!ReplyCancel
Loved your thoughts Erica…you are soooo much like your mom and yet have become your own beautiful person. How proud I am that I have known you and now see this. Out of the ashes rise the most rare and beautiful things and this is personified in you and your sweet family. As you choose to set your feet upon God's solid rock may you daily be set free of fear and worry, as Christ resides in you~then you have already overcome! Bless you as you live out this special honor that you were chosen for…Alex and Charlie's Momma! xoxoxoxoxo CindyReplyCancel
I look forward to these post every week. I find it "how to approach or respond to kids with special needs" helpful. But I don have a question, more specifically, how do I ask? I don't simply want to ask what's wrong with a child, it seems rude. I don't want to guess and likely be wrong. What is a polite friendly way to ask. I want my son to see that it's ok to special needs kids and play with them, but i'm not sure how to do it myself yet.ReplyCancel
Thank you so much for having Erica share Alex with us, Miggy! What a sweet smile he has. Erica, your cute story about the kids gathering round like it was story time when you were feeding Alex made me smile. I have a special needs son, too, and sometimes you just have to smile at things you never expected to experience in life, don't you? Keeping a sense of humor when times are tough has been really important with my husband and me. How great that special Alex has his special big brother Charlie who will be by his side throughout his journey in life!ReplyCancel
Writing on this blog has been such a treat for me! I'm so inspired by Miggy and her family, as well as the other families featured in the spotlight. Thank you for such kind comments! My boys have taught me a lot and I feel so blessed to be their mom. Sam Adams, I wanted to answer your question… Often times something simple like, " do you mind if I ask…" and then your question is a good way to begin. It gives the parent a chance to answer or explain why thy don't want to discuss their child. As for other children, I don't think you need to do anything unless your kids ask. I'm amazed at how accepting children are of differences! We as adults worry about the obvious differences, not the children. As Charlie explains to his friends when they ask, " Alex is different just like you and me. We have different colors of hair and shoes! We're different and so is he!" Hope that helps! 🙂ReplyCancel
Could Alex be any cuter? Seriously!!! What a beautiful smile he has and you can just see his bright countenance he holds!
PS Hello, my name is McKinley and I went to high school with Aarika. I think she is pretty spectacular. Anyways she sent me your link because my sweetest little niece was born with an incredible rare chromosonal defect called Cri du Chat a.k.a. the cat cry, 5P, -5p. It is a deletion of the fifth chromosome. I have added your blog to my blog roll on my blog that is specially made for special needs blogs or other heart wrenching stories.
I look forward to reading your blog!!
Try as I might to play Uno, let them eat chocolate, and watch Yo Gabba Gabba on repeat, I too succumb to the occasional mean mom status. I wanted to submit this written and photographic evidence for Princess Sparkle’s personal records should she ever need proof of the maternal tyranny under which she was raised....
Oh, PSP, watching the minutes tick by! Ha! Sounds like she might be a good one to employ next time you paint the house. You know, she could watch the paint dry! Hee Hee! Yes, pretty much awesomeness that she practiced telling time and writing numbers during her quiet time. You done taught her right, Miggy.ReplyCancel
Besides the fact that this isn’t the most flattering picture of either of us (no that’s not a double-triple chin, it’s Lamps arm!) there are two things about this picture that make me sad. 1. My long, flowing, high pony-tailed, wavy hair. 2. The scarf in said long, flowy hair. 1. So here it...
Dear Miggy, I bet just when you least expect it that that scarf is going to show up.
I am really sorry that you regret cutting your hair, but does it help any to know that I, this person out in blog land, really LOVE the short 'do? It has a certain sophistication to it, and I think it is very flattering. Now go forth and conquer, ye mighty Miggy of the shorter, but beautiful hair!ReplyCancel
Ive always been told whenever I have done that same thing and hated my decision almost instantly. That it is only hair and it will grow back. I also know that the advice I just gave you when given to me never helped. But you must love your new hair. Own it and ROCK IT OUT! It will grow back soon.ReplyCancel
Oh no! I totally get it! Things like your lost scarf make me feel so sad and unsettled. And can I confess something to you too? I have totally mourned the loss of my long hair too (I was so committed to growing it out after the last chop-a-thon and I let the girl at the salon talk me into cutting off over a year's worth of growth.)
For what it's worth, the new haircut is so flattering and I think you look like an anthropologie model. I am sorry about the scarf though. Maybe it will still turn up… you never know.ReplyCancel
Every time I look at my face I think I should cut bangs to cover up my five head, but then when I do, I start having panic attacks and think, "what did I just do" and then spend the next 6 months pinning them back with bobby pins because it always looks horrible. I seriously need a change, but every time I try it looks so bad, so here I am with the same hair do I've had for years and years. You, my friend, look great in your short cut. Way better than I do when I experiment!ReplyCancel
We’re not professional photographers by any means, but I think B’s impromptu photo shoot with Lamp this weekend turned out pretty well. Love that sweet mug.
Thanks all!
Erin–Ha! No worries, I'm glad you noticed the chairs I just painted them last week….even gave them a post of their own. But yes priorities–Lamp, then chair.
Janice–I have to say it's one of her and her sisters' more adorable and oft noted feature.
Linda–Me too, love the 2nd.
Molls–Haha! If only she had been in a better mood when you met her.
Georgia–I know. She's all growsed up. Talks, talks, talks up a storm. I should get a video of her talking up. It's pretty awesome.ReplyCancel
Hi! My name is Kym, and I didn’t become a mother until I was 41 (and a half)! Up until that point, I worked in marketing, mainly throwing huge events for a large tech company. My job was fun! But soon after I got married, my husband, Martin and I decided that we weren’t getting...
I always enjoy reading the spotlights! I want to give Kym some encouragement on her journey. You are doing a beautiful job! Your attitude is wonderful and your daughter was given to the perfect mommy for her. She is gorgeous! I do hope that you get some "me" time now and again. You need your cup filled so you can keep filling Lily's cup. It's not selfish, just a basic human need we all have. My prayer for you is that you get all that you need in your journey with Lily! All life is precious!ReplyCancel
Kym is my older sister and someone I've admired my entire life. What she doesn't mention here is how her days as a career woman were never her real aspirations… Kym was born to be a mother. Though I feel she has always been a second mother to me teaching me (and my younger sisters) the "facts of life" with honesty and love.
Now that she has entered this new phase of raising this dear sweet daughter she has touched my life, my brothers and sisters, and all of her 14 nieces and nephews. She has always had a love of life and an amazing ability to make lemonade out of lemons. Though Lily doesn't say any audible words she never stops speaking to our hearts with her endless smiles and giggles. Kym and Lily are both beautiful wise souls on the inside and out. As I'm sure many mothers of special needs already know… The old soul you can see in these children's eyes teach us all how great their wisdom and knowledge really is, and as all children are , but sometimes easier to see in the countenance of these special kids….they are all A child of God.ReplyCancel
Kym, thank you for sharing your precious daughter with us! My special needs son doesn't have an exact diagnosis either, so I do understand what that's like to wish you just knew more about your child's condition. You seem like a wonderful mom–and what a beautiful tribute from your sister Courtney. I bet that brought a big smile to your face and maybe a tear as well!
Thank you, Miggy, for allowing Kym to share her triumphs and struggles. We can learn so much from others.ReplyCancel
Thank you to each and everyone of you that left a comment on Miggy's wall,in my email as well as my blog. I have had a lot of people reach out to me. Know that each thought/comment was received with much love.
Also, thank you for taking a moment to get to know my Lily Faith. I really do feel like I am watching over someone pretty special–I wish you could meet her in person and feel her sweet spirit and see into her wise eyes.
@Miggy, I can't tell you enough how wonderful your spotlights have always been for us mothers who feel as if we are the only ones charting new waters. I now know I am not alone because of them. Who needs counseling when we have this spotlight available each week? Through your spotlight I realize that there are some pretty noble mothers and fathers out there striving to help their child have the fullest life possible. You're a good momma and pretty rad in the talents department as well. I really love every aspect of your blog and look forward to reading your wise and funny thoughts throughout the week
@Kiki, thank you for your wise counsel. I know that it is important that I get my "me" time still, and you can be assured that my husband is very good at recognizing that and taking over to give me that time. He's a good dad and husband. I probably didn't stress that enough in the Q&A. And yes, all life is SO precious.
@Linda, I always love to read your comments. You must be a wonderful mother.
@Courtney. I love you dearly. Enough said.
What a gorgeous little girl (and mommy too)!
I have a son who has some similar challenges. When he was born, he seemed just perfect (him and his twin sister)…but we noticed things going down hill quickly. They were 5 weeks early and so at first, we thought the floppyness was because of that…but by 6 months…Georgia seemed to be progressing, while Levi was lagging behind. It wasn't until 9 months that he could hold his head up unsupported. He started to crawl and sit up at 13 months…but he had to hold himself in a sitting position with his hands on the floor. If he didn't, he'd fall right back down. He didn't start to walk until 2…and now he is almost 6, still very uncoordinated…but still…I'm so grateful for the walking.
We found out about his diagnosis' in reverse. The main cause of his challenges is a Mitochondrial disorder It is a very complex process…the muscles working and producing the energy to move, and then needing to expel the lactic acid that it produces. It causes a lot of problems…for Levi, a severe seizure disorder & Autism is part of his disability. He has said many words…but on a given day we may hear only a few. It is very difficult for him to talk…but because we found out about the Autism first…we went down a different road of treatment that has been VERY helpful for him…and something we wouldn't have tried had we found out about the other things first.
We first started with diet, quite by chance…and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we ever made. He had tummy problems…but never thought about diet changes until we read about an "Autism Diet" Literally he is a different kid on a Gluten, Dairy and Soy free diet. Next we started some basic supplements like multi vitamin, probiotics and omegas…he started doing even better. We found out about the absense seizures shortly after and started some medication. With each treatment his body seemed to do better and get stronger. As far at the mito disorder….a couple of the best treatments we have done to help his muscles have been a combination of supplements recommended by his neurologist/metabolist
co-q-10 (liquid ubiqunol form)
Acetyl L-carnitine
b-100 vitamin
They really worked wonders for him. Also when he was 3 1/2 we decided to try a round of hyperbaric therapy. We did 40 dives…halfway through he started walking up stairs! A huge milestone for us! Plus a number of other improvments.
We did a second round of 40 dives at 4 1/2 and he started getting in and out of the car by himself within the first 3 dives. Again another HUGE milestone. He was getting so big at that point…it was really difficult to lift him in the car… (side note, he also has physical/occupation and speech therapy that he has had since he was 18 months, they are very helpful too)
We just started a 3rd round a couple weeks ago, and again…his muscles are getting stronger and he is getting more control.
The seizures throw in some challenges…they can make his muscles give out at any moment…so he falls down a lot…but we've got them partially under control and that helps.
I don't know if any of those things would be helpful for your little one…but sometimes, we just don't hear about "alternative therapies" from our doctors…even when they are helpful.
But again…for muscle disorders the co-q-10, l-carnitine and b-vitamin are so important, and so helpful. If you want to give it a try, I can send you the information.
One thing I have learned, is that even though Levi can't talk much, he understands sooooo much more than I realize. And the little stinker tries to get away with things. But even when he can't say anything…I know him…I can just feel the sunshine radiating from him.
I remember the first time I ever met Lily:
She was sitting on the floor with a few other babies at a small party. Around her were several toys, but she didn't reach for them, she was carefully watching. Lily was very quiet, still, and calm. She radiated the kindest, softest light. You could just tell there was something special about her soul.
It’s true. Tomorrow is my birthday. I wasn’t planning on saying anything–not because I’m too modest mind you–but because the cleaning and the kids didn’t really permit me today. And the fact that I’m 35. That is the first birthday since 17 that has sounded really old to me. Not that there’s anything wrong with...
Ha ha! Loved the Led Zeppelin stories and how you showed those guys who was boss. I would have LOVED to see you crank out that Zeppelin tune on the guitar after that doubter guy tripped over his rendition. You rule, Miggs!
I hope you have a really, really nice bday and that we get to hear a bit about it. : )ReplyCancel
Happy Birthday! It's funny how I find out that people I really feel pulled to, have a birthday close to mine (7th). I was in San Antonio between Christmas and New Year's and I sent you and your family many blessings! 35 is NOT old! You haven't even touched the tip of that yet! Especially with your attitude! BTW, Linda P always writes what I'm thinking! I wonder if her birthday is around now! Linda P, you rule too! 🙂ReplyCancel
Happy Birthday Miggy!
I don't know you in person but I'm an avid reader of your blog. Your posts about your family, especially your children make my day all the time. I'm still single and always think of your family as the role model. : )
As I said I don't know you, but I just want to remind you that you have achieved so much at 35 – you've got great husband and beautiful two girls; you've got great talents in creativity; you've got really nice tastes in things; and you seem like a person with a heart that can truly feel happiness in life! : )
As for your reminding of Led Zeplin love – I think it's a proof to show that we never get old in heart. I'd like to think that we get wiser in life with young heart as we physically get older. That's why we should celebrate every birthday and that's why you deserve huge congratulations for your 35th birthday!
Hey, I'm Amy!
I'm an author, artist, and disability advocate. I live with my handsome husband and three beautiful daughters in Cincinnati, Ohio.
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This blog post couldn't have come at a better time! I've been thinking of getting rid of the toxins in my body. I got diagnosed with hypothyroidism a couple of months ago and I've noticed that when I eat certain foods it affects me. I was never a health guru with the gluten free stuff,etc. I always ate healthy and excersised. But now I feel like I need to do certain things in my diet to help me. Now this blog post is another sign. Thanks for sharing and good luck these next 28 days.
I have nothing to add about toxins, but good luck! It can't hurt to experiment. As for Downton Abbey, LOVE IT!!! Season 2 is very different, as it takes place during WWI, but it's awesome too. I've already seen the whole thing.
Yeah, it's amazing how addictive Downton Abbey is. Brilliant. Season 2 is awesome too. If you're watching it on PBS, a few of the scenes are shortened slightly, including a Matthew and Mary scene (how dare they!) in the first hour, so I definitely recommend getting the unedited UK version DVDs when they come out. Sorry, I can't comment on eating healthy. Sigh. Love your blog, btw.
Good luck with the cleanse! It sounds way more reasonable than most of the detox/cleanse things I heard about. I'm going to have to try some of those recipes for sure, even if I can't do the whole diet.
I could write a book about the sugar, dairy, gluten free way of eating. Like Heather, it started out with me being diagnosed with hypothyroidism. I always eat healthy and exercise and I couldn't understand why I was gaining weight and feeling so badly. Even after I was finally at the right levels of medication, I still felt awful. My Naturopath (who works with an MD) told me we needed to start looking at my diet. She told me I had to do it for no less than three weeks. Reason? Week one, you feel yuck and cannot wait to eat sugar, dairy and gluten again. Week two, you start to feel better and it's not so bad, but you still cannot wait to eat the "good" stuff again. Week three, you feel really good and the "good" stuff doesn't sound so good anymore. I lost ten pounds, the joint pain I was having was gone and my stomach didn't hurt every evening anymore. I usually had gas in the evenings and now, it's gone! I have stuck to this way of eating for over a year and I feel great! I recently had all my lab tests done and was thrilled that my calcium and my bone density were normal. I always thought you NEEDED dairy. When I do have dairy, the gas comes back. When I eat sugar, I feel tired and run down. When I eat gluten, my face gets puffy, I gain two-three ponds overnight and my joints start hurting again. When I started doing research about gluten it was amazing what I found. One tidbit I'll give you is that Europe and Austraila will NOT import our wheat because it is so genetically modified! Makes us all wonder why? Good Luck! You WILL feel better!
I'm so excited to hear how your cleanse goes! I might have to give it a go also!
I totally thought it was Downtown Abbey also!!! I watched the couple episodes this weekend. Loving it!
I meant to say the FIRST couple episodes!
i purposely call it downtown abbey with a cockney accent. it sounds like 1960s london grit. and i simply love the show and costumes.
Thank you for sharing the detox plan!! I've been thinking for the past week or so that I need to make some huge changes in my eating to get huge changes in my body. So I'm starting detox tonight 🙂
I just think I may add in chicken for week 1. I can't see myself getting enough protein from nuts to cover the week, but we'll see how it goes. My achilles heel is the bread and sugars– I love me a little sweet bite at night, and this will effectively clean that up.
I can't wait to hear how yours goes. I may blog on mine. We'll see if I have the time to track it online.
I devoured the first season of Downton Abbey a few weeks ago!
You brave girl to do the cleanse! Can't wait to hear about it.
I just became obsessed with Downton Abbey before the new season started…Love it!!
woo hoo! Yummy yummy 🙂
mmmm… that smoothie looks good. I'm thirsty! good luck to ya~ I'll be good ol' calorie countin' this time around. Maybe I'll try the "detox" next!
SUCH a fan! It's so funny you had heard it as Down Town Alley because I wrote about the show on my blog and kept referencing it as DowntTown Abbey. While we were watching it my husbands like, "uhhh…I think it's DownTON Abbey.
Oh.
So good! I love it so very much.
Sounds interesting – I'll be interested to see how it goes for you! I've already been eating gluten free but I could use a good cleanse 🙂