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DownSyn Forum > Shoot the Breeze > Parent of the Week March 19th-25th (DanielsMommy - Lisa)
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Topic: Parent of the Week March 19th-25th (DanielsMommy - Lisa)    This thread is 2 pages long:    1   2

03-18-2006 10:45 PM
naomid   Super Member Location: California Registered: Apr 2003 Posts: 2809 Last visit: 03-24-2006	Carmen has nominated Lisa so post your questions here... __________________ Naomi Mum to Callum (DS) 3/03 and Kieran 8/04 Read all about us

03-19-2006 08:19 AM
Koby'sMommy   Senior Member Location: South Carolina Registered: Feb 2005 Posts: 651 Last visit: 03-23-2006	Lisa- How did choose the names for your kids? Tell us alittle bit about how you met your husband. Do you like plain or peanut M&M's? -Courtney __________________ Courtney-Wife to Chris- Mommy to Koby (12/16/04) "Attitude, is the Disability"

03-19-2006 08:25 AM

marci   Super Member Location: lancaster, Pa Registered: Dec 2004 Posts: 1228 Last visit: 03-24-2006

I got this one and I liked it. If you had three roses who would you give them too and what color would they be and why? [Edited by marci on 03-19-2006 at 08:31 AM] __________________ Marci Mom to Caleb, Cody, Evan, Ethan, Alex, Anna, Joni (ds, 4/03) "My mother taught me very early that I could achieve any accomplishment I wanted to. The first was to walk without braces:" Wilma Rudolf winner of three gold medals in running events at the 1960 summer Olympics

03-19-2006 09:03 AM
Renee Lacey's mom   Senior Member Location: Gloster, Louisiana Registered: Oct 2005 Posts: 699 Last visit: 03-24-2006	What is your greatest memory of growing up ?? Which of your family members is your favorite?? __________________ Renee Parker Haley Kassidy * An extra little Chromosome thats all it is, you see. Where all of you were born with 2, my angel was blessed with 3.*

03-19-2006 09:08 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: How did choose the names for your kids? Tell us alittle bit about how you met your husband. Do you like plain or peanut M&M's? Hi Courtney, I knew years before I had my daughter that if I was to have a girl her name would be Elayna. My husband and I were married 9 years before we had her...so we had plenty of time to discuss it!!LOL...When I was in college, I worked with a girl named Elaina (that is the way she spelled it) and she was tons of fun, always smiling and just a really fun person to be around. Next time I heard the name was at my first job out of college, I worked with a girl that spelled it Elena. She was the sweetest, kindest person and I still see her from time to time. She even knows she helped inspire her name. And finally, my husband lost his mother in 1998....her middle name was Elaine....so for us...Elayna was the perfect choice that we both instantly agreed on. Her middle name is Marissa and that is after my sister...I always loved her name. As for Daniel....we struggled with finding a boys name. We are all italian and my husband really wanted Domenic...and while I really liked the name...I just couldn't commit to it. So, we talked about names my entire pregnancy....the night before I had Daniel, we were sitting outside on our outdoor swing and we said....let's just wait until we meet him....then we will know. Well...at that moment...I had no idea how true that statement would be. The next day Daniel arrived....with his extra #21. I had a c section...the medicine took all day to wear off...we learned of his heart condition....it was day #2 of his life..and he had no name. We decided on Daniel Nicholas...my husband is Daniel and my uncle is Nicholas. We handed in the birth cert. Later that day, a nurse heard of my son...and came to visit us. Her son was autistic so she was raising a child with special needs. She gave us the poem Welcome to Holland...and my husband and I both thought Holland would be perfect for his middle name. We call the records dept....got the name change form...and my sweet Daniels name is now Daniel Holland Comella. Whew...I can talk....now onto my husband..... I was working at the mall after college and was looking for a full time job. A college friend of mine came in the store I was working at. She was a few years older than me and was the General Manager of Ballys Holiday Health. She asked me if I wanted to come work for her while I was looking for a full time job in my field. I said sure!! I was thrilled. My husbands college was right near this health club...and he worked there and actually trained me for my job. I always knew I would know my husband when I met him...and I really did. We dated for a year, were engaged for a year....and now have been married almost 13 years!! And finally......plain M$Ms for me!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 09:21 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: I got this one and I liked it. If you had three roses who would you give them too and what color would they be and why? Marci, The first one would be for God...a red one. To thank him for giving me the opportunity to live this wonderful life. The second would be for my Mother in Law. We lost her in 1998. She raised the most amazing, loving son who grew up to be the most wondeful husband and father. My husband was only 30 when she died...he was far to young to lose his mother. We both miss her very much. She was an artist and a very loving person. Her favorite place was down by the beach with her straw hat on. She would be painting a beautiful picture. I imagine that is what she is doing now. And the last one would be red...and I would have to give it to both my parents...for raising me and teaching me so much that I have the confidence that I can handle the responsibility for raising my 2 precious children. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 09:40 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: What is your greatest memory of growing up ?? Which of your family members is your favorite?? Renee, My greatest memory for me is very easy.....it was our summers on Block Island. My uncle went there in the 1970s and had many businesses out there. If anyone has ever been there....they will know my uncle. This uncle is my mothers brother. They have 11 brothers and sister. So my favorite memory is spending the entire summer out there with my whole family. All my aunts, uncles and cousins lived together. We left when school got out in June and came home the day after Labor day. My father had to work on the mainland...so each Friday night...he and many other fathers took the ferry out for the weekend. It was called the Daddy Boat because so many fathers traveled on it to spend the weekend with their families. I remember it like it was yesterday waking up really early and walking on the beach with my grandmother. We sat out on our front porch and ate strawberry yogert together. I lost my grandmother in 2001...she was 83. Those days were by far my favorite times of my life. I was fortunate enough to spend many summers out there up until college...when many of my cousins began careers and my aunts and uncles got older and didn't spend the full summers out there anymore. My hope is to spend a few weeks out there this summer...we'll see what happens. Thanks for letting me reminise!! As far as favorite family member....that is tough. I couldn't choose....I have to cheat and say both my parents. The have stood beside me through everything and showed me what the word unconditional love means. My mother didn't bat and eyelash when my husband told her Daniel had Ds....she said to my husband "Dan, don't worry, he is going to be fine...he is ours, we love him and we will take care of him and give him whatever he needs." I know later that day my mother did cry, but never in front of me or my husband. When my friends called to see how things were...she told them he had a heart condition. She even forgot to tell one of my best girlfriends that he had Ds....she only told her about the heart. I asked my mother why...she said...It wasn't intentional...I wasn't even thinking of Ds at that time...I was only worried about his health and his heart. She said everyone is different in their own way...he is going to be fine as long as they can fix his heart. As far as my father.....he would literally give you the shirt off his back. He is the kindest, most compassionate man I have ever met. When I was younger...I hoped I could marry a man like my dad...and fortunately I did. Now don't get my wrong, everyone has flaws...we are human....but I have been blessed with parents love their chldren unconditionally. [Edited by DanielsMommy on 03-19-2006 at 10:19 AM] __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 10:26 AM
Hunter's Mommy   Super Member Location: Covina, CA Registered: Jun 2004 Posts: 1164 Last visit: 03-23-2006	OOO igot so excited when I saw you were the new Parent of the Week! Ok on to the questions: Favorite music and artist? Any hidden talents we should be aware of? __________________ Rachel Married to Allen (10/21/02) Beautiful Boy Hunter (5/10/04) DS, not a life sentence, but a life enhancment! Go Team Hunter!

03-19-2006 10:37 AM
Renee Lacey's mom   Senior Member Location: Gloster, Louisiana Registered: Oct 2005 Posts: 699 Last visit: 03-24-2006	I just read your answer to my questions and now I am in tears.. They both were so sweet and you seem like you have been lucky like I have to have a very loving and supportive family.. Thanks for answering and God Bless!!! __________________ Renee Parker Haley Kassidy * An extra little Chromosome thats all it is, you see. Where all of you were born with 2, my angel was blessed with 3.*

03-19-2006 10:37 AM

Stephanie   Super Member Location: Yardley, PA Registered: Feb 2004 Posts: 2612 Last visit: 03-23-2006

Oh I am so excited to learn even more about you Lisa!!! This is fantastic!!! I was crying as I was reading your posts. You are just about the nicest, sweetest, most genuine person I have ever meet...and that goes for Dan too. First question, when I come up to RI, can I meet your parents? Second question, what is your uncle's name from Block Island so I can ask my grandmother if she knows him Third question, What would you consider to be a fun night out w/o the kids? __________________ Proud Parents Stephanie and Joe Awesome Big Brother Joey 3/8/97 Beautiful Daughter Megan 11/8/03 Precious Lil' Livi 7/6/05

03-19-2006 10:53 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: Favorite music and artist? Any hidden talents we should be aware of? I just love James Taylor. I have seen him several times in person and he is fantastic. We have an outdoor theatre near us where he comes. You bring a blanket and sit on the grass and listen to the music. He has come during the summer so it is a wonderful night, stars out in the sky and James Taylor singing. I also like southern rock...my favorite song is Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd. The lyrics are beautiful...here they are Mama told me when I was young Come sit beside me, my only son And listen closely to what I say. And if you do this It will help you some sunny day. Take your time... don’t live too fast, Troubles will come and they will pass. Go find a woman and you’ll find love, And don’t forget son, There is someone up above. (chorus) And be a simple kind of man. Be something you love and understand. Be a simple kind of man. Won’t you do this for me son, If you can? Forget your lust for the rich man’s gold All that you need is in your soul, And you can do this if you try. All that I want for you my son, Is to be satisfied. (chorus) Boy, don’t you worry... you’ll find yourself. Follow you heart and nothing else. And you can do this if you try. All I want for you my son, Is to be satisfied. As far as hidden talents.......I would say cooking. For the first 9 years of my marriage when I was working full time and had a long commute each day...I literally "dusted" my kitchen because it was never used and my appliances got dusty. Now that I am home, and have children...I have developed a true desire for cooking. I enjoy preparing meals and eating together. Today I am making sausage and peppers. My husbands favorite. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 11:04 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: First question, when I come up to RI, can I meet your parents? Second question, what is your uncle's name from Block Island so I can ask my grandmother if she knows him Third question, What would you consider to be a fun night out w/o the kids? Stephanie...thank you so much!! I feel blessed to have met you and your family. I felt so comfortable at your house...like we had been friends forever. I am excited to be on this journey with you and look forward to watching all our kids grow!! As for your questions...... YES....of course you can meet my parents. They know all about you and your family and my mom has seen all of Megans videos.... My uncle is Captain Nick. He owned Captain Nicks for years. He sold it quite a few years ago so the bar is still there...but he no longer runs it. He has been such a support to my husband and I. He never married and has no children....so I am close with all my aunts and uncles...but we are especially close with him. He bought a summer house on a lake for all of us so we still have someplace to meet and enjoy the summers together. He spends all holidays at my house and will probably come over this afternoon for sausage and peppers!! You'll meet him too when you come!! A fun night with no kids would probably be dinner (I love to go out to eat) and a show of some sort. I have never been to Blue Man Group and heard that is a a great show. It plays in Boston. Or maybe to see a comedian...we LOVE Seinfeld and have been to see him many times. Oh...and of course if money was not an issue....Atlantic City or Foxwoods!! I can spend money faster than my husband can make it!! I am NOT a cheap date!! LOL!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 11:48 AM
lespring   Super Member Location: Twin Cities metro area, MN Registered: Mar 2005 Posts: 3743 Last visit: 03-22-2006	Hey Lisa! I, too, am so glad to be getting to know you better. Someday I'll get to meet you and all will be well in my world. How did you tell your family about Daniel's diagnosis and what were their reactions? (see, if you do a compound sentence it only counts as one question, right?) __________________ ~Leah~ mom to Noah 18, Tyler 17,Angela 9 (DS) downcues.com

03-19-2006 12:19 PM

CAmommy2KJ   Super Moderator Location: Clarksville, Tennessee Registered: Jan 2005 Posts: 2402 Last visit: 03-23-2006

OK I'm going to ask right off the bat so I don't let the week get away from me! 1. What's under your bed right now? (People are going to start cleaning out under their beds before they get nominated soon! LOL) 2. If you could meet one person from Downsyn that you haven't already met, who would it be and why? 3. Did you play any sports in high school or college? How about clubs or committees like year book, student government, etc etc? __________________ ~Renee~ Mommy to: Kassidy (11.4.99) (My soccer playin drama queen) Kameron (11.3.01) (My soccer playin cookie monster) Kennedy (5.16.04)(ds) (Lookin cute in her designer genes) http://www.caringbridge.org/tn/kennedyjean http://www.ourkjkids.com http://www.cafepress.com/t21club

03-19-2006 12:44 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: How did you tell your family about Daniel's diagnosis and what were their reactions? (see, if you do a compound sentence it only counts as one question, right?) Leah, I know someday I will get you meet you as well. Angela has been such an inspiration....I need to hear her say dumb-ss in person!!! Well, as far as telling my family....my immediate family (parents, brothers and sister) actually knew before me because I had a c section. They told my husband right away in the side room where they weight the baby and stuff like that. So he learned of the diagnosis and fainted....he is 6 ft 6 inches and about 300 pounds...so it took a few nurses to pick him up. He thought the baby was not going to live. He couldn't process what they were telling him because it was such a shock. But once they told him what Ds meant...he composed himself and went out the waiting room and told my parents. My mother in turned phoned home where my sister was (she was watching Elayna)...and phoned her brothers and sisters as well. My mothers family has been very supportive. My uncles brother has Ds....so many of us know him. One of my aunts is a teacher, 2 are social workers so many of them had some knowledge of children with special needs. Also, many of my cousins (I have over 30 of them) have had struggles of one kind of another so in my family.....you do the best you can with what you have. One thing I also did to kind of tell everyone was when I had Daniels baptism I sent out thank you notes with an update on his heart condition and a summary of what Ds is. This way, everyone knew that it wasn't something Dan or I did to cause it, it is a natural cause of nature and things like that. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 12:52 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: 1. What's under your bed right now? (People are going to start cleaning out under their beds before they get nominated soon! LOL) 2. If you could meet one person from Downsyn that you haven't already met, who would it be and why? 3. Did you play any sports in high school or college? How about clubs or committees like year book, student government, etc etc? Renee.....I had to look under that bed...and I can see some socks mixed it with the dust!! LOL... If I could meet one person from Downsyn.......I would have to say Libby's son William. When I joined, his picture was one of the very first I saw. Libby still has it as her sig. His little hands are up by his face with the cutest smile. I showed my husband and we just melted. I also have to say that Carmens son Jaemen is one little boy I must hug and kiss in my lifetime. The pics they capture of him are unbelievable!! Oh I just wish we all lived in the same town so we could all see each other all the time!! Wishful thinking!! OOOps I forgot about sports. I was on the gymnastics team in high school..but that is about it for me and sports. As far as clubs and stuff...in college I was in a sorority. Where I went to college the greek system was HUGE. I lived in a house with 90 girls!! Can you imagine that!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 01:12 PM

** Hannah's mom ** UK   Super Moderator Location: West Midlands UK Registered: Jun 2004 Posts: 3851 Last visit: 03-24-2006

right I am going to try and get in early here with a question as whenever I get to read these threads my mind goes blank to think of a question What is your favourite season spring, summer, autumn ( fall do you call it ) or winter? __________________ Jo mummy to Hannah (DS ) who was 3 in July 05 and Rebecca who was 2 in Jan 06 My beautiful girls Baby 3 due April 10th 2006 Visit Hannah's webpage and read all about her journey

03-19-2006 01:20 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: What is your favourite season spring, summer, autumn ( fall do you call it ) or winter? Without a doubt...summer. Rhode Island is the Ocean State so we have miles of beautiful ocean. I live a few miles aways from the water. Also, for years we had horrible landscaping at our house. Grass was dead, no trees or shrubs. My husband and I had very long commutes to work and our landscape was the furthest thing from our minds. When we had Elayna...my husband said she needs a place to run around and play. So for my first Mothers Day he gave me the best gift.......My husband had a bulldozer come in and rip out our entire landscape. He re planted our entire front lawn and most of the backyard as well. We have all new trees shrubs and the greenest grass ever. In the winter, everything is brown and dead...in the summer....the trees, the green grass and the sunshine is all I need!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 02:47 PM
My Boys   Super Member Location: South Plainfield, NJ Registered: Mar 2003 Posts: 1829 Last visit: 03-23-2006	If you were to go on Survivor what one personal thing would bring? __________________ Michele B. Patrick (5-16-00) Kyle (DS) (1-13-03) Cameron (11-5-2005)

03-19-2006 02:49 PM
lilpayton   Senior Member Location: Bristow, Virginia Registered: Jan 2006 Posts: 212 Last visit: 03-24-2006	How tall are you? LOL...just curious since your husband is so tall!! __________________ Bethany Mommy to Mason (1/13/04) and Payton (DS) (1/7/06) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/paytonbalsis

03-19-2006 02:51 PM
lilpayton   Senior Member Location: Bristow, Virginia Registered: Jan 2006 Posts: 212 Last visit: 03-24-2006	How did you explain to your daughter that her brother has DS? If you have, that is. What did you tell her and what did she say? __________________ Bethany Mommy to Mason (1/13/04) and Payton (DS) (1/7/06) http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/paytonbalsis

03-19-2006 05:11 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: If you were to go on Survivor what one personal thing would bring? First I have to admit...while I LOVE the show....I could NEVER be contestant. I would not last 1 hour on the show. I couldn't miss a meal!!! LOL...I guess my personal thing would be a picture of my husband and kids. I would miss their faces!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 05:25 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: How tall are you? LOL...just curious since your husband is so tall!! quote: How did you explain to your daughter that her brother has DS? If you have, that is. What did you tell her and what did she say? Bethany, I am only 5 ft 4inches!! My husband is quite large. He is the tallest in his family...but they are all really tall. His brothers are 6ft 2 and 6ft 3. He even has a sister that is 6ft. I also have a neice that is 6ft!! My family is rather short. My mother and sister tell everyone they are 5 ft...but we all know they are slightly shorter than that!! My grandmother was well under 5ft. My daughter is VERY tall. She is almost 3 1/2 and she is 41 inches tall. I know very soon I will be looking UP at my daughter. I am not sure where Daniel falls on the charts but he is 9 months a little over 28 inches. Now your second question about telling my daughter. We actually haven't offically told her that he has Down Syndrome. I don't think she understands the actual concept of Ds....but I have tried to explain to her when it has come up in conversation that Daniel needs some extra help with things. For example, she asked why he gets therapy. I told her that some children need some extra help to walk and run. When he had surgery...she wanted to know if she was going to have a big boo boo like him. We told her no, her heart was perfect....but Daniel's needed a little stitch because his heart had a boo boo. I also assured her that he was fine and not to worry about him that the doctors fixed him and can play and do all the things that she does as he gets bigger. Every once in awhile....maybe when she is playing with him...I tell her that we have to teach Daniel things and show him how to play with his toys because he might need some extra help with things. I am trying to get her to realize that everything won't be so easy for him...that we have to be patient and encourage him. She sometimes gets frustrated because he can't do things with her...and I tell her she has to have patience with him. I tell her Daniel will run and jump and play....it is just going to take time for him to grow and learn everything. Sometimes I look at her and cry....not because I am sad...but because I am so grateful for her. As I wrote before, Welcome to Holland really touches my soul. Daniel shows us everyday how beautiful Holland is.....and we really are enjoying our stay. My Elayna has taken us not only to Italy....but to the moon and back. She is such a joy with a personality that lights up a room. She is going to be such a wonderful influence on Daniel!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 06:23 PM

** Hannah's mom ** UK   Super Moderator Location: West Midlands UK Registered: Jun 2004 Posts: 3851 Last visit: 03-24-2006

Lisa I just noticed from the thread in General that Daniel was a twin ( vanishing twin ) How far along were you when they told you? and did you have any symptoms? Hannah was a twin also but I had bleeding and miscarried when I found out ( they showed me the remains of the amniotic sac on an ultrasound ) I found out at 13 weeks __________________ Jo mummy to Hannah (DS ) who was 3 in July 05 and Rebecca who was 2 in Jan 06 My beautiful girls Baby 3 due April 10th 2006 Visit Hannah's webpage and read all about her journey

03-19-2006 06:54 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

Jo, I was very sick from the very beginning of my pregnancy with Daniel. Twins run in my family. My 1st cousin had twin girls, my brothers are twins as well. Due to my extreme morning sickness, my obgyn was concerned. I was around 10 weeks at the time. He feared I was having a molar pregnancy (which isn't a viable pregnancy). So I went for an u/s and the technician told me I had 1 viable baby. However, when I went to my ob visit...he told me I had a viable baby (Daniel)...however, he told me he also saw an empty gestational sac which indicated a vanishing twin. He said that I might bleed, but not to worry...Daniel was definitly ok and the sac would probably be absorbed by Daniel. I never did bleed, but continued with severe morning sickness well into my 5th month. Even after my 5th...I was still sick most of the time. I just didn't need the medication any longer. It is strange, although I was told I was having twins after I lost one...I wonder what it would be like if I really did have them. I always thought I would have twins...because my brothers are twins. It is always something I felt would happen to me...but sadly it didn't. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 08:10 PM
Stephanie   Super Member Location: Yardley, PA Registered: Feb 2004 Posts: 2612 Last visit: 03-23-2006	Do you have the book, "We'll Paint the Octopus Red"...for Elayna? If not, don't buy it, I will mail it along with the CD...which is coming by the way, I will try to send it this week from work. __________________ Proud Parents Stephanie and Joe Awesome Big Brother Joey 3/8/97 Beautiful Daughter Megan 11/8/03 Precious Lil' Livi 7/6/05

03-19-2006 08:24 PM

Livi's Mom   Senior Member Location: Quaker Hill, CT USA Registered: Dec 2005 Posts: 131 Last visit: 03-23-2006

quote: As I wrote before, Welcome to Holland really touches my soul. Daniel shows us everyday how beautiful Holland is.....and we really are enjoying our stay. My Elayna has taken us not only to Italy....but to the moon and back. She is such a joy with a personality that lights up a room. She is going to be such a wonderful influence on Daniel!! First let me say that I echo the notion that you are such a wonderful and genuine person. I was so touched by your statement above. I look forward to meeting you, Daniel, and Elayna sometime. I have 2 questions: What did you do for work before you had children? What is your favorite movie and why? __________________ __________________________________ Diane, mommy to Alex (3/25/04) & Alivia (9/19/05)--ds

03-19-2006 08:52 PM

Carson's Mom   Senior Member Location: Bossier City, LA Registered: Dec 2005 Posts: 210 Last visit: 03-23-2006

Where did you go to college, what did you major in, do you miss working, and what was your job before you became a SAHM? OK, is that cheating? That was interesting that Daniel was a twin. I have been told by several Dr.s that the tumor Carson had was where his body obsorbed a twin. I guess I will never now, but, that would have been shocking for me to have 2. I would have loved it though. __________________ Kayla, Callan(5), Kenna (3), Carson 5 1/2 months

03-19-2006 09:31 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: What did you do for work before you had children? What is your favorite movie and why? Stephanie...yes we do have that book. My friend Many (her daughter Petra passed away back in Oct after her av canal repair surgery) sent it to her for Christmas. I have read it to her and I think it is a fantastic book. Especially as she gets even older...it will really help her in understanding. Thanks so much for thinking of us. Thanks for sending the cd too. You know I can't see straight if I don't get my daily dose of All around the kitchen!!! Diane, thank you so much for the kind words. I know we will all get to meet this summer...we are so close!! Mystic Aquarium isn't too far for you right? We have to set a date and just do it!! As for your questions.......Prior to having children I worked in the financial services industry. My first job out of college...I traded mutual funds. I then moved into broker/dealer account services. I stayed with my first company for 3 years......then I moved to another company and stayed there for almost 7 years. When I changed jobs, I spent a few years working in Human Resources. I really enjoyed it...but the company I worked for had about 300 people in the entire facility...so we only had a small HR office. There wasn't much room for growth. So I got an offer to move into Client Services. I spent 5 years there. I worked as an Account Administrator, Business Systems Analyst and my last position was Manager of Client Services. I enjoyed my job....but it was very stressful. I had several people who directly reported to me and many people who indirectly reported to me. I had alot of responsibility....and to be honest...I don't really miss it at all. I miss my salary.....but not my job!! Oh...and my favorite movie of The Shawshank Redemption. I usually don't like prison movies at all...but this movie was great...the ending was unbelievable!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 09:44 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: Where did you go to college, what did you major in, do you miss working, and what was your job before you became a SAHM? OK, is that cheating? I graduated from The University of Rhode Island with a bachelors degree in Psychology. I don't really miss working. I wrote above what I did for work....but I'll also add some fun facts about my career in this post....... My husband and I ALWAYS worked at the same companies. 3 companies to be exact. We started off working at Bally Holiday Health right out of college....we both did this until we found full time jobs....then I got hired at Boston Financial to work in Trading. My husband got hired shortly after in Client Services. My husband got a job in East Hartford CT....he worked there a year when I got offered a position in Human Resources. We worked there together commuting 1 1/2 hours each way...crazy I know!! We both then took a transfer to the Boston office....I was in HR and he was a Manager in Client Servies. When I entered Client Services....my husband was already a manager.....I used to sit in a cubicle outside of his office!! Those were really great times. I didn't work for him...companies don't allow that...but I worked for a counterpart of his. She was the best boss I ever had. We had tons of fun together. It was weird going to meetings and having my husband sitting across from me. My sister also worked for this company as the Accounting Manager. So there were times when I was in meetings with my husband and sister!! You might think this was a small company...but it was a huge corporation. Our office had about 300 people...but worldwide...there are thousands. Just a small world that we all ended up working together. Eventually my husband moved companies and I stayed a few years longer. I moved my way up and also was a manager...and then got pregnant..and the rest is history!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-19-2006 11:08 PM
ValerieM   Senior Member Location: Moravia, Iowa Registered: Aug 2005 Posts: 665 Last visit: 03-24-2006	OK, Lisa...if this is too personal, feel free to ignore it! In all your posts, you can tell that your world revolves around your children and you find so much pleasure in being a mom. I'm just curious why you waited so long to have kids, and what made you decide to have them when you did? __________________ Valerie, mom to Derek, 16, and Nicholas (DS), 2 1/2

03-19-2006 11:44 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: In all your posts, you can tell that your world revolves around your children and you find so much pleasure in being a mom. I'm just curious why you waited so long to have kids, and what made you decide to have them when you did? Valerie...this is a great question. To be honest...we were young...I got married at 23...and my husband and I both were focused on our careers. We bought a house, traveled alot and really focused on each other and our marriage. I think doing all that really helped both of us truly embrace our new life as parents. There is a part of me that feels guilty for waiting...because I know the statistics...older moms have a higher rate of having a child with Ds. I know that this was God's plan for me...but sometimes my mind does wander...and I start thinking of all the what ifs. I think I was always waiting for the perfect time to come. We would fix up our house...have great jobs...tons of money in the bank....but that day never came. You know when I really did get pregnant??? The week after my husband got laid off from his job....perfect timing huh? Somehow we made it through that time...and 9 months later came Elayna! I sometimes wish I had children younger...but the truth is...the mom I would have been at 23 is a completely different mom I became at 33 when I had Elayna. I have many things I would like to change...I can't say I have no regrets...but waiting to have children for me personally I believe helped me become the person I am today. That person who truly LOVES being a parent. I loved being that career girl...but that was before I knew the joy parenthood was going to bring me. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 08:59 AM
Barbara   Super Member Location: Charleston, SC Registered: Jun 2002 Posts: 1220 Last visit: 03-23-2006	Lisa, I know nothing about your state, in which you were born and raised. You mentioned that y'all have miles and miles of beaches. Could you tell me a little more about Rhode Island?

03-20-2006 09:23 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: I know nothing about your state, in which you were born and raised. You mentioned that y'all have miles and miles of beaches. Could you tell me a little more about Rhode Island? Oh yes...miles of beaches. If you see us on the map...you can see that our entire state runs along the ocean. Where I live is on bay...and inlet that dips into the side of the state. Since our state is so small....everyone knows somebody. You can't run into the grocery store without running into someone you went to high school with. Every time you go somewhere, someone will know one of your parents or aunts. Our capital city(Providence) has gone under a complete revitalization. The river now runs through the city and huge mall has been built and tons of businesses have come to the city. During the warmner months we have a thing called Waterfires. The river that runs through the city is set on fire. There is music piped into the street, vendors sell food...art displays and shops and it is wonderful. I'll post the link below. We also have Federal Hill which is guess is little NYC Little Italy. Wonderful Italian resturants and shops. RI has a large italian population also. Besides the beaches and Providence, RI also has Newport...home of the Newport Mansions. Newport is also surrounded by water and there is a beautiful bridge that links it to the mainland. Lots of shopping and resturants. A great place to spend an afternoon. We also are the home to many great college and universities. Providence College and Brown University are probably our most popular ones. My uncle is the Director of Tourism for our state...so I am sure if he read my post...he would have tons more to add. It is a great place to live, raise a family and vacation. Anyone that is looking for a great place to summer vacation...feel free to PM me. Here is the link to the Waterfire and a pic. http://www.waterfire.org __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 10:59 AM
Koby'sMommy   Senior Member Location: South Carolina Registered: Feb 2005 Posts: 651 Last visit: 03-23-2006	What did your parents do for a living? How many brothers and sisters do you have and what are their lives like? What is the BIGGEST difference in having one child and two? __________________ Courtney-Wife to Chris- Mommy to Koby (12/16/04) "Attitude, is the Disability"

03-20-2006 11:40 AM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: What did your parents do for a living? How many brothers and sisters do you have and what are their lives like? What is the BIGGEST difference in having one child and two? Courtney, My mother was a SAHM for many years. She worked part time at a local store decorating their window displays. She now works part time at a bank. My father is now retired. He was a Manufacturing Manager for something like 40 years!! He retired from American Tourister Luggage after working there for 20 or so years. Needless to say...I have a great, full set of luggage for any trip that I ever go on!! LOL... My father and mother are both the type of people that everyone always likes. They both have friends from childhood. My father is 67 and has a friend whom he has known since he was 5. Your next question about my siblings. I kind of knew this would come up!! I have twin brothers (they are 33) and a sister who is 30. My sister and I are very much alike. We both went to college and had careers. My brothers both chose a very different path. My brother David has a 13 year old son who he has sole custody of (my nephews mother is no longer part of his life). My brother is also disabled. He was in a car accident about 10 years ago that damaged his back and slighty impaired his cognitive abilities. He certainly could live on his own but can't drive...and since he has sole custody of his son, he needs to live with my parents to help raise him. He is a wonderful father to my nephew. My other brother is also a truly good person who unfortunately makes very bad choices. He has been in and out of rehab many times...and just can't truly get past his addiction. He also lives with my parents....but probably should be out on his own. He is a very kind person...but troubled. I feel bad for him...he just can't get out of his own way. He has very supportive parents and a large family that really cares about him. We always have hope that he stays on the right path. And the biggest difference between 1 and 2 kids is TIME. It seems like no matter how organized I get...I still am very late every where I go. Packing the car for 2 kids is a job in and of itself!! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 12:42 PM
naomid   Super Member Location: California Registered: Apr 2003 Posts: 2809 Last visit: 03-24-2006	Great questions and wonderful answers You said you like to cook so what is your favourite meal to make? Which of your meals do your family enjoy the most? __________________ Naomi Mum to Callum (DS) 3/03 and Kieran 8/04 Read all about us

03-20-2006 12:49 PM

cymorales   Senior Member Location: Colorado Registered: Apr 2005 Posts: 988 Last visit: 03-22-2006

Lisa, You are such a beautiful and strong person. Your outlook on Daniel truly gives me strength. I can't wait to get to know you better!!! Ok...on for the questions... 1. If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why? 2. What is your favorite Main Dish( I need some new recepies...no seafood...kids don't like it....lol?} 3. If you could change one thing in the world what would it be? __________________ Carmen "The joys of parents are secret, and so are their griefs and fears: they cannot utter the one, nor will they utter the other." (Francis Bacon) Wife to Judah Jayvier 4/4/96, Hailey 7/8/00, Jaemen 2/20/05(DS) http://www.moralesfamilysite.com

03-20-2006 01:04 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: You said you like to cook so what is your favourite meal to make? Which of your meals do your family enjoy the most? My favorite meal to make is chicken fajitas. Mexican is my favorite type of food!! I would say my family mostly enjoys my homemade sauce with meatballs. Another one of my husbands favorites is chicken cutlets. He really likes everything I make though...he loves to eat. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 01:21 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: Lisa, You are such a beautiful and strong person. Your outlook on Daniel truly gives me strength. I can't wait to get to know you better!!! Ok...on for the questions... 1. If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why? 2. What is your favorite Main Dish( I need some new recepies...no seafood...kids don't like it....lol?} 3. If you could change one thing in the world what would it be? Thanks Carmen for the compliments. Sometimes I don't feel very strong...but I do my best! So onto the questions.....if I could travel anywhere in the world...I guess Hawaii. I have heard how beautiful it is. Several of my close girlfriends live in CA...so on my way to Hawaii....I could stop in CA for a visit then onto Hawaii!! One of my favorite main dishes is a receipe I got from a good friend of mine. Here are the ingeredients: 1-2 pds chicken cutlets (or I like to use chicken tenderloins) 1 pound Gemelli pasta 1 jar of roasted red peppers (or you can make you own) chopped garlic to taste red pepper olive oil (you can use the spicy...or just plain olive oil if you don't like spicy) Montreal steak seasoning (this is the brand I use..but you could use any steak seasoning with garlic, pepper etc) Grated Parmesean cheese Sprinkle chicken with steak seasoning. Grill chicken or pan fry if you don't have a grill. In a saute pan, saute roasted red peppers with garlic and olive oil for a few minutes. Boil pasta until al dente. Drain pasta and top with roasted red peppers and garlic and oil and mix to incorporate it all...slice chicken and top pasta with chicken and sprinke parm cheese on top. This dish you really have to make it to your own taste. If you like the spicy oil then add more...if you don't like it...just use plain olive oil. Hope you like it. Your last question is what would I change in the world? I would eliminate all prejudices. I firmly believe God created us all equal...we have no right to judge another person based on their race, religion or beliefs. That's just my own humble opinion. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 08:19 PM

Carson's Mom   Senior Member Location: Bossier City, LA Registered: Dec 2005 Posts: 210 Last visit: 03-23-2006

Did you have your series 6 or 7 for securities? I have had my license for the past 7 years and worked for the Fed. Govt. and also for AIG as a duel career associate. I gave that up after Carson was born. I don't know what I was thinking when I thought I could work full-time and part-time and raise 3 children. I do enjoy the market though. Do you still follow the market? Do you miss working? __________________ Kayla, Callan(5), Kenna (3), Carson 5 1/2 months

03-20-2006 08:31 PM

** Hannah's mom ** UK   Super Moderator Location: West Midlands UK Registered: Jun 2004 Posts: 3851 Last visit: 03-24-2006

Lisa interesting about the twins near enough the same story only I did have the bleeding and boy was I sick, right up until 30weeks, I literally couldn't keep anything down and had to go into hosp so I didn't get dehydrated and they put me on medication which gave me the shakes!!! Another question- was Daniel born early or late or on due date? __________________ Jo mummy to Hannah (DS ) who was 3 in July 05 and Rebecca who was 2 in Jan 06 My beautiful girls Baby 3 due April 10th 2006 Visit Hannah's webpage and read all about her journey

03-20-2006 08:43 PM
elizasmom   Senior Member Location: Marin County, CA Registered: Jul 2005 Posts: 534 Last visit: 03-24-2006	Hi Lisa! If you (or your husband) won the lottery what's the first thing that you would do? __________________ Liz - Mom to Walker (3/24/02) and Eliza (Ds) (5/6/05)

03-20-2006 09:04 PM
vonda   Super Moderator Location: Middletown, MD Registered: Jun 2000 Posts: 4323 Last visit: 03-24-2006	What smell reminds you of your childhood? __________________ Vonda, mommy to Peyton, Sophie, Noah(Ds) and Halle

03-20-2006 09:12 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: Did you have your series 6 or 7 for securities? I have had my license for the past 7 years and worked for the Fed. Govt. and also for AIG as a duel career associate. I gave that up after Carson was born. I don't know what I was thinking when I thought I could work full-time and part-time and raise 3 children. I do enjoy the market though. Do you still follow the market? Do you miss working? No, I am not licensed. I traded mutual funds within the Dreyfus Family of Funds...so I didn't need to be licensed. I was trained internally on their products but no series 6 or 7. The majority of my career wasw spent in Client Services where I managed mutual fund clients. I worked for a business communication company so we produced mutual fund statements, checks, 401k pension checks and advices. Part of our facility was like a large post office where all the actual mail went out. The other side was Client Services where all the products were designed, tested and implemented. That is what I did. I do NOT miss working at all. I traveled alot, had a pager and cell phone that rang constantly. We were very much month end and quarter end driven...so many New Years Eve were spent at work. I don't follow the market too closely. My best friend is a broker and she has given us some great tips but most of my life savings can be found under the cushions of our sofa because it is all in change!! LOL. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 09:18 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: Another question- was Daniel born early or late or on due date? Jo, that is very interesting we had such a similiar experience. Especially how our surviving child had Ds. I wish he did have his twin...it would have been nice to have 2 of my Daniel!! He was actually born 10 days early. My natural due date was June 17th. I was so sick...I begged my obgyn to take him early. I had a c section with my daughter and was just going to do it again for Daniel. My c section was scheduled for June 13th..which was a Monday. I begged and pleaded and he agreed to do it June 10th (which was my sisters birthday)....however, natural labor started on June 6th...and I had my c section June 7th. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 09:24 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: If you (or your husband) won the lottery what's the first thing that you would do? Liz, I often dream of what I would do!! I guess I would buy a big house on the ocean for me and all of my family. I would rent a big camper and travel to each of the 50 states. My husband and I always wanted to drive across the country in a camper. We haven't got to do it yet...but I know we will when the kids get a bit older. I would also give alot back to my community and to those less fortunate. I am a big believer in that. We are not wealthy by any means....but I always donate as much as I can. __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 09:31 PM

DanielsMommy   Super Member Location: Rhode Island Registered: Sep 2005 Posts: 1403 Last visit: 03-24-2006

quote: What smell reminds you of your childhood? Vonda, very interesting question....I guess I would say cotton candy and popcorn. Not too far from where I live was a place called Rocky Point. It was a big amusement park right on the water. As a child...we always went there. I live only 3 or so miles away so it was something we did very often on the weekends. The park smelled like cotton candy and popcorn because they had those carts all over the place. On Friday nights they had bands come and play. At first, I was way too young....but as I got into high school..my parents let me go (they of course had to drop me off and pick me up...I was NOT allowed to drive with friends until I was like a senior!!). Anyway...the park has since closed and I believe they are putting up condos on the land. I wish it was still open because my daughter would just love it! __________________ Lisa Mommy to Elayna 10-1-02 and Daniel Ds 6-7-05 Always have hope....Without rain, there can be no rainbows.

03-20-2006 10:29 PM

southernbelle   Super Moderator Location: Gray, GA USA Registered: Nov 2004 Posts: 4263 Last visit: 03-24-2006

I would rent a big camper and travel to each of the 50 states. My husband and I always wanted to drive across the country in a camper My husband and I talk about doing this all the time. A great way to travel with small children. My question.... Describe where you live...your community and your home. AMY __________________ "You are an unrepeatable Miracle. No one exactly like you was ever born or ever will be." Momma to Austin(DS) 05/18/04 Kristin, Jessica, Rebecca, Rachel, Sarah,Hunter www.caringbridge.org/ga/austinluke www.xanga.com/fireflysouth I LOVE my friends at downsyn.com! Here's a kiss.

03-20-2006 10:59 PM

lespring   Super Member Location: Twin Cities metro area, MN Registered: Mar 2005 Posts: 3743 Last visit: 03-22-2006

quote: I would rent a big camper and travel to each of the 50 states. My husband and I always wanted to drive across the country in a camper When I was a kid my family did this every summer! We spent a month on the road in a motorhome. I have TONS of memories (good and bad) about those times! When I got older and my brother and sister were out of the house (by the time I was 10) the mode of tranportation changed to motorcycles and I rode behind my mom until I was 17! __________________ ~Leah~ mom to Noah 18, Tyler 17,Angela 9 (DS) downcues.com

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