tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35321900897423430702024-03-14T04:14:28.711-04:00Summer's DayOne inspiring kid!Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.comBlogger253125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-84232371560943773872015-04-09T12:02:00.001-04:002015-04-09T12:02:33.101-04:00Tid-bits of GoldIt's been a year of a lot of change in our family. One thing remains constant is that Summer never ceases to make me giggle with the things she says, how she looks at the world and her innocence.<br />
<br />
A couple of our recent conversations:<br />
Me: "Summer, I missed you so much. Stay with me forever!"<br />
Sum: "I will, well until you are dead, anyway."<br />
<br />
Me: "Summer, our friend 'T' turns 50 today!"<br />
Sum: "Whoa! that girl is getting old!!!"<br />
<br />
Sum: "Mom, I love that perfume! Can I have it when you die?"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHmk6eH7O5BkwmCF8A_fN247k-Fq_LSlbLB7XYbJka9_2JwFwXvAAF3PZyt8qjen7UV1l208ONl-UEhkNtC-D0O1U-yzUGoAMhyG3obAA5ZHj3qmWhkld5-6ujat043SM_kbZV4JzJpxM/s1600/IMG_0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHmk6eH7O5BkwmCF8A_fN247k-Fq_LSlbLB7XYbJka9_2JwFwXvAAF3PZyt8qjen7UV1l208ONl-UEhkNtC-D0O1U-yzUGoAMhyG3obAA5ZHj3qmWhkld5-6ujat043SM_kbZV4JzJpxM/s1600/IMG_0200.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-29127767963692580712014-03-27T07:59:00.000-04:002014-03-27T07:59:42.687-04:007 going on 17At times you get real insight into how life with a teenager is going to be. Yesterday I asked Summer "so, how's Ethan?" Summer and Ethan have shared an EA for four years and are very close. Since JK they have told us they are getting married when they are old enough. So, you can imagine how surprised I was when she tells me "He's good, but he dumped me for Desiree." Yes, in those exact words.<br />
<br />
I asked her how she felt about it. She responded "Oh, it's fine. I have two other crushes on the go!" (gulp). I say "oh really? who's that?" She says "Ethan R. (different Ethan) and Austin." <br />
<br />
So I confirmed that they are both cute, and Ethan R. is very smart. <br />
<br />
All is fair and good on the grade 2 dating scene.Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-43890847778273890722014-01-28T13:52:00.001-05:002014-01-29T17:52:23.492-05:00Stable-Eyes!Summer had her bi-annual ophthalmology appointment at Sick Kids on the 20th. (It is nice that it is twice a year... we have spent many, many, many hours at Eye Clinic. It is our MOST unfavourite appointment. Anyone who has been there will know why... it is busy. VERY busy. Staff are nice. But it is VERY busy.)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had a great trip although the drive down was snowy and slippery. Our friends have a corporate apartment downtown and offered it to us for the night. It was..... AWESOME! Don watched football, I went to the gym, we got take-out and had a friend visit for dinner. So comfy. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Summer received an excellent eye report - her vision is stable, her prescription seems to be good and we don't need to return until July. ALL GOOD!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfK6qstnnVNDR5OWO_gsD8oeODrxMIGIf_zioZtcBw6FBH5uHJTfA72huFoQz58fh-gJgL4_zO6knt6SqDgmApirWQqC3tMYPvaAsxzqkeil7MtkRZEgZFye_0AwjgwLbQxpHhUs-lKmp/s1600/IMG_3834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfK6qstnnVNDR5OWO_gsD8oeODrxMIGIf_zioZtcBw6FBH5uHJTfA72huFoQz58fh-gJgL4_zO6knt6SqDgmApirWQqC3tMYPvaAsxzqkeil7MtkRZEgZFye_0AwjgwLbQxpHhUs-lKmp/s1600/IMG_3834.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-40372982632301661482014-01-06T11:00:00.002-05:002014-01-06T11:01:30.522-05:00Happy New Year!In spite of the very busy lead-up to Christmas, we always seem to take lots of time to recover and relax over the course of the break. Summer and Don had the two full weeks off from school and work. We had the opportunity to enjoy Christmas eve, Christmas day and Boxing day locally with friends as well as a 75th surprise birthday party in Ottawa for Don's Auntie Bern. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxBZq7QVqdCxrul87abl6VyeldqQoieaJ8ZLFq9hpbVs8OJN327N7JE83rsOn6_BeI0IV-T7Rj379asXbfZAGciiEtK349gkNHVclU1yj6-qyzRVBwoXl0Txq_Xf2N0A7r9WpmfnAreOxL/s1600/IMG_3769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxBZq7QVqdCxrul87abl6VyeldqQoieaJ8ZLFq9hpbVs8OJN327N7JE83rsOn6_BeI0IV-T7Rj379asXbfZAGciiEtK349gkNHVclU1yj6-qyzRVBwoXl0Txq_Xf2N0A7r9WpmfnAreOxL/s1600/IMG_3769.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ready for Santa! </div>
<br />
Summer would describe her Christmas as terrific. All she asked Santa for was a Tigger stuffed toy. He did oblige and she was thrilled. He goes most places with her for the time being. Of course she was amply spoiled by friends and family. <br />
<br />
We are knee deep into winter (and as of this morning also in snow) and though it is only January, we are looking forward to a vacation to Disney - and then the final melt in spring. Winter always seems to be longer than it needs to be.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYd5141wei2hlHXEbIPOMQwSbwGUyNRB0Gw279s9oyWG4pqLaPcXZj1ogBXZT1DaMZPS0wvLRlDK1IVc4rgKSAaiiE2-kP8Z7H199b3jhw-A8eH7U1B_FuoITQTt-b-smA7XOMB2S6Mkx/s1600/IMG_3776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYd5141wei2hlHXEbIPOMQwSbwGUyNRB0Gw279s9oyWG4pqLaPcXZj1ogBXZT1DaMZPS0wvLRlDK1IVc4rgKSAaiiE2-kP8Z7H199b3jhw-A8eH7U1B_FuoITQTt-b-smA7XOMB2S6Mkx/s1600/IMG_3776.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_754002953"></span><span id="goog_754002954"></span>Ready for Auntie Bern's Birthday Party!</div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-4387929086106174282013-12-17T10:47:00.000-05:002013-12-17T14:12:27.429-05:00Here Comes Santa Claus!Summer is now 7 and I know we are on borrowed time for believing in the 'big guy'. We are soaking it all in. Last night, Don and Summer spent 45 minutes composing a letter to Santa. It was.... painful, but an important part of the season.<br />
<br />
We are looking forward to Christmas Eve at the White's house where Santa usually makes a brief appearance. <br />
<br />
On November 24th our City hosted the Santa Claus Parade. Summer was invited to ride on the One Kids Place / North Bay Battalion Float. It was a brisk day but the sun was shining and everyone got into the spirit of the season.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJq6Cohcy1W6xybVMlB6tXNQtM340rDluUhFpxl3U4lIsisT_x6IZbLtgomov0Oujc8cA5psUbwmZkO_C-PEVauFMuEN0cfLOP8OdGhcODBjXPinx7FfHg8GZiLpqNKqtBDfbIO8nWQqoM/s1600/IMG_0421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJq6Cohcy1W6xybVMlB6tXNQtM340rDluUhFpxl3U4lIsisT_x6IZbLtgomov0Oujc8cA5psUbwmZkO_C-PEVauFMuEN0cfLOP8OdGhcODBjXPinx7FfHg8GZiLpqNKqtBDfbIO8nWQqoM/s320/IMG_0421.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5iE4LB87MuXmRr4SfS_JeA4ezLhx1K6v8F7ipe6_CodOhnTe_eW0A5hLKHLA1WC_K6OR4_u15OT3LoKFKDQZpsr3niMILHzNfQu9ZlyB8_L9MUBE3aHk0iASHYVjOHUF9EdMn1D-47Q1/s1600/IMG_0428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5iE4LB87MuXmRr4SfS_JeA4ezLhx1K6v8F7ipe6_CodOhnTe_eW0A5hLKHLA1WC_K6OR4_u15OT3LoKFKDQZpsr3niMILHzNfQu9ZlyB8_L9MUBE3aHk0iASHYVjOHUF9EdMn1D-47Q1/s320/IMG_0428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-43249847674299586822013-11-01T10:34:00.000-04:002013-11-01T10:34:10.836-04:00Halloween 2014It was a dark and rainy night.... really. Summer braved the elements with her friends and had a great night of door-to-door fun. Though it was wet, it was quite warm and just one extra layer under her costume did the trick so she could run around to get her treats. There will be no shortage of chocolate or sugar in our house for some time to come...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7A02EaYxEIRMt3yLKBX8wZs9bPK7S8oiDuj3pF5SsoIsKC-BQHEUQjN89vdLhn5rVa6pNusE_YSnwNdC8B6TVk8RU7MKyQZLmsbe-oGzpBEkJQSH0rlnu2X3YogNQSy3dv3Zfu3aitib/s1600/2013+Halloween.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE7A02EaYxEIRMt3yLKBX8wZs9bPK7S8oiDuj3pF5SsoIsKC-BQHEUQjN89vdLhn5rVa6pNusE_YSnwNdC8B6TVk8RU7MKyQZLmsbe-oGzpBEkJQSH0rlnu2X3YogNQSy3dv3Zfu3aitib/s320/2013+Halloween.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-39858165789415451152013-09-30T10:40:00.000-04:002013-09-30T10:40:49.341-04:00Raising a Reader293! That is 293 minutes of reading, at home during the evenings and weekends, from September 5th to September 30th. The goal set by Summer's teacher was 150 minutes. I am really impressed at how quickly she is picking up new words. It is always a challenge to get her to want to read. Playing on the computer is SO much more fun, I am told. But I think she is starting to really feel successful. <br />
<br />
Yesterday my uncle John stopped in for an overnight visit. He is on his way home to Nelson, BC from Haliburton where he spent two months installing an amazing sculpture in the Haliburton Sculpture Forest next to Fleming College. It was a short visit but Summer was just as excited to see him, even though it has been a year since she saw him last. Below she demonstrates her reading expertise.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGVBvxhsuyi5DRnBEZAVZ2x5AdfmlqMLiVcMdQ7ScRJdJLDPDl4U-lTVevarVPmQwTkIiJ-B79T4ELDamqwlyrWZW8dy1AUWlr6W8AU94cySrcMr_ExBHWvrySgq73Gxi4ubnM-N6ELpA/s1600/IMG_3371%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGVBvxhsuyi5DRnBEZAVZ2x5AdfmlqMLiVcMdQ7ScRJdJLDPDl4U-lTVevarVPmQwTkIiJ-B79T4ELDamqwlyrWZW8dy1AUWlr6W8AU94cySrcMr_ExBHWvrySgq73Gxi4ubnM-N6ELpA/s320/IMG_3371%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-51275007225015250372013-09-05T10:15:00.000-04:002013-09-05T10:15:31.457-04:00Where has the summer gone?It seems our summer really started on July 10th when Don returned from his tour in Afghanistan. We are settling back into family routines nicely and some days it seems like he was never away.<br />
<br />
Our summer activities filled the days and weeks. A trip to BC to see our family, Daddy Daughter camping weekend in Temagami, birthday parties, road trips, play dates and beach time - then Wham! back to school arrived before we had time to blink.<br />
<br />
Summer started grade two this week. She continues to share an EA with Ethan who is in Grade 3, so she is fortunate to be in a 2/3 split. She is a well adjusted kid so it has not phased her. However, her bestie is not in her class this year and I think that is tough on both of them since they have been in the same class and daycare for 4 years. That is over half your life, when you are 7. <br />
<br />
Summer starts dance class again this year. She has chosen to do Jazz and Tapp. It will be a nice change from the Hip Hop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Rieb3CA_zErHCLExWE24Yn9wYEMlqFooVH9h_FGFD8dU9LPuNJKooEV4WB7IE7vcoK3pZb2VmozVnVuPptAZVuv_lLm94l_SJjKK9yveVGDF_g3n_DLOgF5paojR3ruxz3QcHq43dwwV/s1600/IMG_3235%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Rieb3CA_zErHCLExWE24Yn9wYEMlqFooVH9h_FGFD8dU9LPuNJKooEV4WB7IE7vcoK3pZb2VmozVnVuPptAZVuv_lLm94l_SJjKK9yveVGDF_g3n_DLOgF5paojR3ruxz3QcHq43dwwV/s320/IMG_3235%5B1%5D.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First day of school.</div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-87141923915385538972013-07-04T15:42:00.000-04:002013-07-04T15:42:05.120-04:00It's the Final Countdown... When I think of the final days of my year of 'single parenthood' the song by Europe, "The Final Countdown" comes in to my head and I want to perform a little air-guitar... <br />
<br />
It's been a long year. I haven't blogged about it or posted on Facebook, at the request of Don - not wanting to broadcast the fact that his family is is flying solo. Usually I blog about events etc. after they are completed, again another 'risk management strategy'. <br />
<br />
But we are in the final week. Finally. <br />
<br />
Summer and I are exstatic with excitiment and anticipation. The reality, I know, also includes a lengthy adjustment period that shouldn't be rushed. A wise person once told me "anything of value takes time". So we'll take our time.<br />
<br />
Summer asks me everyday "what day is it?" "what are we doing tomorrow, and the next day, and the next day - and then is time for Daddy to come home?" She is focussed.<br />
<br />
I, in the meantime am reassigning closet space, trying to get a grip on the house work, yard work and make it at least look like we have been coping like a couple of pros. When really, I just learned to let a few (ok, a lot of) things go. I'm sure home is going to feel like home to Don, even if a little disheveled. <br />
<br />
I am extremely grateful for my immediate support network that includes, to name a few; my neighbours Barb and Vera who have helped me out with babysitting, garbage runs, stoking the fire, yard work, shovelling snow, a few of MANY favours. And John and Neenee also pitched in for babysitting and responding to any crisis I needed help with at any given time. They share our cat George who likes to frequent their home so it is easy for us to be away and not worry about him. My bestie, Karen has helped me survive. I mean survive... Great company, great cook (she bakes too! - I do not!), great runner, great mother, great friend. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoha64Hhyz4IOiunjCKa71r0jEHF1qduoyNTUPSanDLAkrJA-hkaPpOk2uw8znb5gfTf3Hwjc_kztAy5_JwPXuaU7BhI0Pj6kXuJ9085ksqt7jQ-46ukTEUAm3gRfsbUzE2knIGIJVVNFH/s1600/IMG_2731%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oya="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoha64Hhyz4IOiunjCKa71r0jEHF1qduoyNTUPSanDLAkrJA-hkaPpOk2uw8znb5gfTf3Hwjc_kztAy5_JwPXuaU7BhI0Pj6kXuJ9085ksqt7jQ-46ukTEUAm3gRfsbUzE2knIGIJVVNFH/s320/IMG_2731%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We haven't been able to send Don any parcels for a couple of months. He has a lot of reading to catch up on - AKA - Summer's art, school work and report cards.Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-44871046494572221662013-06-21T11:03:00.000-04:002013-06-21T11:03:15.275-04:00Golf For KidsNext week I will be officially voted in as a board member/volunteer for our children’s treatment centre, One Kids Place. It is an honour for me to be invited to serve an organization that has had a huge impact on our family and continues to support Summer’s progress. <br />
<br /><br />
Yesterday OKP hosted their 1st Annual Golf Tournament. Their title sponsor was our new OHL team, the North Bay Battalion. Summer was asked to perform some duties during the dinner; drawing tickets and presenting the trophy to the winning team. She brought her A-Game and was delightful. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8BI0I4ULhx4CBcZqlDn5avY9FNs4oNmQpIT9A0wAZQ2wt8NltHq3p41m7jJFHAv4_yF6xP4nWwkubaMZOMyPQZx1o-UMQfZlPdbcvvdIwxB9LPDRb7T2Hu-n-q8l64QZlSmBhYCxrKze/s1600/IMG_2758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8BI0I4ULhx4CBcZqlDn5avY9FNs4oNmQpIT9A0wAZQ2wt8NltHq3p41m7jJFHAv4_yF6xP4nWwkubaMZOMyPQZx1o-UMQfZlPdbcvvdIwxB9LPDRb7T2Hu-n-q8l64QZlSmBhYCxrKze/s320/IMG_2758.JPG" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the 'Summer & Scott Show'</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOesrjijW15EhWJ6oshE3A24AshVuFY-wN9YxDrexD8WhGmbj2nWmi8Y5779t7M6du9aCuSkwuDzbqCYuNAvjcICBSAJnpPI-Id9wKLbQfqNUzg2FBDqG6iPpfh2CeSQ-ZRz6-NQtJMEH/s1600/IMG_2756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOesrjijW15EhWJ6oshE3A24AshVuFY-wN9YxDrexD8WhGmbj2nWmi8Y5779t7M6du9aCuSkwuDzbqCYuNAvjcICBSAJnpPI-Id9wKLbQfqNUzg2FBDqG6iPpfh2CeSQ-ZRz6-NQtJMEH/s320/IMG_2756.JPG" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dinner with the Mayor</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwTPe2nOwDVSs-q0SzSvc249pNXDUm_jSQjApk84W3UpjEpKKNiF15uQ0IPCGGUiJni8siCtJrBcUu3oHOdjchZLfxcO9MBmALESdKEoTVHX4gKbWIDSNY6hEcWZSmDTvubvCU-W2kxOe8/s1600/IMG_2780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwTPe2nOwDVSs-q0SzSvc249pNXDUm_jSQjApk84W3UpjEpKKNiF15uQ0IPCGGUiJni8siCtJrBcUu3oHOdjchZLfxcO9MBmALESdKEoTVHX4gKbWIDSNY6hEcWZSmDTvubvCU-W2kxOe8/s320/IMG_2780.JPG" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Presenting the Kilgour Cup </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br />She joined me on the last hole of the course and putted on the green. Unfortunately, she putts like her mom – not well. Just the same she enjoyed the ride on the golf cart with the Mayor and me.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPqnr9Zh2InouRdz4mXkZyjjD5p5IwkBXP3OvYx_rEYEwKcCRttacjAjCKlGlQUnjXW2UleFsEExfDpvPFaFVOmucdOK7M79P7nK_L2uq3TU3PlOw6X5DsM0Z1A99AvQzJiHBAy9XlAI5/s1600/IMG_2753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPqnr9Zh2InouRdz4mXkZyjjD5p5IwkBXP3OvYx_rEYEwKcCRttacjAjCKlGlQUnjXW2UleFsEExfDpvPFaFVOmucdOK7M79P7nK_L2uq3TU3PlOw6X5DsM0Z1A99AvQzJiHBAy9XlAI5/s320/IMG_2753.JPG" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
the Last Hole</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
During dinner they held a live auction. Matt Duchene from the Colorado Avalanche attended the tournament and approached us during the dinner. One of the auction items was a ride in a ‘cigarette boat’ on Trout Lake. He thought Summer would enjoy that and asked if it was ok if he bid on it for her. I responded that she would love it, but really, it would be great if he ‘ran up the bid’ to raise more money in the room. He laughed and returned to his table. Matt won the item after a mini bidding war with one of the course owners. He humbly stood up and said “I am really happy I won this bid because my new friend Summer will really enjoy the ride.” The room erupted in applause and Summer leaped with excitement. Matt is quite the ambassador for the NHL and as a Battalion Alum. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4equcJLdJbmd7G2NtrNNaAYu0GIFzZotJhFiFtlHGZDW8YBfNGfvAQZHVeLv2lMzqv14U4lm-pacN_YH7v8zjiJC4g04ABWuRwWqxv2Yykv4m5uNP0fOf7klsK9M2ixQwpATGhE969RXE/s1600/IMG_2784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4equcJLdJbmd7G2NtrNNaAYu0GIFzZotJhFiFtlHGZDW8YBfNGfvAQZHVeLv2lMzqv14U4lm-pacN_YH7v8zjiJC4g04ABWuRwWqxv2Yykv4m5uNP0fOf7klsK9M2ixQwpATGhE969RXE/s320/IMG_2784.JPG" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
Matt presents Summer with a Trout Lake Cruise</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Later in the auction, Summer bid on Matt Duchene’s game worn jersey from when he played with the Brampton Battalion (before they moved to North Bay). She won the bid and it was perfect timing for Don’s birthday present. When Scott asked her if she was going to wear it, she said “No! it’s for my Daddy!” He’ll have to wear it to the season opener.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing0H1pMJVkAF4s9qciFcHkl7k308nhR_IPAjb6ndprcQA8Bq7ECjrMIRU6YJ2MyLn0u0IwUq5sTadPGaGRtEJS7C0lGLbzKRr24dFVA1b7TNGChQGZJng8FXH4LIIXi5ShRokHyoiCZSo/s1600/IMG_2781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEing0H1pMJVkAF4s9qciFcHkl7k308nhR_IPAjb6ndprcQA8Bq7ECjrMIRU6YJ2MyLn0u0IwUq5sTadPGaGRtEJS7C0lGLbzKRr24dFVA1b7TNGChQGZJng8FXH4LIIXi5ShRokHyoiCZSo/s320/IMG_2781.JPG" width="320" wya="true" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Matt poses for a photo with his old jersey</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-6224215915845531402013-06-17T10:19:00.004-04:002013-06-18T08:29:55.551-04:00Reeling in the Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spent the afternoon at my neighbour's house with his grandsons. It's always a treat when they visit as Summer and the boys get along so well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Being a lefty has its own challenges - ask any lefty - the world is built for righties... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
However, being a lefty out of necessity presents a whole other set of challenges. In her usual fashion, Summer always finds a way to amaze me. Who needs to move the handle on the reel - just move the rod and the reel around the handle! (...and keep that tip up Summer!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/afwBdOQ_Sfo/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/afwBdOQ_Sfo?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/afwBdOQ_Sfo?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-10003118961085649522013-06-13T10:56:00.000-04:002013-06-13T10:56:21.979-04:00It Never Gets OldI never tire of watching Summer play in sports. She accomplishes skills at her own pace, in her own way. She was SO EXCITED to be the Back Catcher last night at Softball. She kept asking and asking me to ask her coach. But, I encouraged her to speak with her coach and advocate for herself, even though I was helping out with the batting order.<br />
<br />
So, last night was her opportunity. We suited her up in the protective gear and out she went. She had a tough time getting her glove on and off (she catches and throws with the same hand). Perhaps a little baby powder might help. Her toss back to the pitcher was consistent. The umpire taught her how to tag a player out at Home Plate - but he forgot to mention she needed to posess the ball first... so it was cute to watch her rush to home to tag out the runnner, sans ball. But then she understood. <br />
<br />
She hit two for two times at bat and made it to third both times.<br />
<br />
I'm also including a dance photo from her recital in May. I still need to load up some video.<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWF_6wNo11-TFU8uAsWtntYvhuXi8kqFEHDqvmg_IuJRmZfxfpUwX_ShkesJSH1hlzRopY1R-RuG8cuk2-7linMIZjLoaZ0iRbLdDdkZrs3HobyuqsxK8lprPFWFxSuBo7asXH3A5XMNiu/s1600/IMG_2724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWF_6wNo11-TFU8uAsWtntYvhuXi8kqFEHDqvmg_IuJRmZfxfpUwX_ShkesJSH1hlzRopY1R-RuG8cuk2-7linMIZjLoaZ0iRbLdDdkZrs3HobyuqsxK8lprPFWFxSuBo7asXH3A5XMNiu/s320/IMG_2724.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3m_V0a6Uy_j7Dan4LuI16x0q3dhntTo01v7ZPAy_Sn1Uq1z4FBpG7f0Q1HG7zOwIBG19-Ir9zTUtUUBt_S593xFyjz2TLTZSKz9Kn8oBwW0G6tZuYR4067cQzOPc4QHwygnbCZvGZQDdJ/s1600/IMG_2726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3m_V0a6Uy_j7Dan4LuI16x0q3dhntTo01v7ZPAy_Sn1Uq1z4FBpG7f0Q1HG7zOwIBG19-Ir9zTUtUUBt_S593xFyjz2TLTZSKz9Kn8oBwW0G6tZuYR4067cQzOPc4QHwygnbCZvGZQDdJ/s320/IMG_2726.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcj7BgcVeHlqRjAcWArrXt0Se_CKY9ANjLw4kJm6ZDfAd-tFSuuUcTPFRxF_-0i77JCLXVIFKIygVTgOWnrm_MUHOHM_hV-2Js3CtFMqmyaU-eGvCCfrKWzpk60ZMBCrYZImuudI3ofcUs/s1600/IMG_2636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" cya="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcj7BgcVeHlqRjAcWArrXt0Se_CKY9ANjLw4kJm6ZDfAd-tFSuuUcTPFRxF_-0i77JCLXVIFKIygVTgOWnrm_MUHOHM_hV-2Js3CtFMqmyaU-eGvCCfrKWzpk60ZMBCrYZImuudI3ofcUs/s320/IMG_2636.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-80134144936548368682013-05-30T08:27:00.003-04:002013-05-30T08:27:50.855-04:00Run Baby Run!It's ball season! Summer is playing Girls Softball this year. Her two besties are also on her team so it opens up a whole new dimension of fun for the girls. It's a longer season than baseball, but only once a week - which works much better for us. As well, last year she was the only girl on her team. Her coach is well organized and she makes sure firstly that the kids have fun and that they learn the rules of the game. <br />
<br />
Last night was our first game. Everyone had a chance to bat twice. Summer hit a single both times. She makes a proud mama everytime.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LK6B7eF_u00/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LK6B7eF_u00?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LK6B7eF_u00?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZaGf6rtW1qMoB-a4Rv0xyI1o08Vo9RVFNE_YovWhxUYDad6_iVFGSB8pdSjmRnN1rco4uU1vWz7VX-3FFptqDfbDDkrDozYrpM0rk4szVfMYYwL__o8GuEZAmz40b9NhKeJHXAKG46H9/s1600/IMG_2693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZaGf6rtW1qMoB-a4Rv0xyI1o08Vo9RVFNE_YovWhxUYDad6_iVFGSB8pdSjmRnN1rco4uU1vWz7VX-3FFptqDfbDDkrDozYrpM0rk4szVfMYYwL__o8GuEZAmz40b9NhKeJHXAKG46H9/s320/IMG_2693.JPG" width="320" yya="true" /></a></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-54297922937276386012013-05-09T16:12:00.000-04:002013-05-09T16:12:03.916-04:00May DaysOver the last month we have been enjoying the transition to spring. Actually, we went from a snow storm two weeks ago to mid 20's over the last week. Spring sprung and now it feels like summer. <br />
<br />
Summer had a botox appointment in late April and we continue to work on her range of motion in her leg. She was trooper for her 8 injections and this time she received some bravery beads from Dr. Jones. <br />
<br />
April and May have been very busy for me at work. It feels like I am depleting my 'favour bank' at an alarming rate with Summer needing sitters more often due to evening work. I am thankful to have a few close friends who continue to help us out. <br />
<br />
I took a day off work to spend with Summer and her friend Myah during one of the PA days. We did lots of girlie things including lunch out and getting their nails done. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiypV3Z6C59w8d0W3E-UIRmmm4CKOaoWz9-9OQZpLSCaC_cZkfXdV9MM_azfNuQnOAM38djvP4HjUj0D2RHbpZJaBKPChk_2L8zQAxim0GpI8LE2T_XKchyphenhyphenWDGf_U7uCrNsQ9uW_zy-7Gdj/s1600/IMG_2565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiypV3Z6C59w8d0W3E-UIRmmm4CKOaoWz9-9OQZpLSCaC_cZkfXdV9MM_azfNuQnOAM38djvP4HjUj0D2RHbpZJaBKPChk_2L8zQAxim0GpI8LE2T_XKchyphenhyphenWDGf_U7uCrNsQ9uW_zy-7Gdj/s320/IMG_2565.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_aNx44PLF6ZiW4NaVsYLU073lvzHpAZ7Pjs3MA2maiXin5wpnj9zulC4O0Mf-wMO34XqoxUv0uBIRhaVYoosM5VVwV9N9LlaVXVzGz_Jls4rEVbWvA_dv9e5VSM66DR9_TRJG5EEymHz/s1600/IMG_2566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_aNx44PLF6ZiW4NaVsYLU073lvzHpAZ7Pjs3MA2maiXin5wpnj9zulC4O0Mf-wMO34XqoxUv0uBIRhaVYoosM5VVwV9N9LlaVXVzGz_Jls4rEVbWvA_dv9e5VSM66DR9_TRJG5EEymHz/s320/IMG_2566.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-59869795651865319602013-04-09T14:17:00.000-04:002013-04-09T14:17:00.688-04:00The Appointment Run - 'Lotso' FunMonday morning's conversation with Summer: (we had several conversations like this over the past week).<br />
<br />
Summer: what appointments do I have today?<br />
Me: eyes and botox follow up.<br />
Summer: Do I have an X-Ray?<br />
Me: no<br />
Summer: How bout a CAT Scan?<br />
Me: no<br />
Summer: Do I get eye drops?<br />
Me: not this time, maybe in July... we'll see.<br />
Summer: Will Dr. Jones give me any needles?<br />
Me: not this time, but yes, in two weeks you get your needles.<br />
Summer: Are they going to give me that chocolate syrup?<br />
Me: Yes, definitely.<br />
Summer: oh. So I don't get eye drops today, are you sure?<br />
Me: Yes.<br />
<br />
We visited HSC Eye clinic and Summer had a great eye check-up. Her vision has increased from 20/60 to 20/30. They are very pleased and we only need to patch her left eye 3-4 times per week for 30 minutes to try to maintain her vision.<br />
<br />
Botox follow-up was as expected. Summer will receive injections in her leg and her bicep to try to reduce the contracture in her elbow and the spasticity in her soleus and gastrox. <br />
<br />
Summer has been collecting the Toy Story characters and we found 'Lotso' at the Disney Store. She spent her Easter money from Gramma (topped up by me :-)). She was disappointed that the 'Jessy' boots were not in her size, but she's been attached to Lotso for the past 24 hours. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaAJXJxQikMsnLhXL8qpjHk4WY-xsJxJ9nm_IWF8IhbnPYmKdOF1rzb4zeq-k39QBRw_wdqN6tdHtAoV96Us2u8vQ5u647EKZUK68AqoxLcNaqNvbPKKRNpgxW6BqXErBm6wKL2LPk_a0/s1600/Lotso.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bua="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaAJXJxQikMsnLhXL8qpjHk4WY-xsJxJ9nm_IWF8IhbnPYmKdOF1rzb4zeq-k39QBRw_wdqN6tdHtAoV96Us2u8vQ5u647EKZUK68AqoxLcNaqNvbPKKRNpgxW6BqXErBm6wKL2LPk_a0/s320/Lotso.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-74493937422382396822013-04-09T14:04:00.000-04:002013-04-09T14:04:20.346-04:00Road Runner's and Jet Setter'sWe've been 'on the road' for the last few weekends. We started our adventure with a trip to Hamilton where Summer made a few new friends, and I ran the 'Around the Bay' 30km run. We stayed with Karen's aunt and uncle and their family. It was quite a weekend and Karen, Meghan and I all met our running goals.<br />
<br />
The following weekend we headed to Vancouver to visit Julie, Selene and their families. We stayed for 5 days that included a lot of Easter activities, bouncing on the trampoline, trip to Granville Island, the Aquarium, Pacific Centre etc. It was so fun to reconnect with my girlfriends and their children. We also got to see Uncle Ted. Summer told her Dr. yesterday that "I don't like uncle Ted. He ate my mac and cheese. He said it was a bird, but he was the bird!!" She will get over it.<br />
<br />
This past weekend we combined so fun with the Toronto appointment run. We spent Saturday with our friends the Miller's in Whitby. It included a dinner party and lots of playtime for Summer with the kids. We then headed to Sara and Graeme's in Riverdale for Sunday night. Sara made us a delicious steak dinner and put us up in their very comfy guest room. I guess she wants us to stay again. And hopefully again, and again. We already miss Barb and Laurie, with whom we stayed in Bolton, and are in the process of relocating.<br />
<br />
Now, I think I have already written more than a posts worth... so I will stretch it into two, and give a rundown on Summer's Monday appointments.Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-62318845143282469732013-03-19T20:04:00.000-04:002013-03-19T20:17:57.316-04:00Tiny Milestones - Huge VictoriesThe first time I thought it was a fluke, now I know it is a skill -learned and burned. Summer can do up her own coat! She's pretty pleased with herself, not half as I am. I believe her EA is the real victor, she seems to have more success in getting her to try new things and to persevere with her independence skills.<br />
<br />
Summer's reading is really coming along. Each night she reads me one of her books. (Usually Hello Kitty of course) and then I read her one in return. It's a good routine. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-82458067213109597762013-03-11T20:22:00.001-04:002013-03-12T05:50:52.537-04:00Fame, Fun & Flying Time<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">The other day I was contacted by a researcher in the UK to ask permission to use two of Summer's photos from my blog in his conference presentation on orthotics and gross motor development. After some verification, I gave permission (really he didn't even HAVE to ask) and regardless, we are happy to contribute to the body of knowledge in any way we can. </span><br />
<br />
I know most bloggers go through 'dry spells'. It's not that there is nothing to write about. Time has been flying by in our house as we distract ourselves with our schedule. Household chores and winter seems to fill in the gaps between time with friends, play dates, dance class, shopping, and of course work. I've had several evening gigs in the last few weeks and it wears both of us out. <br />
<br />
Summer is in daycare for spring break as we already had an amazing holiday this winter. She is having fun. Today she told me: "when we walk to the Capitol Centre I will hold Jace's hand, because he is my Love". I guess Ethan has some competition! It's adorable. And frightening.<br />
<br />
At this point we are half way through our 'flying solo' time. I know as the weather improves we will see time pass even quicker. A welcome change of season, a welcome change of pace.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-57197884735005134082013-02-15T14:37:00.000-05:002013-02-15T14:47:09.359-05:00Absentee - On vacationI have been meaning to write a post for weeks... now I realize it is actually months.... where has the time gone -I know that is cliche... but really, where did it go.<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
So this will bring you up to speed:</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
First of all, Happy New Year~! </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Second, Happy Valentines Day~!</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Here's to the long weekend, Family day!</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Two weeks ago, Summer and I returned from an epic vacation in Australia, where we spent three weeks with Don, travelling to Cairns, Ayers Rock, Sydney, and a FANTASTIC week in Forster, near the beach at Trent and Lara's (Don's cousin).</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
It is hard to pick out a highlight as each place had something pretty special about it. It was an opportunity of a lifetime and we made the most of it. Both Don and I did a 10km run - around Ayers Rock. I know many people choose to experience things differently - that is how we wanted to. We made up for the 2 hours of bordom that Summer experienced while we tag-team parented, and took a sunset Camel ride tour the following evening. She loved it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYmmYDGcKDAhqIWGQxGGsuM0uh0ota_22aeb2hy7pkjeKxeInPUx_rq4aycViCYDk3qERCq2I32xWBCMejjIqTRDTeAdD0vql3BlznzOFWQxS4jA4EwmpQuEaF31w1ON5bRoB0eDtzfY6/s1600/camel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYmmYDGcKDAhqIWGQxGGsuM0uh0ota_22aeb2hy7pkjeKxeInPUx_rq4aycViCYDk3qERCq2I32xWBCMejjIqTRDTeAdD0vql3BlznzOFWQxS4jA4EwmpQuEaF31w1ON5bRoB0eDtzfY6/s320/camel.JPG" uea="true" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeeIoSWMFkIJ-jyMgzgAIpaz1fHb5uN4UZrB9SW0rkVp5wod6IdDJb2WTUILSavnFJmhk4ljSCst1FBRcDZ1omV7qYhJDXwMfy6EUJ1RX8qtOqPkSUvOPPOa9bAozMtwoj5SslK-SvXkTF/s1600/opera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeeIoSWMFkIJ-jyMgzgAIpaz1fHb5uN4UZrB9SW0rkVp5wod6IdDJb2WTUILSavnFJmhk4ljSCst1FBRcDZ1omV7qYhJDXwMfy6EUJ1RX8qtOqPkSUvOPPOa9bAozMtwoj5SslK-SvXkTF/s320/opera.jpg" uea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We are particularly grateful that we got to spend so much quality time with Lara and Trent (who is now fondly referred to as Unkie Trent - by all of us :-) ) They took us surfing (Trent Surfs, we boogie boarded), visited the Billabong Zoo, celebrated Australia Day, Kyacked on the great lakes, ran the beautiful running trails, hiked the booti booti trail, spent time on the beach, and even helped the brewmaster, Trent on Beer Night. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDlA429MYhyrm8Hq_fV9eHDWhJJWr2OffibuGDxEy6d_idMoblMRxYXjv89G7Z16z3YOxPX9p3cg20DRIAnRp953cinryRJhM4SUvlE5_46huWaEqBmiZPjqWyt7Y7j-hKx9q7rkl5ok6/s1600/Koala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDlA429MYhyrm8Hq_fV9eHDWhJJWr2OffibuGDxEy6d_idMoblMRxYXjv89G7Z16z3YOxPX9p3cg20DRIAnRp953cinryRJhM4SUvlE5_46huWaEqBmiZPjqWyt7Y7j-hKx9q7rkl5ok6/s320/Koala.jpg" uea="true" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-0gRGt34oodzA25yb2_vnqbSho96r1WffmMOTqNv7qBzmzNf9lRLNWgGB6RF6POrKCx8rX5VldvgsbKr6s-nJ3yI9w9eOfTLyOnsCznkC3paHcXmENsf8unCDW1NUdLqXyGgr-YiCdZl/s1600/ayers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-0gRGt34oodzA25yb2_vnqbSho96r1WffmMOTqNv7qBzmzNf9lRLNWgGB6RF6POrKCx8rX5VldvgsbKr6s-nJ3yI9w9eOfTLyOnsCznkC3paHcXmENsf8unCDW1NUdLqXyGgr-YiCdZl/s320/ayers.JPG" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwuSCYnM6h2730k1DF6wT87-W__wDYLUr0h40K9mo9wqXjFDzMAJ5FN5jLz_aHDnOuEHTG5eG0cxvcDL8SSEfJnPOzNTA5K8JDruCDAOdgRaMk8NZF5sUWhBzloDjlx1VXD29evVxVF_m/s1600/dingo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwuSCYnM6h2730k1DF6wT87-W__wDYLUr0h40K9mo9wqXjFDzMAJ5FN5jLz_aHDnOuEHTG5eG0cxvcDL8SSEfJnPOzNTA5K8JDruCDAOdgRaMk8NZF5sUWhBzloDjlx1VXD29evVxVF_m/s320/dingo.JPG" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQR21sAMGk55boPwk4nQYKLmWwyvZgC3rzqyKLIfj2HzKbJMxo7cyqbD86UmdHcp4_d-iK7p0gzcyDJKARTP6Yp5NCKg57o1p-CAVMzHr8Kuft9b1pXWH3Rbg_fOhXEJ4-9tz9drmMlAC/s1600/billabong.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQR21sAMGk55boPwk4nQYKLmWwyvZgC3rzqyKLIfj2HzKbJMxo7cyqbD86UmdHcp4_d-iK7p0gzcyDJKARTP6Yp5NCKg57o1p-CAVMzHr8Kuft9b1pXWH3Rbg_fOhXEJ4-9tz9drmMlAC/s320/billabong.JPG" uea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Once we returned to the Sydney Airport, our family became divided again and we returned to Canada on Feb 3rd.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Barb and Laurie ferried us to and from the airport and we managed to fit in a bit of a visit on either end. Thankfully they never seem to tire of seeing Summer. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We are back to the proverbial grind. Week 2 now, and our jetlag is finally beginning to subside. I felt quite overwhelmed when we returned home. I was so lonely and I realized I have to cook, make lunches, clean, haul wood, work, and train. But we are returning to our routines and getting back to normal. </div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYVoCs74jTsfEqizPxUWyU5t6_lBWxRkrec7RlTjoEekKphVJBbrXT9Mon_VMFPm9ZFiRceXfEq774NAinyS1b5qrJv1HC_8XIzkGPwU_NE3Ja90A2eJYCsg2ryJPrApWFDF_0BuRX32s/s1600/koala+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYVoCs74jTsfEqizPxUWyU5t6_lBWxRkrec7RlTjoEekKphVJBbrXT9Mon_VMFPm9ZFiRceXfEq774NAinyS1b5qrJv1HC_8XIzkGPwU_NE3Ja90A2eJYCsg2ryJPrApWFDF_0BuRX32s/s320/koala+2.jpg" uea="true" width="240" /></a>Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-86516828251628295942012-12-28T10:23:00.000-05:002012-12-28T10:26:28.854-05:00Merry Christmas!Twas a Christmas 'sans Daddy' but all turned out well. <br />
Spending it with the Bunton's gave us some stories to tell.<br />
<br />
Considered both family and friends they're so great,<br />
We had presents, fun and the turkey got ate!<br />
<br />
Lisa, Stephen, Graeme, Sara and Francesca came,<br />
Two flew from Van, two from Toronto and Spain! (or was it Norway... well, Norway doesn't rhyme...)<br />
<br />
Summer and I rounded out the crowd,<br />
And an early Christmas morning was totally allowed. (Sorry L & S!)<br />
<br />
Hours of presents, more food and fun.<br />
I even took in a Christmas Day run.<br />
<br />
Boxing Day brought the whole Standen Clan,<br />
A fun lunch visit and then they all ran. <br />
<br />
We all missed Sum's Daddy, but we knew he was OK.<br />
Even though we couldn't spend with him the day.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdIiTZ7yH5u2IflZHphzZ1H8JWTaGcRv2IyPHLYcYJ1JOiUf8RLTY1WtRRQjTvJHgdb_55TP3X_L1WzLkD0Dn4yKB83woANAaE6HaZWSfreFoZHXJwJviepXV9pQoIUzuhmW7tVv-cRBY_/s1600/IMG_1650%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdIiTZ7yH5u2IflZHphzZ1H8JWTaGcRv2IyPHLYcYJ1JOiUf8RLTY1WtRRQjTvJHgdb_55TP3X_L1WzLkD0Dn4yKB83woANAaE6HaZWSfreFoZHXJwJviepXV9pQoIUzuhmW7tVv-cRBY_/s320/IMG_1650%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknS7DIvy1W-_8jEduL9jc3r0VjeXKgMny9bdv1zJz19l3CYx52Z-TeVENOZnaVN8w0jc384TjgNXkBor-sIJ1Fmzu1BE0o5Inb7atu-EguMOsKUvo7yGE_P7Pls-6n0QVrbOuTLakbuNX/s1600/IMG_1637%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknS7DIvy1W-_8jEduL9jc3r0VjeXKgMny9bdv1zJz19l3CYx52Z-TeVENOZnaVN8w0jc384TjgNXkBor-sIJ1Fmzu1BE0o5Inb7atu-EguMOsKUvo7yGE_P7Pls-6n0QVrbOuTLakbuNX/s320/IMG_1637%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVV75lwri_Uk-Eh-urjnxhQnRxYmJVEHVER4L0tU1yINT4LqwpEKjrVDU5zRm5MpkD3SzkBxvNbKHFwaeYJiBh-0uGhJEW_NCiliaDelXT6jQ2nSTo-WCQfxYGWpYrk4gYkx6xNN4U8zE4/s1600/IMG_1639%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVV75lwri_Uk-Eh-urjnxhQnRxYmJVEHVER4L0tU1yINT4LqwpEKjrVDU5zRm5MpkD3SzkBxvNbKHFwaeYJiBh-0uGhJEW_NCiliaDelXT6jQ2nSTo-WCQfxYGWpYrk4gYkx6xNN4U8zE4/s320/IMG_1639%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBvCEpwi53rGtLXKMuHH1fOYsQkuKKrPTAOoDrvKOavYCIWyprk_KwAU2wD6vz4wlDypBV0HBur0bckZT6XS0SiJCqgF94f_ohNws_i0fldm61zVkYaT3OLoC8LDSipXlNAC9t0NvyZ-T/s1600/IMG_1620%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBvCEpwi53rGtLXKMuHH1fOYsQkuKKrPTAOoDrvKOavYCIWyprk_KwAU2wD6vz4wlDypBV0HBur0bckZT6XS0SiJCqgF94f_ohNws_i0fldm61zVkYaT3OLoC8LDSipXlNAC9t0NvyZ-T/s320/IMG_1620%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxponP5ksUmOQhTvqYrnjVy9lZvFAP-_ywyYA_vINjJvS-NTgmWxb00YNV_Br05v_BON9z7kdgWU9FV2m8mTFzAjpuJfSl_ROz4I6cO6Sfjun86ucaFKziRKP7wZdDd3bc5kuHh0i76Bm/s1600/photo+(51).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxponP5ksUmOQhTvqYrnjVy9lZvFAP-_ywyYA_vINjJvS-NTgmWxb00YNV_Br05v_BON9z7kdgWU9FV2m8mTFzAjpuJfSl_ROz4I6cO6Sfjun86ucaFKziRKP7wZdDd3bc5kuHh0i76Bm/s320/photo+(51).JPG" width="312" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPGZ2Wo7sQbSyGaLO3TL0QoDwwFC8NC5ONzb-rqJ6kL-t8Ixr9aa4Z1Kn2SvqwP4ODuIMaylOxscm269s7V_9D00YhBuL3mKb9D9xQ9X_liurIqReGBSspdC2VwjRZuI3T2jI5WtqsKif/s1600/photo+(52).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPGZ2Wo7sQbSyGaLO3TL0QoDwwFC8NC5ONzb-rqJ6kL-t8Ixr9aa4Z1Kn2SvqwP4ODuIMaylOxscm269s7V_9D00YhBuL3mKb9D9xQ9X_liurIqReGBSspdC2VwjRZuI3T2jI5WtqsKif/s320/photo+(52).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-48339305885869004172012-12-21T14:37:00.002-05:002012-12-21T14:37:39.797-05:00Ready or Not, Here Comes Santa!We're winding down the final week of school before the Christmas Break. Yesterday was Summer's Christmas Concert at her school. It was quite entertaining, if not a little lengthy. The choir was the last act, so sneaking out before the end of the two hour show was definitely not an option.<br />
<br />
We are capping off the week with a sleep over with Sum's bestie before we begin our week of Christmas Festivities with the Bunton clan. <br />
<br />
I didn't manage to get all my Christmas cards done, but I did get the shopping completed and I think I am ready for the big guy. Summer and I put up a small three foot Christmas tree. It turned out to be a really good idea because she decided that she would put one decoration on each day. If I put the big tree up, it would have taken us until 2014 to get it decorated. <br />
<br />
I will post pictures from the concert - like everything else, I am behind with downloading the camera... <br />
<br />
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-27707675994517298492012-12-14T08:22:00.000-05:002012-12-14T08:23:37.520-05:00With TeddybearThis morning Summer was obsessed with having her Teddybear under her shirt like a baby. As we are leaving the house she told me to hurry, she did not want to be late for work. OK. This continued all the way to school. On the way she informed me that her husband is sitting in the front seat. I ascertained that his name is Joseph. OK, so you know where this is going. The Christmas Story is alive and well at our house!<br />
<br />
Bridgette at her before and after program had a good giggle over it and I hope the rest of the teachers are in the same humour today.<br />
<br />
Some days, you just never know what you are going to get.Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-11697076084866171072012-12-08T17:46:00.002-05:002012-12-08T17:46:48.708-05:00Haley Fest 2012Haley Fest kicks off the Christmas season in our City. Summer's school sang on Tuesday evening at the Capitol Centre.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/rsKisDCYYs4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-33713550452304721242012-12-06T14:22:00.001-05:002012-12-06T14:22:44.613-05:00When Normal is Extraordinary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our last appointment. Tuesday morning we headed to Sunnybrook. Our second day in a row in rush hour traffic, I wondered to myself how others cope. Having anticipated the time well, we arrived with 15 minutes to spare. We parked, entered the lobby and were delighted to see that the Sunnybrook Foundation had installed Summer's photo at the top of a panel in their donor wall. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHzuNENkPf65MWkxnao-Su2zE5P-antEfny5WzJQO9qQo5h-qCvcvYpMW2viThG1vHWbepxWN4RuHr5jkgPJSR437s94usPZq5KFfXgRap-HtzUSRQpB7ipDjrEVCs5yWcZD_k4MPzhHf/s1600/IMG_3311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHzuNENkPf65MWkxnao-Su2zE5P-antEfny5WzJQO9qQo5h-qCvcvYpMW2viThG1vHWbepxWN4RuHr5jkgPJSR437s94usPZq5KFfXgRap-HtzUSRQpB7ipDjrEVCs5yWcZD_k4MPzhHf/s320/IMG_3311.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We snapped a few photos, grabbed a coffee and headed up to the NICU Follow Up Clinic. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is always wonderful to be greeted by familiar faces. Summer told me earlier that she could not wait to see Dr. Church. She was the first we got to visit with and also Maureen and Pat. The Psychologist introduced himself and they let me know that Summer would be assessed and I was not allowed to watch. During her assessment (which I think was in excess of an hour), I sat with a volunteer and went through a survey and information gathering exercise. I was a little concerned that Summer was a bit tired and may not perform to her potential.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When the assessment team emerged, we had a debrief while Summer played with the volunteer. They were sure to tell me all the funny things she said - good blog material - but I did not write it down... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We will receive a full report, but in a nutshell, Summer scored within <strong>normal ranges</strong> in all categories. She scored low-average in categorization, puzzles and cause and effect. That said we NEVER leave the Follow Up Clinic with no homework. So we will work on the suggestions over the next while.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The team seemed pretty pleased with her. This is her last formal assessment at Sunnybrook, unless we need their help or advocacy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been quite a ride and we have had the great fortune of being a part of the Sunnybrook (formerly Women's College) NICU family. Their passion and dedication is reflected in the progress and outcomes of kids like Summer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3532190089742343070.post-91922424707009338182012-12-05T15:28:00.001-05:002012-12-05T16:57:46.144-05:00Appointment UpdateThere seems to be so much happening so little time to write about it. So, here is the Reader's Digest version of the last couple of weeks:<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
1. Dearest Friend Heather Graduates (finally! - It would have taken me twice the amount of time to get a degree in English Lit.... ) We attended her party in Uxbridge that was complete with delicious dinner, beautiful music and a video greeting from Chef Michael Smith. (Heather is also a foodie blogger <a href="http://noshwithnash.wordpress.com/">Nosh With Nash</a>) We were honoured to be among her guests of family, friends and former bosses. We had lots of laughs and even a few tears. She's one amazing woman.</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiEvxgPGmfFAvqvxcOCvfSeovv-u5YQ7gZIjvrPg2wNYNVkHdjKXerTqmp-EbqtlYlEN70otlB1hdLbkzmN640wL8DXM1M8JeFv5fsr3tnkCB7cX2CyqwuB0ShHX8FxtuF7xWFAiGnw_M/s1600/IMG_3304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiEvxgPGmfFAvqvxcOCvfSeovv-u5YQ7gZIjvrPg2wNYNVkHdjKXerTqmp-EbqtlYlEN70otlB1hdLbkzmN640wL8DXM1M8JeFv5fsr3tnkCB7cX2CyqwuB0ShHX8FxtuF7xWFAiGnw_M/s320/IMG_3304.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11OXVt-sfau9zcK3bqF3jTk8mNWKq1RL4t1wasCHcFZlA4-vrPfvNjgPk6Qc8FKOTwd0qW2o0AjDy9ZCTi6r6Z6vBGZ52ORDlwHQbs1o_RmTNLgezoPzxJoKZ2fDW1zHMNTP1LlYkd4k7/s1600/IMG_3302%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11OXVt-sfau9zcK3bqF3jTk8mNWKq1RL4t1wasCHcFZlA4-vrPfvNjgPk6Qc8FKOTwd0qW2o0AjDy9ZCTi6r6Z6vBGZ52ORDlwHQbs1o_RmTNLgezoPzxJoKZ2fDW1zHMNTP1LlYkd4k7/s320/IMG_3302%5B1%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Summer and Kirstie, Heather's Daugther</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
2. Summer had her MRI on Saturday. She layed still for the 75 minute scan and did not fuss once. I was very proud of her. I was quite worried about this scan for a variety of reasons. Firstly, we are always wondering if this will be the time the Dr. recommends a shunt revision. That alone is big. Secondly, this time he asked that the head, neck AND spine be scanned. I know they were 'looking for swelling', but you never know what else they will find. So, of course, given that we had discussed some concerns around the space at the base of her cerebellum in May, my mind also went to a variety 'what ifs'. I am very happy to report that there was NO change in her MRI image from May. So, although we are constantly reminded what shunt failure symptoms present as, we are much relieved, that for now, it is status quo. (This information we received at our Monday follow up appointment, so I appologize for getting a little out of sequence.)</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_hmezYGCgjBpMcD2aI5mo84FC7LaxPZtRGgIgjnH3YYxwu_AXYdRrIBGcU7h68-FspHEoPbUcTDNj7Fczq89LDFas70dQr4zKrtDoEtob44vtif-tjz1OE3ybwYFgd_mAkeBYHX8CqUZ/s1600/MRI.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_hmezYGCgjBpMcD2aI5mo84FC7LaxPZtRGgIgjnH3YYxwu_AXYdRrIBGcU7h68-FspHEoPbUcTDNj7Fczq89LDFas70dQr4zKrtDoEtob44vtif-tjz1OE3ybwYFgd_mAkeBYHX8CqUZ/s320/MRI.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. After Summer's scan, we headed to the German Christmas Festival in the Distillary district, where we met up with cousins Graeme and Sara, and Sara's father Allan. It was cold. Summer has a very cute connection with Sara and as usual, was to her like a magnet. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehNDrIJZ_D8_tKkfdfaURhgLRYfzR-5xzF5x_M6VP2Bx35buu96IUn_uN1DcQg_NsUywUkQjOqfLthyphenhyphenWAudH0TPuVHFrYEKZywztNDllYc3S_gNhhYFtrsJx3K_VBHYaes_CYOg6qck4-/s1600/Sara.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehNDrIJZ_D8_tKkfdfaURhgLRYfzR-5xzF5x_M6VP2Bx35buu96IUn_uN1DcQg_NsUywUkQjOqfLthyphenhyphenWAudH0TPuVHFrYEKZywztNDllYc3S_gNhhYFtrsJx3K_VBHYaes_CYOg6qck4-/s320/Sara.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrnHObMEyL2LzbjFPumIS_CFu6VhodaxK82K5DMwa37SdkDwhyxmG9HEc9TkhFEmucEqbNBc3ChodZi1h_3y57c0xt8Essel3b5C2ckfNPYFkqY247dvOpno1JdKIuV4JtbDs5C6sWhP7/s1600/ginger+house3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrnHObMEyL2LzbjFPumIS_CFu6VhodaxK82K5DMwa37SdkDwhyxmG9HEc9TkhFEmucEqbNBc3ChodZi1h_3y57c0xt8Essel3b5C2ckfNPYFkqY247dvOpno1JdKIuV4JtbDs5C6sWhP7/s320/ginger+house3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
4. On Sunday, we took in a movie with our very close friends, Matthew, Eric, Emilie and Elise Miller. The kids had a great time and it was nice to have a quick visit.</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpfX1OdqbBSbXgz4e5mRYDUe8dxK9wV9igbHtIvQYR9hhPKA9oA8Ps-qJhAcyqdL9rJQusJkKDglaCop2zod_YIX8Az5SZtUkSKTUlswIN2POEOyeCz_S1WkR6f8ILRmQER9YsDy6dW81/s1600/millers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpfX1OdqbBSbXgz4e5mRYDUe8dxK9wV9igbHtIvQYR9hhPKA9oA8Ps-qJhAcyqdL9rJQusJkKDglaCop2zod_YIX8Az5SZtUkSKTUlswIN2POEOyeCz_S1WkR6f8ILRmQER9YsDy6dW81/s320/millers.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
5. Monday was another day focussed on appointments. Summer had the Neurosurgery Follow Up clinic. See above, re: MRI results. I was also able to schedule her eye appointment from January to Monday afternoon. I was so grateful to reduce my trips to Sick Kids by 1. We were even in and out of Eye Clinic in a record 35 minutes. Unheard of really. Between the two appointments we took in a lunch at the Kebab House with Dear friend Heather - AKA the Graduate :-) and then we got to hang out in her office at Sick Kids for a bit. She introduced Summer to Miffy on her computer - the Dutch equivalent to Hello Kitty. Summer was delighted. I wonder what the IT guys at Sick Kids were thinking.... "who the heck is accessing the Miffy site??"</div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
6. Tuesday - another appointment.... I will save for the next post.</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Summer Lynnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08250700108070370659noreply@blogger.com0