MY LIFE.....

New Post!!!!

2011-11-24T21:01:00.000-08:00

Can't believe its been almost a year since I posted on here, first of all I am sorry that it is taking me so long to post something and I really have no excuses. But alot has happened over the past 11 months. I have had 2 surgeries, one of them was Dec 20th of last year, it was a life changing surgery that has made my life so much better. I had gastric bypass and so far I have lost about 157 pounds depending on whose scales I stand on. My marriage has improved and we even renewed our wedding vows on our anniversary, my oldest is a high school graduate and is taking a few college classes now. And that makes me feel so old!! My middle son, the one with autism is doing amazing, and my youngest has found God is going to be baptized on Christmas day!!! I also was recently baptized as well, God has really changed my life so much. Well that is the short version of what has been going on in my life, I will try to post more often. Also I was able to finally meet some of my birth fathers family. It was great, still have to meet some more including some half siblings, I never imagined that I would ever get to meet them, but so happy that I am getting a chance to know some family of my birth father. Will post more again soon!!!!

Updates, holidays, and changes...

2010-12-08T18:10:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been along time since I have blogged...and so much has happened. I am homeschooling my oldest, well actually he is enrolled in a virtual on line high school, so it does most of the teaching. And I am 5 weeks out from having spinal surgery, on my c4-c5 disk. I had a spinal fusion and diskectomy done..and on the 20th of December I am having gastric bypass surgery...I have to admit that I am a little nervous, excited and scared all at the same time. I really want to loose this weight and be healthy again. I had gave up soda and started eating less and lost 28 pounds, but have gained 2 of them back, because when I found out my surgery date I started drinking soda and eating things I shouldn't, guess I panicked. But I am hoping it is just the holidays stressing me out.

My kids are growing like crazy, and are now young men, not mommy's babies anymore. I love them so much!! Money is tight and me missing all this work is not helping my stress level, although I do not miss my job at the hospital. I am also in the process of getting my insurance license, I have already passed my state exam and now I wait on the state to do there part. Guess I going for a career change along with my lifestyle change with my surgery...hope I can handle it all.

And on a more personal note, I have tracked my family on my fathers site, I don't know my father and never had. But according to my birth mother, and his ex-wife, and his brother, and now my half siblings I was told I needed to stay aware from him. So I am just enjoying getting to know my uncle and half siblings. I always hated being an only child, so now I have a chance to get to know brothers and sisters...I am excited and scared....but this has been something I have wanted all my life. So many new adventures are to be gone after in 2011...and I hope and pray that 2011 is so much better than 2010.

Peace and love I will try to post more often....

My first step

2010-07-21T14:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, was a big day for me, I started the process to have gastric bypass surgery...I am so excited and scared....I have been thinking about this for a while...and made the decision to do it...everyone please wish me luck and say a prayer.

I almost wish I could do it and get it over with, but it is a long process, it could take 6 or more months to even get my surgery date...I will keep everyone posted.....

I think the hardest part of this will be giving up soda.....OMG...I really need help with that...

Its been a long time....

2010-07-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I have posted anything on here.....kinda lost my interest in blogging..and really much of anything else...still hate my job, kids are growing up so fast, me and the husband are still together, things are ok.....just trying to take things day by day....spend a lot of time on facebook...I will try to get back into blogging again,....TJ is doing better, went to his autism doctor today...they are adding a new medicine to help with his anxiety issues...so keep your fingers crossed for us.....Michael the oldest is trying to stay out of trouble, homeschooling is doing good,,just trying to keep him motivated....hope everyone is doing well....

Just venting!!!!

2010-02-08T13:35:00.000-08:00

TJ all he does is scream anymore....I am really tired of the screaming.....grrrrr..(gotta love autism).....
Plus I work with a bunch on crazy people....isn't it funny when you work with people older than you and they act like your kids....another grrrrrr!!
And please this is the south no more snow or cold weather I am ready for it to go away......
sorry had to vent...

It has been awhile....

2010-02-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

ok...I know it has been ahile since I have been on here.....but life it so freakn' busy anymore....so here is the FYI.....
I am likeing my new job more and more....and I have started school again.....but I am getting out of the healthcare field...I love my classes....my new major is cybercrime tech and information securties.....the kids are growing up so fast...OMG, 2 of them are taller than me....my son with autism amazes me everyday....he is doing so good.....he loves to remind us that he is a teenager now...he was BIG 13 in January....and husband is still at his same job, but he is happy with it....and has also started taking some management classes....so again life is busy.....and our marriage is better, I guess we needed to have a bad spot..but we have made it through it. I will try keep up with this blog more....
peace for now
:)

Sorry!!!!

2009-10-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry to all that is has been so long since I have been on here....so much has been going on....so for the short of it....here it goes....we have moved because I was offered a job at UNC healthcare and yes I accepted it.....the kids seem happy and I like my job....as for the marriage I feel that it will be ending soon...but I think it will be for the best....long story....that I feel I should not go into in this blog....

The schools are not as good as Mooresville NC schools..but the kids seem happy...so we will see how it goes....so far so good.....

I will try to do better with keeping up this blog.....

peace and love to all.....

UPDATE!!!!!!!

2009-06-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been so ling since I have posted anything...really haven't been in the mood...plus facebook is so addicting....

Here is a short run down of things....my mom has been in the hospital was on life support...made 2 trips to Ohio to be with her...but with lots of prayers and the staff at FMC..she has made a great recovery..she is in a nursing home/rehab center for now, but will hopefully get to come back home soon....we will keep praying...

We have a kitten....(my husband who has always said that he hates cats) brought home a kitten....and he loves the more than anyone else in the house...(will post pictures soon).

All of the boys made A's ans B's on there final report cards....... YEAH!!!!

Still struggling, but so is most of America....just trying to stay positive....

hugs for now....

Stress

2009-05-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

Well things are stressful...hours have been cut at work but bills keep going up.....not fair.

now for some good news....TJ won 2 first place ribbons and 1 second place ribbon in the Special Olympics last week....we are so proud of him.

Don't have a lot to say..at least nothing really good..so I will call it quits for now...

peace and blessings

Old Pictures of my grandfather..he raised me and I will always call him DAD...

2009-05-02T16:10:00.000-07:00

In memory of my DAD...although he was my grandfather he raised me and took me in as his own, he was the best father I could ever have asked for....these are just some random pictures in his memory....." Daddy you are deeply missed"

It's been a long time.....

2009-04-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

It's has been awhile since I have been on here, finally got most everything put where it belongs in our new place. Everything is pretty much settled. As for the kids all 3 of the boys made the honor roll this 9 weeks...!!!!!!...YEAH!!! We are so proud of them.

My hubby finally was made full time at his work, so now we can have benefits...YEAH again.

As for me still working 2 jobs but have taken some time off from school. (FYI...please say a little prayer..I was stuck by a needle at work during a venipuncture and now I have to get my blood taken every 6 weeks...).

My dog is still lazy, that will never change. TJ my middle son with autism has hit puberty and his meds have quit working, so he is a little off the wall now...going through medication changes are rough, trying to find the right dose that works for him, let alone the right medication to put him on....this is week 5 or 6 now..not sure..we have lost count.

The oldest is a stubborn teenager....but him being bi-polar is making it much worse....since he made good grades we promised him her could get his learners permit...God help us all with him driving......

The youngest is growing up and no longer has the little boy look, he will be 10 next month..I can't believe it. Wow do I feel old.....

I will post some picture as soon as a I can....

Peace and hugs
Kim

2009-03-22T16:37:00.000-07:00

Here is some pics of the freak snowstorm we had in NC...crazy.....

We are finally moved into our new place and everything is where it needs to go...YEAH!!!

till later...hugs

Sorry....

2009-03-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry that it has been so long since my last post, things have been crazy/busy lately. We have moved to a better neighborhood and a bigger house. I am still working 2 jobs getting ready to start my 3rd ( and yes I am still in college)...I have to in order to pay all of our bills.

I will post pictures shortly showing the crazy snow we had in NC. the kids are kids of course and me and the hubby are okay.

Hope all has been good with everyone.

Peace and blessings

MMR and Autism

2009-02-12T18:40:00.001-08:00

Before this came out, I had more than one reason to personally believe MMR is not the cause of Autism. Just my personal thoughts, experience and information I had been told by other parents. Too many people still have autism even though they were not vaccinated at all....
----------------------

Thursday, February 12, 2009

A special vaccine court ruled against parents with autistic children Thursday, saying that vaccines are not to blame for their children's neurological disorder.

The judges in the cases said the evidence was overwhelmingly contrary to the parents' claims — and backed years of science that found no risk.

"It was abundantly clear that petitioners' theories of causation were speculative and unpersuasive," the court concluded in one of a trio of cases ruled on Thursday.

The ruling, which was anxiously awaited by health authorities, was a blow to families who have filed more than 5,000 claims for compensation through the government's Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. The claims are reviewed by special masters serving on the U.S. Court of Claims.

To win, the families' attorneys had to show that it was more likely than not that the autism symptoms in the children were directly related to a combination of the measles-mumps-rubella shots and other shots that at the time carried a mercury-containing preservative called thimerosal.

But the court concluded that "the weight of scientific research and authority" was "simply more persuasive on nearly every point in contention.
"

The court still has to rule on separate claims from other families who contend that rather than a specific vaccine combination, the lone culprit could be thimserosal, a preservative that is no longer in most routine children's vaccines.
But in Thursday's rulings, the court may have sent a signal on those cases, too:

"The petitioners have failed to demonstrate that thimerosal-containing vaccines can contribute to causing immune dysfunction," a judge wrote about one theory that the families proposed to explain how autism might be linked.

In 2001, parents began filing petitions for compensation through the vaccine compensation program. In all, more than 5,300 claims were eventually filed alleging that vaccines caused autism or autism-like symptoms.

The petitioners originally sought to present three different theories of how vaccines could cause autism. For each theory, there were to be three test cases.

SOURCE: http://www. foxnews. com/story/0,2933,491526,00. html

December...

2008-12-19T18:00:00.000-08:00

Picture of the new puppy..his name is "Smoke"
Bandit giving Michael some love....
Front Door...
The kids decorated the tree this year....ans yes the dogs have already ate some of the ornaments....
our stockings.....for Santa
Me and my hubby...
The new dog
Bandit giving more love....
My boys being silly.....
Bandit, my sleepy little lazy dog....

I will just call this the December post, since it is December and I have been slacking on most everything lately. Life is crazy, my lovely hubby got another dog..he said this one is his....like my life is crazy enough....

I am still working 2 jobs, one of them I HATE...and one I LOVE....of course the full time job is the one that I HATE.......I keep praying for a different job....as you can tell I am depressed...this Christmas just isn't what I want it to be....I miss cold weather and snow...and of course money....

Hope everyone has a great Holiday Season...be safe and have fun....

(hugs)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!

2008-11-26T17:31:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say HAPPY THANKSGIVING to everyone, this time of year is a time to reflect. And as I reflect I am THANKFUL for all of my blogging friends. Hope everyone has a good one.

Hugs

Unhappiness is.....

2008-11-17T19:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry to be a downer, but I just can't seem to see things any other way. I know people have it worse than me, and I am grateful for my kids and surviving the car wreak. But I can not feel happiness anymore...my youngest wants to go to church but I can not make myself go...I have lose my way in life in every aspect of it. Not sure what to do...I just want to thank my blogging friends for there reply's and kind words. Hopefully someday things will change and change for the better...I am tired of crying.

hugs to all

Sorry ya'll I need to vent........

2008-11-09T19:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, first of all moving to NC was one of the WORST mistakes of my life....I hate it here and it is effecting my marriage....I have NO friends here and my oldest is in so MUCH trouble with the law, school and pretty much everyone around. I have prayed but nothing is working...I am working at a job that I hate, my husband is in a dead end job..out good credit in now really, really bad. I am ready to have my phone turned off to avoid the bill collectors, I want to pay them, we just don't have to money. Things really suck..I was diagnosed with high blood pressure 2 weeks ago and I am now taking medication for it....I never had high blood pressure until we moved here. I am to the point of not knowing what to do....I really don't know what to do anymore. things have just went down hill and I do not see the light at the end of the tunnel. I want my old life back!!!!
On a good note, my middle son made straight A's on his report card and my youngest made all A's and B's...my oldest the one with an IQ of 127 is failing 4 subjects...
Me and my husband have talked about going back to OH, but there is nothing there for us..at least that is how he puts it...I feel like there is..but he will not agree to go back...not sure why..his family lives there. I was happy there..but not here. I have really tried...I have to set and wonder if I am meant to be unhappy....I don't want to leave my husband just to move back to OH. Life really just sucks right now..I have had nothing but bad luck since moving to this freakin' state....I really hate it. Sorry to vent but I needed to before I screamed.

Halloween pics....

2008-10-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

My boys.....
Not sure what Travis is trying to do....
TJ is trying to be scary....
Don't they look so excited....
I hope everyone had a great and safe Halloween....

Pictures of what is left of my car....

2008-10-31T19:55:00.000-07:00

All I can say is OUCH!!!!!

Sorry...still no pics....

2008-10-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Just wanted everyone to know that I am still around....working 40++ hours a week...oh by the way my job is only part time....????.....ALWAYS TRIED......

Kids and everyone are cranky....will fill everyone in more later...I have to get up at 4am so I need to go get some sleep....

Peace and hugs...

Election video...

2008-09-27T14:59:00.001-07:00

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MVA

2008-09-16T18:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, Monday REALLY REALLY sucked....I was on my way to work, (at my new job that I have only been at for 2 weeks)..My car was hit by a tractor trailer and spun across 4 lanes of traffic on I-77 in Charlotte NC.........How I survived with only minor injuries I am not sure...I walked myself to the ambulance....my car is totaled....and the trucking company is not wanting to pay for any damages....I am happy and lucky to be alive, but I still have to feel that why me...things have been so bad lately for our family...and then this happens...I do truly feel that I had angels watching over me that day....I am having nightmares about the wreck and I can not sleep....any advice????

And I will post pictures of my car in the next few days...

My last day @ my current job...a reflextion...

2008-08-31T12:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, today is a bitter sweet day, I am starting a new job on Tuesday. I have been at this current job for awhile starting out as a CNA then was gone for my surgery and came back as there receptionist..and for the past 4 weeks I have BEGGED for more hours...(FYI: I only work 2 days a week)...There is a full time opening and I have begged for that as well...so I am now tired of begging...My employer is not giving me any hours, or offereing me any. So today is mu last day..I am quitting, but the funny thing is that I gave them my resignation 2 over the past 2 weeks and they will not accept it...oh well that is not there problem.

I really have enjoyed the people and the residents of this place, but it is time to move on...

As for my kids there are enjoying being back in school, my oldest will start on Tuesday, he will be going to a college prep school. ( Charter School). He is excited and nervous all at the same time.

Now for a reflextion on the move to NC, it has been a year since we moved here..I see it as one of the worst moves we have made. My husband had to quit school..(the reason we moved here) because we could no longer afford to live with him only working part time, and me part time. I have gave up on school, so I guess I will never live my dream and always be a big dumb loser. And now my husband is a quitter as well, the resentment for this move is even bigger now....Not sure how to handle it.

The ecomomy sucks here and so does the pay, not sure how to find my inner happiness any more.....it has been crushed..my dream has died....so now I will work as a phlebotomist in a huge hospital for base pay..which isn't much...but at least it is a dollar and twenty cents more than where I am now. But I have to drive and extra 25+ miles. ...So I will not be making any more money, because of the gas prices and milage...but I will get many more hours than the place I am at now.

Things just are the way I planned them....what went wrong??? I wish I knew....

Peace to all

TJ was cleared....

2008-08-27T19:51:00.000-07:00

I took my middle son to the cardiologist today for his evaluation, and yes he has a murmur which we have been aware of for years..but he does not have the heart defect that his big brother has...now that was a relief. I will post pictures soon..I have been slacking lately....I have 2 kids in school already and the oldest goes next week..he decided that he did not want to go back to his public school, so we are sending him to a charter school. He wants to go and doesn't really mind the thought of having to wear a uniform...I guess he really is growing up...and he past drivers ed...oh here goes our car insurance rates even higher....look out drivers of the world...lol.

Peace for now...

I have been tagged!!!!

2008-08-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

My friend Aprilyn tagged me. I went to high school in a horrible state with the initials of WV...YUCK....

1. Did you date someone from your school?
No, my boy boyfriends were from surrounding schools.

2.What kind of car did you drive? 1988 Chevy Spectrum

3.Were you a party animal? YES

4.Were you considered a flirt? YES

5. Were you in band, orchestra, or choir? None...Drama club

6. Were you a nerd? NO

7. Were you on any varsity teams? NO

8. Did you get suspended/expelled? Not in high school, junior high yes...

9. Can you still sing the fight song? No

10. Who were your favorite teachers? None really

11. Where did you sit during lunch? I was the type that did not eat lunch....

12. What was your school's full name? I am not saying..I hated that place and still do...

13. School mascot? Huskie

14. If you could go back and do it again, would you? Hello NO!

15. What do you remember most about graduation? Being done with that horrible place.

16. Where did you go senior skip day? I don't remember, hanging with friends..

17. Were you in any clubs? Drama and Co-op

18. Have you gained some weight since then? Unfortunately, yes.

19. Who was your prom date? I didn't get invited.

20. Are you planning on going to your 10 year reunion? I am not aware that they had one..and it is long past.

I tag everyone who wants to do this. Let me know in my comments section if you're going to do it so I can read about it! :)

okay..so now I am confused?????

2008-08-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am confused...and don't now what to do...Here is the deal...in one day I have had 3 job offers, count'em.."3".....

The first one is working across the street from my house, it is at the grocery store working in the front office...the other one is a HUGE hospital in Charlotte..making only one dollar and 27 cents more that the grocery store..and then I was offered a job at a car dealership doing internet sells and follow ups...in which this is the only job that I have no experience at but they will train me,,it pays better than the other jobs combined....So what do I do?? Do I stay in my comfort zone of health care/grocery.....or do I go for something totally different.

Please help...I am confused..I don't want to make the wrong decision.

Peace and blessings
And a please send any prayers our way for my sons.
Thanks

My hand is healing.........

2008-08-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

Sorry, but I have no pictures to post...but I can say that my hand is healing, but looks really gross....We are waiting patiently for school to start, the kids are bored out of there minds...come on Aug 25....A lot has happened lately, my middle child is having a EGD done in the morning, (they are going down in throat into his stomach to see if they can tell why he is getting choked so much). And my oldest went to a cardiologist today for high blood pressure at 15 years of age...and we ended up with some major disturbing news..they said that he has a congenital heart defect, called "bicuspid aortic valve"...well I know from nursing school that he should have a "tricuspid valve"...so this means trips to the cardiologist every 6 months, until he has complications and then they will do surgery to replace the defective valve in his heart. Okay, here is the kicker since it is congential I have to get the other 2 kids screened for this defect. All really remember is being told is that he has mild to moderate aortic insufficiency and heart valve defect...I am speechless and don't know what to think or say at this point.

Sorry to ramble, but I need to make sense of this, but I am not sure that I can...it seems like it is always something.....I just want something good to happen or be told something good once in awhile.....again sorry to vent....peace to everyone.

Recovery...

2008-07-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

I am slowly recovering from surgery....I had no idea that it would be this painful and slow to recover from carpel tunnel surgery..the surgery was on my right hand...FYI..I am RIGHT handed...so I am so freakin' helpless with most everything. And now the stitches are itching...I have 7 of them in the palm of my hand....I can not write or grip anything.....I was told it can take up to 7 weeks for me to be able to grip anything...it REALLY REALLY sucks...I am typing with my left hand...so since I am very slow at this time..I will leave for now...love , peace and many blessings to all.

10 days without internet.......

2008-07-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have my internet back, just as an FYI we moved over a week ago and were just now able to get the phone company out to hook up our phone and internet...it has been a long 10 days.

As for everything else, my oldest started drivers ed classes today....that is a scary thought....his birthday is Thursday and he will be 15. So we had to celebrate his birthday yesterday on Sunday. All he wanted was to go out and eat and give him money to go shopping. As we are eating diner at his favorite restaurant, TJ my middle son (the one with autism) started to make funny noises, we were not sure what he was doing until he collapsed on the floor and was turning blue. Needless to say he was not playing he was choking and I had to preform the Heimlich on him....thank God he is okay ...I an still a nervous wreck and am scared to let him eat without him in my sight.

And for other news..I am having surgery on Friday, so I am not sure if I will be on here much for awhile...I have nerve damage in my wrist from carpel tunnel syndrome, so now I have to have surgery on it so it does not get any worse. I have really had to set back and look at life over that past few weeks and all I can say is...man what a ride it has been..it has to get better..so I am gonna try to look on the more positive side for awhile and see what happens. Peace, love and happiness to all till next time.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY !!!!!!

2008-07-02T03:22:00.000-07:00

I wanted to wish everyone a HAPPY 4TH OF JULY...after Thursday I might not be on here for a few days..we are moving on the 4th...(o what fun that will be)...and just as a FYI..I am not longer in nursing school...I quit. In a lot of ways I am relieved and in a lot of ways I am pissed. I can not really describe the way I feel at this moment. So much crap has happened since we moved here. Things have worked out for everyone in this family except....ME....I still don't understand it. So instead of wallowing in my own self pity...I wanted to wish everyone a great holiday weekend. Wishing everyone many blessings, love and peace.

Why You Are Hearing More about Autism

2008-06-30T05:05:00.000-07:00

Why You Are Hearing More about Autism

It has been a high profile year for autism.
A severely autistic
Minnesota boy was banned from church.
An autistic kindergartner in
Florida was voted out of class.
A mother and her autistic son were
thrown off an American Airlines flight at Raleigh-Durham International
Airport.
And another mother and autistic toddler were kicked off an
airplane in Huston reportedly because the boy was repeating ..bye, bye
plane' during the safety speech.

"There is so much Americans need to learn about living in this world
with Autistic children," says Barbara Coppo, mother of an autistic boy
and author of "The Boy In The Window.
"

Perhaps we are hearing more about autism in the news because there are
more autistic children in America than ever before.
The CDC's most
recent study estimates one out of every 150 children over the age of 8
is autistic or suffers from a related disorder.
Today, 560 thousand
Americans under the age of 21 have autism.
That number is hundreds of
thousands higher than just 30 years ago.

Autism may frighten people because so little is known about the
disorder.
The cause has not been scientifically proven and the victims
often act in ways society doesn't understand.

"We were told by doctors and professionals to institutionalize him
because of his extreme behaviors and inability to adapt socially,"
reveals Coppo, who is 66 and credits daily exercise for helping her
sustain the energy to care for Kenny.
Coppo and her husband Ken,
married 46 years, says an institution was never an option for Kenny,
because his home is with them, "We love him so much in spite of his
required 24/7 care.
"

Four times more boys, like Kenny, are affected than girls.
Autism
strikes between the ages of 1 and 3 and affects the victim for the
rest of his or her life.
Though most autistic children have trouble
functioning normally in society many have special gifts.
Coppo says
Kenny is a math wiz.

"The ability and knowledge that someone like him can have is a
miracle," she continues, "but it's a shame that it can easily be
overlooked.
" She credits the different aides who worked with Kenny
over several years for helping to unlock his "uncanny abilities,"
which can go way beyond the normal.

Despite his extraordinary gifts, Coppo still worries about her now
nearly 30-year-old son, "He can and solves incredibly hard math
problems, but if our house is burning down, he wouldn't have the
common sense to get the heck out and would probably resist our efforts
to rescue him." Most times, she admits, he's his own worst enemy.

While little is known about autism, the discrimination now permeating
the news may be just the beginning.
As the number of autistic children
skyrockets Americans will have to learn to live in society alongside
these unique individuals.
It may be up to parents of autistic children
to help break down the barriers of misunderstanding.

"I was once told by a psychologist that I would eventually grow to
resent my son from the burden of raising him," Coppo candidly
reflects.
"While I cry over my worries for Kenny, the truth is I love
him more each day.
" Adding, "My mysterious son has taught me the true
value of what is really precious in life and what is worth fighting
for. I guess that makes him the best gift I could have ever gotten.
"

Barbara Coppo, 66, has spent nearly three decades caring for her
autistic son, Kenny, who is 29-years-old.
As chronicled in her book,
"The Boy in the Window: A Journey Through an Unexpected Tragedy," she
and her husband, Ken, of 46 years had a perfectly healthy baby boy
until 19 months old, when he suffered irreversible brain damage from
the D.P.T. vaccination.
Kenny became autistic, started having seizures
and uncontrollable behaviors.
Barbara's story is filled with love,
frustration, humor and tells of the endless journey she is on to
improve the quality of life of her autistic – and gifted – son, Kenny,
"The Boy in the Window." (www.theboyinthewindowbook.com)

This story sounds like what I was told when I found out about my sons autism, basically told the doctor to go jump off a bridge, my son stays with me, he is a gift from God.

Nursing school

2008-06-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

OK, this really sucks. Even I have gotten dumber when I moved to the south OR this is the most ridiculous college out there...you decide....
All I can say is that if I don't get a 87 on this test today I will have to drop out, because that means that I failed the class..If you do the math, yes I really did that bad on the first test. I am more stress here than in OHIO..I really miss OU.....I just want to scream...I am not sure how I can go from an 3.7 GPA getting all A's and B's in nursing school in Ohio and then flunking out down here....It is crazy....Is this the universes way of telling me not to be a nurse or to just go back to Ohio????? Any ideas or suggestions.....
I just wanna cry......

Update....

2008-05-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

I know it has been awhile since I have blogged anything, so just to update everyone about my crazy life.....well I am in my 3rd week of nursing school..and the workload in crazy and intense....plus trying to work and take care of the kids....here is a brief glimpse of the madness....Monday, Thursday, and Fridays I wake up at 5am to get ready for class and I am in class until about 3pm...one Tuesday and Wednesday I get up at 4am because I have clinicals starting at 6:45am till 3:30pm...plus I work EVERY Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm...now keep in mind I have 3 kids that I have to run to there school and doctors and sporting stuff....and somewhere in there I have to do homework and OH I almost forgot I have a husband in this madness to try to spend time with...and he is still in school and working 2 jobs.....the madness is taking over...
My school is in Charlotte NC and the traffic there SUCKS!!!! Gas prices SUCK.. Food prices SUCK....so we can no longer afford to live in the apartment we have, so we are "downgrading" ourself to a more affordable apartment...in a less "nice" neighborhood...So on top of everything we are in the process of packing to move. I hopefully will post less crazy stuff next time....until then Peace, Love and much happiness.

My growing kids....

2008-05-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

My kids are growing up so fast, here are there school pictures..wow... I can't believe how they have grow so much this year. They are amazing kids and I love them so much..Mommy is so proud of you...

My NJROTC Brat....

2008-05-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to show everyone how proud I am of my son, he wants to go into the military and become a PA after high school.....WOW...I am amazed.

Now for an update about what has been going on lately, when I am now longer working as an ER tech and I am no longer working midnights...YEAH!!!

I am however working in an assisted living place working better hours, and it is closer to my home..which it saves me gas..ans what is the deal with the gas prices...it is crazy...the last time I went to the pump it was $4.87 a gallon...WTF?????

My husband has convinced me to go back to nursing school and give it a try..he is switching to evening classes so someone will be here for the kids....I am scared but I am willing to try it...I will keep everyone informed.

Peace, love and many blessings

New Job...

2008-05-03T09:35:00.000-07:00

I know it has been awhile since I have been on here, but my new job has me totally tired and confused all the time...I am working night shift (12 hour shifts) in an emergency room as a ED Technician...basically I do everything the nurses DON'T want to do...foleys, EKG's...etc.... I have come to the conclusion that I DO NOT want to be a nurse..at least now...maybe when my kids are older. Life is too short for this crap....I miss my husband and kids..and sleep most of all...I am searching on finding a job in my old profession...(medical assisting or even go back into teaching)...Don't get me wrong nursing is great..but I want to enjoy my kids while they are still young and plus enjoy my life as well....I don't want the stress of nursing right now....Just wanted to update everyone....I am going to try and get some sleep right now ..because I have to work tonight...YUCK!!!!

I have a complaint!!!!

2008-04-17T05:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, today I have no pictures or really anything cute to say...Life this past week really sucks...My son with autism is really having a hard time, his meds are not working any more and so he is like a bottle rocket ready to explode..we are starting him on new meds and treatments..so keep your fingers crossed. And now onto another part that sucks...I made a trip to Ohio over the weekend and was supposed to meet up with some friends..but after the plans were made..no one showed up..I drove 7 seven hours for nothing...I am hurt, pissed, and very disappointed....Life in NC sucks as well...I can not find child care anywhere for my kids so I can start back to nursing school....so even after all the crap I went through I still might not get to go....I hate it here......I visited my birth-mother while I was in Ohio and well..the visit started out pretty good then ended up in a shouting match....we will never have a relationship that a mother and daughter should have...I quit trying at this point in my 38 yrs of life...it is not worth it. I have so much bad feelings locked inside me right now that I feel like I want to scream...and of course my husband doesn't understand....he is a man why would he....

Autism site,,please read

2008-04-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

http://www.autism-hub.co.uk/autism-speaks-dont-speak-for-me/index.php

2008-04-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

The new dog doing a trick...the kids are amazed..all Bandit does it shake hands/paws

My lazy dog sleeping with my stuffed animals....Bandit being Bandit....
Ok, here is another dog we rescued..she is 5 yrs old. Her name is Little Bit...

she does tricks.....the kids love her...

Now as for Roscoe, he became ill with a respiratory infection/problem and was put to sleep, after weeks of treatment, he never got any better.

RIP little Roscoe....

National Autism Awareness Day!!!

2008-04-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Todays post will be about my wonderful, beautiful and amazing son. He is unique and loved so much. I would NOT change him, I think he is perfect in every way, my only dream is to have the world see him as I do. I see him as a child that see and lives in the world differently. He is a true gift from GOD and I treasure every second I have with him.

Remember autism effects 1 in 150 children and 1 in 94 of boys are effected. Awareness is the key along with education of society about this disorder. Today April 2 is National Autism Day and April is Autism Awareness Month.

All me love, peace and blessings.
Kim and family

Time out for a political message!!!

2008-03-30T17:41:00.000-07:00

March 20, 2008 - Thursday

Barack Obama ?
Current mood: nervous
Category: Religion and Philosophy

Ken Blackwell - Columnist for the New York Sun

It’s an amazing time to be alive in America. We’re in a year of firsts in this presidential election: the first viable woman candidate; the first viable African-American candidate; and, a candidate who is the first front-running freedom fighter over 70. The next president of America will be a first.

We won’t truly be in an election of firsts, however, until we judge every candidate by where they stand. We won’t arrive where we should be until we no longer talk about skin color or gender. Now that Barack Obama steps to the front of the Democratic field, we need to stop talking about his race, and start talking about his policies and his politics.

The reality is this: Though the Democrats will not have a nominee until August, unless Hillary Clinton drops out, Mr. Obama is now the frontrunner, and its time America takes a closer and deeper look at him. Some pundits are calling him the next John F. Kennedy. He’s not. He’s the next George McGovern. And it’s time people learned the facts.

Because the truth is that Mr. Obama is the single most liberal senator in the entire U.S. Senate. He is more liberal than Ted Kennedy, Bernie Sanders, or Mrs. Clinton. Never in my life have I seen a presidential frontrunner whose rhetoric is so far removed from his record. Walter Mondale promised to raise our taxes, and he lost. George McGovern promised military weakness, and he lost. Michael Dukakis promised a liberal domestic agenda, and he lost.

Yet Mr. Obama is promising all those things, and he’s not behind in the polls. Why? Because the press has dealt with him as if he were in a beauty pageant. Mr. Obama talks about getting past party, getting past red and blue, to lead the United States of America. But let’s look at the more defined strokes of who he is underneath this superficial "beauty."

Start with national security, since the president’s most important duties are as commander-in-chief. Over the summer, Mr. Obama talked about invading Pakistan, a nation armed with nuclear weapons; meeting without preconditions with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who vows to destroy Israel and create another Holocaust; and Kim Jong II, who is murdering and starving his people, but emphasized that the nuclear option was off the table against terrorists - something no president has ever taken off the table since we created nuclear weapons in the 1940s. Even Democrats who have worked in national security condemned all of those remarks. Mr. Obama is a foreign-policy novice who would put our national security at risk.

Next, consider economic policy. For all its faults, our health care system is the strongest in the world. And free trade agreements, created by Bill Clinton as well as President Bush, have made more goods more affordable so that even people of modest means can live a life that no one imagined a generation ago. Yet Mr. Obama promises to raise taxes on "the rich." How to fix Social Security? Raise taxes. How to fix Medicare? Raise taxes. Prescription drugs? Raise taxes. Free college? Raise taxes. Socialize medicine? Raise taxes. His solution to everything is to have government take it over. Big Brother on ste roids, funded by your paycheck.

Finally, look at the social issues. Mr. Obama had the audacity to open a stadium rally by saying, "All praise and glory to God!" but says that Christian leaders speaking for life and marriage have "hijacked" - hijacked - Christianity. He is pro-partial birth abortion, and promises to appoint Supreme Court justices who will rule any restriction on it unconstitutional. He espouses the abortion views of Margaret Sanger, one of the early advocates of racial cleansing. His spiritual leaders endorse homosexual marriage, and he is moving in that direction. In Illinois, he refused to vote a gainst a statewide ban - ban - on all handguns in the state. These are radical left, Hollywood, and San Francisco values, not Middle America values

The real Mr. Obama is an easy target for the general election. Mrs. Clinton is a far tougher opponent. But Mr. Obama could win if people don’t start looking behind his veneer and flowery speeches. His vision of "bringing America together" means saying that those who disagree with his agenda for America are hijackers or warmongers. Uniting the country means adopting his liberal agenda and abandoning any conflicting beliefs.

But right now everyone is talking about how eloquent of a speaker he is and - yes - they’re talking about his race. Those should never be the factors on which we base our choice for president. Mr. Obama’s radical agenda sets him far outside the American mainstream, to the left of Mrs. Clinton.

It’s time to talk about the real Barack Obama. In an election of firsts, let’s first make sure we elect the person who is qualified to be our president in a nuclear age during a global civilizational war.

Subject: Kind of scary, wouldn’t you think? Remember--God is good, and is in time, on time, every time. According to The Book of Revelations the anti-Christ is: The anti-Christ will be a man, in his 40s, of MUSLIM descent, who will deceive the nations with persuasive language, and have a MASSIVE Christ-like appeal....the prophecy says that people will flock to him and he will promise false hope and world peace, and when he is in power, will destroy everything. Is it OBAMA?? I STRONGLY URGE each one of you to repost this as many times as you can! Each opportunity that you have to send it to a friend or media outlet...do it! If you think I am crazy..I’m sorry but I refuse to take a chance on the "unknown" candidate.

Spring Break and Easter Pics....

2008-03-28T20:44:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from easter and a day at the park.. I also made the easter bunny cake, it wasn't one of my best..but the kids loved it.

OOOOPS...I forgot to tag others...

2008-03-20T05:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am tagging.....Molly, Elizabeth, Andrea, and Aprilyn.

I have been TAGGED...

2008-03-19T09:43:00.000-07:00

I have been TAGGED by the princess ...so here it goes..
my understanding is that I have to post pictures of my favorite t-shirts and then talk about them a little.

Here is the shirt I wear the most...it says that it is better on the beach.....and it is. Any beach and where and any time. It is faded and worn..but I don't care..I love it.

This one is from my first NASCAR race in Daytona Florida. It is Jamie McMurry car, he drives the autism awareness car. I wear this alot, because I have a son with autism.

Jamie no longer drive the #42 car, but he still is a autsim spokes person, because he has a fmaily member with autism....Go Jamie Go.....
This is my "bobby jack" shirt....and it is all about me.....the inside secret to this shirt is that my hubby's legal name is "Bobby Jack"...and the monkey is really cute as well.
This shirt is of Kasey Kahne..one of many that I have of him....He is my all time favorite driver and also what a little hottie.....

I have multiple t-shirts, but most of them are plain.

FYI

2008-03-16T08:44:00.000-07:00

If anyone had read the blog name "pissed" I removed it..after reading it a week or so after the fact. I felt that I wanted and needed to deleted it. Not because anyone told me to or even said anything about it..I just thought for the shake of my marriage I would delete it. And also not to hurt anyones feelings..meanings my friends/classmates of Ohio. I want to congratulate them on there graduation...So peace and blessings to all....

Pictures of the new addition

2008-03-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

Here is the new puppy with his "daddy" and big brother...lol
Bandit isn't sure about this new puppy....
Aren't they so cute!!!!
He can't get on the cough without help and now it appears he is trying to figure out how to get down from here.....

He is tired...nap time....
My hubby and his new pup......his name is Roscoe...
He is so ugly that he is cute!!!!
Bandit is tired of playing...Goodnight!!!!!

Here is the good and the bad of my daily life.

2008-03-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I know my posts lately haven't been good news lately..but that is how life is at times. However me and my hubby are working on things and are making the best of it here in NC. Mu hubby got a promotion at work he is now a shift manager and is still making A's and B's in class, he is in the top 3%...My teenager is well...still a loudmouth teenager how will hopefully learn his lessons. We are considering putting him in a private Christian school and pulling him out of public schools after what happened last week. He has stated very loudly that he does not want to change schools..but if we out him the private school it will not be until next school year, so we have to put up with this school that has approx. 2800 students in it. No wonder he is in trouble all the time...his main reason for not wanting to leave this school is he loves ROTC. This is something we are going to think about.

As far as me and nursing school...well I was there yesterday and had to take a skills assessment test to see if I have retained my nursing information from my previous college. They said that I had to do this since I have been out of the clinical setting for over 6 months. After 3 1/2 hours of testing....I passed!!!...So now I have to decide if I want to go back for not....I want to but in some ways I am not sure. People here are not as friendly as the people in Ohio. I was told that I was to friendly with the "patient" during the skills assessment, that I need to be formal and as the examiner put it "cold"...now that doesn't even make since. But people do act differently it is not the "nice" south.

We have another new addition to our family, we adopted a puppy that was going to be put to sleep at the pound...I will post pictures later. My hubby has a soft spot for dogs.

Peace and blessings....

What a freakin week.....

2008-03-08T06:56:00.000-08:00

This has been a week from hell....on top of me being pissed off at my life..my oldest son decides to do the dumbest thing in his life so far....lets just say he has been kicked out of school for 10 days (ten days)...and juvi has been involved...I am pissed and disappointed in him...I am still speechless and madder then hell at him. I hate having a kid in high school.....I remember high school and it was scary then.....I am not sure what to do with him....any ideas??????

WE have talked with him till we are blue in the face....

Life is complicated..........

2008-02-29T19:39:00.000-08:00

This is what my hubby got me for Valentines day...
He is the BEST!!!!
I love him so...and he loves me.....
Oh, and here is a picture of my lazy dog again ....curled up in the middle of our bed...

Well, I know it has been awhile since I have blogged..but life is complicated again....
to start with my youngest keeps getting into trouble at school, parent-teacher conferences...yuk. My oldest is at least doing good and middle one is too...yeah!!!

I supposed to back to college on Monday, but since Thursday I have had 3 job offers...and one of the offers is a job I have been trying to get since I moved here. And if everyone remembers the nursing school that "booted" me out because of being on a anti-depressant...well they called me today and have now said that I could come back.....that I have been cleared to do cliniclas...I had to inform them that I was no longer taking the anti-depressant...and all they said was that I was to contact the college next week to see what else I needed to do to get back in.

This has just been a "CRAZY" week....but at least it has been good....now I have to figure out what I want to do....decisions, decisions, and more decisions. I am sorry to make this a long one, but blogging about this really sometimes helps me think things through...(sometimes)....Till next time...peace and love.

Autism Walk..please help TJ's Team

2008-02-25T15:33:00.000-08:00

Hello,

Please join me in participating in the 2008 Walk Now for Autism event. This family-friendly community event raises critically-needed funds for autism research, awareness and advocacy. You can show your support by joining my team, by registering as an individual, by making a donation today and by forwarding this e-mail on to everyone in your address book to help spread the word about the walk.
Help spread the word! Email your friends, family and co-workers and invite them to visit this site.
Follow This Link to visit the website.
****************************************************************************
Some email systems do not support the use of links and therefore this link may not appear to work.
If so, copy and paste the following into your browser:
http://www.walknowforautism.org/site/lookup.asp?link=31418
****************************************************************************

Kimberly

Happy Valentines Day!!!!

2008-02-14T07:28:00.000-08:00

I want to wish everyone a HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!! I think of valentines day as a day of showing love and friendship.

But I have to say that I have the best husband in the world...we exchanged our gifts last night, because we will not see each other until late today...he covered our bed with (boxes) of candy and 2 huge stuffed animals, and don't forget the balloons too! The card he gave me made me cry..he is truly amazing.

I will post pictures later...and now as a update about school, I have decided at this time to go back to school, but not for nursing as this time. If everything goes ok I will start on March 3, 2008. I will keep everyone posted. I hope everyone has a great day today.

This is something to think about....

2008-02-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

I am by no means saying that you should not give your child there vaccines..but this is something to think about. I just wanted to share this info so everyone can make up there own minds.. and to be informed....

There is an ad running in USA Today today. You can find a copy at

http://www.generati onrescue. org/pdf/080212. pdf

I would suggest to print as many copies as you can afford on your
printer and put them in every medical office, dental office, hospital
bulletin boards, anywhere they can be read. I carry a roll of double
face scotch tape in my pocket to put them up with.

It is an effective ad and we need to put it out by the millions.

This is where you can make a difference in others lives. It is time
to do your share in a small but effective way. Pass copies of it out
everywhere you go, especially where it can be seen by other parents.

Please pass this along to the other groups you belong to.

Robert Hartsoe
President, The NAPC

http://health. groups.yahoo. com/group/ TheNAPC/

Update on the love of my life....

2008-02-06T15:03:00.000-08:00

Well after 2 doctors appointments and a days worth of testing, the doctors have concluded that their is nothing wrong with my husbands heart...(YEAAAAA)
They are saying that the first test that was done must have been a false positive...so needless to say we are extremely thankful that nothing is wrong with his heart..but this has been an extremely worrisome week and I am so glad that it is over.

Thanks for everyones support and prayers.

The lastest about my life...

2008-01-31T13:57:00.000-08:00

Well, I haven't been blogging much..because alot of crap has been going on..the doctors "THINK" my husband has had a heart attack in the past?!?!? He went 2 weeks ago for a stress test and echo of his heart...and well they called us a week later and said that we needed to come in and discuss his test results...(okay..we all know that when they want you to come in for results..it IS NOT good)..I had the same tests done a few months ago and they called me with my results.

We went to the doctor on Tuesday and he said that Bobby's test shows changes???!!! The doctor said that since my husband has diabetes that he can have a heart attack and not know it...So now he goes for more testing next week, on Tuesday again..depending on what this test shows he will have to have a cardiac cath done. He says he is not worried..but he now has stopped sleeping....needless to say everyone now in this house is stressed...beyond being stressed....Just needed to vent some..not sure how much I will be blogging in the near future....keep us in your prayers please......

Sorry..but I am worried....

2008-01-26T22:08:00.000-08:00

Okay, as everyone can tell by my 2 previous posts/videos...I am worried about this election year...and where the world is going....okay so I did not slam any "Reps" yet...but I probably will before it is over...And I really don't care if the next president is "dem" or "rep"..as long as the best interest of the country is the main concern and yes..I want a president that will help with the health care issue and autism issues as well as the war and economy....here are my words of advice for every voter...don't vote based on "dem" or "rep", race or gender, or religion....vote for the person...(woman or man)...that CAN DO and WILL DO...the best job....well that is my rant for the night....

DO YOU WANT YOUR CHILDREN'S FUTURE IN THE HANDS OF THIS

2008-01-26T21:44:00.000-08:00

USE MUST STOP/PAUSE MY MUSIC TO WATCH/LISTEN TO THIS.....

For all the Obama supporters:

This man can't even honor the countrys National Anthem, yet he wants to be President?????? He is a Muslim, he is racist, and he is no American!

Please set aside religious and race issues..put our kids first!!!!

2008-01-26T21:16:00.000-08:00

YOU MUST STOP THE MUSIC FROM PLAYING TO HEAR THE MESSAGE....

Remember this when you are voting...who has your child's interest at heart when it comes to AUTISM that is stealing them away from us? Please, set aside the religious and race cards and put our kids first, for their sake!!

TIME IS TICKING ON THE AUTISM CLOCK!!!!

PLEASE WATCH AND LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE SPEECH.....MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR THE CHILDRENS SAKE!!!

One of my bridesmaids made this for me....

2008-01-23T12:06:00.001-08:00

My lazy dog.....

2008-01-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, my dog go into our bed and messed the blankets up..basically he made himself comfortable...and as you can tell he is covered up...NO..we did not cover him up..he did this himself..somehow.
He never moved for any of these pictures..I took about 15 of them.
Here is my hubby trying to get him to move...he was bugging him, so see what he would do...all he did was stretch out more...he is such a lazy dog...

He actually turned away from the camera in this picture.

He just rolled over and closed his eyes again.....
Now this is one lazy dog..but he is cute as a button...but finally had to kick him our bed so we could go to sleep....needless to say...he got mad and cried at the door....poor bandit....

More about autism....

2008-01-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

Chromosomal Abnormalities Play Substantial Role In Autism

ScienceDaily (Jan. 17, 2008) — Genome-wide scans of families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have revealed new evidence that previously unknown chromosomal abnormalities have a substantial role in the prevalent developmental disorder, according to a new report. Structural variants in the chromosomes were found to influence ASD with sufficiently high frequency to suggest that genomic analyses be considered in routine clinical workup, according to the researchers.

"Historical studies in identical twins and their families have provided strong evidence for a genetic basis of autism," said Stephen Scherer of The Hospital for Sick Children and the University of Toronto. "Last year, with the Autism Genome Project Consortium, we did an initial study to look at the rate of chromosomal changes in autism. Now, we've really pinned down those numbers."

Autism is a complex developmental disorder found in about one in every 165 children, making it one of the most common forms of developmental disability of childhood. Individuals with ASD have deficits in social interaction and communication and show a preference for repetitive, stereotyped activities. Structural changes, including gains and losses of genes as well as chromosomal translocations (in which a chromosomal segment ends up in the wrong place) or inversions (in which a portion of the genome is oriented backwards) have been previously identified in some individuals with ASD, but their causal role hasn't been clear.

In the new study, the researchers examined structural abnormalities in 427 unrelated ASD cases using both microarray analysis and karyotyping. Microarrays can detect "unbalanced" genetic changes that alter the number of copies of a particular gene. Karyotyping, in which chromosomes are viewed under the microscope, can identify "balanced" translocations or inversions that might otherwise be missed by microarrays.

While most chromosomal abnormalities were inherited, the researchers found that seven percent of children with autism carry structural changes in the genome that are not found in their parents. The rate of such de novo changes in the general population is typically less than one percent, Scherer said.

The researchers detected 13 regions of the genome with overlapping or recurrent chromosomal changes in unrelated people with autism, suggesting that genes located at these sites may cause or add to the complexity of the condition. The most prevalent change, occurring in one percent of ASD cases, was found on chromosome 16, they reported. The altered portion of chromosome 16 has structural characteristics that make it more prone to errors, Scherer noted.

In a subset of ASD cases, the researchers found abnormalities in several genes known to be involved in neuron function. They also identified at least two sites that have previously been linked to mental retardation.

"Our understanding of the full etiologic role of structural variation in ASD will require genomic and phenotypic analyses of more cases (and their families) and population controls," the researchers concluded. As a first step toward achieving the desired numbers, the researchers have established a new Autism Chromosome Rearrangement Database, which allows integration of their new data and all other molecular information with the wealth of karyotypic data gathered over the years.

In light of the new findings, Scherer's team also calls for new testing in the clinic.

"From our current data it is already apparent that for a proportion of individuals, it will be possible to describe their ASD based on the underlying structural characteristics of their genome," they wrote.

"If we found certain changes, we could then watch those children closer," Scherer added, noting the critical importance of early diagnosis for autism.

This research was published online Jan. 17th in the American Journal of Human Genetics, a publication of Cell Press.

Adapted from materials provided by Cell Press, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Cell Press (2008, January 17). Chromosomal Abnormalities Play Substantial Role In Autism. ScienceDaily. Retrieved January 20, 2008, from http://www.sciencedaily.com /releases/2008/01/080117121518.htm

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-01-18T21:16:00.001-08:00

TJ's Birthday!!!

2008-01-18T21:03:00.000-08:00

Well I am finally posting some pics of the birthday boy and my "student of the month"...he is one awesome kid......Hopefully I got the slide show to work...I had some trouble with it....

LIFE IS CRAZY !!!!!!!!!

2008-01-18T11:47:00.000-08:00

OKAY, I HAVE TO VENT!!!******!!!!!!!

I WAS TOLD I COULD NOT CONTINUE IN THE NURSING PROGRAM.......WHEN I WENT TO GET MY PHYSICAL,DRUG SCREENING AND FINGER PRINTING DONE, THEY ASKED FOR A LIST OF MY MEDICATIONS..OK, SO NO BIG DEAL.

WELL, TO MY SURPRISE THEY DO NOT WANT ANY STUDENTS THAT TAKE ANTIDEPRESSANTS...((((*****WHAT THE F***))))...HOW CRAZY IS THAT??????????? OVER HAVE THE PEOPLE IN THE US TAKES SOME TYPE OF ANTIDEPRESSANT......SO I AM DONE..I QUIT...I BELIEVE THAT IT IS NOT MEANT FOR ME TO BE A NURSE..THIS WAS THE LAST STRAW.....THEY SAID THAT I COULD POSSIBLY OVER-RIDE IT IF I GOT A STATEMENT FROM THE DOCTOR THAT PRESCRIBED IT FOR ME.

NOW THAT SHOULD NOT BE A BIG DEAL...WELL IT IS...THE DOC THAT PUT ME ON THE MEDS IS IN OHIO AND WILL NOT WRITE A STATEMENT FOR ME SINCE I AM NO LONGER HER PATIENT. AND MY DOC HERE WILL NOT WRITE IS SINCE HE DID NOT PRESCRIBE IT TO ME...OKAY SO NOW WHAT???!!!!???? SORRY TO VENT..BUT THIS IS TOO FREAKING CRAZY EVEN FOR ME......LOL

What a week.....again...

2008-01-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted any pics from TJ's party yet...things have been kinda crazy lately....so once my life calms down again I will post some pics....The birthday party was a success. He had a blast. Things with college aren't working out as planned, so I am not sure how things are going to turn out...Will post more later.

2008-01-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

Me and my hubby at Chrsitmas!!!! (2007)

The big KISS on our wedding day...June 10, 2006
We are almost there....
The Wedding Party!!!!

I just wanted to share my loved ones with my blog buddies....

Autism News

2008-01-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

Moving 2 Steps Closer To Understanding The Genetic Underpinnings Of Autism
Main Category: Autism
Also Included In: Genetics
Article Date: 11 Jan 2008 - 4:00 PST

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The latest issue of the American Journal of Human Genetics (AJHG), describes what might be a corner piece of the autism puzzle - the identification and subsequent validation of a gene linked to the development of autism by three separate groups of scientists. An accompanying commentary by Dr. Dietrich Stephan, Director of the Neurogenomics Division at the Translational Genomics Research Institute's (TGen), further explains the findings.

Autism is a perplexing disease whose cause remains unexplained. It has long been suggested that environmental factors, linked with genetics, play a role in causing the disorder. As recently as last week, researchers in California published a study that found no proof linking autism with a mercury-based preservative found in childhood vaccines. While there are no clear-cut answers, researchers are one step closer to understanding autism's genetic cause.

In March 2006, Dr. Stephan, Director of TGen's Neurogenomics Division, led a team of researchers at TGen and collaborators at the Clinic for Special Children (CSC) in Strasburg, PA, that identified a gene called CNTNAP2. When mutated, this gene indicated a predisposition to autism in a specific population of Old Order Amish children from Pennsylvania.

One of the most important principles in science is the ability to replicate results. Now, three groups of researchers from Yale University, the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Johns Hopkins University, have replicated the initial finding in the general population, unequivocally implicating this gene as causing the newly defined Type 1 autism. All three studies plus Dr. Stephan's commentary are published in the January edition of AJHG.

According to Dr. Erik Puffenberger, Laboratory Director of the Clinic for Special Children, "Our previous finding of association between loss of CNTNAP2 function and autistic behavior has been validated in the general population. This is a very exciting step for autism research. It also highlights the enormous potential of the 'small science' approach. Our initial work used only four affected Amish children. Careful study of these four patients uncovered the association between CNTNAP2 and autistic behaviors. From that small beginning, CNTNAP2 has now been implicated as a significant risk factor for autism."

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a broadly used term for a set of developmental disorders that emerges in infants and young children. ASD impairs a child's intuitive thought, language and social development to varying degrees. Most individuals diagnosed with ASD require lifelong supervision and care; the most severely affected are unable to speak. ASD is the fastest growing developmental disability in the U.S. Two decades ago, roughly one child in 10,000 was diagnosed with ASD; it now affects one in 150 births.

"The field of genetics is replete with examples where researchers are unable to reproduce results. Here we have independent confirmation in multiple groups using large samples sizes," said Dr. Stephan. "Now that the results of the initial CNTNAP2 gene finding have been replicated, it strongly supports the notion that the 'broken version' of CNTNAP2 is recognized as a cause of autism in the general population."

In collaboration with the Phoenix-based Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), a nonprofit community-based organization dedicated to research, education and resources for individuals with ASDs and their families, TGen will apply these research findings to children in Arizona who have been diagnosed with ASD.

"The heterogeneity of the disorder has frustrated our past efforts in the search for causes of autism," said Dr. Raun Melmed, medical director and co-founder of SARRC. "This exciting discovery will further our capacity to individualize approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of autism."

The next step, noted Dr. Stephan in the commentary, is to develop a diagnostic to test for the CNTNAP2 mutation. If physicians could implement behavioral interventions early enough, children with autism may have a better chance of developing normally.

The initial discovery of CNTNAP2 in autism was published in the March 30, 2006, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

About TGen

The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization focused on developing earlier diagnostics and smarter treatments. Translational genomics research is a relatively new field employing innovative advances arising from the Human Genome Project and applying them to the development of diagnostics, prognostics and therapies for cancer, neurological disorders, diabetes and other complex diseases. TGen's research is based on personalized medicine. The institute plans to accomplish its goals through robust and disease-focused research.

About the Clinic For Special Children

The Clinic for Special Children was established in 1989 to provide early diagnosis, affordable laboratory services, and comprehensive medical and nutritional care for Old Order Amish and Mennonite children that suffer from genetic disorders. The clinic mission encompasses four aims: 1) Make high-quality medical care for special children accessible, affordable, and culturally effective; 2) Develop comprehensive methods of newborn screening and follow-up care for genetic disorders prevalent among the Plain people; 3) Develop practical clinical applications for modern molecular genetic technologies; and 4) Elucidate disease mechanisms for the purpose of improving patient treatment and outcome. Clinical work at the CSC is funded by private donations from individuals, foundation contributions, and an endowment fund established for this purpose. Many collaborating scientists and laboratories donate specialized services. The CSC receives no money from state or federal sources and is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable institution.

About SARRC

Founded in 1997, the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) is a nonprofit, community-based organization dedicated to autism research, education and resources for children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and their families. SARRC undertakes self-directed and collaborative research projects, serves as a satellite site for national and international projects, and provides up-to-date information, training and assistance to families and professionals about ASDs. For more information about SARRC, visit http://www.autismcenter.org/.

Source: Amy Erickson
The Translational Genomics Research Institute http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/93745.php

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CONGRATUALTIONS TO TJ!!!!!!

2008-01-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

Get More at COMMENTYOU.com

MY SON MADE STUDENT OF THE MONTH AT THIS SCHOOL!!!!!!!

YEAH!!!!!!!!!

I AM SO PROUD OF YOU TJ!!!!!!

christmas pics and other pics...

2008-01-08T18:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been so busy and tired from starting back to college that I haven't been blogging. I am so sore...the student parking is 1.1 miles from the school..yes we have to walk it...yes I do need the exercise...but I am out of shape. The school says that at least the parking is free....Update on the new dog..we found her a new home....I miss her in a way, but it was just to much to handle with starting back to nursing school.

Autism and dealing with the public....

2008-01-06T10:10:00.000-08:00

As you tell I am a little pissed at society, so until I calm down I will let the pictures do my talking...

Here is my brain, what is yours????

2007-12-30T18:32:00.000-08:00

Your Brain is 67% Female, 33% Male

Your brain leans female
You think with your heart, not your head
Sweet and considerate, you are a giver
But you're tough enough not to let anyone take advantage of you!

What Gender Is Your Brain?

Christmas is over.....

2007-12-29T09:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas is over and I am busy taking down all of the decorations and plus unpacking from the trip to Ohio....So once I get things back in order a little..I will post pics and blog more....Hope everyone had a great Christmas!!!!!

Out of town for the holidays....

2007-12-20T11:54:00.000-08:00

We are leaving for Ohio tomorrow around noon, so I just wanted to wish everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!! And for everyone to have a safe and happy one as well.

As for today, it has been a busy one. My middle son keeps having nose bleeds so we had to go to the ENT and have is blood vessels in his nose cauterized. (not sure if I spelled the right or not). He handled it like a little trooper, he did great!!! I was so proud of him. And also in the mist of all that drama I had to go and register for classes...I finally get to start nursing classes again, the school had several people quit and flunk out so that left room for me....Finally.....

Peace, love and many blessings to all....

Till next time and when we get back from Ohio.....

Faith

2007-12-19T05:24:00.000-08:00

Okay, well I am going to talk about something I really don't talk about much, but since I did something on Sunday that I have not done since grade school, I thought why not, it got me to think. I went to church with my neighbor, she had been taking my youngest son with her for a few months now because her son and my son mine are best friends. So she talked me into going and taking all my kids with her. I was a little uncomfortable at first because I don't really believe in a one religion being right or wrong...they all in my opinion have there good and bad points. I was raised as a baptist, but when I was in sixth grade I was saved and was going to be baptized, but my cousin that was the preacher..killed himself a week before I was supposed to be baptized....So I and my family quit going to church...I never really stop believing but for years and years I really did not know what to believe...and really still don't.

I have been to many many churches of different religions, hoping to find my place...but it has never really happened for me. I somehow feel like all of the religion belittle women...and always place man above women...I have a problem with that...and I guess I always will. I know that there is a higher power but that is all I believe, I try to live by the saying to unto to others and you wish done unto you....and I just keep it that way. As for the church we went to...it was a baptist church....but my kids love it and want to go back...all of them even my teenager....that was a shocker for me....As for me I will go because they want to go. But as soon as I find out that they are teaching my kids to fear GOD or the higher power they will not go back...I don't feel that he/she should be feared....why fear someone that is supposed to love us????

I was very disappointed in all churches when me and my now husband was looking for someone to marry us....we searched for several months to find someone...we wanted a church wedding..and we were told no, so many times. They said that since we were both divorced and that I had kids they would not marry us and we were sinners.....I really lost faith then and so did he....that is and was crazy.....his wife cheated on him and mine tried to kill me several times..but the preachers said that they did not care why were divorced..it was a sin to remarry....just imagine how that would make you feel. We finally found a church that would marry us, was a "United church of Christ"....I found them by the commercial they had shown on TV. It was them taking anyone into the church, not turning people away just because of sexual orientation or race...etc....It was a touching commercial. We meet with the preacher and he welcomed us with open arms into the church and gave a us the perfect wedding that we wanted...so I retained some faith at that point....So I guess what I am blogging about is that I believe, but haven't found my place to fit in yet. If that makes sense....Sorry to ramble but this is something that I needed to talk about....Still looking for my faith.

PEACE, LOVE AND MANY BLESSINGS TO EVERYONE!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!

Breakfast with Santa...

2007-12-15T20:09:00.000-08:00

We had breakfast with Santa this morning..and the kids loved it, at least the 2 little ones did, the oldest stood outside because he did not want to be embarrassed....Here are the pics....I also have included a pic of the 2 dogs beside each other, as you can tell I had to hold one of the still for the pic....

10 reasons

2007-12-14T20:07:00.000-08:00

Well, my friend Sherry wanted me to list 10 reasons why I like being married, basically to look at the positive instead of the negative. Since the negative has really had control lately...I am gonna try to see if I can list 10 reasons....Here is goes....

1) Having someone there to go check out the strange noises in the night..that way I don't have to.

2) Having someone there that is tall to reach things high up in the cabinets, without me climbing up on a ladder.

3) Now I can say to the kids.."wait till your dad gets home".

4) Having someone to snuggle up to on a cold winter nights.

5) Having him but me quirky little gifts, like the socks with toes in them...because he knows I have cold feet.

6) Knowing that I am loved, because I can see it in his eyes, when he looks at me.

7) Knowing that I am not alone, and don't have to grow old alone. (Hopefully)

8) Hearing the words "I love you" on a daily basis, other than my kids saying it to me.

9) Being asked "how was my day" and having someone actually listen.

10) Hearing my kids say "I love you mommy and daddy".

Ok, I have to admit that was kinda hard to do, because I kept wanting to write and think about the negative....because we do have issues...as do all couples from time to time...but since this move things are worse...I am trying but sometimes I still feel like giving up...I am tired, my first marriage really wore me down....even though it was over a long time ago...those memories and nightmares are still in my mind...the distrust and fear....The "what ifs" am afraid has won....today was a better day than the other day...some are good and some are bad....I just want more good ones....but at least I can think of some good reasons...I do love him.

Another Dog!!!

2007-12-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

Okay, my husband is crazy!!!! He went out and got another dog.....what is he thinking....here she is.....

Our snow ball fight

2007-12-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

Non-Crappy Starring You! eCards on JibJab

Bad Dog part 2,.....

2007-12-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

OK, here we go again. I had to take my 10 year old to the doctor today. I am in the office getting ready to check and I get a call from my oldest son who tells me that the dog tore up the tree agin, he found him trying to climb the tree...and needless to say when I got home the tree and house was a mess...the dog had a field day with the tree and garland....so now what...I feel like just taking it down and messing with it anymore.....GRRRRRRRRRRRRRR......Santa is not happy with the dog......

What my Christmas is like....

2007-12-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

Your Christmas is Most Like: A Christmas Story

Loving, fun, and totally crazy.
Don't shoot your eye out!

What Movie Is Your Christmas Most Like?

UPDATE!!!!!!!

2007-12-05T18:37:00.000-08:00

ALLEE HAD THE BABY!!!!

SHE WEIGHS 6 POUNDS AND 11 OUNCES, 19 INCHES LONG AND WAS BORN AT 8:13PM TODAY....

WE WELCOME "SNOW LYNNE" TO THE WORLD......

SHERRY SAID THANKS FOR ALL THE PRAYERS.....

"o" Christmas Tree Again........

2007-12-04T17:17:00.001-08:00

This dog may look cute but ...he doesn't like Chrtistmas Trees...so BEWARE!!!!!!!!
Okay, I had redo the Christmas tree today.....because my dog tore the tree up and ate half the ornaments...."BAD DOG".....so are going to try this again and hopefully he won't tear this one down...any ideas on this not happening again????????

UPDATE ABOUT ALLEE!!!!

2007-12-03T15:55:00.000-08:00

The doctors have said that she had a mini stroke due to High Blood Pressure, her seizures they say are being caused by the baby.(Her BP is fluctuating a lot) She is doing much better now..and they will be inducing her labor as soon as a L&D room becomes available. They are saying she should deliver (hopefully) in the next 12 hours. Keep your fingers crossed....I will let everyone know when the baby is here....

2007-12-03T03:41:00.000-08:00

Music Videos - Dear Mr President

Maybe the "President" needs to hear and see this so he will know how the real American public feels about him...

"O" Christmas Tree!!!

2007-12-02T15:24:00.001-08:00

Well, we finally put the tree up...the kids did most of the decorating.
I have not anything from Sherry today..as soon as I hear something I will let everyone know...

Lastest update...

2007-12-01T20:02:00.000-08:00

They have moved Allee off of the cardiac unit and to the OB floor....it is planned to deliver the baby tomorrow...at least that is what the latest news is....Allee is doing better, but is in a lot of pain...every time she stands up she still passes out....when I hear more I will let everyone know...

Allee update..

2007-11-30T19:09:00.000-08:00

Okay, here is the latest update that I have. She still has not had the baby and every time she sits up stands up she passes out..so she is still in the cardiac unit for monitoring...Sherry is frustrated and so is Allee...They are now to the point of not telling Sherry anything, other than they want to monitor her more and are saying lets just wait and see.....I am sorry that I don't have more to tell everyone..but at least things have not gotten any worse....When I hear more I will let everyone know....

2007-11-30T09:20:00.001-08:00

(I still miss Ohio and my buckeyes and all my friends in Ohio).....

I found this on myspace...and it got me into the Christmas mood....hopefully it will for everyone else too!!!!!

Myspace Comments

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Add to My Profile | More Videos

Update....about Allee

2007-11-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

I just spoke to Sherry...and they doctors have told her that Allee had a stroke and that they want to do more testing..but she is confused that the testing they are wanting to do is for her kidneys...they are saying that the baby is keeping Allee alive..so Sherry is beside herself...I have run out of words to say to her...just keep all of them in your prayers...they are saying that the baby is healthy and their focus is on Allee. When I here from Sherry again..I will let everyone know.....

Another accident!!!!!

2007-11-28T14:37:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have enclosed pictures of my accident and pictures of the accident that my husband was in today......2 accident and 2 cars wreck in one week.....The mirror on the gray van, is YES taped on.....it is embarrassing...but my husband said it is better than the electrical wires hanging out.....

One of his classmates hit the red car in the schools parking lot.......But at least I can call him "crash" now too.....And I have told my aunt...to CUT THE TREE DOWN ....before it tears up another innocent car, truck, or van..

The only thing I have heard from Sherry is that the doctors are running tests on Allee, and are trying to stabilize her heart so they can do a c-section. When I hear more I will post it.

mystiqeye

2007-11-27T06:53:00.000-08:00

Could everyone say a prayer for "mystieye(Sherry)" and her daughter..her daughter is in the hospital and is pregnant...she is overdue and the doctors say the baby is healthy, but as for "Allee" she is not doing very well, they have discovered that her heart valves are not working correctly and that her BP is really high....the doctors are saying it is to dangerous to take the baby at this time...They need everyone thoughts, blessings and prayers now....We have a 16 yr old in danger as well as a little unborn child...plus my best friends heart and life as a mom and grandmother.

thanks
Kim

Just call me "crash"

2007-11-25T16:03:00.001-08:00

Well, I went to see my aunt today, and the visit was great..it is when we left her house that I became known as "crash". I was backing out of her driveway, which by the way is up hill...and I am backing up a minivan..going up hill...now keep in mind that I have never been that good at backing up on level ground...so as I was backing....I hit a tree...and tore the mirror completely off of my van....so now my kids, my aunt & uncle, and of husband...all call me "crash".....My aunt said that I am the 5th or 6th person to hit that tree...so I told her that it is time to cut the tree down......what do you think????

What a week...

2007-11-24T16:14:00.000-08:00

This is a cute dog and that came up and gave TJ a hug.....how cute!!

TJ was so happy, to hug the dog....
My oldest is somewhere is this group...Mooresville High School...NJROTC!!!!
Santa..need I say more.
My hubby.....
Travis asking when is this thing starting....

This has been a truly upsetting week...my husbands uncle dies and then the news about my aunt and cousin...I am truly speechless. But on the up side our Thanksgiving was okay, we decided to stay home and have Thanksgiving dinner, instead of going to my aunts house. Me and my husband decided to stay at home and reflect on our lives as a family. It was nice, and peaceful. Food and football and kids it was great. On Tuesday before Thanksgiving we were gone from 2pm until 9pm, because of the town parade....The reason we were gone so long is that my oldest was in the parade, the whole town and county pretty much shut down for the day, because of this parade...I have never seen a town parade last 1 hour and 45 minutes....wow. But is was nice, I attached pictures..i wanted to make a slide show but I have over 200 pictures from start to finish of just the parade..but I haven't done it yet. I want to thank everyone who left me such caring comments...Thanks again...I hope everyone had a great thanksgiving.

More bad news :(

2007-11-21T18:36:00.001-08:00

More news today, My aunt (my birth moms sister) was just diagnosed with cancer. I did not know what to say to her..I was speechless. I have realized that the past couple of weeks have been bad and not just for me but for a lot of people. the bad things that have been happening to me (personally) is not as bad as some of the stuff that is happening to my family members...And on the 24th of this month is when my grandfather died (1996)..(I called him Dad, because he and my grandmother raised me until I was 13). So this is already a sad holiday and now all I have heard all day to day is bad news....It is hard to be happy when there is so much sorrow to deal with. I am thankful this thanksgiving..but I still feel sad and worried. Sorry to be a downer but I just needed to vent some of my feelings...

Peace and have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Need prayers for my cousin

2007-11-21T03:01:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

I just received a call from my aunt and my cousin who has LUPUS is in bad shape. He has been rushed to the ICU and is on a ventilator. This is a sudden change in his condition...so if everyone can please say a prayer for my cousin, I would greatly appreciate it....He has been through so much already, he is only 2 years older than me. He has had a failed kidney transplant and is back on the donor list for the 2nd time....and now this. He was found unresponsive in bed and was rushed to the ER, where he had a seizure. And from that point on went even farther down hill. The doctors are unsure what happened to make him this way, because on Monday he was fine and tolerated his dialysis as normal. Please send "David" all your prayers and blessings...he needs them. And here is the kicker he has a 3 year old son and another child on the way at the first of the year. Sorry to ask this but he is my cousin and he is deeply loved.

Thanks Everyone
Kim

My kids......

2007-11-18T12:44:00.000-08:00

This is my baby, he is 8 years old...and spoiled of course.
This is my oldest, he is 14 and thinks he is 30.

This is my middle child, he is 10 and such a sweet and loving child.

Okay..I've been tagged again

2007-11-18T09:40:00.000-08:00

Okay, I've been tagged again...So here is goes.....

1. My favorite music is 80's music..
2. I love to cook holiday meals, but not everyday meals...they are just boring...
3. My favorite holiday is Christmas
4. I believe in Santa Claus......
5. I believe in love at first sight and falling in love on the first kiss
6. I like to fish and go camping
7. I believe that we all have a purpose, but I just haven't found mine yet....or maybe it hasn't found me yet.....

Okay,....now everyone is tagged.....

I've been Tagged

2007-11-18T08:09:00.001-08:00

Okay, so here it goes...7 random things about me...

1. I love Nascar
2. I love the ocean
3. I am scared of thunder storms
4. I am scared of the dark, and yes I use a night light
5. I love to take pictures of everything...mother nature and the earth is an amazing place
6. I miss Ohio and would love to go back...and that is even a shock to me..but I really do miss Ohio
7. I have been searching for my birth-father for several and have been unable to locate him..I just want to see what he looks like, and yes maybe even hear his side of the story.....

okay, now I have to tag others.....

have fun

It is a Bi-Polar day....

2007-11-18T06:23:00.000-08:00

My oldest starts this morning off in a bad way. He is Bi-polar and well he is being very bi-polar already, he is mean and aggressive and already yelling. It is only 9:25am and I have already been called and idiot, stupid and a few other names I will not type. He has already called his brothers retarded and idiots as well. He has thrown himself against a wall and tore up his room. This is child is my son, but sometimes I feel like I wish he wasn't....I love him and can't stand him all at the same time, I feel bad about felling this way, but it is not fair. How did I end up with a bi-polar child???What have I done to deserve this kind of punishment?? I have always asked myself these questions every since he was diagnosed and well even before the diagnosis. He has finally calmed down for the moment , but who knows for how long. Sorry to ramble but this seems to help me deal, to write things out instead of crying.. He scares me and he scares his brothers. My son with autism doesn't understand...well hell I don't understand either.

All I want is happy kids and a happy family. But my oldest is never happy, except when he is in a manic state..which doesn't happen very often. He is mainly depressed and mad all the time. the doctors don't have any answers, only therapy and medications...well we have been doing this and guess what, he is still bi-polar and still has his days that is really bad... I guess today is one of those days...Lord help us all, it is going to be a LONG day.

Todays Test

2007-11-17T17:06:00.000-08:00

Well, today I took the NC test for my CNA...I believe it or not I flunked...I pasted every part of the exam....but was told that I did the BP to quickly, even though I got the correct reading...."What the F***" . I really wanted to slap that lady....there was 18 of us taking the exam and only 3 past it...so what does that tell you about the testing here....out of the 18 of us....5 of us are from other states and are already CNA's....and we all failed.....Sorry about venting...but it is either vent or scream.