Pooh's Corner

the pc boutique

2012-01-26T08:32:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know {in case you didn't already} .... that I am slowly adding some cute clothing items to my shop PC Boutique on Etsy.

PC = Pooh's Corner.

Like this, "Hooos in the Forest" Apron Knot dress. Baby not included.

This "Fairytale dress" will have your little girl feeling like a princess. And who doesn't want to feel like that.

Stop by when you get a chance, I am always adding new things. And of course, you can always pick up your hoot owl pillows while you are there.

dear old navy,

2012-01-22T13:12:00.000-05:00

I'm pretty sure Old Navy doesn't even know Pooh's Corner exists.

But I just want them to know...... I have their next baby model.

Just sayin'.

no words.

2012-01-21T12:21:00.000-05:00

There are just some photos that don't need many words.

This is one of them.

play with me.

2012-01-19T17:13:00.000-05:00

There are times during your pregnancy when you daydream about what life will be like with a new little one in the house.

I'm pretty sure this is exactly what I imagined.

And MORE!

Lily's Photo Project {week 32}

2012-01-18T13:11:00.001-05:00

Our little Lily turned 32 weeks today and has 2 little band aids on her legs from the shots she got yesterday.

After learning to crawl and sitting up on her own ....she wasted no time standing herself up. She wanted to see about all the fun Emily was having in the toy box.

At 32 weeks, I can see her 1st tooth getting ready to pop through. Owie.

At 32 weeks, Lily loves Cheerios. I have to alternate. Bite of baby food. One Cheerio. Bite of baby food. One Cheerio. I promise, she lets you know if you forgot the Cheerio.

Random fact: This was almost Lily's 32 week photo.

Another random fact: I am planning on turning the material in this picture into a Fairytale dress for the girls.

mirror mirror on the wall.

2012-01-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

The mirror seems to be a staple to my three girls, here at Pooh's Corner.

Ashley looks in it about ten thousand times a day checking her hair, or something.

Emily just likes watching herself dance & be silly.

And Lily.....has found a new friend. hehe.

Mirror Mirror On the Wall
Who's the Fairest of Them All?

Lily's Photo Project {week 31}

2012-01-14T08:55:00.002-05:00

And she's now pulling herself up to stand. Ohmygoodness.

favorite photo friday

2012-01-13T08:46:00.001-05:00

I don't drink coffee. Never really cared for it much. {that seriously is an understatement}

I thought it would be fun to post one of my favorite pictures from the week on Friday mornings and call it Friday Morning Cup of Joe.

Well that was until I found Favorite Photo Friday on one of my favorite blogs The Long Road to China.

And it's way more fun joining in with others sharing their favorite pictures.

These 2 adorables are all the coffee I need.

Welcome to Favorite Photo Friday.

goodmorning pooh

2012-01-10T08:40:00.000-05:00

Rejoice in the Lord Always

Again I say....

Rejoice.

up

2012-01-09T09:04:00.000-05:00

This is just something we aren't used to.

Lily just turned 7 months old yesterday and is already getting up on her feet.

Wait.....what.....stop growing so fast. My baby girl.

owl always love you!

2012-01-07T15:48:00.001-05:00

It's winter.

The adorables have matching owl outfits. Thanks to my good friend Judy Jones who gave them to the girls for Christmas.

We don't have snow yet but nobody seems to mind much.

Um....why is this baby climbing on me. {Emily's thoughts}

Lily loved being outside and wanted to eat that leaf.

She tried.

I eventually had to dig it out of her mouth.

One thing is for certain.....

Owl always love you!

And another thing for certain, I will never let Ashley take a picture of me again without lipgloss. wink.

while you were playing....

2012-01-05T19:25:00.001-05:00

While this one was playing.

And not looking.

This one was getting into some of the Pooh toys.

When you can dream...Then you cant stop!

A dream is a wish that you make with your heart!

- Cinderella.

Lily's Photo Project {week 30}

2012-01-04T16:35:00.000-05:00

There's no stopping her now.

At 30 weeks, Lily has mastered crawling.

And within a day of mastering crawling, has decided to climb up on anything she can.

Even if it means tipping over backward and laying there with a basket of toys on top of you until mommy saves you.

interesting Disney fact

2012-01-01T16:54:00.001-05:00

In the beginning.....

Walt Disney designed the character while riding on a train back to Los Angeles with his wife Lillian. After completing his sketch, Walt showed it to Lillian and said his name was Mortimer Mouse. Lillian did not like the name and suggested Mickey Mouse. And so was the birth of Mickey Mouse.

Ironic right?

Lily's Photo Project {week 29}

2011-12-30T16:14:00.002-05:00

What? You want me to wear this?

I'd much rather put it in my mouth.

Along with anything else Lily get's her hands on.

Random Fact #1: The blanket behind Lily is Ashley's.....she got it for Christmas this year.

Random Fact #2: I am lucky I got this picture.... Lily could NOT take her eyes off Aunt Judy who was standing nearby.

Youth is when you're allowed to stay up late on New Year's Eve. Middle age is when you're forced to. ~Bill Vaughn

The Magic of Christmas

2011-12-26T12:58:00.000-05:00

What makes Christmas magical for you and your family?

Is it the look in your children's eyes as they come down to see what Santa has left them?

Is it the innocence & phrases from Christmas stories like: "While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads?

Is it the stockings that Santa filled while he was in town?

Whatever it is that makes Christmas magical for you....

we must always remember in our hearts....

the reason we celebrate Christmas.....

is not just to give our children cute things like pink ponies that sing.

We are celebrating the good news of Jesus' birth.

⁸ And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. ¹²This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
¹³ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

Luke 2:8-14

for the love of whimsical

2011-12-23T12:09:00.001-05:00

My husband gave me an amazing early Christmas gift.

A serger.

He knew I wanted to make clothes for the littles.

I picked some adorable fabric. I could just marry Riley Blake fabrics.

Picked out a simple pattern.

Conquered threading the serger. I might add, that took days.

Did a little cutting here, measuring there, redoing a few messups.....

.......and then a whimsical skirt for my Emily was created.

Oh, the possiblities are endless now.

Lily's Photo Project {week 28}

2011-12-21T12:18:00.000-05:00

There is no better gift.

Than the gift God gave to us.

spread the word to end the word.

2011-12-20T11:19:00.004-05:00

You will want to {PAUSE} my music player at the very bottom before viewing.

ho-ho-ho

2011-12-18T18:37:00.000-05:00

Santa came through our neighborhood this weekend, on his sleigh.

Along with our local fire company.

Emily was super excited.

And after Santa left, Emily waited and waited at the end of the driveway....

in hopes that Santa would come back.

Luckily, it was also the same day that Santa makes his annual visit to our house....during our Christmas party.

Emily was smitten.

Nice to meet you Santa.

Santa showing Emily his magical musical clock.

It plays music. It is the coolest little clock EVER!

Lily met Santa for the first time last night.

She was happy....until she turned her head and figured out I wasn't the one holding her.

Ho-Ho-Ho

pure.joy

2011-12-17T08:00:00.003-05:00

This girl only knows PURE.JOY.

This girl is also famous for taking ornaments off the Christmas trees in our house.

PURE.JOY.AMEN.

Sugar Cookies: Prettier in Pink!

2011-12-15T17:49:00.003-05:00

Being that I am a fan of Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee.....that means I sometimes like to keep things as simple as possible. Or it could end up taking you three tries to make a sugar cookie for scratch, or something.

This year I wanted to make something special to also celebrate the fact that it's Lily's 1st Christmas.

What better way than with pink cookies and zebra striped Hershey kisses.

Inspired by Pinterest.

Step One: Buy packaged sugar cookie mix.

Unless you have the extra time to make them from scratch. Lot's of extra time that is, because I tried "from scratch" first and failed not once, but twice.

I won't point any fingers, but one teenager may have forgotten to put the sugar in the mixture. {grin}

Step Two: After you have the mixture together, add a few drops of pink food coloring. Mix well. {this may take some time}

You can usually find the pink coloring at your craft store, down the aisle where they have the fondant goodies.

Step Three: At this point, I made small 1 inch balls of dough and rolled them in a pink sugar. Also purchased at the craft store.

Step Four: Bake the cookies according to the package.

Step Five: After pulling them out of the oven, you will add your Hershey Kiss.

Your chocolate will seem melty at this point. DON'T PANIC! Once you let them sit awhile, they will eventually return to their normal hardness & you can pack them away for later.

Merry 1st Christmas Lillian Adelaide!

wordless wednesday - "6 months old"

2011-12-14T10:50:00.002-05:00

Is Starting to crawl.

the view from here {baby edition}

2011-12-12T17:47:00.002-05:00

I thought it would be fun to show you Lily's view of our Christmas tree.......

Different from way down at the bottom isn't it?

undecorating and discovery

2011-12-09T08:43:00.000-05:00

A girl named Emily

likes to

un-decorate our Christmas tree.

And a girl named Lily

is discovering a Christmas tree

for the first time this year.

Lily's Photo Project {week 26}

2011-12-07T10:54:00.000-05:00

I think I may have found one of Santa's helpers....

ooops.

I hope you are all enjoying the Holidays in your part of the World.

He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.
~Roy L. Smith

i love you ashley......

2011-12-02T16:25:00.000-05:00

Mother Nature is providential. She gives us twelve years to develop a love for our children before turning them into teenagers. ~William Galvin

dreamy

2011-11-30T11:47:00.001-05:00

and 25 weeks old today.

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ~Norman Vincent Peale

Let the decorating begin....

2011-11-25T13:52:00.000-05:00

Today is the day, that we take down our fall decorations and begin decorating for Christmas.

I am happy to say that this year, for the very first time.....Emily is helping to decorate.

She hasn't really shown interest in the past but this year Emily has really become quite the explorer. The start of new and exciting things for all of us.

Emily went into the box and pulled out each Pooh ornament carefully, one by one, handing them to me to put on the little tree. Giggling and examining each one first.

We had so much fun together decorating that little tree.

It exclusively holds all of Emily's Winnie the Pooh ornaments.

Let the decorating begin........ at Pooh's Corner.

Lily's Photo Project {week 24}

2011-11-23T17:39:00.001-05:00

At 24 weeks, this little cutie is scooting around and making the cutest squealing noise ever.

At 24 weeks, Lily likes to help me when I feed her by grabbing the spoon. Mess!

At 24 weeks, Lily is wearing a size 2 diaper.

At 24 weeks, Lily loves keeping an eye on whatever Emily is up to. I'm imagining the mischief these two can get into later.

At 24 weeks and one day, Lily will be celebrating her very 1st Thanksgiving.

Gobble! Gobble!

for the love of.......YOU

2011-11-22T17:26:00.000-05:00

My teenage daughter Ashley was at school today, and during a routine "lock down" they were sent into a special education math class. One of the kids in that class ducked his head down when the kids entered.

Ashley asked him what was wrong and he said he didn't want anyone knowing he was in a special ed class.

She said, "Who cares. My sister is in special ed classes."

A girl who was standing nearby heard Ashley and said...{with a disgusted look} you have a sister in speds? {speds = teen slang for special ed}

Later on.....this was posted to my daughter's Facebook wall: {with this picture}

My little sister Emily has Chromosome 17 q 21.31 micro deletion syndrome. That means she's a lot different than us, or as people say " Special needs." I ask one simple question.. why do people say the word " retarded " &or make fun of people with learning disabilities? They really are no different then me and you. you just never notice. You don't even understand how horrible it makes some people feel when you say that ONE WORD. They can still shoot for their dreams, and do the things we all do.. it just takes a little longer. I'm so grateful that my little sister is in my life, because she makes me realize things all you other people don't. Em is probably one of the best sister's i'll ever have, and even if she's VERY different from me, that will never stop me from loving her with all my heart. she's my baby sister, part of the family, the love of my life♥ I love you Emily!!

love you to pieces....

2011-11-20T18:52:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Mr. Egner. We are so blessed.

All of this {and Pooh's Corner}.....because two people fell in love.

Friday I'm in Love......

2011-11-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

With you.

And you.

Out of all the people on the face of the

earth, the LORD has chosen You to be

His special treasured possession!

Deuteronomy 7:6

Lily's Photo Project {week 23}

2011-11-16T09:10:00.000-05:00

Today, or little Lillian Adelaide is 23 weeks old.

At 23 weeks, she tried peas for the first time. Her face told me, she would rather not do that again.

Applesauce please.

At 23 weeks, Lily is a little squirmer.

She usually rolls and rolls until she gets where she wants. Even under tables.

At 23 weeks, Lily had her well baby visit which included her second series of shots.

At 23 weeks, Lily weighs 16 lbs. 2 oz. and measures in at 25 inches.

At 23 weeks, you now know my secret photo shoot location. *wink.

It's been an amazing 23 weeks so far. I love you Lillian Adelaide.

saturday in the woods

2011-11-12T17:46:00.000-05:00

To the average person, this may be just another one of those backyard pictures that mom's take.

To us, it's a breath of fresh air.

Because Emily doesn't love to come outside much.

It is definitely something that turns on and off with her. Sometimes she loves coming out. Sometimes, she wants no parts of it. So when she does want to play in the backyard, we are literally jumping for joy.

And running for the camera, of course.

Let's face it, watching your child's curiosity take over is always an amazing thing. No matter what their age or circumstance.

And of course, little sister loves any opportunity to go outside and see new things.

Won't you come into the garden? I would like my roses to see you.
~Richard Brinsley Sheridan

mommy cam

2011-11-11T10:13:00.008-05:00

I thought it might be fun to share some of my camera phone pictures here at Pooh's Corner.

Not high quality pictures. Not edited pictures. Just candid and straight off my phone onto this blog.

Moments of our life that make my heart go pitter patter.

The photo compliments of Emily's teacher.

We were in her class for the Halloween party.

Pitter Patter.

Lily's Photo Project {week 22}

2011-11-09T17:29:00.001-05:00

Random Fact: Lily has discovered her feet and thinks they are tasty. So do I.

Random Fact: When I was writing the above random fact, I started to write Emily's name.

Random Fact: The fabric behind Lily was purchased along with two others....so that some day soon I can make the girls matching dresses. The fabric is called Love Birds.

what little girls are made of

2011-11-07T16:37:00.001-05:00

Sugar and Spice Lip Gloss and Lace

Cupcakes and Crayons Butterflies and Ballet Shoes

Tutus and Tights

Ponytails and Polkadots Lollipops and Lemonade

Sundresses and Sandals

Dress Up and Daisies

Royalty and Ribbons

and a Lifetime of Love.

when life gives you scraps

2011-11-05T09:28:00.001-04:00

Sewing projects are way more fun......

when you have this little one to help you out.....

or maybe just to chew on the measure tape, or something.

When life gives you scraps, make something with them. ~Author Unknown

Lily's Photo Project {week 21}

2011-11-03T08:36:00.000-04:00

This is one curious little girl.

She definitely does NOT want to miss a thing.

Now rolling all over the place, especially to be near Emily in the playroom.

She loves putting everything in her mouth. But is way happier if it's something to eat.

Always smiling. Always happy.

And I am truly stopped everywhere I go..........

We love you, little sock monkey!!!

Halloween at our house

2011-11-01T14:54:00.000-04:00

It wouldn't be Halloween at our house......

without the Annual blowing up of Vampire Pooh.

It wouldn't be Halloween at our house.....

if I didn't get a little teary eyed.....

as Emily looks on in utter amazement....

while Pooh fills with air comes to life in our front yard.

It wouldn't be Halloween at our house.....

without these two teenage girls.....

jumping around and acting silly.

Those are also some of the reasons why.....

I SO love....

Halloween at our house!

Now where did she hide that bag of candy?

Lily's Photo Project {week 20}

2011-10-26T11:07:00.001-04:00

Twick or tweet....I found my feet!

What a wonderful 20 weeks it has been.

Love, Mommy

Random fact: Lily's background is a bed sheet from a Halloween bedding set Ashley picked out 6 years ago. The rest of the bedding is in Emily's room.

Random fact: About 2 seconds after this picture was taken, Lily spit up like a volcanic eruption.

Random fact: Those bumble bee antenna on Lily's head were part of a costume brought here by Francine when she traveled from Australia with her daughter Charlotte, to attend the 1st Annual C17 BBQ here at our home.

oktoberbest

2011-10-24T17:49:00.003-04:00

This blog post is dedicated to all special needs parents. One's who have been here for awhile and ones that are new to this way of life.

This month, I took the littles to Oktoberfest while Mr. Egner was at a class and Ashley started her new job.

I loaded up the double stroller....some sweaters, diapers, cheez its,....and off we went. I stopped by to pick up Ashley's best friend on the way.

We picked out pumpkins.

We attempted to get Emily on the pony ride again this year.

Um, they had to turn the pony around because Emily was not happy and the pony was reacting to that emotion. No picture.

We went on a hayride. Lily's first time.

Now you know, I wouldn't normally post a picture that makes Emily looks like she was in distress. But she was.

She did not want to be on that ride.

Loads of people. Funny feeling hay. Not really knowing what is going on = heightened sensory issues.

It also means that Emily cried for the entire hayride.

Which leads me to explain why I have dedicated this post to all special needs parents.

I really wanted Emily to experience that ride. She cried the entire time and everyone looked at us funny for the entire trip. They might have even wanted to push us off, or something. At the end of the ride, a little girl, who couldn't have been much older than Emily.....walked up to her with a scowl and stuck her tongue out at her. Rude much?

Don't be sad for Emily.

She had no idea what was going on, thank goodness.

Be sad for that little girl. Be sad that she may grow up never knowing that ...... even though that little girl on the hayride was crying.....it was probably for good reason. Not just because she was misbehaving. Because that was not the case here.

And..... you can be sad for the lady sitting behind Brittany that was digging in her shirt at the very moment I snapped the picture of her holding Lily on the hayride.

Maybe that little girl could have offered her a friendly smile instead.

wordless wednesday - "melting momma's heart"

2011-10-19T08:51:00.000-04:00

no

words

needed.

news you can use - week of 10/10

2011-10-17T17:43:00.000-04:00

Week of 10/10/11

Weekly Theme: "Fire Prevention"
This week the students learned about Fire Prevention. They attended a special assembly held by the Williamstown Firefighters and had the opportunity to explore a firetruck.

Letter of the Week: Big F, Little f

Speech/Language Therapy:
Emily identified pictures receptively. She also worked on identifying pictures by function and description. Provided max cues. She also imitated sounds with cues and models.

Occupational Therapy:
Fine Motor Skills - manipulation of small objects, increased wrist extension
Sensory - visual motor
Gross Motor - strength/endurance, core stability

DIY - "interchangeable picture frame"

2011-10-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

Every Wednesday, I take Lily's picture for Lily's Photo Project. Which means, every week a new picture to display.

After coming across this snazzy idea on Pinterest {yep....again}...I thought I would give it a try.

I took an old picture frame & removed the glass. They painted the one in the tutorial I saw, but I didn't need to because mine was already a pretty green color.

I picked out a cute piece of scrapbook paper and taped it to the backing.

Added a clip to hold the picture.

And there you have it. An interchangeable picture frame. Now you change the displayed picture as often as you like.

Fun right?

Eclair Pie

2011-10-13T09:28:00.001-04:00

Warning: Do not read any further if you are currently counting calories. This recipe is sure to make you fall off the wagon.

I found a recipe on Pinterest the other day that caught my attention. Well, pretty much anything with chocolate will catch my attention.....but this particular recipe just sounded so scrumptious.

Eclair Pie.

Let's get our ingredients together. I use a lot of store brand items. I'm always looking for ways to save money.

You will need:
2 (3.5 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
Enough milk to make the pudding, approximately 3-4 cups depending on package.
1 (8 ounce) container Cool Whip
1 (16 ounce) package graham crackers

Frosting:
4 Tbsp. butter, softened
3 Tbsp. cocoa powder
2 1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 Tbsp. milk or more if needed

1. In a bowl, blend together the pudding mixes and milk for 2 minutes until thick.

2. Fold the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture. Gently.

3. In a 9x13 pan, arrange the graham crackers to cover the bottom of the pan.

4. Pour half of the pudding mixture over the crackers and spread out evenly.

5. Top the pudding with another layer of graham crackers. Pour the remaining pudding mixture over the crackers and spread evenly.

6. Place one more layer of graham crackers over the pudding mixture.

7. Prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat the butter until fluffy.

8. Beat in the cocoa, vanilla, and half the powdered sugar until well blended.

9. Blend the remaining powdered sugar and milk. {I added way too much milk but it still turned out ok}.

Blend until smooth. You want the frosting to be on the thinner side so add more milk if needed.

10. Spread the frosting over the last layer of graham crackers in the 9x13 pan. I'm pretty sure that's NOT what the frosting is supposed to look like, but it still turned out great in the end.

11. Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours. You need to let the pudding mixture soften the graham crackers.

Welcome to Heaven on Earth!

Lily's Photo Project {week 18}

2011-10-12T13:14:00.000-04:00

This is hardly a face you ever see on Lily. She must have been thinking about how tight that onesie is getting on her.

Excuse me....Lily.....over here.....look at mommy.

Come baaaaaaack!

news you can use - week of 10/3

2011-10-09T21:11:00.002-04:00

Week of 10/3/11

Weekly Theme: "Columbus Day"
This week the students learned about Christopher Columbus and his adventure to the "New World".

Letter of the Week: Big E, Little e
We will be writing the letter E and going over the sound it makes.

Speech Therapy:
Emily participated in a book activity and matching objects by function.

Occupational Therapy:
Fine Motor Skills. Manipulation of small objects, increased wrist extension.
Gross Motor: Strength/Endurance, Core Stability
Attention Skills/Reasoning: attention to activity, task completion, following directions

Physical Therapy:
Ambulation Training {stairs}
Endurance Activities

This week, Emily has also been transitioning into a new one on one aide.

Nice work Emily!

four months old

2011-10-08T07:00:00.006-04:00

Our tiny little girl turns four months old today.....

.... you had me at hello!

Lily's Photo Project {week 17}

2011-10-05T12:03:00.000-04:00

So yummy.....

At 17 weeks, Lily is enjoying her new tastes of baby food. Rice cereal, bananas and sweet potatoes so far. This little one loves to eat.

At 17 weeks, Lily is always smiling and always happy!!!

At 17 weeks, Lily is starting to babble a lot. One of these days we might figure out what she's trying to say.

At 17 weeks, and all previous weeks, I am stopped everywhere I go......by baby admirers. I will never tire of being told what a beautiful baby girl I have.

We love you Lillian Adelaide.

News You Can Use - Week of 9/26

2011-10-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

Weekly Theme: "Signs of Fall"

This week the students learned about the different signs of fall. They went on a scavenger hunt looking for "fall" and created projects with what they found. Letter of the Week: Big L, Little l. They will continue to review letter L and the sound it makes.

Emily will work on receptively identifying seasonal items, painting with watercolors, discriminating shapes and sizes.

Speech Therapy:
Emily participated in a book reading activity. She identified colors from a field of two given cues. She also receptively identified body parts.

Emily worked on identifying a picture provided the word and function. She imitated few sounds. She continues to be defensive of oral stimulation.

Occupational Therapy:
Worked on attention to activity.....separation of two sides of hands....following directions.

Physical Therapy:
Nice job!

Lily's Photo Project {week 15 and 16}

2011-09-30T09:35:00.000-04:00

I am still having so much fun taking Lily's picture every Wednesday.

This little girl has brought so much joy into our lives......a joy we never knew we were missing from our family.

Her big sister Emily thinks it's pretty funny when Lily looks at her with the biggest smile ever and giggles.

And then I faint.

Just kidding on the fainting part....but it sure does makes a moms heart go pitter-patter to watch that sisterly bonding taking place.

Don't forget....you can always see the entire photo project if you click the link in my featured slider at the top of my blog under Lily's Photo Project.

feed me

2011-09-29T19:09:00.000-04:00

Someone, loves to eat her rice cereal.....

Can you guess who?

pink sock monkey photoshoot - take 1

2011-09-27T15:14:00.001-04:00

Sometimes.....

there are some things.....

you just can't live without.

Like this dress and pink sock monkey hat....both found on Etsy. And Autumn!

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns. ~George Eliot

church bells are ringing

2011-09-25T15:52:00.005-04:00

Today marked the last day of the 96th season at our little Chapel by the Sea.

The little Chapel where Tom and I were married.

The little Chapel where our girls were baptized.

The little Chapel where Tom's parents and grandparents
have attended and served on the Board of Trustees for many years.

And God willing....we will all return next Memorial Day weekend, to ring the old church bell and becken all of the vacationers to worship with us.

Together.

At the little Chapel by the sea.

news you can use - "kindergarten"

2011-09-21T14:28:00.000-04:00

News You Can Use updates are back......for Emily's Kindergarten year.

Similar to last years News You Can Use, I like to share a weekly post on what Emily is working on in school....including her trials, tribulations and celebrations.

There is still a News You Can Use tab in my menu, under the Pooh's Corner blog banner....where you will always be able to go back and read through the archives if you missed anything. I do the best I can do categorize by Year and Month.

This year Emily is enrolled in Kindergarten PDD [pervasive developmental disorder]. There are only 6 children including Emily in the class and each child receives a lot of one on one aide. Emily does attend for a full day. I was a little worried about her tolerating such a long day but she seems to be handling it just fine. Actually she comes home quite happy & energetic. Every day.

This week:
Emily will continue to ease into fine-motor activities. We will also be continuing to work on her receptive language skills.

the yummy view from here {no food involved}

2011-09-17T10:23:00.002-04:00

We are so blessed.

It is such a beautiful blessing from God to watch your children discover new things.

Aren't they yummy?

wordless wednesday - "first taste of rice cereal"

2011-09-14T08:50:00.002-04:00

determination

2011-09-10T16:54:00.000-04:00

This tiny girl has some dEtErMiNaTiOn. See for yourself.

These photos were taken in real time and I pinky swear, I did not move her.

Someone wants to get in on the fun Emily is having.

I think I can get over there......

Almost there.......

Ok, sissy's not looking. Make a break for it.....

Ah, so close......

Got it!

dEtErMiNaTiOn!

Lily's Photo Project {week 13}

2011-09-07T16:39:00.001-04:00

Today, you are 13 weeks old and you have recently discovered your hands.

Always smiling. Always happy. Always shining a light in everyone's lives.

I look forward to Wednesdays, some new fabric and taking your weekly picture for my photo project.

Always so FUN.

And look who stopped in to have a little fun too!

pink sock monkey

2011-09-06T17:31:00.001-04:00

In 3 more days you will be THREE months old and You are the sweetest, smiliest, happy baby I have ever seen in my life. And we are told that by everyone that lays eyes on you.

I love you pink sock monkey!

shore do love you....

2011-09-03T09:56:00.001-04:00

There are some rare occasions when we can get Emily outside.

This weekend at Grandma & Grandpa's house by the seashore....

....Em discovered that coming outside wasn't such a bad thing after all.

It's the last weekend of summer, the last weekend before school starts......

.....and we are looking forward to some new experiences with our little Pooh.

One thing is for certain.......

we SHORE DO LOVE YOU!

point and shoot?

2011-08-31T09:23:00.001-04:00

Sometimes

I'm not paying attention

to where I'm pointing the camera.

But Lily didn't seem to mind at all.

still conquering steps

2011-08-30T09:28:00.000-04:00

Emily

is

still

working

on conquering

steps.

Somebody hold my hand, please.

vote for Lily {parents photo faves}

2011-08-29T11:02:00.002-04:00

Last week, Ashley decided to enter Lily in a Cute Kid contest. I told her she could for fun.

I've tried entering Emily in photo contests before, but pretty much gave up on them because you have to have a gazillion votes to win those things.

Let's give it one more shot.

Why not stop by and vote for Lily....and see if we can get enough votes. For fun!

Click the above picture of Lily to vote.

the fabric

2011-08-28T13:50:00.000-04:00

You know the pictures I take of Lily on a yard of fabric each week?

Like this one.....

Well I head an idea.

To make a dress for Emily.

It's the very first dress I've ever made & I still have a lot to learn. Trust me on that one.

But I'm pretty sure Emily will have a lot of dresses in her closet by the time Lily's Photo Project is over.

I have to thank my Aunt Donna for sending me a bunch of toddler/infant patterns for my birthday. Inspiration is everywhere isn't it?

Psssssst: I may or may not have chosen the easiest possible pattern to start with.

Lily's Photo Project {week 11}

2011-08-26T09:03:00.000-04:00

I learned something this week.

Well, besides the fact that I am in love with this fabric.

And besides the fact that I fall more cRaZy In lOvE with this little girl each day.

I learned that you do not put Lily underneath a running ceiling fan and expect her to look at anything else. {grin}

the simplest things

2011-08-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

Someone

found

their

hands.

And I just wanna say......there is such an amazing beauty in watching your little one discover ...even the simplest of things.

Like their hands.

Extended School Year Progress Report

2011-08-22T14:11:00.000-04:00

During the 2011 ESY program Emily was informally evaluated using the Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills {ABLLS}. This is a program that is used in the classroom to teach a variety of skills from 26 categories, which include receptive/expressive language, fine-motor, and activities of daily living skills.

After pairing new staff with reinforcers {book, Pooh toys, puzzle}, Emily began to work on following simple directions from a variety of staff. Emily will vocally protest when she doesn't want to comply with directions, but with consistency and persistence Emily began to let down her guard and comply. During these times, Emily was heavily praised with clapping, tickles, and high-fives. Emily still has her moments of noncompliance but they seem to have decreased in duration. Emily has also been working on matching identical objects, receptively identifying objects/pictures/simple shapes, and expressing her wants through verbalizations and photos of her favorite items/food.

Emily has received daily pre-handwriting practice {tracing horizontal/vertical lines} as well as participating in art projects that involved following directions, snipping lines with scissors, gluing, coloring, and utilizing a pincer grasp. Emily needs heavy hand-over-hand prompting during these activities.

Emily has been introduced to the token economy system in which she may earn a reinforcer {book, Pooh toy} for following directions. She enjoys music and circle time. She just recently began to independently sit on the floor during group activities {she preferred to sit in a chair or would refuse to participate}.

I look forward to creating a fun and productive learning environment for Emily and supporting her transition in the kindergarten classroom. Miss Juli

Photos taken in our driveway while waiting for the bus.

PC Boutique now open on Etsy.

2011-08-21T12:04:00.000-04:00

Back by popular demand....I have reopened my Etsy shop this week. New name. New logo. New handmade items. Come check it out.

At the PC Boutique....you will find some of my favorite things. I spend a lot of time crafting and making things I love, and now I'd like to share them with you. You can also "like" PC Boutique on Facebook to keep updated on what's new & exciting. PC Boutique on FB.

Here's a little preview of some of my items:

Scripture Owl Pillow.

Set of 3 Burpies.

Felt Owl Pillow. Also customizable with your child's name.

Hope to see you soon.
Christina

Lily's Photo Project {10 weeks} and some good news....

2011-08-17T16:28:00.002-04:00

At 10 weeks

Lily is a hApPy smiling baby all of the time.

Starting to sleep in her crib at night & only getting up once to eat.

Sometimes drinking 2 bottles in a row. Oink.

Very alert.

Currently weighing in at 12.5 pounds.

POOH'S CORNER BREAKING NEWS:
Hi Mrs. Egner, I just wanted to let you know that I got Lily’s results back- she definitely does NOT have the 17q21.31 deletion that Emily has. But I think we already suspected that. dR. J

watching you grow

2011-08-16T11:47:00.002-04:00

Watching you both grow....{and your teenage sister in the other room}.....

Makes my soul dance.

And let's me feel a love....like no other.

For you see, each day I love you more
Today more than yesterday and less than tomorrow.
~Rosemonde Gerard

hoot hoot we have a winner

2011-08-15T14:00:00.000-04:00

I had so much fun reading all of your birthday memories. Thank you for sharing them with me, here at Pooh's Corner. It's fun taking a little walk down memory lane isn't it?

The winner of my Birthday Celebration giveaway is:

{drumroll please....}

Angela Edmonds

Adorable party! Love it!! My favorite birthday memory, would be a few weeks ago when my beautiful baby girl turned ONE! We had a big owl themed bash! The only thing missing were these owls, but I couldn't pull it off! I love all the little touches at your daughter's party. Adorable. I would LOVE to win one of these owls, we are taking her party stuff and decorating her room in owls right now!

Hoot. Hoot. The end.

my yummy view from here....

2011-08-12T16:51:00.000-04:00

Wonderful weekend wishes to all of our friends & family!

Lily says, Don't forget to stop and get yourself an ice cream cone. It is still summer after all.

Be sure to check back Monday to find out the winner of the Owl Giveaway. If you haven't entered, there's still time. Enter, here.

a birthday celebration giveaway that's a HOOT

2011-08-10T10:07:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, Emily celebrated her 5th Birthday!

Hoot! Hoot!

And I wanted to make it special for her.....

with a few of her favorite things....

{she shared these goody bags with her summer school class}

like Cheez It's.....

Mini Vanilla Wafers......

and marshmallows.

Ok, so she won't eat the marshmallows...but I couldn't resist a colorful candy on our birthday table. What can I say.

Most everything was created and printed right here at my desk. Making homemade things is so much more fun! Don't ya think?

Emily doesn't really venture into the dining room much, so I had to figure out a clever way to get here there. Putting her favorite show on my laptop did the trick. I spy a little sister watching her big sister.

Being that I am completely and utterly smitten with owls, I knew I had to make some myself. And what better occasion than Emily's 5th Birthday?

Hoot. Hoot.

The quest to build a flock of owls began....

Hoot. Hoot.

It was sorta like teaching a Home Economics class, but way more fun!

So, to help celebrate our sweet girl turning 5 & her being our very reason for starting this blog....I am going to be giving away one of these owls, to one of YOU!

Hoot. Hoot.

To enter the giveaway, just leave me a comment telling me about one of your favorite birthday memories. Easy enough right?

I will announce a winner on Monday.

a pooh turns five

2011-08-09T08:35:00.000-04:00

Dream.

Persevere.

Love.

Imagine.

Be Yourself. {the great escape from mommy's camera...like usual}

Happy 5th Birthday Emily Ann!

Lily's Weekly Photo Project

2011-08-08T12:06:00.000-04:00

Months and months ago, before I was pregnant....I saw this cute onesie idea.

An ever-changing patterned (usually fabric) background + a white onesie that we photoshop with each week = Lily's weekly photo project.

Fun right?

I hadn't started the Onesie Project from the very beginning {sniff, sniff}, so I sort of back tracked and looked up the corresponding pictures in the folders on my computer.

Feel free to drop back in to see new photos as we snap them! And thanks to our lovely little model and the apple of our eye, Lillian Adelaide! One of the apples anyways.

You can also find the Onesie Project folder on my Facebook page. In case you don't frequent here much.

the view from here

2011-08-06T08:41:00.000-04:00

How do people make it through life without a sister? ~Sara Corpening

happy almost birthday

2011-08-05T10:39:00.000-04:00

Year after year.

Week after Week.

Day by Day.

Minute by Minute.

Second by Second.

You have taught us how to live life in such a amazingly beautiful way.

I love you Emily.

Happy Almost Birthday!

birthday photoshoot {take one}

2011-08-04T14:11:00.004-04:00

I had a vision.

For a photoshoot involving this chair....

......and my house in the background.

And a little girl who's turning 5 in a couple of days.

It went something like this.

It also went a little something like this.

And this.

The end. Take One.

Happy Almost Birthday Emily!

8 weeks

2011-08-03T07:00:00.002-04:00

8 beautiful weeks.

I recently added a link to Lily's picture in the sidebar..........so you can watch her grow week by week.

the great cookie jar caper

2011-08-01T14:07:00.000-04:00

I came in from getting Emily off the bus and Ashley was giggling.

What are you giggling about I asked? giggle. giggle.

I thought maybe she was sabotaging my owl project on the kitchen table. giggle. giggle.

Ok, what did you do, I asked again. giggle giggle.

So I look over at the baby in her swing and this is what I saw......

Her big sister thought it would be funny to take a bite of a cookie and put it on her. I love my daughters sense of humor.

Who's got their hand in the cookie jar?

Who me?

Couldn't be!

fabric + birthdays + pennant banners = love

2011-07-30T08:35:00.000-04:00

I have a new found love for pennant banners. Ask my teenage daughter.

They are fun for birthday parties.

I made this one for my neighbor's son who's turning one and having a pirate birthday party. A-hoy matey.

They are cute in playrooms. The girls love it.

And they make a great focal point for a baby who is still learning to see clearly.

Ready to try your hand at making them? I found a great tutorial on how to make them, here. If you do make one, come back and show me.....I love to see what you are up to.

scotcharoos

2011-07-29T14:22:00.001-04:00

Warning: If you are on a diet, DO NOT read this post!

A dear lady at our church shared this sweet {and I mean sweet literally} recipe with me, and now I am going to share it with you.

The stars of the show:
1 cup sugar
1 cup white Karo
1 cup peanut butter
1 6 oz. package chocolate chips
1 6 oz. package butterscotch chips

In a large saucepan, combine sugar and Karo. Bring just to a boil and turn off heat. Stir in peanut butter. Mix in Rice Krispies.

Press into a buttered {or spray cooking spray like I do} 13x9" pan.
It will be a little sticky, so have fun with that. *wink

Melt chocolate and butterscotch chips in double boiler pan, putting the butterscotch chips in first, since they melt slower.

If you don't have a double boiler {like me}, you can make one. Just put the water in your bottom saucepan and place a larger bowl on top.

You just don't want the flame touching the chocolately mixture or it will burn. And then you will have to start all over.

Hello chocolate.

Spread over Rice Krispie mixture.

Chill in refrigerator until firm (about 15 minutes). Cut into 2x1" bars. Makes about 48 bars.

There's a reason that chocolately goodness sticks to the spoon. For us, because we worked so hard making a sweet treat for our families.

Enjoy your sweet treat & I won't tell if you eat more than one.

lily {seven weeks old}

2011-07-28T22:31:00.002-04:00

At 7 weeks old {and since the day you were born}, you are an amazingly alert little girl.

According to my newborn developmental updates....at 7 weeks, about half of all babies can recognize their parents, and many of those babies are so delighted that they welcome Mom or Dad with an excited, gurgly grin. This is one of the first signs that your baby is developing an ability to socialize. In fact, it's called a "social smile," and it's one of the more emotionally gratifying milestones you'll see your baby reach.

Gratifying is an understatement. I fall more in love with you with each little twiddlebug grin.

neurology {Lily's visit}

2011-07-27T15:03:00.000-04:00

As my Pooh's Corner readers & friends already know, we did not have Lillian tested for the C17 deletion while I was pregnant. It wouldn't have changed our decision to have her & there is a chance of miscarriage when you have an amnio....so we decided to wait. We also understood that our odds of having another child with the same deletion as Emily was higher than most & if that was God's plan for us, we were definitely on board.

When Lily was born, I knew the moment I layed my tear filled eyes on her that she did not have the C17 deletion.

She was strong and very alert.

But we want to rule it out.

That is the reason for our recent visit to Emily's neurologist at CHOP.

Neuorological Examination:
Mental Status: Lillian is awake and alert, interactive with her environment, making good eye contact with the examiner and cooing. On motor exam, muscle bulk is normal, and tone is normal. Strength is normal (5/5) and symmetric in both upper and lower extremities. On sensory exam, Lillian does withdraw to tickling and pinching in all four extremeties. DTRs are 2+ and symmetric in all extremities. Primitive reflexes include normal: root, suck, palmar grasp, plantar grasp, Moro and ATNR.

Impressions/Plan:
Lillian is a 5 week old delightful little girl whose sister Emily has a 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome manifesting as developmental delay, seizures and hypotonia. Her family is here today to evaluate her for the same syndrome. While her examination and development thus far are very encouraging and normal, I do think it would be prudent to still obtain a screening SNP array today to ensure she will not be facing similar problems as Emily.

We discussed that results typically take 6-8 weeks to return. I will contact the family when I receive them.

you,

2011-07-26T14:17:00.000-04:00

.are wearing sandals for the very first time. but prefer your rainboots.

.have a sensory ball in your left hand.

.don't really like walking on that rug & will stand just at the edge of it.

.like to put your hand up at your mouth, alot.

.could be the sole person who keeps cheez it's in business. forever.

.love standing in front of the TV for hours on end.

.are turning 5 in less than two weeks.

.always have my heart.

day 39: {summer}

2011-07-25T14:29:00.003-04:00

Ashley decided to take a picture each and every day of summer this year. To document her fun and to see how different she looks by the time school starts.

Today I took the picture. Day 39 of summer vacation.

Through the glass on our screen door.

While interrupted their video making.

"Mom, you're getting in the way of our video."

I wish I'd taken pictures like this when I was their age, it would have been fun to look back at now. Do you remember what you were doing the summer you were 15?

Pssssst, I may or may not have accidentally locked the screen door so they couldn't get back in. {grin}

saturday i'm in love

2011-07-23T11:16:00.000-04:00

May your Saturday be filled with moments like this.

And air conditioning. Baby, it's hot outside!

macro friday - "another buggy edition"

2011-07-22T08:19:00.000-04:00

The time: Mid summer afternoon.

The place: In my pink geraniums on the front porch.

The bug: I have no idea what it is.

He looked like he was having a pretty good time, so I ran for my camera. So I could share him with you. Today. Macro Friday, hosted by Blogging from Bolivia.

I took this last picture from further away. Sometimes, I like to show you what the real view was before Macro. Can you see him?

I hope he doesn't try to sneak in my front door. He may not be so cute if I see him inside my house.

The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses. ~Hanna Rion

laundry fairy?

2011-07-20T12:30:00.001-04:00

Anyone wanna help mommy do the laundry?

Anyone?

Anyone?

They all just ran the other direction. Well except this one.....{hehe}.....she couldn't get away.

Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing. ~Phyllis Diller, Phyllis Diller's Housekeeping Hints, 1966

heaven sent

2011-07-18T14:30:00.003-04:00

random fact:
I made that banner the weekend before Lily arrived. It took hours.

random fact:
I took this photo in our backyard &

my flip flop broke as I walked across the yard with the bench.

random fact:
We bought that tiny bench the year Emily was born,

it had gotten so weathered, that i repainted it turquoise a couple years ago.

random fact:
It appears as if there is one white blanket in this picture,
when in fact there are two.

Both hand crocheted by Grandma.

One made for Emily when she was born, and one for Lily.

random fact:
Lily WAS Heaven Sent

Thank you Heaven.

twiddlebug {5 weeks old}

2011-07-15T12:08:00.004-04:00

This little twiddle-bug is five weeks old.

She weighs 10lbs. 2 oz. and is 21 inches long. She may or may not be sneaking cookies without my knowing. {hehe just kidding}

We are still enjoying those little moments when Emily sneaks a peek at her new little sister.

These moments make me weak in the knees.

For those who are wondering [and I know some of you are], I got Lily's headband from Harts & Roses Etsy Shop. This is not a paid advertisement for their shop....they don't even know I exist..... I just love their stuff and I know you will too.

Now excuse me, while I go squeeze some chubby cheeks and watch Pooh's Grand Adventure for the 10th time today. [grin]

b &w wednesday - "tiny fingers, tiny toes"

2011-07-13T16:50:00.001-04:00

I love color.

I love color in photographs. Ask anyone I know. It's true.

I also love to admire other peoples black and white photos.

The Long Road to China hosts a weekly black & white Wednesday post and I've been stopping by there for quite some time now. Their family blog is inspiring and so are the photographs that others share there.

This week, I gave it a shot...... a black & white shot that is.....

Ten tiny piggy toes.

Ten tiny fingers.

and one tiny little girl we welcomed into our family 5 weeks ago.

extended school year

2011-07-11T12:48:00.002-04:00

It's that summer school time of year again for Emily.

We are fortunate here in our township to have an extended school year for the special ed kids....so they don't lose some of the progress they made during the regular school year.

I was never a big fan of summer school because I think kids need their time to just have fun. But since having Emily, I understand why the routine of school needs to continue, even through summer. The program here, lasts 4 weeks and runs from 9:15 - 1:15. [longer day since she will be Kindergarten age] Emily will also have her one on one aide during this program.

The kids need routine.

They often don't understand why they aren't getting on their bus every morning and heading to class like usual. Missing their teacher.

By not having this regimented schedule, because of a summer break....it often leads to meltdowns at home. Not pretty. Trust me on that one.

So here's to the extended school year and getting back into the ROUTINE OF THINGS.

******************************************

Teacher Comments: Emily had a good 1st day. She cried at first but quickly recovered. She was upset during fine motor, but Jen {Emily's aide} said that was normal. Only ate Cheez its!

say cheese please.

2011-07-09T12:27:00.000-04:00

Sometimes no matter how hard you try....

Or how many times you click the camera....

This little cutie....

Would rather not look at the camera, or be outside for that matter.

Until next time. Say cheese please.

lily {one month old}

2011-07-08T17:43:00.000-04:00

A baby is born with a need to be loved - and never outgrows it. ~Frank A. Clark

black & white wednesday - "child of god"

2011-07-07T07:25:00.000-04:00

My Black & White Wednesday post is a little bit turned around this week.

First, I am posting it on Thursday. I guess that's what happens when you have a newborn, toddler & a teen in the same house.

Second, it's not an actual black and white photo but a photo of the gorgeous white gown that Lily will wear this Sunday when she is baptized.

If you want to see some actual black and white photos, you can head over to The Long Road to China, there are some fantastic photographers sharing their work over there.

One tiny hand to guide and hold,
One tiny life to shape and mold;
each child, a gift from God above,
a symbol of His strength and love.

tuesday I'm in love

2011-07-05T11:40:00.000-04:00

And that's all I have to say about that.