Ordering Braces for Maddie

Today I ordered braces for Maddie to insert in her shoes.  They are supposed to help her stand more sure footed.  I really hope they work and she doesn't get mad when I try to put them on her. I really want her to walk before her 2nd birthday, which is next month.  So I hope they are delivered quickly. 

Aunt Kathy feeding Maddison her first LollyPop!

I think she liked it!

Just an update

Time is going by so quickly.  We had a meeting to determine if Maddison is eligiable to go to school in September.  SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER, WHAT?????  At 13 weeks pregnant when we had a 1:4 chance of having a baby with Ds I was told from that moment, "The baby will never leave, it will live with you forever, you will always have to care for it".  Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine she would be going to school at 2.  At the meeting I starting crying.  Thinking of her already "leaving"  had my heart hurting.  My little girl that will be 2 in 1 month is being considered for a school program.  It's only 2 days a week for 3 hours.  That is equal to my other kids when they went to preschool, when they were 4.  I know this could be good for her and what a great opportunity it would be.  Hopefully the 7 months I have to think about this, I will not be crying, I will be excited, but I doubt it.  Then they brought up the bus.  I just laughed, she can't walk yet.  They said oh that's okay we stroll them up the bus in their stoller and the load them on.  Which is funny since I just started letting my 7 and 8 year old ride the bus!  To no avail if she goes to school I can definately say she will not be riding the bus.  I just wish I knew the best thing to do for her, let her go or keep her at home just one more year????

The New Kitchen Set

Maddison loves her new kitchen set. Typically she does wear a shirt while she is cooking, but we were in transistion to the clean outfit. 

Her therapist REALLY  want me to let her feed herself, at least a couple of bites, so that is my new goal.  I am going to do it, starting tomorrow!  Everyday we do work on straws, and cups, and drinking, but we are no farther along than a year ago.  We really have to get this thing down.   Anyone have any suggestions we are dying for something to work!!!

Happy New Year!!!

                                                                  The Adkins Girls

                                                           Maddisons first Lalaloopsy

                                             I know, I know matching PJs, who can resist?

                                                                    Merry Christmas!!!
                                

                                                               Maddison and Grandaddy

                                                 Maddison and Grandmommy all tired out!

There is nothing quite like Christmas Day..... it's the weeks before hand looking for 25% off, free shipping, six months to pay off the credit cards for all the deals you got using THAT particular credit card to get THE discount, and desperatly thinking of the best present for the each person.  It's alot of work and then it's over in one day. 
We received a VHS to DVD dubbing machine.  Which is by far my favorite gift.  We have been transfering tape after tape after tape, of MCKENZIE.  After the first child I have noticed a downward trend of not video taping the other three kids.  My New Years Resolution will be to keep up with video taping all of our children.  I am really enjoying watching McKenzie grow up!   The one thing I do keep up with though is taking their pictures....... Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!!

I just wanted to say how Thankful I am. I feel like we have been blessed in so many ways, to list them all would take way to long! 
I was talking to friend and she was telling me about a family who has a child with Down syndrome and that at first they were really struggling with the diagnosis.  I think when families find out after the birth of their child it's harder for them because there is no preparation time. I know when we first found out I remember telling my sister "Maybe this is God's way of telling me he's angry at me and that I deserved to be punished."  But as soon as Maddison was born I realized if God was ever angry at me, this was His way of saying I forgive you and then he gave me Maddison.  That was proof to me, He loved me.

Maddison Praying :)

Just Wonderful!!

Maddison is doing just wonderful!  She just turned 21 months.  That is so hard for me to believe.  I can't believe how fast time is going by.  At times I feel like such an OLD mom, at 41 still changing diapers, making bottles, and giving baths.  Other times I feel like I can't imagine what I'd do if I didn't have tiny toes, yummy baby lotion, and precious baby bedtime. Maddison just got over strep throat, as a matter of fact all four of my kids had it. 
Last year at this time, Maddison was in the hospital and we were wondering if she was going to make it home for Christmas.  I'll never forget when Toys for Tots came by and gave her gifts.  I have always been the one to give Toys for Tots not receive them.  It really meant alot to me, but it made me cry and want to come home so badly.  I am so Thankful we are home and getting ready for Christmas!!

I tried to take pictures of Maddie in her dress but she had other plans......

Oh well there is always next year!

Christmas is coming!!

I love Christmas!!  I love buying lots of presents, WAY to many for the kids, eating lots of food, and being with all of our family!!  I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for their favorite toys! Maddie has lots and lots of toys, but lately she seems like she is getting bored!

Always ready to give a hug though!