Think where man’s glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such friends. – William Butler Yeats
It’s that time of year for reflection I suppose. Like most, this year has been one of challenge and triumph, lows and highs, and even some even keel bits thrown in for good measure. It’s a typical 12 months in that way. Life wouldn’t be life without the ride, the journey.
My brief message on this last day of 2009 is one of thanks. It is with a grateful heart that I thank those who stuck with us during this year and those who checked in with us when we could not check in with you.
Friendship is always a sweet responsibility, never an opportunity. -- Kahlil Gibran
I have long believed that people come in and out of our lives for a reason. Some stays are brief. Some are lengthy. Some are sporadic. But each relationship changes us, affects us, leaves an imprint on us. It’s up to us to decide whether to look upon that imprint as a positive one or a negative one.
I thank my friends – what a cherished word that is! – for your encouragement, support, laughter, empathy, compassion, and caring.
May 2010 be a year that brings peace to your heart, your body, and your spirit.
When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. – Henri Nouwen
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Growth Stim Test
Today Miss Áine Clare and I left for UCLA at 6am and returned home at 4pm. Her growth stimulation test was successful. The nurses used the vein Momma suggested and the flow was good. They were able to take two vials of blood every thirty minutes for a total of 8 times. Midway through the procedure she received a 30 minute IV of Argenine which made her not feel very good. And post blood draws she got plenty of IV fluids and her bottle. The results will allegedly be ready in two weeks, but I figure we won't hear anything until our appointment with the endocrinologist on January 28th.
Vein successfully located. Off to a good start.
First blood pressure lowering med taking effect.
A rarity -- Áine sleeping somewhere other than her beloved bed.
So not a happy girl!
Growth Stim Test - Part 2
Very mad about not being able to use her only functioning hand.
Meds not having a pretty effect on Miss Áine :o(
Starting to perk up before being discharged.
Yay! We are heading for home. As usual, Áine was among the bravest of the brave.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
More Christmas Happenings
Áine's Christmas program at school was last week. Here she is the morning of...
Monday, December 14, 2009
Holiday Happenings
Brendan's school hosted a Holiday Dinner for the high school students and their families last Wednesday evening. The Madigan family cleaned up very nicely and the shots below are of Brendan and Ciara and Dad. Unfortunately no photo op for Áine and Mom even though we looked mighty cute. We enjoyed a nice chicken dinner from Mrs. Knott's before Brendan had a rather intense panic attack and we had to leave. Hopefully next year we will be able to stay longer.
Áine Clare - the day after
Áine Clare - the day after
Thursday, December 03, 2009
The Birthday Lad
Happy birthday, BRENDAN MICHAEL!! Seventeen years ago today at 12:20pm weighing 7 pounds, 3 ounces this most awesome person entered our lives. He is all that is pure and good. That I was chosen to be this boy's mother is something I don't take lightly. With his quiet humility and seeming simplicity, he has taught me patience and gratitude among a myriad of life's lessons. His life is one of challenge, yet he manages to smile that smile that makes the rest of the world all but disappear. I am most grateful for the wonderful gift of this precious child.
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