Update from on old friend

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	Hello all! I just wanted to check in and let you know that, with  new job in Life Coaching for Challenged adults, and home life, I haven't had the time to really get on here and read. We are doing well--each day, as you know is a challenge but, things seem to be on the upswing here. Taylor is doing very well and, is actually speaking! It is in whispers and, only certain things are easily understood but, speaking just the same. I am using mirrors and my own lips (she seems to mimic all I do) in order for her to do P's and B's. She is having problems with T's, TH's, and definitely C's, but she is definitely trying and, to hear a voice *outside of those usual eww-ahhh* sounds is a blessing! Okay, biggie--ready? Colin is almost COMPLETELY potty trained. It took all of spring break, hardly any sleep so I could get him up every 4 hours, and lots of jumping up and down every time he went but...I just went through night THREE of no wet beds in the morning! We are slimming down to my only getting all 3 (Sean, Colin and Taylor) up at 11 pm, and then, not again until 7 am in the morning. So far so good--I also limited drink intake with no drinks after 7 pm. It seems to have worked. I haven't bought diapers for him in 3 weeks now!!! Taylor is still having issues with going, um..number 2 but, I really hope to have that completely licked by summer time. That is my goal. I joined the community center here with my refund check, which has a sensory pool--called the "lazy river" pool. It works WONDERS for Taylor! She seems to calm right down and could stay in it for hours without end. Colin loves the indoor slide and game room. It also gave me peace and sanity during a long spring break with NO respite care (she went to Florida..ugh). I am now coaching Colin and Taylor to shower themselves. I have them get it ready, do potty first, then get in, under the water. I then count to 10, slowly while they are immersed...say, "turn around" in a sing-song voice, coach where to wash with the cloth, how to do hair, and then, go back to counting to 10 for each rinse cycle. Then, they learn to shut off water, grab a towel and I coach how to dry. This one will take a longer time, and I am not sure if they will ever be able to do it without someone instructing on full washing techniques but, it is a blessing not to have to do hair and bodies any more. I stand there, coach from outside and they love it. They are now at the point of counting themselves and saying, "turn around" in their own little way, so we are making progress. Each day, another goal is fulfilled. Each day, one more night comes that I can say, "we made it!". We have struggles and trials every moment of each day--as you all are very aware but, each day is also one less struggle that gives even a few moments peace. I take what I do here and apply it at my job--it has worked amazingly, as it also has given me the hope that, my field of life coaching those with challenges will increase and, our kids will have a wonderful, independent lilfe when they are ready to go "out on their own". I will be checking in--miss ya all..and hope to have a little more time once I get down to a pat schedule with work, and the house slowly fixed up. (((hugs)))           It's so good to see you around. I am always amazed with how much you accomplish and give to your children. Yay for Taylor and Colin! That is such amazing progress. I know I've never met you, but I was tearing up reading this.  We've been wondering what you've been up to!  We're working on the shower training here too. Hang in there.  Hey, great to hear from you, and how well your kids are doing. You are amazing!! Harriet Good for you!  I'm glad things are going well and I hope you have time to come back soon!  Maybe while the kids are in the shower! Kelly - that is AWESOME! There has been at least one thread on here asking "WHERE IS KELLY?" And I know many of us have been wondering how you are. I am SO glad things are going well for you - and you have accomplished a TON in the time you've been gone. You are an amazing mom and an inspiration to us all! Keep up the awesome work! It was SO great to hear from you and wonderful to hear all the good news!  Please keep dropping in, girl!Good to hear from you and have it be all good news. I am impressed and inspired!Those are amazing accomplishments, for you and your kids!  I was just thinking about you earlier - it's great to hear from you! Kelly that is great news.  I am not sure how well your kids would understand this, but we have a shower card for Adam that is laminated and has the steps to the shower.  It hang in the bathroom shower.  I found it online and it has been so good, because not that he is older he doesn't want me there, but without it he forgets what to do.  I have been missing you!  I am absolutely thrilled at all you have accomplished and continue to marvel at your abilities.  You are an amazing mom and I can't think of a better life coach.  Best of everything to you.
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