Dance Like No One's Watching

Hannah Is...

by Nanny

Hannah is many things that make her so unique

Let’s take some time to find them out,

Let’s take a little peek!

Hannah is... a miracle, in more ways than you know.

Because God was with her from the start,

His healing power He showed!

Hannah is... a blessing to everyone she meets,

But especially to her Mom and Dad,

Her life makes them complete!

Hannah is... a student, works hard in school each day,

But like every other student,

She especially loves Friday!

Hannah is... a Christian, the Bible is her guide,

She memorizes from God’s word,

And there she will abide!

Hannah is... a friend, to those she loves and trusts,

They share a song, a loving touch,

And other secret interests!

Hannah is... Crunchie, now what is that you say?

Well it’s Hannah’s sense of humor,

Making us smile throughout each day!

Hannah is... blind, she could not see, from the very start.

She uses her other senses,

But sees mostly with her heart!

Hannah is... autistic, a puzzle piece to find,

But until they do we’ll see her through,

By that she’s not defined!

Hannah is... determined, she works hard for a little control.

She’ll try our patience from time to time,

But with practice ‘we’ cajole.

Hannah is... a singer, the words change with the mood.

Songs with changing tunes and words,

No song for her’s tabooed!

Hannah is... an animal lover, or lover of their ‘sound’,

From oinks, and moos, and baas and quacks,

Their sounds for her abounds!

Hannah is... a piano player, she surprised us all one day,

Could play any song she’d ever heard,

But she first played “Yesterday”!

Hannah is... an artist, created a collage, and did her best.

She explored and glued and won a prize,

For creating a lovely nest!

Hannah’s into sound effects, she loves Yogi and BooBoo.

Today the sound that makes her smile,

Is a sneezing pig - aaahhhhhhhh-choooooooo!

Hannah is... patriotic, she loves her country true.

She sings God Bless America,

And loves Red, White and Blue!

Hannah is... a storyteller, Imagination at it’s best,

She tells a tale for all to hear,

While she is relaxed at rest!

Hannah is... a music lover, with instruments so neat.

She keeps perfect rhythm of every tune,

Her expertise can’t be beat!

Hannah is... a team player, she doesn’t worry about the score.

She cheers and laughs and has great fun,

Of that you can be sure!

Hannah is... beautiful, from the soft curls that frame her face,

To the enchanting glow her heart gives off,

She lights up any place!

Incredibly special, right?

But even more amazing than the gift itself, or even the love, creativity, and thoughtfulness my mother-in-law "Nanny" demonstrates every day, is the young woman who inspired this particular present - our niece Hannah.

I'm going to be totally honest and tell you that I'm not always sure how to "be" with Hannah. Autism makes it difficult sometimes to connect, especially when we don't see her everyday. The fact that Hannah does not see with her eyes adds what could be considered another barrier to reaching her. Sometimes I don't know how to talk with Hannah, or how to make her happy, or what toy she'd like best for Christmas. And that - all that - makes me sad.

There are times I see the hurdles Todd, Maria and Hannah face everyday, and my heart aches that Hannah was born and lives with challenges that are scary, frustrating, tiring, seemingly never-ending. There are many instances when I know of the sacrifices Todd and Maria make and wish they could do the everyday things most of us take for granted. There are moments I watch the look on people's faces when we are out and about with Hannah, and my blood boils. And all that makes me sad too.

I love Hannah, and I love her mom and dad. And because I love them I wish Hannah could see the colors of all the flowers in the garden she loves to be in; and how very beautiful her mom is. I wish autism didn't exist; I wish Hannah didn't have to suffer through seizures and surgeries. Yes, I wish their lives were easier.

Yet Hannah is happy. She laughs and plays, sing and claps. As Nanny said, she doesn't worry about who wins or loses, she just likes to be in the game. Hannah doesn't care if others think her voice is good or off-key; if people like her clothes or not; if anyone else is moving to the same beat she hears. Hannah always dances like no one is watching.

She doesn't bother with what people look like, or what race they are, or what they do for a living. Hannah doesn't concern herself with what anyone says she can't do, she just does what she can ... like sit down at a piano and play a song she's heard once. Yes, she is autistic and blind, but those are just two of the many, many things she is - and I love the way Nanny honors that.

I may always wish something else for Hannah. An easier path, less struggles, more independence. There's nothing wrong with wishing and praying for those things. Yet knowing Hannah - loving Hannah - has helped me to remember to accept who we are, just as we are. To look at the positives, the miracles, the love and faith that overcomes any physical limitation. And she's made me pause and realize that life is so much better when you focus on what's on the inside, and on what brings us together rather than what separates us. She shows every single day that every life has value and meaning.

That's a pretty amazing message for one little 14 year old curly-headed beauty to be spreading, don't you think?

The Mechem Family Reunion - A Very Happy Place

Third weekend of June - time for the Mechem Family Reunion! Once again hosted by Mark and Sherri at their gorgeous home, it was a wonderful day. I sure am lucky to have such a warm, welcoming, and slightly wacky ('cause normal is no fun!) "second" family. I didn't get pics of everyone, but I think I got some good ones ...

This is Owen's new favorite pose. The driver of El Toro Loco (that's a monster truck) gets out and lays on the hood of his vehicle like this after he finishes a freestyle event. Yep, Owen is wacky too!

Pap has had recent health issues, and we are thankful he got to join us and for being able to spend time with him.

Ah, a mother's love ... Sherri and her oldest Taylor (a proud Penn Stater!).

Gathered around the buffet, where we spend most of our time! L to r: Uncle Darb, Pap, Owen, Vicki and her husband Dave, Kathy and her husband Will - in from Minnesota - and sneaking around in the background, Bob.

Aunt Arlene and Aunt Nancy

Getting ready to take Owen for a ride and to feed the cows and chickens. Hands down Owen's favorite things to do at the farm!

"Come on over cows!"

Boots the chicken

Owen attempting to answer that age old question - "why'd the chicken cross the road?"

He cannot wait until he can drive one himself. Kept pointing out to me that he could reach the peddles!

Every year we have an auction. Each family brings one or two items, usually wrapped, to be auctioned off. Our auctioneer John is always hilarious, and the bidding gets pretty competitive! There are some traditional items, like filled cookies made using Granny's recipe, and then there are items that are not quite as sweet.

Like the lovely lizard shoes! Congrats to this year's winner, Kathy!

Cearra and Dennis snatched up some lollipops - one for Allegany High School where Bob, Todd, and half the family went; and one for Fort Hill, where Dennis and the other half of the family went.

Thinking that perhaps he was now on "Storage Wars", Owen really enjoyed himself at the auction, winning several of the items and making everyone laugh.

Captain America goes for a ride - such a peaceful, beautiful place.

My amazing kids - C and O! The dog was dropped off by someone at Mark and Sherri's on Wednesday with no collar, note, etc. They gave her a bath, a bandanna and a new name - Muffin. She is the cutest, friendliest little thing, and you can just tell she knows she has landed in a very happy place.

My Crabby Pals

So many of my absolute favorite people have birthdays in July ... Cearra and Owen to start; plus my friends Alison, Karen, and Missy; my cousins Kim, Liora, Erica and Cathy; our goddaughter Jenna; and C's one and only, Dennis. Not to mention my beloved Nana's birthday was in July too.

If you believe in astrology, you may note that as a fellow water sign (Pisces) it's only natural that I'd get along so well with these Cancer folks. And while I don't follow daily horoscopes, I chuckled all the way through this  post on glo.msn.com, thinking how true it was of my "crabby" friends!

Cancers love tradition. This birthday, plan something meaningful: a special get-together at your house or a weekend away with a couple close girlfriends. It doesn't have to be something extravagant, and anything you choose to do can become a tradition as long as making the day special is your intention. And remember, it's your birthday, so do what you want to do. Now's not the time to try and please anyone else. (Entenmann's Raspberry Twist Danish anyone??)

Cancers' natural insecurity requires a romantic partner who is protective and devoted. An ideal partner would be one that loves as unreservedly as you do, and who is strong and confident enough to support you when emotional turbulence hits, but soft enough to be sensitive to your feelings. Scorpios make for a good connection.

Your loyal (borderline possessive) and sensitive nature lends itself better to monogamous, committed relationships. Despite how tough you try to appear on the outside, you do not do well in ambiguous romantic situations, running the potential of you being deeply hurt. Beware of Geminis: Their non-committal attitude would wreak havoc on your self-esteem.

Sensitive Cancers are infamous for mood swings. You'll need to surround yourself with people who are understanding and sympathetic. When you're in need of support, turn to fellow water signs, Pisces and Scorpio, who understand what it's like to live in a constant state of feeling.(And there I am!)

The tendency to hold on to things makes saving money a Cancer strength. Take that extra cash and give yourself permission to indulge your adventurous side with an exotic trip (try Tulum, Mexico, for a reasonably priced, totally-worth-it paradise getaway). Taking the time away will rejuvenate you.

While Cancers have a difficult time letting go of the past and tend to hold on to things past their due dates, they are also great organizers. There's no time like the present to clean house and finally get rid of all the unnecessary clutter. You'll feel 15 pounds lighter, and you'll have more space to start collecting all over again.

Cancers also have an affinity for mementos of the meaningful variety, and are avid collectors. Create a scrapbook. You'll enjoy reliving good memories with loved ones, and letting your creative energy flow is another way to release emotional stress. When you're out and about, pick up little tokens—such as matchbooks and ticket stubs—to save alongside photos. (Hmmm, this must be true of Scorpio's too, right Bob?)

You can feel disappointed when friends don't mirror your acute sensitivity. A dog is the perfect companion when your human ones make you feel like being alone. But not just any pooch will do for someone as maternal and nurturing as you. Try rescuing a mutt from the pound—you'll never find a more loyal pal. (Aha, now I understand why you aren't a cat person Dennis!)

Cancers are extremely receptive, often picking up on other people's energy. Being a water sign would be enough to make you overly sensitive, but the extra influence of the moon makes you run a whole gamut of emotion. One of the best releases is physical activity, so try running or walking outside. Pay attention to your breath and what's going on around you to feel more grounded.

With an amazing memory, especially for emotionally laden events, Cancers tend to love nostalgia. This summer, don't hesitate to reach out to an old friend and take a stroll down memory lane. You'll love reconnecting and reminiscing, but you might also find that your friend is in need of a sympathetic ear. And who better than you, dear Cancer, to offer her the support and advice that she needs.

Known as the crabbiest sign of the Zodiac, Cancers often retreat into their shells when things don't go their way. Don't let moodiness get the better of you. Instead, say yes to invitations and keep your social calendar filled this summer. Cancers are great entertainers, and you'll be surprised at how good a little attention feels.

Cancers do their best problem solving in their dreams. If you're faced with a big decision this summer, then try sleeping on it. In the morning, things will seem clearer, and you'll be able to process your feelings better with a fresh perspective. Try writing your dilemma down before bed—you may just have your answer in the morning.

Happy Birthday!

WILW - The Long Overdue Edition

Whew - I've been slacking! On posts in general, but especially on WILW! So, without further ado, an extra long "What I'm Loving Wednesday" edition for you ... feel free to join in and comment with any and everything you've loving!

Love, love, love that Owen and I got to spend last week in Sunset Beach, NC with my wonderful friends LeAnne and Kristi and the Kokshetau Kids! It's a bit hard for me to admit as a Jersey shore-raised child (Sea Isle City/Avalon/Stone Harbor only, nothing like that trash on MTV!!), but North Carolina really knows how to do beaches. We had a great time - a little mini golf, a little "mommy" shopping, and a lot of ice cream and cocktails.

And not only do the kids enjoy the trip, it's a real plus to have moms to talk to who get the whole adoption thing - the joys and the worries - and I love that Owen will grow up knowing he has friends who not only share similar stories but also a culture and birthplace. Good stuff.

So it's going to be 98 degrees and humid as all heck today, and I'm loving that I have a friend with a pool who is kind enough to invite us over (see you soon Kathy!!). I discovered this yummy Key Lime Pie frozen yogurt is pretty sweet to cool off with too!

I just love this bag. The shape, the colors, the "I just dropped my horse off at the stable" preppiness of it:

I love that I've been going back to the gym! Bob, Cearra and Dennis are all very good at working out and eating healthy, and they've inspired me. And yes, I love that my gym is housed in an old armory - I mean, shouldn't one always work out in a castle??

Love the beautiful birds painted by my even more beautiful sister-in-law Maria:

In summer I love to pile on a cool, casual mix of fun bracelets like these from American Eagle Outfitters. They're like friendship bracelets for grown-ups!

Speaking of, I'm loving that Owen is rocking some beachy bracelets too!

Loving that blueberries are buy one-get one free. Delish.

I'm loving that ... Cearra is home; Owen hasn't had any issues at all after his surgery and my Mom is doing well after her recent "tweak"; we have the Mechem Family Reunion and Kaufmann Family vacation coming up; the inpatients are looking good; research has shown dark chocolate helps your muscles recover from a workout; and as always, I'm loving hanging out with my very own Captain America!

Vanessa

Today my parents tearfully said goodbye to Vanessa. They learned yesterday that her recent bouts of gagging and not eating were due to a large mass in her esophagus, and they didn't want to put her through the pain and fear of further testing/treatment that in reality would do little to change the end result. I don't blame them.

Vanessa spent the first 6 or 7 years of her life in a damp, dark, wire cage. She was a breeder dog at a puppy mill in seemingly peaceful Amish Country, Pennsylvania until a rescue group brought her out, and my parents saved her. I wrote about it here.

In the five years she lived with my mom and dad, she continued to suffer numerous medical conditions caused by her imprisonment and she never quite got over the emotional damage she had suffered at the hands of uncaring keepers. But my mom patiently and lovingly tended to her physical wounds, and in showering her with love she had never before known, my parents also made her time with them safe and comfortable. I have no doubt that Vanessa realized she was finally valued, and that she loved my parents dearly (as they did her).

In the past year, Vanessa had even started coming to the front door when the bell rang (as opposed to cowering in fear) and joining in a little play time in the morning! She had a beautiful face, and a heart that was a testament to perseverance and courage. To see her tail wag slightly; to have her willingly let you sit beside her on the couch and gently stroke her back; to be the recipient of one of her very infrequent kisses; was to feel really good.

We will all miss her. And in her honor, I ask you again to NEVER buy a dog from a pet store or a breeder, unless you go to that person's home and see for yourself the environment in which the mother and pups are raised. I encourage you to check out the many rescue groups if you are looking for a specific breed of dog, and of course there is the SPCA and other local animal shelters where many wonderful dogs (and cats) wait hopefully for your love. You can make a difference in the life of an animal, just as my parents did.

Rest in peace sweet Vanessa.

We Did It Again

This time we did it BIG!

The first stop on the "Path of Destruction Tour" at M&T Bank Stadium (yes, that's where our beloved Ravens battle). More dirt, dust, noise, crowds and big name trucks - Grave Digger!, Maximum Destruction!, Monster Mutt and their drivers - Dennis Anderson!, Tom Meents!, Charlie Pauken! - than the show we saw a couple months back.

On the way in - love his pose!

We had super seats

Anticipation

Once again, we drug asked Dennis and C along

Grave Digger 30th Anniversary Truck

Grave Digger fan - the other half of his hair was purple

Ironman - one of my favs

Monster Mutt, ears flapping

Loving it

The family that goes to Monster Jam together ...
Bob's cousin Liora and her husband Kevin with
kids Hailey and Nathan

See, Dennis DOES like it!

Cheering on Grinder

Back flip!

Maximum Destruction

It was a late, long show. By the end it was thumb sucking time,
but his eyes were still glued to the action

Took me until this morning to realize he's "making"
 Dennis Anderson's mustache with his fingers!
(see below pic)

The main man of Monster Trucks

Tom Meents, driver of Max D - went by and
high-fived Owen after show

It was fun! I'm going to just go ahead and admit - I liked it, especially the freestyle competition. I never thought I'd go to a monster truck show, much less enjoy it and know who the drivers were. I grew up on the rather privileged Main Line, deep in prep heaven where our idea of a fun Saturday night was going to the Devon Horse Show dressed head to toe in pink and green. I knew nothing about monster trucks (or Nascar and John Deere for that matter).

Yes, the crowd and the "sport" are a little, um, redneck; but they start every show playing "God Bless the USA" and asking all service members past and present to stand and be recognized. I'm a sucker for that kind of patriotism. And for every character trying (rather unsuccessfully) to balance a beer and a toddler on his lap, there are at least two parents like those who sat behind us last night and allowed us to borrow their extra ear protection after overhearing that I'd forgotten Owen's and was preparing to go buy some.

Most importantly, it was something we did as a family. An event that made Owen's eyes light up and that even those more cynical among us stand and cheer at least once. What's better than that? So yeah, I'm a Monster Jam fan. I'll just make sure to balance it out with trips to Hilton Head and getting Owen into golf lessons.

The Best News

The good news is that I no longer spend hot afternoons wandering around combines and commercial seed spreaders at the local John Deere Dealership.

The bad news is that now I find myself in the Advanced Auto Zone parking lot during a tornado warning because Grinder is in town.

The best news is that Owen is feeling great after his surgery, and loved seeing a monster truck up close. And yeah, I'll go just about anywhere to make my buddy smile.